StoryBall Fundraiser 2026:
The Case of the Missing Manuscript
The Stories Matter Foundation Board of Directors invites you to our annual fundraiser, StoryBall. The theme for 2026 will be The Case of the Missing Manuscript, hosted at Ravenswood Event Center on Thursday, May 7.
StoryStudio Chicago Artistic Director Rebecca Makkai and Executive Director Jessica Keller, along with staff, core faculty members, students, and Chicago’s finest authors celebrate another year writing, creating, and building with StoryStudio.
In-Person at Ravenswood Event Center
4021 N Ravenswood Ave
Thursday, May 7, 2026
6:00pm-9:30pm
TICKETS ON SALE!
We encourage you to mark your calendars and get your tickets early this year so you can ensure your spot at the party of the year!
$75: General Admission
Tickets to our in-person fundraising event will include entry to the StoryBall Cocktail Party. This includes beer and wine, select cocktails, Heavy Appetizers, and Dessert Table
$75: Buy a Ticket for an Instructor!
Buy a ticket for one of our amazing StoryStudio Chicago instructors!
Can’t Make it, But Want to Contribute?
Make a Donation in Support of Stories Matter Foundation Today
Congratulations to our 2026 Instructor of the Year Award winner, Juan Martinez!
Need some costume ideas? Check out our mood boards below!
Other costume ideas include: “nosy neighbor,” “mysterious stranger,” Clue, Murder She Wrote
BID FOR STORYBALL SILENT AUCTION ITEMS
Bid on more than 20 experiences, vacations, book parties, and so much more!
All donations from the evening will go to support the Stories Matter Foundation. Stories Matter Foundation is the parent organization of StoryStudio Chicago, the Chicago Review of Books, and Chicago Stories Project. We build communities of storytellers trained to question, explore, celebrate, and change their worlds using the power of story.
Can’t Make it, But Want to Contribute? Make a Donation in Support of Stories Matter Foundation Today
Take a look at our StoryBall celebrations over the years.
