The Art of Storytelling: Lessons from Broadway
Joseph Taiano
Global Head of Marketing: Accenture Growth & Strategy | Performance Marketer | Brand Builder | Transformational Leader | Creative mindset with financial acumen
Having lived in the heart of the theater district in NYC, I've had the privilege of attending many Broadway shows and befriending many Broadway actors. Over the years, I've learned a great deal about storytelling from them.
Today, I’m excited to share 5 tips with you to help elevate your presentations.
1. Relatability:
A great Broadway show creates an instant connection with its audience and makes you feel like you're part of the story.
To achieve this in your business presentation, share genuine personal stories with passion.
Use engaging body language, eye contact and voice modulation to connect as if you're performing on stage.
2. Compelling Narratives:
Broadway thrives on captivating storylines - lovable protagonists, nasty villains, and challenging obstacles.
In your presentation, start with an intriguing hook such as a surprising fact or research statistic to capture attention immediately.
Structure your content like a broadway show, breaking it down into acts 1, 2 and 3.
Weave in personal or business anecdotes that have surprising twists and turns.
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3. Clear Messaging:
Simplify your language for clarity and impact. Ensure that your content is well-edited and straight to the point – much like a polished Broadway script. Don't use filler words.
4. Visual Aids:
Everyone loves the glitz and glamour of a Broadway musical!
Incorporate high-quality visuals that complement and enhance your narrative.
If you're using powerpoint, use high quality imagery and minimal words. Embed short videos throughout your presentation to keep momentum. Use polls or questions to get the audience involved.
5. Confident Delivery:
Every actor rehearses for months before stepping on stage.
While you may not have months for preparation in business settings, rehearsing is just as critical.
Rehearse thoroughly to ensure smooth delivery. Do a dress rehearsal if you can.
Engage directly with your audience; manage pacing effectively; work the stage like an actor!
Which storytelling tip do you find most valuable? Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section.
#storytelling #presentationskills #broadway
Senior Design Experience Analyst at Accenture Song
1 个月LOVE this!
Great metaphor. And great tips. Thanks for this.
Senior Manager @ Accenture | Women's ERG Chapter Co-Lead | Digital Storyteller | Content Curator and Strategist | People Connector
1 个月Love this... SO many great lessons from the performing arts. I wrote back in June 2024 about the leadership lessons I gained from watching my daughter take on ensemble roles in youth theater... which complements nicely with your storytelling wisdom. ?? https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/5-leadership-lessons-from-theater-mom-marketer-andrea-donatucci-kbsyc/?trackingId=qzP8dRWyS7aChLSNuHDGTA%3D%3D
Love this, Joe! ?? Less is more and don't be afraid of involving your audience. Bonus tip: think about how you want your audience to feel (vs just think or know) at the end. This acts like a Director's note - if you want them to feel inspired, then you'd better be inspiring! If you want them to feel a sense of urgency - convey that, etc. This goes back to your point about personal stories - and storytelling in general. People forget facts and data, but they remember the stories! Don't data dump, story-tell!