Lyrical Muse

Stories are everywhere — in books, films, family anecdotes, fleeting conversations and even the moments we create spontaneously with others.

At a time when creativity often feels constrained by routines, AI and algorithms, improvisational storytelling offers something refreshing: the freedom to create without overthinking, perfectionism, or predetermined outcomes.

On June 20, writer and storyteller Anjana H will be leading Stories in the Making, an interactive improv storytelling workshop organised by Lyrical Muse. Designed for both beginners and seasoned storytellers, the session invites participants to explore creativity through improvisation, collaboration, and play.

Ahead of the workshop, we caught up with Anjana to talk about her journey, the power of improv storytelling and how anyone can become a storyteller.

1. For those discovering your work for the first time, could you tell us a little about yourself and your journey as a storyteller?

Anjana: Hello, I am Anjana — a writer and storyteller. My journey as a storyteller began in childhood. I wrote stories and directed plays throughout my school years, always finding joy in creating narratives.

When I moved to Chennai for work, I performed at an open mic for the first time, and it felt like a rekindling of that long-standing passion. Since then, I have performed at numerous open mics and storytelling events. I am currently working on a novel, while also writing short stories and publishing on Substack.

2. Storytelling exists in many forms today — from books and films to social media and everyday conversations. What draws you most to improv storytelling, and what keeps you excited about the practice?

Anjana: What fascinates me about improv storytelling is that we create stories that didn’t even exist a minute earlier. In group improv activities, a safe and encouraging environment is established, allowing participants to step beyond their comfort zones.

What draws me to this format is the way improv brings participants together, to understand and listen to one another, and collaboratively create entirely new stories from scratch.

3. Your upcoming workshop, ‘Stories in the Making’, explores storytelling through improvisation. What inspired the idea, and what can participants expect from the experience?

Anjana: Storytelling is both a form of self-expression and self-exploration. I wanted to design a workshop that would allow even complete beginners to enjoy the art of storytelling, and I believe improv is a wonderful place to start.

Participants can expect ninety minutes of engaging activities, creative challenges, and a safe, supportive environment where they can explore new skills. Above all, I hope the workshop creates opportunities for meaningful connections and new friendships.

4. Who is this workshop for? Is it geared towards writers and performers, or can complete beginners benefit from it as well?

Anjana: The workshop is designed with complete beginners in mind, and no prior experience is required. At the same time, participants with previous storytelling or performance experience can help elevate the experience for newer storytellers, creating opportunities for shared learning. It’s a win for all.

Improv storytelling fosters creativity, problem-solving and collaboration, and studies have even shown its positive impact on anxiety and depression. All storytellers, regardless of experience level, would benefit from this workshop.

5. Many people assume they’re “not creative enough” to tell stories. Do you think storytelling is a talent, a skill, or a bit of both? What would you say to someone who feels that way?

Anjana: I believe we are all storytellers, even if we never perform on a stage or write a script. Storytelling is an ancient art through which information has passed through geographies, languages and generations. We have all participated in it and passed on stories.

Creativity, in my view, is a muscle that needs to be trained and practiced. With the rise of AI-generated art and the mundane everyday routines, nurturing our creativity feels more important than ever. Most storytellers and writers begin with imperfect stories, loose plots, and weak characters. But with regular practice, they get better

To anyone who feels they aren’t creative enough, I would simply say: you’re probably just a beginner. The more you engage with the craft, the stronger your storytelling becomes.

6. Without giving too much away, what are some key takeaways participants can expect? How can improvisation and storytelling support people beyond creative pursuits — in communication, confidence, or everyday life?

Anjana: Participants can expect to learn the fundamentals of improv storytelling in a practical and engaging way. Throughout the workshop, they will be presented with creative challenges that require quick thinking and collaborative problem-solving; basically coming up with a solution on the spot. They’ll learn how to build on others’ ideas, work as a team, take risks and navigate uncertainty.

These skills extend far beyond storytelling. Improv can help reduce perfectionism and anxiety while strengthening communication, confidence, adaptability, and decision-making. The benefits aren’t limited to creative pursuits — they can positively impact everyday life as well.

7. This workshop is being presented in collaboration with Lyrical Muse. What made the partnership feel like a natural fit, and why do you think spaces like these are important for nurturing creative communities?

Anjana: Collaborating with Lyrical Muse felt like a natural fit because our interests and goals are closely aligned. Lyrical Muse has provided me with a platform to share the joy of storytelling with a wider audience, and the team has been incredibly supportive throughout the process, and a delight to work with.

Spaces like these are essential for creative skill-sharing and fostering the growth of art communities. They encourage to learn from one another, exchange ideas and contribute to the growth of vibrant creative ecosystems.

(Note: Answers have been lightly edited for the flow and style.)

Stories in the Making takes place on June 20, 2026. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a performer, or simply someone curious about creativity, the workshop offers a welcoming space to explore storytelling through improvisation.

Interested in attending? Reserve your spot now and take advantage of the Early Bird discount before registrations fill up.

Have thoughts on storytelling, creativity, or improv? We’d love to hear from you. Share your reflections with us on Instagram and X, and visit the website for more.