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NATURE
(See Also ANIMALS,
ECOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT)
MUSIC
|| THEATER || STORYTELLING
|| PUPPETRY
MUSIC
Night Heron Music
267 Center Road
Hillsboro, NH 03244
(800) 785-9678
E Mail: info@nightheron.com
Website: http://www.NightHeron.com
Join award-winning musician, author, and storyteller STEVE SCHUCH on a voyage of discovery. Striking pieces for violin and whales... magical tales of from around the world... lively singing, fun with languages, and the science of sound... all are part of Steve’s wide-ranging repertoire. Music and story selections are grade level appropriate, exemplifying arts education at its best. All programs include a free set of Books, CD’s and Educator Prep Materials. Steve offers encouragement for young writers and musicians as well. Honors include Artist Fellowships, composer awards and five fiddling championships. Steve’s musical story, A Symphony of Whales, received five national book awards, and his children’s recording, Trees of Life, a Parents’ Choice Gold Award. Schools often include an Author Book/CD Signing with a portion of the proceeds going back to the school. Details at: www.NightHeron.com.
"Warmth and storytelling magic." –Los Angeles Times
"Exceptionally fine... Schuch brings as much skill and intelligence to folk music as he does to classical." –The Boston Globe
Sample Program: A Symphony of Whales
Learn about whales, their songs and their encounters with humans. Listen to a true tale of arctic rescue and hear Steve’s unforgettable“Whale Trilogy” –– a solo violin piece played with these mysterious songs of the deep. Weaving together science and performance, this program includes material from Steve’s travels, CD’s and award-winning book, A Symphony of Whales. “Riveting indeed.” –Smithsonian
Program Titles: A Symphony of Whales; The Author’s Story; Songs & Tales Around the World; Music & Tales of Ireland; Songs & Tales of the Earth;
Life in a Third World Village (music & slide program); Roots of Rhythm & Harmony; Fiddler on the Loose; Imagination & the Art of Storytelling;
The Writer's Workshop; Parent/Educator Workshops; Family Concerts; Artist Residencies.
Audience Limit: 250/assembly; 30/workshop; call to discuss Family Concerts and Artist Residencies
Fee: Contact artist for details.
Funding Sources: Title II Grants, New England Foundation for the Arts, New Hampshire Arts Council, B.O.C.E.S. (New York)
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78 Pratt Corner Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
(413) 259-1146
E-Mail: roger@rogertincknell.com
Website: www.rogertincknell.com
Two-time Parents’ Choice Award-winning recording artist, Roger Tincknell offers participatory, curriculum-based music assemblies and workshops. As a former
classroom teacher and music specialist, Roger provides enriching multi-cultural, historical, and environmental programs. His repertoire includes international folk-songs
sung in a variety of languages as well as songs and dances from Native, African, European and Asian- American traditions. He plays guitar, banjo, mandolin, piano,
ukulele, Irish bozouki, Incan charango, Russian balalaika, Puerto Rican cuatro, harmonica, Native American flutes, African drums and Latin percussion. His programs
include: Across the Americas, a musical journey from Canada to South America; Earth Rhythms, an environmental program, Children's Songs and
Singing Games, a participatory multicultural program for younger grades. Roger also offers songwriting workshops and hands-on programs for special needs
and very young children. Comprehensive study guides are provided.
Program Titles: Across the Americas (can be tailored to include: Colonial America to the Revolution, Immigration and Industrial America;
From Slavery to Civil Rights; Cowboys, Yodeling and Western Expansion; Latin American Songs, Dances and Instruments; Songs of the Sea.);
Earth Rhythms (Celebrates and teaches environmental awareness); Children's Songs and Singing Games; Holidays from Around the World (Winter Solstice Celebration, Martin Luther King Jr., St. Patrick's Day, Halloween and others);
Under One Sky: A Multicultural Musical Journey around the World
Audience Limit: 40/class; 400/assembly
Fee: $350-$400 (plus travel) sliding scale for one show with additional programs on same day 1/2 price.
Funding Source: MCC, Local Cultural Councils and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, Very Special Arts, BOCES (NY), SCLC (CT)
Special Requirements: table and access to electricity
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THEATER
Casey Carle
Booking Manager: Todd Little, 860-632-9049
E Mail: bubblemaniabooking@gmail.com
Web site: www.bubblemania.com
How do you earn the position of bubble consultant to Cirque du Soleil? How do gain the title “Bubble Artist Champion” at an
international contest on Japanese TV? How do you get to be the guy who explains bubble science to millions on The Discovery Channel?
Comic bubble-ologist Casey Carle does it by being really, really good at...... well, bubbling.
Which explains why his stage show BubbleMania!! has been in high demand throughout New England and beyond since 1989 - performing
350+ shows a year. Other credits include The Ringling Bros Circus, The Smithsonian Institute, Lincoln Center, The CT Public TV Science
Expo (5 years), plus science centers and theaters coast to coast and in 8 countries.
BubbleMania! is available in two formats:
- Comedy With A Drip! — A BubbleManiac since 1987, Mr. Carle creates an event loaded with visual comedy, quick wit, big band
swing music and amazing soap bubble manipulations - from intricate and inspiring bubble art forms (including fog-filled bubbles)
to trapping people inside giant bubbles! It's a unique combination of soap and showmanship that will amaze and amuse ages 5-95!
- Science, Art & Comedy! — Since 1992 Mr. Carle has combined his eye-popping bubbling skills with engaging, fun and age
appropriate science for schools. From super solutions and surface tension to cube-shaped bubbles and human-sized bubbles, this high energy
show guarantees that jaws will drop, laughter will explode and brains will be whirling as he connects the dots between scientific know-how and artistic achievement in a way that
captivates grades K-6.for grades K-6. A study guide co-authored by The Smithsonian Institute is available at www.bubblemania.com.
More thorough descriptions, news articles, recommendations, photos and booking guidelines are at www.bubblemania.com.
Program Titles: Bubble-Mania: Comedy With A Drip! (Family shows); Bubble-Mania: Science, Art and Comedy (School assembly).
Audience Limit: Assembly: 250 with a stage, 200 without a stage. Family Show: 350-400. Theaters: 600-800 seats.
(For larger theaters, check out www.Bubble-Time.com, Casey's much bigger, two-man bubbling show.)
Current Fees: One show : $495-$595, Two back-to-back shows: $895-$995. (Additional travel expenses usually apply beyond 2 hours from
home in East Haddam, CT.)
Funding Sources: BOCES (NY State), CT Commision on Culture and Tourism (cultureandtourism.org), New England Foundation for the Arts (nefa.org)
Special Requirements: Indoor only. No worries, any mess is self-contained. (This is a VERY clean show.)
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Henry Lappen
120 Pulpit Hill Road, #31
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 549-3722
E mail: Heron@HenryLappen.com
Website: www.henrylappen.com
A Passion for Birds (formerly Birds in Their Habitat) is a unique, interpretive program which helps students to understand and connect with birds and other wildlife. Using masks, comedy, and lots of audience participation, Henry Lappen explores how and why birds have adapted to their environment. He explains the science while demonstrating how the birds move and act. Participants get to don the masks and soar as Eagles, stalk as Herons, and swim as Puffins. Covers several state science curriculum standards.
Program Title: A Passion for Birds
Audience Limit: 250
Fee: $425 for 1 show, $650. for 2. Travel may be extra.
Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council, your local Massachusetts cultural council, and New England Foundation for the Arts.
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PUPPETRY
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DEBBIE O'CARROLL MAGICAL THEATRE FOR CHILDREN |
Debbie O'Carroll
51 Olive Street
Newburyport, MA 01950
(978) 462-9954
Fax: (978) 462-9954
Email: debbie@debbieocarroll.com
Website: www.debbieocarroll.com
Debbie O'Carroll is a 'one of a kind' performer. She combines stage magic, theatre, and dance with lots of audience participation.
Her appealing props, delightful costumes, enchanting magic and lively stage movement both educate and entertain.
Program Titles: Addacadabra (math): The Flower Power Magic Show (science and social Studies): Celebrate the December Holidays (diversity); The Irish Magic Show (children's literature); The Amazing America Animals Magic Show (history): The Railroad Magic Show (geography of the U.S.); The Magic of Exercise (physical fitness); Tall Tales from a Small World (world geography); The Planets Magic Show (science)
Grade Level Suitability: Pre-K through 6
Audience Size Limit: None.
Fee: $300 - $400; Block Booking rates for two or more performances. Discounts for after school programs.
Funding Source: NEST, New England Foundation for the Arts, BOCES, Massachusetts Cultural Council, local cultural councils.
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PUPPETRY
| BURT THE RACCOON - THE WORLD'S FUNNIEST PUPPET SHOW! |
John L. Tierney, Ed. D.
169 Browning Street
Wakefield, RI 02879
(401) 789-1749
E Mail: Burttheraccoon@aol.com
Website: www.Burttheraccoon.com
John Tierney is a teacher and a professional puppeteer with a background in early childhood education. He has performed
the Burt Show at schools, libraries and festivals since 1985.
Exciting, entertaining and educational, this program explains many facts about raccoons as well as "demonstrating" a
typical forest food chain. Ideal for children in preschool, kindergarten, first, second and third grade.
Program Titles: Burt the Raccoon - The World's Funniest Puppet Show
Audience Limit: 25 to 30
Fee: $165; $250 for 2 shows
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Lenny Gerwick and Deborah Costine
6 Wood Street
Southborough, MA 01772
(508) 481-6260
E Mail: info@gerwickpuppets.com
Website: gerwickpuppets.com
"Classic Quality Puppetry at its Best," The Gerwick Puppets are one of New England's longest running puppet troupes. Founded in 1974 by artist/educators Deborah Costine and Len Gerwick, this company performs in elementary schools around New England and regularly at such venues as Boston's First Night, the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, The Mark Twain Museum in Hartford CT and The Puppet Showplace Theater in Brookline MA. Eight Productions are available and performed "live" with elaborate theater lighting and artist-painted scenery and high quality sound. Most include some interaction with the audience.
Their DVD "The World of The Gerwick Puppets" documents much of what this company does as well as showing puppet making methods and how children can create their own puppet shows!
Curriculum materials are available for each production.
Productions:
Adventures From Thornton W. Burgess:
This much-loved production is adapted from stories by Massachusetts author Thornton Burgess. Children learn about New England animals including skunks, opossums, and woodchucks and their habits and habitats.
Inside the Haunted House:
In this original story written by the puppeteers, a boy and girl decide to explore an old mansion that is said to be haunted! Many funny and slightly scary surprises await them in this very exciting production.
Pilgrim Adventure to America:
This is an elaborate telling of the Pilgrim story through the eyes of the Brewster family. For maximum dramatic effect, this productions uses masks as well as hand puppets, a miniature Mayflower, a map of Cape Cod, and many interesting visual and audio effects.
Midwinter Magic:
This elaborate, winter fantasy takes place as puppet children "Mary Lou" and "Bruce" fall asleep on the longest night of the year. They are guided through a dream of enchanting music and puppets by "Katrinka" the midwinter sprite! Classical music enhances the experience!
Aladdin and the Magic Lamp:
This ancient story from "The Arabian Nights" shows the struggle between good and evil. The evil magician, the ominous secret cave, the magic flying carpet and the all-powerful genie of the magic lamp are part of this enchanting classic story!
Rip Van Winkle:
This early work of American literature by Washington Irving tells the story of the happy-go-lucky man who slept through the Revolutionary War. The show closely follows the original story and includes historical concepts and ideas from the late 1700's. (appropriate for grades 3 and up)
Aesop’s Fables:
In this solo production, puppeteer, Len Gerwick, uses a different performing style, he is visible to the audience. The show's focus is on the morals of the fables: appreciating what you have, learning from the mistakes of others, and falling victim to one's own weaknesses.
The Case of the Missing Woodpile:
In this musical mystery performed solo by Len Gerwick, Mary Lou and Bruce are on summer vacation, planting a garden and building a tree house. Suddenly the wood for the tree house disappears and the audience gets to help solve the mystery! Original jazz score written by musician Jonathan Klein.
Other Activities:
Puppets in the Language Arts Curriculum:
Students can each make a puppet for use in a puppet show that they write and produce themselves. Instruction is available for how to create a script based on a story they have read, how to practice effective puppet movement and dialogue. This is a very valuable educational project! Creating a script through the Gerwick Puppets’ unique process helps children understand the structure of stories. Custom designed programs are available.
The Gerwick Puppets are available as Artists-in-Residence and are approved by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and are on the New England States Touring roster.
Their DVD "The World of The Gerwick Puppets" by Two Bob's Productions, documents much of what this company does as well as showing puppet making methods and how children can create their own puppet shows!
Program Titles: Adventures from Thornton W. Burgess; Inside the Haunted House; Midwinter Magic; Aladdin and the
Magic Lamp; Aesop's Fables; Rip Van Winkle; Pilgrim Adventure to America; The Case of the Missing Woodpile
Tales; Mid Winter Magic; The Puppets Teach Fire Safety
Audience Limit: 250
Fee: 1 performance $750, 2 performances $1,100 plus travel fee; Residency days are $300/day/artist
Special Requirements: The puppet theater requires a space of 15 ft. width, 10 ft. depth and 8 ft. height.
A darkened room is best.
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| KLS
Magic Castle Puppet Theater |
Andrea O'Regan
24 Pearl Street Extension
Beverly, MA 01915
Toll Free: (866) 236-8208
E Mail: KLSPuppets@aol.com
Website: klspuppets.homestead.com
The KLS Magic Castle Puppet Theater has been performing in schools and libraries for more than 14 years. Providing science enrichment for the lower elementary
grades, our puppet theater can be set up in your caf, auditorium, library or classroom. Included are topics from the Curriculum Frameworks.
Shows are interactive and include music. Children receive opportunities for
growth of imagination and creative expression. (Prior to working in puppetry Andrea O'Regan was an elementary science teacher, graduating from Northeastern University with Graduate level work in the Creative Arts Program at Lesley University.)
Program Title: Oceans Away; Animals in Winter; The Pirate's Missing Pumpkin (Halloween); A Long Winter's Nap; Giorgio's Springtime Soup; Dinosaurs; The Rain Forest; The Amazing Life Cycle of the Butterfly. Animal Hibernation shows appropriate for
each grade PreK through 3. Now offering Bullying Prevention Programs for K-4.
Audience Grade Level Suitability: PreK - 4
Audience Size: 250/assembly
Special Requirements: Electricity
Fee: $250 and up.
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DIANE KORDAS ROMPER RHYTHM AND PUPPETS |
Diane Kordas
P.O. Box 181
Chester, NH 03036
603-315-3083
Email: diane@romperrhythm.com
Website: http://www.romperrhythm.com
Diane Kordas brings stories to life with puppets and music, either with a staged puppet
show production or with songs and short puppet skits. Lots of humor and audience
participation are highlights of each program. Great for preschools and day care centers,
schools, libraries, birthday parties, recreation centers and more.
*NH Council on the Arts Touring Artist and New England Foundation for the Arts (link)
*Winner of Children's Music Web award for her Dinosaur Stomp CD.
Program Titles: Friendly Forest Folktales; Bremen Town Musicians; Pirates, Ahoy!; Elves and the Shoemaker with the Gingerbread Man; Sir George and
the Dragon; Outerspace Adventures!. Shadow Puppet show: Chicken Little and other Tales. Residencies, workshops,
Teacher Training workshops. See www.romperrhythm.com for new shows and updates
Grade Level Suitability: pre-K - 3 for most programs, workshops and residencies for K-12
Audience Limits: 250
Special Requirements: I supply my own puppet stage, sound, lighting_and need a grounded 3 prong outlet
to plug into.
Fee: Starts at $300, discount for block bookings
Funding Sources: New England Touring Roster, New England Foundation for the Arts; New Hampshire State Council for the Arts
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STORYTELLING
97 Chipaway Road
East Freetown, MA 02717
(508) 763-8565
E Mail: storybug@aol.com
Website: www.storybug.net
Since 2000 Karen has presented her enthusiastic, interactive, and participatory programs at libraries, conferences and schools around the country. She is also the founder and director of a student storytelling program and since 2002 she has mentored over 200 student storytellers. She is a contributing author to the National Storytelling Network's recent publications, A Beginner’s Guide to Storytelling and Telling Stories to Children and writes a regular column for Storytelling Magazine and offers
a free bi-monthly storytelling/education newsletter at http://storybugnewsletter.blogspot.com. Her conference presentations include the National Storytelling Conference, Youth, Educators and Storytelling (YES), Sharing the Fire, and the Northland’s Storytelling Network.
With a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature, she combines her passion for literacy and storytelling in delightful programs of stories from around the world. Karen believes that storytelling inspires students, offering them opportunities to succeed in ways they never imagined!
“Karen catches the children and never lets them go.” Karen Allen, New Bedford Whaling Museum, MA
Residencies
Story by Story - Building A Student Storytelling Troupe
An experienced educator, Karen combines her teaching skills with her vast knowledge of storytelling to create a School Storytelling Club. During school hours or after school, Karen will work with your students on the dynamics of storytelling. From the page to the stage, students will learn the anatomy of a story, research skills, story selection, and story presentation. The residency culminates in a student Story Festival. In addition, Karen can tailor the residency to include individual student coaching.
Program Titles: Jaws, Claws and Paws: Animal Stories From Around the World; Tales With Scales: Fish Stories From Around the World; The Trickster Tour; The Treasure Chest;
Book A Trip Around the World; Winter Wonderland; Spooktacular Stories; The Spirit of the Season; Pathways to Peace; Dragon Tales
Workshop/Residencies: Storytelling With Ease; Story by Story – Building a School Storytelling Club; S.T.A.R. (Stories Teach and Reach); Researching Stories on the Internet
Audience Limit: 25/class; 200/assembly
Fee: $250 plus travel; Block Booking rates available. Residencies, Teacher's In-services and Conferences vary and are negotiable
Possible Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council
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Master Story Performer
PO Box 1268
Westford, MA 01886
Phone/Fax: 978-692-3961
E-mail: leeny@LeenyDelSeamonds.com
Website: www.LeenyDelSeamonds.com
With a face and voice that launched a thousand characters, Leeny Del Seamonds, Master Story Performer™, is a multi award-winning, internationally acclaimed master performer of Hispanic/Latino, original and multicultural stories spiced with exquisite mime, a cornucopia of voices, and love of people. With a twinkle in her eye and fire in her heart, Leeny breathes life into her stories, as she masterfully and effortlessly springs from one story character to another. A dedicated Teaching Artist, Leeny encourages listeners to feel positive about themselves and rejoice in human and cultural diversity, inviting them to share in her Latin/Cuban-American sense of humor and love of performing.
Leeny Del Seamonds has over 30 years of stage, film and directing experience in Philadelphia, New York and Boston. Originally from the
Philadelphia area, Leeny graduated magna cum laude from Rowan University and holds a BA in Speech & Theatre/Performing Arts (with a minor in Stage Directing). In New York City, she was trained by and has performed with The Richard Morse Mime Theatre, The Herbert Bergdorf Studio, The Purple Craft Theatre and The Mercer Ballet Company.
Since moving to New England in 1978, Leeny has worked as an actor, director, coach, teacher, and Master Story Performer™. Although she loves all aspects of theatre, Leeny's happiest when performing a tale, for she is best able to utilize mime, acting, singing, writing and teaching talents. From 1991 to present, Leeny has devoted all of her passion and energies to full-time, professional story performing.
Awarded the title 2002 National Storyteller of the Year®, Leeny is on the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Creative Schools Program roster, the MA Touring Program, the New England Foundation for the Arts roster, Young Audiences of Massachusetts artist roster, BOCES NY arts-in-education roster, the Connecticut Storytelling Center’s School Programs roster, is a member of the National Storytelling Network and is a past Board Member of the League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling (LANES) and is a frequent contributor to their Museletter. Leeny has also been published in Storytelling Magazine; Tale Trader; Ahhhh! A Tribute to Brother Blue; Holy Headshots!; Hearsay and on the web site of Parents' Choice Foundation.
Leeny is a regular presenter at the Sharing the Fire Northeast Storytelling Conference, and in March 1996, was their featured Opening Keynote performer. Leeny is a former Board Member of Three Apples Storytelling Festival, a Charter Member of The Sky's The Unlimited, Ltd., a Boston theatrical production company, and a member of Theatre Unlimited Stage Company. She holds memberships with the International Order of E.A.R.S., Inc.; Boston Cultural Network; Massachusetts Alliance for Arts Education; Massachusetts Business Association; Connecticut Storytelling Center; and Folk Arts Network. She has taught numerous courses in acting, improvisation, storytelling, voice, mime and movement in community theatres, community centers, national conferences, festivals, schools, universities, and privately. Additionally, Leeny has performed and presented workshops/residencies in hundreds of school systems and libraries internationally. Leeny is a Department of Education Professional Development Provider for New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Leeny was Keynote and workshop presenter for “¡Hola! Heading Out to Latin America” at Foxcroft School in Virginia, at the 7th Annual Conference on Storytelling for Children, Keene State, NH, and at the 2004 Conference for the Massachusetts Association of Family & Consumer Sciences. She has performed and presented at National Storytelling Conferences in Philadelphia, Kansas City, Providence, Denver, Bellingham, Pittsburgh, Gatlinburg and L.A. In 2002, Leeny was one of seven national tellers in the NSN Conference General Session "Bienvenidos a la Fiesta: The Latino Experience."
Leeny has twice been headliner at the National Storytelling Festival and Teller-in-Residence at the International Storytelling Center, both in Jonesborough, TN, as well as headliner at "Gimistory," The Cayman Islands International Storytelling Festival, BWI; Mesa Storytelling Festival, AZ; Mariposa Storytelling Festival, CA; Weber State U. Festival, UT; St. Louis Festival, MO; Open Hand Theatre, NY; Patchwork Tales Festival, SC; Riverway Storytelling Festival, NY; Multi-Cultural Storytelling Festival in OR; NC Storyfest (twice); Nebraska Storytelling Festival (twice); Kansas City Storytelling Celebration; Virginia Storytelling Alliance Gathering, VA; Tcha Tee Man Wi Storytelling Festival, OR; Three Apples Storytelling Festival, MA (three times); Prairie Center for the Arts Storytelling Festival, IL; and Smoky Hill River Festival in Kansas (twice). She has been featured at dozens of national festivals including Clearwater Great Hudson River Revival, NY; Connecticut Storytelling Festival; Granite State Storytelling Festival, NH; and Corn Island Storytelling Festival, KY. In September 2006, Leeny was a featured delegate and master teller in China as part of the Nu Wa Storytelling and Cultural Exchange tour.
Leeny Del Seamonds has been a featured performer at eight First Night Boston and five First Night Worcester celebrations; and in September 2004 was headliner at the Baltimore Book Festival (sponsored by Parents' Choice Foundation) and the City of Jacksonville's "Celebration of Women." Leeny stars in the international Television and DVD series Ribert & Robert's WonderWorld, a multi award-winning children's program, whose most recent award is the 2006 iParenting Media Award Winner. In the series, Leeny plays ‘Leeny the Story Performer’ and writes and performs her own segments. Her highly acclaimed recording, "¡Ay Caramba! ¡Ay Ay Ay! Cuentos y Canciónes (Latino Stories & Songs)," takes listeners on a journey through Leeny's rich Latino heritage and won a 2003 Parents' Choice Silver Award. Leeny's musical CD, "CelloTales: The Melding of Music, Myth & Memories," created and performed with cellist Gideon Freudmann, won a 2004 Parents' Choice Gold Award and a 2005 Storytelling World Winner Award. Both CD's received favorable endorsements from Booklistand School Library Journal. September 2009 marks the release of two new recordings created, produced and performed by Leeny Del Seamonds geared for seasoned listeners. “It Takes Two to Tango – Ties that Bind Us” is an alluring, witty and insightful look at the triumphs and tribulations of relationships and “Shadows in the Woods – Spine-Tingling Tales” is a compilation of Leeny’s original scary stories guaranteed to shiver and chill all who lend an ear. Her renowned CDs are also featured on www.Tales2Go.com.
Leeny’s celebrated repertoire of nineteen story programs and eight sought-after workshops reflects her desire to embrace life to its fullest. With passion, fire and wit, Leeny’s one-woman performances and renowned workshops headline festivals, concerts and events worldwide. For additional information and schedule of Leeny’s upcoming performances, visit www.LeenyDelSeamonds.com (or call the office at 978-692-3961).
Audience Limit: 200/school performance; 25/ school workshop
Fee: $500/one school daytime performance; $775/two; $925/three. $125/school workshop. For all other performances/workshops, call for quote.
Funding Sources: New England Foundation for the Arts, Connecticut Storytelling Center School Programs
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PO Box 300016
Boston, MA 02130
(617) 522-4335
E Mail: dedge@livingmyth.com
Website: www.livingmyth.com
For over twenty years, Diane has been bringing top quality storytelling assemblies to schools and educational institutions.
Her gifts as a storyteller, educator and communicator
make her as appreciated by teachers as she is by students with many repeat engagements requested.
The effortless way Diane's programs bring educational information into an entertaining format inspire the most
reluctant learners to open up their imaginations. From Nature and Science programming to performances representing
unusual cultures, including Native American Nature Myths and the Kurds of the Middle East, each performance is the
result of careful and thorough research. Visit her website or look below through the Seasonal, Cultural, and
Nature offerings for programs like Insect Comedy, Digging Dinosaurs, Tales for the Earth, Welcome in the Spring,
Rainforest Legends and more to bring an entertaining assembly to your school with Diane Edgecomb one of
New England’s favorite storytellers. Different material and stories are told depending on whether the
assembly is for K-2 or 3-6th grade. Each performance comes with an extensive curriculum package, which
includes both science-based and language-based activities.
Dear Diane: I was just putting away my files for this year's enrichment programs at Steward School and I wanted to mention that you had an overwhelmingly positive response from the teachers here. Their comments included, "She kept 5 classes mesmerized!" "She was masterful at knowing when the students needed a motor break" and "She really engaged them with her stories!" One teacher suggested that you give workshops to teachers on how to tell a story! Should you ever need a reference, please don't hesitate to have someone contact me. We hope to have you back to Steward again in the future!" Julie Sullivan, Enrichment Chair, Topsfield Elementary Schools, MA
"I would like to thank you for your terrific performance this afternoon. The students were completely captivated and thoroughly enjoyed your lively delivery, great expressions, interactive style and story content. Several of the teachers stopped me during the day to add their complements and enthusiasm about your program." Ellen Kassaraba, Wellington School PTO, Belmont, MA
Program Titles: For complete program descriptions, see http://www.livingmyth.com
Celebrate the Season
Tall Fall Tales: brings alive the autumn world of nature with original stories and songs sure to delight.
Perfect for just starting out the school year. This performance centers on the star in the apple, fall colors and a young girl who
just cannot sit still in class!
Once Upon a Wintertime: Warm your hearts and your imaginations with this performance of tales from long ago. These stories of wintertime magic and fun are drawn from many cultures ranging from the lyrical Grimms’ tale of Snow White and Rose Red to tales of folksy New England escapades.
Welcome in the Spring: Welcome in the spring with talking earthworms, nesting birds and kite flying adventures. The perfect accompaniment to this joyful season.
Summer Escapades: celebrates family fun with participatory stories chosen from Diane's best-loved family tales. Including a favorite story about a monkey who takes a wild ride on the back of a shark!
Once Upon a Halloween: This fun-filled Halloween event has a huge cauldron bubbling over with fog for the last dramatic story. All tales are appropriate for family audiences ages four to forever and contain a well-rounded blend of suspense and humor.
Explore Cultural Riches
Native American Nature Tales explores tribal myths and legends of the animals and birds of North America. Ranging from the humorous to the heart-felt, these stories celebrate native culture and its strong links to the natural world. Diane was given permission to tell these tales by many prominent Native authors.
European Tales of Enchantment: Enter the world of fairy tales where magic is only a moment away, and lessons about how to live are expressed through vivid symbols. Classic fairytales as well as unusual versions of familiar stories.
Fit for a King’s Ear: Diane Edgecomb accompanied by Margot Chamberlain on Celtic harp. This Medieval program is filled with tales of unusual princesses and Arthurian Knights.
A Fire in My Heart: Kurdish Folktales: Based on Diane's new book of Kurdish folktales, this program introduces students and families to this pivotal Middle Eastern culture. A map, anecdotes of her collecting experience and traditional dress and dance round out our exploration of this little known culture.
Irish Shenanigans: There is plenty of laughter and delight in this animated retelling of Ireland's best-loved gems. This performance is also available with Margot Chamberlain accompanying the program on Celtic harp.
Enter Nature’s Realm
Digging Dinosaurs: These popular dinosaur adventures complement their scientific facts with a happy dose of humor. Based on current scientific discoveries, this piece educates as it entertains.
Rainforest Legends: From the banks of the Amazon River to the heart of the West African jungle, Rainforest Legends brings to life favorite folktales and songs about the animals and plants of these lands.
Tales for the Earth: A Celebration of Nature and all the simple things we can do to help. What shines through the entire presentation is a love and respect for our place in nature; with many ideas communicated about how we can create a difference.
Insect Comedy: Insect Comedy takes a delightful look at our Six-legged friends. Diane's hilarious interpretations of Mr. Mosquito, Mr. Gnat, Old King Lampyradie Beetle keep us laughing as we take a closer look at the world of insects.
Night Lights: In Night Lights, unusual star myths take us on a multi-cultural voyage across the heavens. Listen in wonder as tales from Greece, Estonia, Native America, Kurdistan and Korea celebrate the magic of the night sky.
Audience Limit: Suggested maximum 250
Fee (including travel): $525 first show, $300 per additional show. Additional block booking rates available. Workshops $65 each when booked with a companion performance.
Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, Local Massachusetts Cultural Councils
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JACKSON GILLMAN - "Stand-Up Chameleon" |
PO Box 41
Onset, MA 02558
(508) 295-0886
E-Mail: jacksong@jacksongillman.com
Web site: www.jacksongillman.com
Sparkling with energy, wit and whimsy, the "Stand-Up Chameleon" magically
transforms into a wide array of colorful characters. Through his many
talents as songsmith, comic, mime and storyteller, Jackson engages and
delights audiences of all ages with his highly visual and interactive
performances. Many different shows to choose from including several
educational nature programs. Has been a featured performer at festivals
across the country. For 6-12 grades, his two substance abuse awareness
presentations have been used annually by schools for their prevention
programming. 30+ years experience, easy-going and flexible, references
galore.
Program Titles:
Nature in Action, Story and Song - an educational romp on the wild and crazy side of natural science;
Riot in the Garden - fun-filled farm science, awarded Most Educational at the MOFGA Common Ground Fair;
BUGS! - doodlebugs, spiders, ants and other crawlies are featured in this low-life revue;
Once Upon a Tide - fun and fishy repertoire from the sandy beach to the briny deep;
On a Wing and a Song - a birds-eye view of the cycle of seasons;
Moon Crazy - captivating songs and stories to take you far away and pilot you happily home;
Autumn Wonders - a rich tapestry of the colors, sounds and smells in a heartwarming, story and song-filled celebration of the season;
Halloween Silly Willies - songs and stories to tickle your funny-bone without scaring your pants off;
Winter Wonders (or Holiday Huzzah for Christmas and/or Chanukah) - heartwarming celebrations of the seasons, holidays and the human spirit;
Spring Into Action and Song - celebrates spring and in all of its song-filled wonder;
The Man Who Planted Hope - an inspiring account of reforestation in Provence, adapted from the story by Jean Giono;
The Magic of Rudyard Kipling: Just So - the classic Just So Stories brought to life;
Levity in Motion - mime and stories for the family, airborne exploits and other childhood flights of fancy;
A Family Cabaret - an intergenerational look at daily rituals, wake-up to bedtime, from all perspectives;
The Dancing Man (with ASL) - lively, interactive songs and stories to move and groove with;
Harlequin and the Gift of Many Colors - stories of friendship performed with sign language;
Swamp Cake and Cattails - assembly program about anti-bullying and social acceptance, fancifully disguised as a prehistoric comedy with dinosaurs and dragons;
Hard Knocks - an intense one-man drama dealing with substance abuse within a family;
The Perfect High - a lighter-side look at the prevention of substance abuse;
Fee: starts at $375 + travel
Funding Sources: New England Foundation for the Arts |
| MARY
JO MAICHACK MINSTREL/STORYTELLER |
Maichack Arts
93 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 532-3667
Fax (413) 538-6023
E Mail: EmJay7@aol.com
Website: www.maryjomaichack.com/
Winner of two national awards (NAPPA Gold & Honors) for her CDs of storytelling & music, veteran singer and storyteller Mary Jo Maichack
has "got it down to a science," says Pat Pierce of Newington's Lucy Robbins-Welles Library. Mary Jo offers a huge variety of themes for
your library, school (prek-8), museum, festival or other venue, from summer reading club shows to school residencies and professional
development workshops for teachers and parents in using storytelling as oral literacy skill-building. Fun. Fun. Fun.
Aligned with learning standards. Easy, fun and businesslike in making arrangements. Free posters and press releases save you time.
Performer, creative teaching artist, cabaret singer and dynamic teller of folktales, Mary Jo's shows work because they are unusually
interactive. In family and children's programs, your audiences sing, (MJ plays guitar) chant, play instruments, make sound effects,
dance, act in costumes and have a ball. Vastly experienced (22 years) in any age-group or mix of ages. Using multicultural folktales at
the heart of each program, Mary Jo weaves in music, dance & audience play. Please visit Web site for show descriptions from summer
reading to preschools to Halloween and beyond. Winner, Julie Andrews Artist-in-Residence Award, Mass. Cultural Council Stars residency,
NEFA touring artist can help fund your program. B.A. cum laude, English lit., Middlebury College. Extensive foreign language study.
"Clever and engaging," says School Library Journal, "A perfect choice for the literacy path," says L.A. Parent Magazine
As a cabaret singer interpreting the Great American Songbook, Mary Jo brings top notch professional pianists to accompany her and
wow your audience--background or shows. Performed at Pittsfield Mass.'s Colonial Theatre, Cranwell Resort, Berkshire Forum.
Program Titles: Books Are Celebrations—the funniest reading show ever; Everybody Says Hello—Multilingual Fun in Story & Song; The People Could Fly/African-American Folktales and Music; Clever Maidens: Women's History in Folklore and Myth; Greek Myths—ALIVE!, Native American Tales; Skunk Grease & Turpentine (Hilarious Tall Tales & Tunes of American Pioneers); The Minstrel's Revels: A Medieval Romp; Or Would You Rather Be A Fish? Folklore & Songs of the Sea); Howlarious Halloween/Ghost Stories & Songs; Sun, Moon, Stars!; All Together Now/Stories & Songs to Celebrate Diversity; Round the World in Tales & Tunes multicultural show; The Lake of the Croaking Frogs and Other Tales & Tunes of Nature; Preschoolers’ Palooza!; Stinkbug Bugaloo: Stories & Songs of Insects; Meowls & Growls: Animal Tales; After-school programs incorporating performance with teaching kids storytelling skills; Workshops, in-service programs and residencies in storytelling for adults and children; “Oh, Behave! Family Audience Management Essentials for Event Hosts.”
Audience Limit: prefer audiences of 200 and under but will discuss any
Fee: $395 and up
Funding Source: Massachusetts Cultural Council, local councils, CT Humanities Council, other
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Night Heron Music
267 Center Road
Hillsboro, NH 03244
(800) 785-9678
E Mail: info@nightheron.com
Website: http://www.NightHeron.com
Join award-winning musician, author, and storyteller STEVE SCHUCH on a voyage of discovery. Striking pieces for violin and whales... magical tales of from around the world... lively singing, fun with languages, and the science of sound... all are part of Steve’s wide-ranging repertoire. Music and story selections are grade level appropriate, exemplifying arts education at its best. All programs include a free set of Books, CD’s and Educator Prep Materials. Steve offers encouragement for young writers and musicians as well. Honors include Artist Fellowships, composer awards and five fiddling championships. Steve’s musical story, A Symphony of Whales, received five national book awards, and his children’s recording, Trees of Life, a Parents’ Choice Gold Award. Schools often include an Author Book/CD Signing with a portion of the proceeds going back to the school. Details at: www.NightHeron.com.
"Warmth and storytelling magic." –Los Angeles Times
"Exceptionally fine... Schuch brings as much skill and intelligence to folk music as he does to classical." –The Boston Globe
Sample Program: A Symphony of Whales
Learn about whales, their songs and their encounters with humans. Listen to a true tale of arctic rescue and hear Steve’s unforgettable“Whale Trilogy” –– a solo violin piece played with these mysterious songs of the deep. Weaving together science and performance, this program includes material from Steve’s travels, CD’s and award-winning book, A Symphony of Whales. “Riveting indeed.” –Smithsonian
Program Titles: A Symphony of Whales; The Author’s Story; Songs & Tales Around the World; Music & Tales of Ireland; Songs & Tales of the Earth;
Life in a Third World Village (music & slide program); Roots of Rhythm & Harmony; Fiddler on the Loose; Imagination & the Art of Storytelling;
The Writer's Workshop; Parent/Educator Workshops; Family Concerts; Artist Residencies.
Audience Limit: 250/assembly; 30/workshop; call to discuss Family Concerts and Artist Residencies
Fee: Contact artist for details.
Funding Sources: Title II Grants, New England Foundation for the Arts, New Hampshire Arts Council, B.O.C.E.S. (New York)
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| STORYTELLING FOR CHILDREN -
KATE CARNEY |
Kate Carney
51 Pettee Street
Newton, MA 02464
(617) 244-0209
Fax: (617) 926-7273
E Mail: carneyk@earthlink.net
Web site: www.katecarney.net
Need a riveting, versatile entertainer who can delight all ages and whet their curiosity? Need an artist-in-residence who can work effectively with children and teachers? Storyteller Kate Carney can meet these needs and more.
Since 1989, Kate has been telling stories to audiences young and old, at schools and libraries throughout New England, drawing on her broad repertoire of international folktales, myths and living history stories. Her presentations are highly interactive, educational and fun-filled.
An eclectic teacher/performer, with 25 years of teaching experience, Kate tells stories and gives workshops for all levels. Her programs tie in with on-going classroom studies -- from nature and the environment to living history to disability awareness.
Audiences describe her performances and workshops as inspiring, informative, and energizing, eg: "Kate has a wonderful way of engaging children of all ages -- she understands what interests and amuses them. I am impressed with how she creates a warm, friendly atmosphere in which shy children feel comfortable. She is a fine actor and a warm, pleasant person with many talents to share.”
Ed G., Director, Old Schwamb Mill, Arlington, MA
Kate’s storytelling captivates students’ attention, helps them process ideas, follow narrative, develop sequential thinking and improve their memory. They grow personally involved in the subject -- values such as character development and conflict resolution sink in. Her engaging style encourages students to honor themselves, their community and their physical environment.
Her message is Yes! If you keep at it, you can be anything you want to be. She also focuses on appreciating differences and developing self-esteem. By integrating arts into the curriculum, she motivates students to want to read. The result? Inquiring and creative minds, students who find reading exciting and accessible.
In her Residencies and Workshops for Children, Kate humorously and interactively pulls drama and skills from her receptive listeners as they begin to create stories. They start by re-enacting the events and characters they’ve just heard about. They go on to learn how to select a story, sequence its beginning, middle and end -- and present it in a final Story Festival.
In her Teachers’ in-service trainings Kate is committed to helping teachers reach their curricular goals. Her work is based on the progressive educational tradition – she gives exercises which stimulate question-asking, encourage the ‘whole child’ and provide ‘real-world’ experiences for children.
Kate is a multi-faceted Performer, Educator, Coach and Speaker. She is a member of the League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling, has written articles for the LANES Museletter and is a regular presenter at the Sharing the Fire North East Regional Storytelling Conference. She is available for touring performances, Workshops and Residencies, Teacher in-Service Trainings and Coaching.
Study Guides are available for these 45-minute programs. Visuals enhance the programs and help kids to see what life was like ‘back then’.
Interactive Living History Stories (Grades 2-4) Kate's creative approach to teaching history and language arts weaves storytelling, song and dramatization into learning. Playing an historical woman, she tells stories, leads kids in period songs and invites them to act out events from that part of America’s history. Inquiring, creative minds and responsible citizenship develop as she and the group focus on culture, science, art, fashion and our diverse culture.
Kate is happy to plan ahead with teachers, and to adjust the program for that group’s goals. Students may want to bring questions to ask Kate's character (History, Reading for 2-5)
The American Revolution: What was it like to be a kid in colonial days? Kate introduces children to the riddles, tales, songs and games of children in Pre-Revolutionary Boston.
The Frontier: Using simple objects, students re-enact events in stories they’ve just heard about the Oregon Trail and the Frontier.
The Lowell Mills: After stories of how the mill workers lived, students imaginatively step into their shoes to learn how to spend their money wisely.
Immigration: After hearing immigrants’ stories, youngsters take a mock exam like the ones immigrants had to take to enter this country.
Helen Keller's World: What would it be like to be deaf, blind and mute? Kids explore the roles of the disabled and their guides, to find out how it would feel to experience that world.
The Girl Scouts: Juliette Low’s childhood led her to found the Girl Scouts. Children hear about what the early Scouts did and try out some of their activities.
Story Programs for younger kids- tailored to your needs
Greek Myths/Aesop's Fables: Kids hear and act out Aesop's fables, and/or talk over the misadventures of some Greek heroes, gods, and goddesses. (K-6)
Mother Nature's Myths: Tales of Nature’s quirks; activities to honor her. (K-4)
Multicultural Tales: folk stories, songs and games to help kids understand other cultures. (K-4).
Audience Limits: Prefer groups of 60 or fewer.
Fees: $280 plus mileage for groups up to 60. Larger groups - Negotiable. Discounts available for Residencies, Day-long Workshops, Co-sponsorship and Block Bookings.
Funding Sources: New England States Touring (NEST) program of the New England Foundation for the Arts
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Folksinger & Storyteller
118 E. Chestnut Hill Road
Montague, MA 01351-9541
(413) 367-9304
E-mail: timve@rcn.com
Website: www.timvanegmond.com
Blog: timvanegmond.blogspot.com
Tim Van Egmond waves together tales, tunes, and songs -- from the rib-
tickling to the spine-tingling to the heart-warming. Music flows in
and around his stories through his singing and playing on a wide variety
of traditional instruments (including limberjack, hammered and mountain
dulcimer, mouth bow, guitar, conga drum, and pennywhistle). His dynamic style incorporates
dramatic movement, voice, and facial expression to make stories come alive.
His gift of encouraging participation makes for high-spirited and engaging
programs. Each program is tailored to meet special needs and interests
of sponsors and participants.
Teacher and Student Workshops also available. Residencies in Massachusetts for special needs classes and inclusion that adapt music and storytelling to build academic, developmental, and social skills can be arranged through VSA Arts of Massachusetts.
Program Titles: Building Bridges - A Celebration of Multicultural Diversity
and Understanding; Hearing Nature's Voice; You're (Not) So Different
From Me - Disability Awareness; Sun and Moon and Stars; The Story Bag; Sing, Jump, Say, Clap! - Language and Literacy Readiness Activities for Early Childhood;
Young Fogies & Old Whippersnappers - intergenerational programs with students and seniors.
Audience Limit: 50/class; 200/assembly (Extra charges for classes over 50 or assemblies over 200)
Fee: 1 show- $400 + travel; 2 shows - $600; 3rd and 4th show, $175 each;
Block-booking discount available.
Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council Creative Teaching Partners Program. For schools in New England states outside of Massachusetts that include a public performance, the New England States Touring Program (NEST)
Language Arts: Folk Tales, Trickster Tales, 'Why' Tales
Science: Environment,
Ecology, Seasons, Nature
Social Studies: World Cultures, Holidays, Community
Health: Disabilty Awareness
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