The Story Booth
The Story Booth allows us to capture stories from Jewish community members in the Washington area by bringing recording equipment directly to their workplaces, learning environments, community centers, and more. By meeting the Jewish community where they're at, the Story Booth accomplishes collection and outreach goals in tandem.
The booth itself is a 3x6 ft sound isolating system equipped with comfortable seating, lighting, and professional camera and recording gear. WSJHS staff guide participants through the process—introducing the concept of oral history, reviewing consent forms, and conducting brief, subject-focused interviews. Participants are invited to share their stories, with each interview tailored to the specific environment in which it takes place.
Stroum Jewish Community Center
MERcer island, wa: March 2025
Our team attended a screening of Carla the Rescuer as part of the Seattle Jewish Film Festival and set up our Story Booth to capture audience reflections on the film and the event. We interviewed attendees about their experience watching the documentary, the themes and stories that resonated with them, and the impact of Jewish film and storytelling in their lives. Participants shared their connections to the Seattle Jewish Film Festival and the Stroum Jewish Community Center, reflecting on the role these institutions play in fostering community, culture, and meaningful conversations.
Whidbey Island Center for the Arts
Langley, Wa: April 2025
The WSJHS team set sail to pop up our Story Booth at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts' production of Fiddler on the Roof. Following the performance, we interviewed both attendees and cast members about their connections to the Jewish community, their personal experiences with Jewish identity and culture, and their reflections on the show's enduring themes. Through these conversations, we captured a rich collection of stories that highlighted the relevance of Fiddler on the Roof across generations.
Reconstructing a Family’s Journey
Spokane, WA: May 2026
Our team traveled to Spokane, Washington, to hear from attendees of Reconstructing a Family’s Journey: Oral History, Research, and Storytelling with author Ken Baronsky. During the event, Baronsky shared how memory, historical research, and storytelling can work together to preserve family histories that might otherwise be lost to time. Visitors stopped by the Storybooth to reflect on their own family stories, share personal histories, and explore the importance of preserving the voices and experiences that shape who we are.