Residents foster community through true stories at ‘We are Waltham’

We Are Waltham’s popular storytelling series returns this week with its fall “Wee WaW” event, shining a spotlight on local voices and fostering deeper community connections in the city.

The show, now in its fourth year, presents true stories told by Waltham residents who are coached to share their experiences in compelling ways, said the show’s creator, Waltham resident Chandreyee Lahiri.

The show, held every spring and fall, comes in two flavors: the “Big WaW” and more intimate “Wee WaW.” “Big WaW” takes place at the historic Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation, drawing crowds of around 100 for six original stories. The more intimate “Wee WaW” is hosted by Common Good Co. Cafe on Moody Street and features four tellers, live music and an open mic segment that invites audience participation alongside coffee and dessert.​

This fall’s Wee WaW event is Wednesday, Oct. 29, beginning at 7 p.m. In the lineup are Divine Nkwele, a recent Brandeis graduate with a master’s in conflict resolution and a Big WaW alumnus; mural artist and educator Joshua Winer; Sidney Spoering, a Waltham High graduate who works in childcare; and Andrea Parent, a longtime Waltham resident and medical publishing professional. 

Nkwele, reflecting on his experience with the show, said, “The story I shared before on the big show was about a very low moment in my life. I wanted to share it with a large audience in case hearing how I overcame my challenges could motivate others. Also I wanted to make myself see how far I have come today, when I have the opportunity to smile.”

Tickets range from $10 to $15, with a limited number of complimentary passes available for those in need; organizers encourage anyone interested to email discreetly for access. Further information, including videos of past performances, is available at We are Waltham.