Share Your Story at The Reckoning

A Dark Romance Storytelling Event
Thursday, February 12, 2026 | 6:30 PM CT
 

We're seeking performers, writers, and storytellers to share compelling narratives about love gone wrong.

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Application Deadline: February 5, 2026

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THE OPPORTUNITY

Perform for an Engaged, Passionate Audience

The Reckoning will draw an audience who is:

• Hungry for dark narratives that explore complex relationships

• Actively engaged in chat, Q&A, and community discussion

• Your ideal audience - people who appreciate psychological depth and aren't afraid of darkness
   

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Story Types & Formats

We're seeking 6-minute pieces that explore love's darker side:

Original Fiction: Short thriller stories about toxic relationships, obsession, betrayal, revenge

Creative Nonfiction: Personal essays about surviving toxic love, reflective pieces on relationship red flags, cultural commentary on dark romance

Poetry: Original dark romance/thriller poetry, spoken word about dangerous devotion

Dramatic Readings: Classic literature (public domain) - Poe, Browning, etc., or contemporary published work (with proper permissions)

Unique Formats: Epistolary storytelling, dual voice performances, multimedia storytelling

CONTENT PARAMETERS

What Works (and What Doesn't)

✅ YES:

• Emotional manipulation, gaslighting, psychological abuse (explored thoughtfully)

• Obsession, stalking, unhealthy attachment

• Betrayal, revenge, consequences of toxic love

• Endings that aren't necessarily "happy" but feel earned
   

❌ NO:

• Content sexualizing minors (absolutely zero tolerance)

• Gratuitous gore without narrative purpose

• Glorification of abuse without complexity

• Hate speech or content targeting marginalized identities

We will provide content warnings before each performance.

THE DETAILS

What Performers Receive

💰 Compensation:

• Honorarium for all selected performers

• Payment via PayPal within 48 hours after event
   

📢 Promotion:

• Featured in event marketing (social media, email campaigns)

• Individual performer spotlight posts

• Bio and links shared in event materials
   

🎥 Recording:

• Recording of your performance
   

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Equipment (Minimum):

• Reliable internet connection

• Webcam (laptop camera is fine, ring light recommended)

• Microphone (laptop mic acceptable, external mic preferred)

• Quiet performance space with decent lighting

Platform: Zoom 

FAQ FOR PRESENTERS

Q: I've never performed virtually before. Is that okay?
A: Absolutely! We'll provide tech support and rehearsal time.

Q: Can I submit multiple pieces?
A: Yes! Submit up to 2 pieces. We'll choose the best fit if we select you.

Q: Can I perform a piece I've shared before?
A: Absolutely. We care about quality, not exclusivity.

Q: Can I sell books/promote my work during my intro?
A: Yes! Brief self-promotion (15-30 seconds) is encouraged.

Q: I have a performance partner. Can we submit together?
A: Yes! Duo performances are welcome. You'd split one performance slot/compensation.

ABOUT THE SERIES

The Reckoning is the third in a series of themed virtual storytelling events:

• The Eve (October 31, 2025) - Tales of unease and the uncanny

• The Whisper (December 11, 2025) - Mysteries & secrets

• The Reckoning (February 12, 2026) - Dark romance & love gone wrong

You're not just performing at an event. You're helping build a sustainable space for storytelling that doesn't shy away from darkness and depth.

READY TO SHARE YOUR STORY?

We're not looking for perfect. We're looking for real, raw, and compelling.

If you have a story about love gone wrong—whether fiction that chills or poetry that cuts—we want to hear it.

Application deadline: February 5, 2026

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