Guelph Spoken Word Saturday May 16

 

Saturday May 16 at 7pm

The Round Table - 32 Essex St, Guelph

$15 PWYC

Some stories from Heads and Tales

PLUS

Your chance for a $100 slam Prize

Heck of a way to celebrate the long weekend!

Audience endorsements and reflections on Lilt of Laughter, Trace of Tears, a storytelling performance blending humour, history, and emotion.

What people are saying.

“What I saw was so touching, funny, and honest.” — Alec Harmer, Manager, River Run Centre

“Jay’s shifts between characters feel completely natural—like a room full of people."
— Audience member

“Jay’s changes in persona are impressively natural. His command of the stories has the feel of the best kind of Irish pub—full of characters, each clearly and distinctly present. Most enjoyable and entertaining.” -- Audience Member

“I so loved spending time with Jay. There’s a deep humour in these stories—even in the most tragic moments—that feels oddly comforting right now.”
— Audience member

Guelph Walking Tour 2026

The 2026 season is off to a roaring start.

Reserve your spot by contacting me directly. 

Groups of 4 or more. Any day, Any time. No service charges, no pesky fees. 

Call for collaborator

Call for Musician – Story & Music Collaboration (Guelph)

Guelph-based storyteller seeking an accomplished acoustic musician (fiddle, guitar, and/or tin whistle) to explore a collaborative performance blending live storytelling and music.

This is not a traditional “accompaniment” role. The music would work in and around the stories—supporting mood, transitions, and character—within an intimate, theatre-style setting.

The work draws on Irish and narrative traditions, with an emphasis on sensitivity, restraint, and responsiveness rather than showmanship.

Initial goal is to develop a short set for occasional paid performances, with potential to grow from there.

Looking for someone who:

    • is a strong, confident player 

    • listens well and plays with subtlety 

    • is interested in collaborative, text-driven work 

    • is based in or near Guelph 

Practical details:

    • flexible availability (some evenings/weekends) 

    • occasional day trips; no overnights 

    • light rehearsal process to explore and shape the work 

    • performances are paid (modest scale) 

To learn more about the storytelling work:

https://www.jaywalkingguelph.ca/ Look at Heads & Tales, and Lilt of Laughter, Trace of Tears

If this resonates, please get in touch with a brief note about yourself and your musical background.

— Jay Wilson wilsonjay7@gmail.com 

Getting ready for Guelph 200

The best way to experience Guelph is a storytelling walking tour with friends.

Your host is standing by right HERE

Perfect as we get ready for 2027, Guelph's Bicentennial.

Yes, you have to actually reach out to me in person at jaywalkingguelph@gmail.com or call 

519 820-3269.

Your tour begins from the moment you connect with me in person. No hiding behind an online booking system. No extra fees, no tickets. The good old fashioned honour system. Human to human.

A way of introducing JayWalking Theatre

 

One Hat. One Stage. Endless Possibilities.

As a student of theatre, Jay was captivated by legendary performers who could recite poetry, speeches, or any text at the drop of a hat. In Heads & Tales, he does just that: drop the hat and entertain.

Over the years, monologues, poems, and unforgettable passages have gathered in the recesses of his mind. To keep them alive, the titles go into a hat. You draw one. Jay performs it. Neither of you knows what’s coming next.

Every performance is different. Every draw is a surprise.
An evening of stories, wit, and words brought vividly to life.

Come curious. Leave surprised.

This show is designed to introduce audiences to JayWalking Theatre. It can be a performance as short as 5 minutes or as long as an hour. Perfect for open mics, event launches, gallery openings, storytelling happenings, neighbourhood gatherings, cafes, book clubs, folk societies, music evenings or anywhere audiences gather. Everyone loves a story. Everyone loves a surprise.

Tour time already?

I think April 13 is the earliest I have ever hosted a walking tour.

Groups of four or more. Any day, any time.

Call 519 820-3269 or jaywalkingguelph@gmail.com to book yours.