The Moth Mainstage

Frequently Asked Questions

What is moth main stage?

The Moth Mainstage is the flagship event of The Moth, a renowned nonprofit dedicated to the art and craft of live storytelling. As a premier performance art experience, The Moth Mainstage features a lineup of curated storytellers who share true, personal tales in front of a live audience. Each event showcases a diverse mix of voices

Where can I stream The Moth?

You can stream The Moth through several popular platforms, making it easy for fans to enjoy captivating stories from anywhere. The most accessible way is via The Moth Podcast, available on major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. The podcast features a curated selection of stories from live Mainstage events and StorySLAMs, updated weekly. Additionally, you can stream episodes directly from The Moth's official website, where you'll find an extensive archive of past performances and thematic playlists. For those who prefer radio, The Moth Radio Hour is broadcast on hundreds of public radio stations nationwide, and episodes are also available for streaming on NPR's website and app. While there are occasional video recordings of Mainstage events posted on The Moth's YouTube channel, the primary streaming experience is audio-based. Whether you're at home or on the go, streaming The Moth offers an engaging way to connect with real-life stories and the vibrant community of storytellers that make it special.

How long is The Moth live show?

The Moth live show, particularly The Moth Mainstage, typically runs for about two hours, including a short intermission. Each Mainstage event features five storytellers, each sharing a personal, unscripted story that usually lasts around 10 to 15 minutes. The stories are carefully curated to align with a central theme for the evening, ensuring a cohesive and engaging narrative journey for the audience. The show is hosted by an emcee who introduces each storyteller and often shares brief anecdotes or insights between performances, adding to the overall atmosphere. The two-hour format allows for a deep and immersive storytelling experience without feeling rushed or overwhelming. Attendees can expect a lively, interactive event that balances humor, emotion, and authenticity. The duration makes The Moth Mainstage an ideal night out for arts and theatre lovers seeking a meaningful and memorable live performance. Always check your event ticket or venue information for exact times, as show lengths can occasionally vary by location or special programming.

Is The Moth an NPR show?

Yes, The Moth is closely associated with NPR through its popular radio show, The Moth Radio Hour. While The Moth organization operates independently as a nonprofit dedicated to live storytelling, The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media and is distributed by PRX (Public Radio Exchange) to public radio stations nationwide, including many NPR affiliates. The radio show brings the magic of The Moth's live events to a broader audience, featuring a selection of the best stories told on The Moth Mainstage and other events. The Moth Radio Hour is a staple on many NPR stations and can also be streamed on the NPR website and app, as well as on The Moth's own digital platforms. This close partnership has helped elevate The Moth's profile and reach, making it a beloved fixture in the NPR programming lineup and a go-to source for fans of real-life storytelling and performance art.

What is the story behind The Moth?

The story behind The Moth traces back to 1997, when novelist and poet George Dawes Green founded the organization in New York City. Inspired by his memories of warm summer evenings in Georgia, where friends would gather on a porch to share stories while moths fluttered around the light, Green sought to recreate that atmosphere of intimate, authentic storytelling. Naming the project "The Moth,"