Workshops/ Residencies are appropriate for educational, corporate, and recreational environs. Minimum time allotment is 1.5 hours. Three hour workshops allow for further interactive activities and theoretical discourse for adult audiences. Five to 20 day residencies are designed for in depth study and writing/performance end-products.

 

THE STORY THREAD:

Celebrating Diversity Through the Power of the Word.

This educators workshop is designed to illustrate the use of storytelling as
a teaching tool in a multi-cultural society. Multi cultural understanding is
promoted by identifying stereotypes, aesthetics and world views. Specific
attention is given to the use of language. Participants learn to “locate the
text” of authors/storytellers, examine stories that teach common values, and
promote oral skills in the classroom. Proverbs and traditional tales are used to
stimulate group and individual storytelling. Resources include a teaching
guide and bibliography.

KNOCK KNOCK WHO’S THERE?:

Story!...Story Who?...The Story in You!

Everyone has stories to tell. This presentation engages the audience in interactive exercises. Participants learn story elements, presentation skills and story enhancement techniques, including song, rhythms, and dance. Students learn to tell stories from a familiar experience, or use themes such as national celebrations. National themes may range from “Earth Week” to “Do Nothing Day.”

WOMB Women of Magnificent Birth

This workshop presents the strength, power and indomitable spirit of women through storytelling. Enlightening stories about women from ancient to modern times are performed. Attendees are encouraged to find their own voice through interactive storytelling and sharing personal stories of magnificence. Self-empowerment, healing and sisterhood are an integral part of this session.

 

TELLIN’ FOR TOTS:

Using Storytelling in the Preschool Classroom

Preschool providers learn and create stories, songs, and interactive play for early childhood development. Teachers design lesson plans using story to reinforce academic and moral themes. Skill development focuses on facial expression and movement. Teacher’s guide and bibliography provided.

HOLLER BACK:

Storytelling & Literacy

A highly interactive middle school and high school residency custom designed to integrate literacy and history curriculums. Students create, critic and perform original works as well as traditional stories. Editing skills are highlighted, as participants learn to integrate youth aesthetics. Students develop oratory techniques which engage the audience in the storytelling experience. Works are accompanied by group generated rhythms and are recorded to CD. Students learn history of African Oral Tradition and its importance in family and community environs.

 

THE GAMES WE PLAY:

Stories, Rhythms and Rhymes in the Oral Tradition
This highly interactive workshop is packed full of fun and activity. Lessons teach origins and content of traditional games from the African diaspora, including hand jives, ring plays, dances and game songs. The workshop discusses the differences between “interactive plays” and “competitive games.” The style and plays of oral traditionalist Bessie Jones are shared, together with original work by the presenter. In group settings, participants create and develop interactive play reflecting current family and communal life. This workshop may present an extensive study of world views and ethos as it relates to children’s play.

 

KWANZAA TIME
Learn the origins and meaning of the Celebration of Kwanzaa. Explore and create innovative ways to apply the Nguzo Saba (seven principles) in daily life. Participants will learn Swahili terms and design “Zawadi” (gifts). Stories involve dance, song and call and response. Learn more.....

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