Mariana Williams author/storyteller/producer
Moth grandSlam finalist, storytelling workshop facilatator, Producer of Storytelling shows:
Divas in Danger, Accidental Nudity, and currently Long Beach Searches for Greatest STORYTELLER since 2011.
This city-wide event pays $100 each show to best 6-minute true tale, chosen by the audience
at Malainey's Grill 168 N. Marina Dr. L.B., on scenic Alamitos Bay
(NOW taking story submisions. New season begins February 2025)
send about 5 lines to: [email protected]
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Mariana traded in the piano keys for the alphabet keys after working as a pianist/singer. Her adventures and misadventures are captured in the Veronica Bennett series of novels. The circumstances are about 80 percent true. Fictional characters are portraits of real people in my orbit although different names and eras. "Writing a novel is like a chessboard. The board is the playing field/the setting. The characters can only do what they do; perhaps limited to only going a step at a time, like a pawn. Or swift and sneaky like the bishop-diagonally. All pieces are what they are, charming? All powerful? Slow? I never win at chess. However, I'm lucky and often fall into accidental crime. All books are available on amazon. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&. UPCOMING STORYTELLING STUFF OC SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER FINALS WED., DEC. 17, 2025 6:30-8:30 Featuring winners & runner-uppers of 2025 Campus Jaxs 3950 Campus Dr., Newport Beach www.campusjax.com for tickets WINNER GETS $100 Audience votes! To make it super fair local author/judges will vote, theirs is worth 5 each PATTY HANSEN, LARRY PORRICELLI & NANCY KLANN (flanked by producers Debra & Mariana) 
STORYTELLING WORKSHOP
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SEPTEMBER LBS FINALS
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Robbin, Nick/Runner-up, Christine/winner, Mariana
Charles Tentindo, Denise Wilson, Huy Vo, Teri Kine (apologies for pic), Nick Bravo, Kanchana Viswanathan, Dave La Rue
Thanks to Musician Harold Payne, with Photographer JoAnn Wintenburg and friend, Comic Andrea Abbate.
Christine Koenig/$200 winner and Long Beach's Greatet Storyteller
Charles Tentindo, Denise Wilson, Huy Vo, Teri Kine (apologies for pic), Nick Bravo, Kanchana Viswanathan, Dave La Rue
Thanks to Musician Harold Payne, with Photographer JoAnn Wintenburg and friend, Comic Andrea Abbate.
Christine Koenig/$200 winner and Long Beach's Greatet Storyteller
WHAT AN EXCITING NIGHT TO END OUR 2025 SEASON. CONGRATULATIONS TO CHRISTINE KOENIG IS LONG BEACH'S GREATEST STORYTELLER AND WINNER OF $200.
ROBBIN FORTIER, STAGE MANAGER, NICK, CHRIS
AND PRODUCER MARIANA WILLIAMS
ROBBIN FORTIER, STAGE MANAGER, NICK, CHRIS
AND PRODUCER MARIANA WILLIAMS
Storytelling was a hot August night on the 4th
L-R: Jennifer, Carol Ann, Wanda, Nick, Kelly, Teri, Charles and Rama. Winners were tied, so both got the $100 prize, Congratulations to NICK and CHARLES! photo by Carolyn Yarnell
LINKS TO ALL SHOWS GET YOUR TICKETS NOW
Long Beach Searches Mon., JULY 14th tinyurl.com/277addr5
OC Searches Wed., JULY 16th www.campusjax.com
Long Beach Searches Mon., AUG. 4th. tinyurl.com/4yjuhjf6.
Long Beach Searches FINALS Mon., SEPT. 8th. tinyurl.com/c98mw7t7.
Long Beach Searches Mon., JULY 14th tinyurl.com/277addr5
OC Searches Wed., JULY 16th www.campusjax.com
Long Beach Searches Mon., AUG. 4th. tinyurl.com/4yjuhjf6.
Long Beach Searches FINALS Mon., SEPT. 8th. tinyurl.com/c98mw7t7.
UPCOMING SUMMER SHOWS!
Orange County needs to represent! CAMPUS JAX is just a couple miles from OC Airport. WEDNESDAY, JULY 16th 7-9 p.m. 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach. $20 at the door or $15 now at www.campusjax.com.
$100 prize for top, true, tale of the night. Audience votes secret ballot.
Get in the game. Send 5 lines to Debra Ehrhardt at; [email protected]
$100 prize for top, true, tale of the night. Audience votes secret ballot.
Get in the game. Send 5 lines to Debra Ehrhardt at; [email protected]
LONG BEACH MAY SHOW.....
Teri Kinne won $100
Roy Englebrecht
runner-up.
Two shocking tale of true courage
won the hearts of the audience.
WED., APRIL 16, 2025 at Campus Jaxs
OC Searches for Greatest Storyteller
L-R Mariana / Producer, Michelle/Winner
Andrea/Guest Comic, Debra/ Guest Teller
Don't miss the next show WED., July, 2025
OC Searches for Greatest Storyteller
L-R Mariana / Producer, Michelle/Winner
Andrea/Guest Comic, Debra/ Guest Teller
Don't miss the next show WED., July, 2025
Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller
Wed., April 7
A lively show indeed! L-R: Clay, Stanley, Lois, Amy, Kelly, Mariana,
Christine and Robbin. Top row Cory.
Winners
L-R Lois/Runner-up, Robbin/Stage Manager, Christine/ winner of $100, Mariana/Producer.
Lois told a hilarious tale of finding a cheap hotel in NY City, and Christine told a heartwarming tale about the negative impact on hurtful words. Our sold out crowd responds to funny and poignant and everything in between.
Wed., April 7
A lively show indeed! L-R: Clay, Stanley, Lois, Amy, Kelly, Mariana,
Christine and Robbin. Top row Cory.
Winners
L-R Lois/Runner-up, Robbin/Stage Manager, Christine/ winner of $100, Mariana/Producer.
Lois told a hilarious tale of finding a cheap hotel in NY City, and Christine told a heartwarming tale about the negative impact on hurtful words. Our sold out crowd responds to funny and poignant and everything in between.
MONDAY, MARCH 3 rd,
Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller at Malainey's Grill
March: L-R Robbin Fortier /Stage Manager, Huy Vo/Winner, Mariana Williams/Producer, Jan Casebier/Runner-up. Huy told a story of false imprisonment, jail and love. Jan told a tale of the joy of being twelve.
Guest teller, March 3, Laura Hayden, comic unleashed
Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller
Monday, Feb. 3rd --These tellers rocked the packed room. L-R Mariana/Producer, Kathy/Runner-up,
Charlene, Kanchana/winner $100,
row two: Jim, Doyle, Annie, Teri and Guest Teller/Andrea.
(Photos by JoAnn Wintenburg)
Kathy started of with a suspenseful thriller, Doyle surprised everyone with the hotdog suit! Annie told of her grandfather's achievements and outlandishment, Teri found a mentor in an unusual place, Charlene was not voted "most popular" in the workplace, Jim inspired all, especially the teachers in the audience, Kanchana described her life in America after immigrating from India - which ended in an experience sent the huge crowd laughing. She won the $!00 and will be back for the finals. NEXT LB SEARCHES MON., MARCH 3.
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OC SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER
WED., JAN. 15. 7-9 P.M.
Campus Jax 3950 Campus Dr., Newport Bch
TO SUBMIT: Send 5 lines to
[email protected]
A Season of OC Storytelling
Winter Wed. Jan. 15
Spring Wed., April 16
Summer Wed., July 16
Fall Wed., Oct. 15
Winter Wed. Dec. 17
www.campusjax.com for tickets and info
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LB Searches Feb. 3, winners below.
L-R Kanchana Viswanathan/Winner,
Robbin Fortier/Stage Manager,
Kathy Porter/Runner Up, Mariana Williams/Producer
OC SEARCHES Jan. 15th Winner SHAYNE KOLLINS wins the $100 with her tale of being a flight attendant in her 20's, flying high in a private jet-filled with movie stars. Also: L-R Mike, Shayne, Kevin, Madelyn, Ronald, Bill, Dave & Chad.
OCT. 9, 24 We LAUNCHED OUR FIRST
OC SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER SHOW
Nine tellers, strong audience turnout,
fantastic venue at CAMPUS JAX in Newport Beach
L-R, Debra Ehrhardt, /co-producer; Nick Bravo/winner, Ginny, Hugh, Annie, Dave Larue/runner-up, Marilyn, Jeremy, Max, Mariana Williams/Producer. (MIA Jack outside)
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Sept. 30th Long Beach Searches Finals 2024
(Far Left) Everyone brought their A game
(Middle pic) L-R, Robbin Fortier, Stage Manager; William Foss, Winner; Paul Williaims, Judge; Nick Bravo, Runner-up; Mariana Williams, Producer.
(Far right) Nick Bravo, Mariana Williams &
William Foss. Below that, Harold Payne, musician,
Andrea Abbate comic, and Mariana Williams, Producer.
Long Beach Searches for Greatest
Storyteller Finals Mon., Sept. 30
Long Beach, CA Finalists are
Four dashing dudes:
Frank, William, Doyle & Nick
Four Cheeky Chicks:
Katie, Penny, Teri & Brandee
Plus Musician Harold Payne
& comic Andrea Abbate
also 2023 Winner Vickie Wipple
$200 prize to the winner, William Foss and gift
certificate went to Runner-up, Nick Bravo.
CAMPUS JAX is a terrific venue and less than a mile from OC AIrport. GET IN THE GAME
WED., JAN. 15th is first show of the year. Remember your New Year's Resolution?
"This year I want to stand on stage and spill my guts to strangers?" YES! You can.
Winner takes home $100 for 6- minutes of courage.
To submit a tale, send about 5 lines to Debra.
email: [email protected]
Long Beach Searches Aug., with comic Laura Hayden hosting the show
AUGUST 5th,
L-R, Will, Runner-up William Foss; Winner Nick Bravo; Taylor, Kevin, HOSTESS-Laura Hayden
G.D., Brenda and Sasha all brought their A GAME
Peppy Laura Hayden hosted the show, standing by Runner-up William Foss; Stage Manager Robbin Fortier; Winner Nick Bravo won the $100 prize, decided by the audience.
JULY 1, 2024. was a sizzling hot showL-R Michael, JoAnn, Chrissy, Kona/ Runner-Up,
Penny/Winner, RC. and Jim. Each shared an anecdote that was either funny or poignant or just plain, "What was that all about? I better tell a room full of strangers and find out." PENNY BERNAL won the $100 and KONA MORRIS won a gift card for Malaineys.
JUNE 3, 2024 Show
Girl's nite out.. all the tellers were female. L-R
Robbin, Pilar, Brandee, Charlene, Tamara, JoAnn, Stacy & Mariana (not seen Laura)Mariana appologizes for sweater falling off. It's like a dog was let lose and yanked it.
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Robbin, Pilar, Brandee, Charlene, Tamara, JoAnn, Stacy & Mariana (not seen Laura)Mariana appologizes for sweater falling off. It's like a dog was let lose and yanked it.
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L-R Pilar Allesandro, Runner-Up; Producer, Mariana Williams;
Brandee Stillwell, winner; Robbin Fortier, Stage Manager
(Runner- up wins a Malainey's gift certificate)
Brandee Stillwell, winner; Robbin Fortier, Stage Manager
(Runner- up wins a Malainey's gift certificate)
Mon., May 6 th
L-R: Producer, Mariana; Guest Teller,Vickie Wippel;
Winner, Katie; Runner-up, Doyle; Lisa, Eric, RC and Marianne all brought to the stage lean-in, unforgettable stories. (not pictured Chris Gomez)
Photos by Barry Kutz
L-R, Runner-up, Doyle Smiens gets gift certificate,
Winner, Katy Dudly takes home $100; Stage Manager, Robbin Fortier beside Producer, Mariana
Winner, Katy Dudly takes home $100; Stage Manager, Robbin Fortier beside Producer, Mariana
Monday, April 1
(No foolin') WE HAD 8 OUTSTANDING STORYTELLERS, SOME NEW, SOME VETERANS OF 6- MINUTES AT A TIME TALES.
L-R
Patty, ,Jan, Vivian, Adona, Denise, Annie, Frank
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Storyteller Show MONDAY, Feb. 12th. We celebrated Robbin's Birthday, Comic Andrea & I read off Valentine messages the audience wrote in. |
Sorry if you missed the finals...we do it every Septemeber, featuring the monthly winners.
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FINALS 2023
Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller
Sat., Sept. 9th 7 p.m. $15
Golden Sails Hotel, private PCH Club.
6285 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach
www.brownpapertickets.com/browse.html
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On September 9th, eight storytellers competed for the title of Long Beach's Greatest Storyteller 2023. VICKIE WIPPEL won the title with her comical and ironic memory of how she handled her parents divorce as a child. She got the $100 prize, voted by the audinece, as well as bragging rights. Congratulations to all the finalists from 2023 Their true, tales that had the full house leaning in with laughter, gasps, and drama in a 6-minute format. Also, big thanks to comic
Andrea Abbate, who rocked the room!
Regretably, Winning Finalists, H. Leonards and Charlene Mae, were out of town.
JULY 10th LBS
photos by Barry Kunz
Around the hearthstone, every night a storyteller lives forever.
Anonymous
Courage is the most important virtue of them all -- because without it,
none of the other virtues can be done.
Maya Angelou
Everything you love will probably be lost, but in the end, love will return in another way. Embrace change. It's inevitable for growth. together we can shift pain into wonder and love, but it is up to us to consciously and intentionally create that connection.
Franz Kafka
Thank you all for putting your memories together and
keepin' it real 6-minutes at a time.
Anonymous
Courage is the most important virtue of them all -- because without it,
none of the other virtues can be done.
Maya Angelou
Everything you love will probably be lost, but in the end, love will return in another way. Embrace change. It's inevitable for growth. together we can shift pain into wonder and love, but it is up to us to consciously and intentionally create that connection.
Franz Kafka
Thank you all for putting your memories together and
keepin' it real 6-minutes at a time.
Link to Mariana's author page tinyurl.com/4rmc9ajy
LONG BEACH SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER SINCE 2011
Long Beach has been keepin' it real, 6-minutes at a time.
NEXT SHOW MON., FEB. 2, 2026
Produced by Mariana Williams, with Stage Manager Robbin Fortier
Long Beach has been keepin' it real, 6-minutes at a time.
NEXT SHOW MON., FEB. 2, 2026
Produced by Mariana Williams, with Stage Manager Robbin Fortier
L-R Mary Jane/ Runner-up; Kathy Porter/Winner, Cynthia, Charles, Carolyn, Dave, Steve, (front row)
Jeremy & Ben. July 2025
Jeremy & Ben. July 2025
Birthdays are often celebrated at Malainey's on Alamitos Bay. LB Searches present shows the first Monday of the Month during Feb.-September. Mariana's daughter share cake with the room. What a splendid place to celebrate any occasion.
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Guest Teller, DEBRA EHRHARDT filled the room with laughs during her spot. Chilling at the table is Songwriter HAROLD PAYNE, and teller JEREMY EBENSTEIN. L-R Producer, Mariana Williams; Winner Kathy Porter Runner-up Mary Jane Turner Stage Manager Robbin Fortier |
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"My story? Ok...I was working the late shift at Chipolte, when my boss starts giving me shade about my hat. Then he starts in about my scarves...that's when...."
Finalists were all monthly winners the audience chose in of 2023. Thanks for crushin' it!
Are you just dying to spill your guts to a room full of non-judgmental, supporting strangers?? Yeah, me too. Submit about 5 lines to:
[email protected]
[email protected]
NEXT SHOW OF Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller
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May 1st Storytellers Winner below, H Leonards told a true story of her experience with Rosa Parks. Runner-up, on far left, Charlene Mae, left em laughing.
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Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller
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Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller March 6, 2023
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Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller crushed it at the February 6th show
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MALAINEY'S GRILL...where the stories meet the Sea: ocean view on the West, storyteller stage to the South, awesome bar is North. Bring a compass, you might get lost in the True, 6-minute tales by locals.
Audience votes, $100 prize for top tale of the night. All shows are the first Monday of the month through August. |
THANK YOU BELLFLOWER FOR SHOWING UP FOR OUR FIRST SHOW at the Stand Up Comedy Club..
WE HAVE Winter, Spring, Summer and FALL FINALS planned. The next show/ Spring, SUN. APRIL 30. L-R : Robbin, Justin & Marianne, (tied runner-ups) and Frank Traylor won the $100. Mariana on the end.
WE HAVE Winter, Spring, Summer and FALL FINALS planned. The next show/ Spring, SUN. APRIL 30. L-R : Robbin, Justin & Marianne, (tied runner-ups) and Frank Traylor won the $100. Mariana on the end.
Get in the game. Send about 4 lines about your tale to: [email protected]
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Consider shortening your facinating tales to five minutes...uh? All the time.
Hovering around the chip and dip at a party, the dog park, when a your hound is gnawing another pet, and especially in the E.R., no matter how hot the nurse is. |
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Our last show off 2022 Season, July 11th. Stage Manager/ Robbin Fortier, Storyteller Winner/
Chosen by the audience was, Ben Rodriguez, Runner-up Carla Bardales, Producer, Mariana Williams
"Why do you end the season in July or August?" "Because we did shows Monday nights and we had to make room for Monday Night football."
Chosen by the audience was, Ben Rodriguez, Runner-up Carla Bardales, Producer, Mariana Williams
"Why do you end the season in July or August?" "Because we did shows Monday nights and we had to make room for Monday Night football."
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Thank you Long Beach for supporting Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storyteller since 2011
We will be back with more true tales by locals, keepin' it real, 6-minutes at a time.
MON., MAY 2.
JACK FRY won the audience vote with a stirring tale of teaching, his first year. He had the character voices DOWN, and told the tale with OMG moments-ending with a group, "Ahhhhh. |
Mon., June 6 The sold-out crowd raved about our June 6th show. So many flavors of personalities and experiences. L-R: Mariana/Producer, Paul Williams/Guest Teller and husband of gal he is groping.Vickie Wipple/Runner-up, James Krueger, Emily Sorter/Winner, Cody Miller, David Olmos, Anita Razin and Vince Mitchell. All got many votes.
Malaineys Grill, on scenic Alamitos Bay, in LB. 196 n. Marina Dr., LB. 7-9 p.m., $6 at the door. or below. |
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APRIL 4, 22. LBS Storytelling Show
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TERI KINNE WINNER, JUNE 7, 21, with a cat story with a surprising ending-the audience gasped.Runner-up, LARRY PORRICELLI had the crowd spell-bound with his tale from beyond the grave.
JUNE 7th L-R, Dusty, Teri, Mariana, Dean, Larry, Liam and Doyle keepin' it real, 6-minutes at a time, at Malainey's packed house. The bonus, was guest teller, Debra Ehrhardt.
MAY 7, 21 TELLERS SHOWED UP WITH TALES OF TRAVEL, MISTAKEN IDENTITY, LOSS. SPORTS. LIBRARIES AND PETS
(Above)
All Star Storyteller Show--Nov. 29, 2021 all winners, chosen by attentive audience photo by JoAnn Wintenburg Join our mailing list to be in-the-storytelling-loop. Send an email : [email protected] |
First Storytelling show of 2022,
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)FAQ
How often are the storytelling shows? First Monday of the month, till football season, 7-9 p.m., Malaineys Grill, 168 Marina Dr.
How do I get in on it? Send 5 lines about your true tale to: [email protected]
What subjects should we talk about? Drama, tragedy, glass-half-full days, triumphs of kindness and awareness, first date, most embarassing moment , OMG, WTF. Many of the stories are hilarious, but they don't have to be. We reflect, we go inside, then go really inside and search for the lessons of these pandemic days.
Does it have to be memorized? Naw. Just have a strong opening sentence, situation you found yourself in-and the outcome.
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DETAILS
Malainey's Grill, 168 N. Marina Dr., on beautiful Alamitos Bay, Long Beach, CA. 7-9 p.m., $6 at the door. $100 prize for top 6-minute true tale of the night. Audience votes. (Also, two author judges whose votes count 5 points each.)
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March 2, 2020 LONG BEACH SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER
DOYLE SMIENS WINS
L-R Eliza Karagezian, runner-up & Doyle Smiens, All the tellers L-R: Mariana, Jaahan,Sasha, Ann, Marianne, Eliza (Runner-up), Doyle, Not seen Jim Dohn.
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February 3, 2020 LONG BEACH SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER
DUSTY THOMPSON WINS, Runner-up WES WHITE. (Wes lost by one point and will be in the finals)
We celebrated February birthdays too--L-R: David Olmos (2019 Winner of LBS) Bonnie, Robbin, Mariana and Tamara
February 3, 2020 LONG BEACH SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER
DUSTY THOMPSON WINS, Runner-up WES WHITE. (Wes lost by one point and will be in the finals)
We celebrated February birthdays too--L-R: David Olmos (2019 Winner of LBS) Bonnie, Robbin, Mariana and Tamara
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ABOVE, stand up and applaud for all nine February Tellers L-R Mariana, Rick, Winner/Dusty, Kyle, Douglas, Vickie, Ozzie, Runner-up/Wes, Chris and Glenda
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JANUARY 6, 2020. First show of the year.
LIAM MC LAUGHLIN Wins, Rosalie runner-up
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JANUARY 6, 2020. First show of the year.
LIAM MC LAUGHLIN Wins, Rosalie runner-up
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L-R, Jared, Rosalie, Pam, Shophia, Janora, Liam
Our first show of the year 2020, started off with a bang. We had special GUEST TELLERS L-R, Paul Williams welcomes everyone, with producer and main squeeze, Mariana Williams; Winner, Liam Mc Laughlin,
Guest Teller, Laura Hayden; Pinocchio/Rick Sanchez; Megan Dolan/ Lemurmom actress/writer. Apology to Megan's forehead. Photos by JoAnn Wintenburg & Carolyn Yarnell.
Guest Teller, Laura Hayden; Pinocchio/Rick Sanchez; Megan Dolan/ Lemurmom actress/writer. Apology to Megan's forehead. Photos by JoAnn Wintenburg & Carolyn Yarnell.
LIAM MC LAUGHLIN WINNER $100, audience chose. One vote apart between Rosalie and Liam. Sidebar:(Bringing back the memory of me losing the Moth in NY storyslam by one-tenth of a point. I was followed by a comic who did her act. Grrrr)
Remember to vote everyone this November, right??
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The storyteller show, MON., JULY 1st was exciting with the varied subjects that were covered. L-R,
Carolyn, Winner-David, Ina, Marianne, Isadora, Patricia, and Runner-up was Lawrence and Jessica.
(Photo by Adam Husted)
Carolyn, Winner-David, Ina, Marianne, Isadora, Patricia, and Runner-up was Lawrence and Jessica.
(Photo by Adam Husted)
Above see the storyteller show, MON., JUNE 3 at Malainey's Grill, L-R, Sophia, Mariana, Rick, Carin, Charlene, WINNER: LAURA HAYDEN, Laurie and RUNNER UP: DAVE CLARK (Photo JoAnn Wintenburg)
Robbin Fortier, Stage Manager; Runner-up, Dave Clark; winner, Laura Hayden--seen biting the $100 bill; producer, Mariana
Thanks to the talented photographers who capture the good times. I stand and salute you. I'm standing right now.
I/we all so, so... appreciate it
Adam Husted, Carolyn Yarnell,
Jo ann Witenburg and Barry Kunz
May 6 th show was interesting and varied in the subject of true tales. Thank you L-R, Katrina, Bobby (runner-up), Carol, Sheila, Larry, Mariana & Jeff.
Winner this night was Larry Porricelli, runner-up, Bobby Cochran.
Winner this night was Larry Porricelli, runner-up, Bobby Cochran.
April 1st--no fools here just tight stories and a full house of listeners leanin' in.
Robbin Fortier, STAGE MANAGER; Runner-up, Sasha Kildare; winner,Ben rodriguez; Mariana, producer
April $100 winner, Ben Rodriguez, runner-up sasha kildare and the other great tellers
March 9th winner, Ron Chick and Runner-up, Rosalie Mattern
March 9th WE HAD A FULL STAge of tellers who surprised the full house with the OMG moments
Mariana tells a story on how to get rid of swimmers ear in ten easy steps. On March 9th, Debra Ehrhardt and Mariana perform "Accidental Nudity" at the Aurora Theater, VIP Guest Paul Williams jumped on stage and spontaneous stories were told. Hilarious, of course.
February 4,19 Winning tale was about trying to adopt a cat. It did not go well--however, it won Charla $100, because the whole room related and laughed themselves off their chairs.
FEBRUARY 4, 19
L-R, Runner-up, Joshua and $100 Winner, Charla Howard. Robbin & Mariana are pretty glad to start up the show after a few months off-during football.
(Below)
JANUARY 7, 19 we kicked off SEASON 9 $100 WINNER, CYNTHIA NEIMAN & RUNNER-UP CHAD FULTS, Congratulations!
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2018
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AS PRODUCER OF LONG BEACH SEARCHES FOR GREATEST STORYTELLER THESE PAST EIGHT YEARS, IT'S BEEN A THRILL HEARING THE STORIES AND MEETING ALL OF YOU. 2019 BRINGS IN ANOTHER SEASON, OF KEEPIN' IT REAL, 6-MINUTES AT A TIME. THANK YOU STORYTELLERS! YOU WERE ALL AWESOME AT THE SEASON 8 FINALS AUG. 20, 2018 CHAD FULTS, ANNIE MOOSE, EDWARD BEGGS, EMERSON DAMERON, ZOOT VALESCO, CHARLES TENTINDO, ISADORA JOHNSON & JUDY WILLIS. THE WINNER IS IN! ZOOT VELASCO. HE WON THE TITLE OF LONG BEACH'S GREATEST STORYTELLER, 2018. HIS STORY, "THE ROBOT" WON OVER THE JUDGES. RUNNER-UP, JUDY WILLIS TOLD A TALE ABOUT GETTING OUT OF HER COMFORT ZONE, WITH POLE DANCING CLASSES. PHOTO BY JOANNE WINTENBERG |
L-R, Runner-up, Judy Willis; Mariana,Producer; Robbin Fortier,Stage Manager; Winner, Zoot Valesco
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On the right Robbin Fortier, co-host, Debra Ehrhardt last year's winner and co-host, and Mariana
Below, behold the local author judges whose votes count for five-points each. L-R, Kathy Porter, Darlene Quinn, Paul Williams, Harry Saltzgaver and Mariana. All have authored more than one book, except Paul who authored only one with co-writer Tracey Jackson. "Gratitude and Trust" which was on the best seller list for a while!
Below, behold the local author judges whose votes count for five-points each. L-R, Kathy Porter, Darlene Quinn, Paul Williams, Harry Saltzgaver and Mariana. All have authored more than one book, except Paul who authored only one with co-writer Tracey Jackson. "Gratitude and Trust" which was on the best seller list for a while!
Memorial day show, MAY 28--CONGRATS WinnerS zoot VELASCO, (SHOWING STRONG ARM) RUNNER-UP, BOB POPE
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APRIL 30 TELLERS
EMERSON DAMERON WINS AND RUNNER-UP, DENICE **** MAR. 26 TELLERS, EDWARD BEGGS WINS AND HEATHER CLISBY IS RUNNER-UP **** FEB.26, ANNIE MOOSE WINS AND KEITH WATANABE RUNNER-UP |
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JANUARY 29, 18
First show of the season and the tellers really brought it. The audience and judges voted for CHAD FULTS as the winner, Debra Erhardt was guest teller
First show of the season and the tellers really brought it. The audience and judges voted for CHAD FULTS as the winner, Debra Erhardt was guest teller
season 7 Finalists, August '17,
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Debra Ebrhardt wins
Long Beach Greatest Storyteller '17
Long Beach Searches for Greatest Storytelling Finals...
monday, august 28, 17
MALARKEY'S GRILL , 168 N.MARINA DRIVE ( SCENIC ALAMITOS BAY), LONG BEACH,CA
Finalists L-R: (Mariana Williams/Producer), Jeff Tucker, Sharmyn Mc Graw,
Angela Madsen, Jon Garcia/Runner-up, Martha Bass & Mary Jane Turner Debra Ebrhardt/Winner 2017 Long Beach’s Greatest Storyteller
Stories were varied, some tellers retold their original winning tales from the monthly shows, other tellers chose to bring a different 6-minute anecdote. With both rooms filled with avid listeners, terrific food and a buzz of excitement, Mariana and Co-host Karen Hannegan, (L.B.’s Greatest Storyteller 2016) and Musician Harold Payne filled in the gaps keeping the energy pumping. The dramatic conclusion to evening was announced by one of the judges, Paul Williams. Originally from Jamaica, DEBRA EBRHARDT blasted on to the stage with a tale of being new in the U.S. and encountering a refined gentleman on the subway. He shocked the innocent young immigrant with a lewd anatomy lesson. It was her turn to shock him when she exposed the pervert by announcing his lewd gesture to the entire train in a loud voice. With a spirited Jamaican dialect and animated facial expressions, the tale was hilarious, winning her the title of Long Beach’s Greatest Storyteller 2017. Along with a $200 cash prize. Runner-up/Jon Garcia shared a stirring tale of racial profiling; proving the subject matters for this literary event is broad and deep as well as down-right funny.
Hosted by MARIANA WILLIAMS
co-host KAREN HANNEGAN, 2016 WINNER OF LB Searches
Special Musical Guest HAROLD PAYNE
Author
Turning in the piano keys for alphabet keys, she used her professional musician experiences to write four books.
Love,Regret and Accidental Nudity: a collection of OMG moments sorted into six categories, was a finalist in the Humor Category of the 2014 International Book Awards. Prior to this memoir, Mariana penned the Veronica Bennett Series of romance, comedy,and accidental crime: Happy New Year, Darling, The Valentine State--a finalist in the 2014 Chick Lit category of International Book Award, and Stars or Stripes 4th of July, which won a 2011 Indie Excellence Book Award.
Storyteller
Mariana was a Moth Grand Slam finalist in the acclaimed story-telling competition held in Los Angeles, as well as appearing
on the Moth stage in N.Y. She teaches storytelling workshops and is the Producer of Long Beach Searches for the Greatest Storyteller, now beginning its seventh season.
amazon.com/author/marianawilliams Facebook:Mariana Loves Stories (First two novels avail @ audible.com)
Get on our mailing list for storytelling buzz...send me your e-dress, woncha? [email protected]
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The Veronica Bennett Series are perfect beach books, full of comedy, romance and accidental crime Books available at Amazon, print and e
Please click tinyurl.com/zmwjqeo
Mariana's life experiences as a musician and comedy agent prepared her for writing about Veronica, a club singer who is always falling into accidental crime, and naturally ready for love. In 2003, Mariana traded the piano keys for alphabet keys and put her life experiences to paper, beginning with Happy New Year, Darling, The Valentine State, and Stars or Stripes 4th of July. However, Mariana takes on topics more poignant than are generally found in chic lit. Addiction, and boundaries with teens and the challenge of monogamy are woven into each plot. Never preachy, always witty, all three novels end with a surprising dénouement.
The Valentine State 2014 International Book Award Finalist, Chick Lit
Stars or Stripes 4th of July, 2011 National Indie Excellence Award
Mariana lives in So. California with her Oscar-winning, songwriter husband Paul Williams and this mother of two fills the empty nest with two calico cats. Mariana says, "I wanted to be a ballerina, but writing suits me. I can practice in bed with a bag of chips."
Please click tinyurl.com/zmwjqeo
Mariana's life experiences as a musician and comedy agent prepared her for writing about Veronica, a club singer who is always falling into accidental crime, and naturally ready for love. In 2003, Mariana traded the piano keys for alphabet keys and put her life experiences to paper, beginning with Happy New Year, Darling, The Valentine State, and Stars or Stripes 4th of July. However, Mariana takes on topics more poignant than are generally found in chic lit. Addiction, and boundaries with teens and the challenge of monogamy are woven into each plot. Never preachy, always witty, all three novels end with a surprising dénouement.
The Valentine State 2014 International Book Award Finalist, Chick Lit
Stars or Stripes 4th of July, 2011 National Indie Excellence Award
Mariana lives in So. California with her Oscar-winning, songwriter husband Paul Williams and this mother of two fills the empty nest with two calico cats. Mariana says, "I wanted to be a ballerina, but writing suits me. I can practice in bed with a bag of chips."
True stuff that happened, then I told it on stage, then wrote it down. Next comes the opera.
Click tiny line on left to check it out
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Why do I suppose my life is fascinating enough to write about? Love? Hmm, as for my mom, dad and myself, we’ve racked up thirteen marriages— romantic and certainly optimistic. Regret? Well, if embarrassing, eye-squinting, throat-closing, breathless, cringing describes it…I’ve got a few tales to tell, like budget plastic surgery and herding roaches at a party. Accidental nudity? My nudity is about as spontaneous as a space shuttle launch—even so, there’s still the unexpected.
Here's what people are saying about Love, Regret and Accidental Nudity.
“In many ways, reading Mariana is like living with her. You’ll find humor in the moment, joy in the memory, and you’ll be amazed at the courage and adaptability of her ‘one-talent-fits-any-skill’ approach to life. Pianist, vocalist, novelist, she’s always found a way to create. Accidental nudity? My attorneys have advised me to refrain from commenting.”
---Paul Williams, Oscar-winning, Hall of Fame Songwriter
"Whether it’s reading Mariana’s clever stories, or novels, I always find myself thoroughly enjoying myself, and often, laughing-out-loud. That’s right, I’m the one lying around the pool with a book propped up, chuckling, making you wish you were reading what I was reading." ---Lisa Niemi Swayze, author of Worth Fighting For
"I enjoyed every minute of Love, Regret, and Accidental Nudity. You will laugh with her as she travels to exotic places, falls in love, and plays with grown-up girlfriends. A real winner!”
—Lee Pound, Author and Book Publisher
“Mariana’s latest goes straight to the heart…you’ll find yourself laughing through your tears."
—Darlene Quinn, Author of the International award-winning Web series
"And the wit goes on: Mariana Williams disarming the reader with tilted impeccable logic!
—Penelope Bernal, Elle Magazine Juror
Click below here please
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Why do I suppose my life is fascinating enough to write about? Love? Hmm, as for my mom, dad and myself, we’ve racked up thirteen marriages— romantic and certainly optimistic. Regret? Well, if embarrassing, eye-squinting, throat-closing, breathless, cringing describes it…I’ve got a few tales to tell, like budget plastic surgery and herding roaches at a party. Accidental nudity? My nudity is about as spontaneous as a space shuttle launch—even so, there’s still the unexpected.
Here's what people are saying about Love, Regret and Accidental Nudity.
“In many ways, reading Mariana is like living with her. You’ll find humor in the moment, joy in the memory, and you’ll be amazed at the courage and adaptability of her ‘one-talent-fits-any-skill’ approach to life. Pianist, vocalist, novelist, she’s always found a way to create. Accidental nudity? My attorneys have advised me to refrain from commenting.”
---Paul Williams, Oscar-winning, Hall of Fame Songwriter
"Whether it’s reading Mariana’s clever stories, or novels, I always find myself thoroughly enjoying myself, and often, laughing-out-loud. That’s right, I’m the one lying around the pool with a book propped up, chuckling, making you wish you were reading what I was reading." ---Lisa Niemi Swayze, author of Worth Fighting For
"I enjoyed every minute of Love, Regret, and Accidental Nudity. You will laugh with her as she travels to exotic places, falls in love, and plays with grown-up girlfriends. A real winner!”
—Lee Pound, Author and Book Publisher
“Mariana’s latest goes straight to the heart…you’ll find yourself laughing through your tears."
—Darlene Quinn, Author of the International award-winning Web series
"And the wit goes on: Mariana Williams disarming the reader with tilted impeccable logic!
—Penelope Bernal, Elle Magazine Juror
Click below here please
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Paul Williams' documentary "Still Alive" is available on Netflix & iTunes, as well as the original song he penned for the film. Filmmaker Steve Kessler followed him around for over four years. (Yes, it was annoying, thanks for asking.) But, the doc turned out great. (Sadly, I'm portrayed as an eye-rolling, bore. But, my friends know the truth. I rarely roll my eyes.)
Paul co-wrote two of the songs on The 2014 Album of The Year, Daft Punk's 'Random Access Memories.' As guest artist, he also sings "Touch." Follow him on Twitter at @IMPaulWilliams.
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