Mark Binder, Author - Storyteller Pembroke Villa PO Box 2462 Providence, RI 02906 (401) 272-8707 Email: mark@markbinder.com Website: www.markbinder.com Mark Binder is the author of the Everything Bedtime Story Book and It Ate My Sister. and has had hundreds of short stories published in newspapers and magazines like The Family, Hadassah, and Cricket. He is a professional storyteller and recording artist, with five storytelling CDs, including the hits, A Holiday Present!, It was a Dark and Stormy Night... and the award-winning Classic Stories for Boys and Girls. Mark graduated from the Trinity Rep Theater Conservatory, earned a BA from Columbia University, an MA from Rhode Island College, and has taught as an adjunct professor at the Rhode Island School of Design. He is a Rhode Island Artist Educator, and on the New England Foundation for the Arts Touring Roster. He is a founder of the American Story Theater and has served on the board of the League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling. His programs have received grant funding from the United States Department of Education, the Rhode Island Department of Education, the City of Providence, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, National Storytelling Network, and the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts. Program Title: Tales for Peace, Eureka! Science and Math Stories; Tall Tales and Whoppers; The Instant Short Story; Silly Stories; Tales of Chelm; Holiday Stories and Songs; Spooky Stories; Tales from the Outdoors; Telling and Reading Stories with Children... Audience Limit: 250/assembly Fee: $750 half day, $1000 full day Possible Funding Sources: RI State Council on the Arts, Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, B.O.C.E.S. (New York) World Cultures, Folk Tales, Writing, American History, Holidays, Ecology, Environment, Math, Conflict Resolution

Judith Black Ellen Weiner Professional Artists Management 2411 Bay Road Sharon, MA 02067 (781) 784-6394 E Mail: elweiner@comcast.net Website: www.elweiner.com With a degree in education and twenty years of experience, Judith uses storytelling in both performance and workshop with all grade levels. Her original performance material has been featured at festivals and conferences throughout the continent from the Montreal Comedy Festival to the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesboro, Tennessee. She has keynoted conferences on the uses of storytelling in education and received commissions to create original works for organizations as wide ranging as the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Program Titles: History Alive - America's Unsung Heroes and Heroines; The Long Journey - Stories of Immigration; Pinching the Giants - Tricksters of the World; Glad to Be Who I Am - Tales To Bolster Self-Image; Rainbow Race - World Folk Tales; many more. Audience Limit: 25/class; 200/assembly Fee: Begin at $500 for the first performance, $300 for each thereafter same day/same location. Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, B.O.C.E.S. (New York), New Hampshire Humanities Council Language Arts: Folk Tales,Trickster Tales Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, American History, Women's History, Immigration; Health (Self-Esteem)

Karen Chace 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 Language Arts: Folk Tales (General, Trickster Tales) Health: Self-Esteem, Conflict Resolution Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, Geography, Holidays Science: Animals, Nature, Sea, Seasons

Sara deBeer 51 Randal Ave. West Hartford, CT 06110 (860) 561-5905 E Mail: sdebeer@comcast.net Website: http://sdebeer.home.comcast.net/~sdebeer/ Need a riveting entertainer who can delight audiences of all ages? Need an artist-in-residence who can partner effectively with your school's staff? Need a versatile, experienced performer? Storyteller Sara deBeer can meet all these needs and more! Since 1978, Sara deBeer has told stories to young and old, drawing from her broad repertoire of international folktales. She can frequently be found presenting assembly programs to elementary, middle, and high school students. An experienced classroom teacher with degrees from Yale and Bank Street, Sara designs programs which tie in with on-going classroom studies. A fellow of the Connecticut Writing Project, Storrs, CT, Sara often combines performing with writing or storytelling exercises which permit students to explore the events and characters of the stories they just heard. Sara also offers workshops for teachers. Another specialty of Sara's are programs for senior citizens: holiday/seasonal themes or “Tales of Wit and Wisdom,” which celebrates the struggles, challenges, and triumphs of everyday life. Program Titles: Tales of Deep-Rooted Magic; Folktales from the Many Cultures of Africa; Tales of Women Wise and Wondrous; Jewish Tales for Young and Old; Legends of King Arthur; Hand- Collected Irish Yarns Fee: $250-$500 Language Arts: Writing, Folktales (Irish, African, Native American, Jewish, Asian), Classical Stories (King Arthur) Health: Self-Esteem Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, Women's History

Leeny Del Seamonds 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 Booklist and 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 Language Arts: Folktales, Bilingual Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, Holidays Science: Seasons, Nature, Ecology, Environment Health:Self-Esteem, Conflict Resolution, Anti-Bullying

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 Social Studies: Regions (New England, Maine), Occupations (Farmer, Sailor, Fisherman), Holidays (Chanukah, Christmas, Halloween, Earth Day) Language Arts: Creative Writing, Folk Tales, "Why" Stories, Children's Lit (Rudyard Kipling), American Sign Language (ASL) Science: Insects, Environment /Ecology, Seasons, Nature, Sea, Water Cycle, Animals (Birds, Dinosaurs) Health: Nutrition, Drug Prevention, Self-Esteem, Conflict Resolution, Special Needs

Bonnie Greenberg 63 Gould Road Newton, MA 02468 (617) 244-2884 Fax: (617) 455-6597 E-Mail: BBonnieG@aol.com Website: www.bonniegreenberg.net Bonnie's vibrant, engaging stories are rooted in her love of people, her Appalachian childhood, and her experiences in Israel. Designed for all ages, her broad repertoire opens the hearts of listeners and connects them with tradition, memories, and images of life's possibilities. Multicultural themes are often accompanied by guitar and audience participation. Her stories are about ordinary people whose extraordinary lives will inspire you to find the special meaning in your life. Jewish folklore a specialty. Program Titles: Many Faces, One Spirit (multicultural tales from around the world with music); Celebrate! Tellabrate! (holiday stories); From the Hearts of the People (Holocaust resistance and righteous gentiles); Survival Tales of the African-American and Jewish People, with Sandi Hannibal Audience Limit: 60/class; 200/assembly Fee: $400 plus travel. Block booking discounts. Funding Source: Massachusetts Cultural Council Special Requirements: lapel microphone if possible, otherwise regular mike Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, Geography, Holidays, American History - Immigration), Holocaust Language Arts: Folktales, Creative Writing

Abigail 'Ifatola' Jefferson P.O. Box 176 Peacedale, RI 02883 (401) 932-6565 or (401) 783-4982 EMail: abijef@cox.net Website: www.abigailjefferson.com Abigail "Ifatola" Jefferson, storyteller, dancer and arts educator, performs and conducts workshops nationally. Through a unique blend of story, dance, song, and rhythm, Abigail brings to life traditional stories from around the globe. Her performance presentations are highly interactive, educational and fun-filled. Audiences of all ages have described her performances and workshops as inspiring, informative, and energizing. Abigail has conducted workshops and performed in schools, churches, prisons, shelters, theatres, festivals and libraries. She is a graduate of Howard University with a B.F.A. in theatre, and holds a M.Ed. from Lesley University. Currently, Abigail is an adjunct professor for Lesley University's Creative Arts and Learning Program, and the co-director of Celebration of Culture, a program designed to increase students' and educators' appreciation of diversity. She has traveled to Ghana, Nigeria, Niger, and Cuba to study cultural traditions. Program Title: Dance, Drum, Story or Celebration of Culture Audience Limit: 200 Fee: $500 plus travel Funding Source: New England Foundation for the Arts, Rhode Island State Council for the Arts, Massachusetts Cultural Council, local councils. Language Arts: Folk Tales (General, African) Social Studies: Holidays (Kwanzaa), Countries and Regions of the World (General, Africa), Black History

Jennings and Ponder - World Tales and Celtic Music Ellen Weiner Professional Artists Management 2411 Bay Road Sharon, MA 02067 (781) 784-6394 Fax: (781) 784-5393 E Mail: elweiner@att.net Website: www.elweiner.com Tim Jennings and Leanne Ponder present their stories in two intertwining and overlapping voices, and, between tales, play music on harp and concertina. Their live-performance storytelling CD, "World Tales," won a 1999 American Library Association Notable Children's Recording award. Their two music recordings have been acquired by the Irish traditional Music Archive in Dublin. Recent performances have included Vermont Public Television, Club Passim, and the Saturday night event of the UK Society for Storytelling Annual Gathering, at the National Folk Life Museum in Wales. "This is the best tandem storytelling I have ever heard"-- 2nd Story Review, Ontario. "If you don't believe storytelling can be absolutely fascinating, try this duo; they are brilliant!" -- FolkWorld Magazine, Germany. Audience Limits: up tp 300 Fee: $650 for one performance; reductions for multiples and block bookings. Funding Sources: New England Foundation for the Arts, Vermont Arts Council, B.O.C.E.S. (New York) Language Arts: Literature, Folk Tales Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World

Keith Michael Johnson Educational Programs for K-6 45 Ann Mary Brown Drive Warwick, RI 028888 (800) 730-6676 Fax:(866) 247-7073 Web site: http://keithmichaeljohnson.com E-Mail: kmjshows@yahoo.com Keith Michael Johnson uses humor to motivate, educate and entertain students in grades K-5. Thousands of students throughout Southern New England have enjoyed his time-tested and popular assembly programs: Science Isn't Always Pretty challenges students with outrageous questions and demonstrations that brings the K-5 science curriculum alive! (k-5) Mad About Math is full of things to see, ideas to ponder, and advice to make learning math easier. It's not another ho-to-math lesson, it's a "here's why mathapulluza!" (k-5) Hats off to Reading is a high energy pep rally for books which introduces kids to people they can meet and places they can explore without ever leaving home. A colorful and funny program that celebrates books, reading and the POWER of literacy. (K-2) Amazing Americans is chock full of insightful immigrant stories, antique artifacts from everyday American life and a look at history through the lens of hobbies. A program which touches on culture, science, art, fashion and our diverse culture as ways of exploring our history, Amazing Americans also encourages responsible citizenship. (History and Reading for K-5) Wild About Weather (k-5) takes a creative and quirky look at clouds, air pressure, forecasts and storms. Kids discover why our weather happens and how it works while experiencing a tornado machine, a hot air balloon and an air cannon. Fees: $550/1 show; $875/ 2 shows, back to back, $925, AM/PM; $1,200/3 shows; $1,450/4 shows; $1,700/5 shows. Program Titles: Science Isn't Always Pretty; Hats Off To Reading; Amazing Americans; Mad About Math; Wild About Weather Audience Limit: 200/assembly Fee: $550/1 show; $875/ 2 shows, back to back, $925, AM/PM; $1,200/3 shows; $1,450/4 shows; $1,700/5 shows. Science: Weather Math Social Studies: American History, Citizenship Language Arts: Reading

Angela Klingler - The Storyteller PO Box 530 Salem, NH 03079 (603) 898-0537 E Mail: TheStoryteller@AngelaKlingler.com Website: www.AngelaKlingler.com “I've worked with hundreds of artists. It is rare to find one who is as skilled at her craft and also as professional. I would recommend Angela without reservation.” (Jeannie Connoly, Arts Enrichment Coordinator, Con Val School District, NH)) “Angela's artist-in-residency filled our school with a new sense of adventure and wonder about the world.” (Denise Buckman, Grantham Village School, NH). Nationally recognized and telling professionally since 1989, from museums and arts festivals to educators' conferences, schools and libraries in NH, MA, ME, VT, NY, TX and CA, NAPPA award winning storyteller and education consultant Angela Klingler's animated retellings of traditional world folktales, fable, myths and legends bridges time, culture and curriculum K-8. (NOTE: An operating room R.N. before beginning her "second career," Angela's programming fosters an increased narrative understanding: engagement, attention, processing, sequencing, memory; the value of and personal investment in curriculum by students and fostering conflict resolution and character development through storytelling.) Program Titles: World Folktales, Fables, Fairytales, Myth, Legend and Geomythology; Story, Stone, Water, Fire; Fairy, Beasts & Lore; Tricksters, Tall Tales, Traditions, Legends & Lore; The Middle Ages; Colonial America; The Moon & Stars; Stories Around the Camp Fire; Bold Girls, Wise Women. (NOTE: Developing custom designed interdisciplinary and curriculum specific programming since 1989, visit website for sample programming for: Science, Geomythology; Environment, History; Literacy; Seasonal & Storycraft sessions available.) Audience Grade Level Suitability: K - 8 Audience Size: No limit, however, a distraction-free room/space large enough to accommodate audience is required. Special Requirements: If telling outside, electricity for portable sound system. Fee: $400 for a half day of one to three sessions or evening PTA/PTO Book Fair or Family Night performances, $600 for a full day-up to six sessions; $800 for full day with post performance Teacher Inservice. Additional travel fee calculated at federal rate may apply. Residencies, Teacher’s Inservices and Conferences vary and are negotiable. Block scheduling available. Funding Sources: New England States Touring (NEST) program of the New England Foundation for the Arts Language Arts: Folktales, Fables, Fairytales, Myth and Legend Social Studies: Native Americans, American History (Colonial, Western Movement), European History (Middle Ages) Science: Eatch Science Geomythology: land forms, earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunami, ocean currents, climate, astronomy, space weather Health: Conflict Resolution

Betty Lehrman 88 Flanagan Drive Framingham, MA 01701 (508) 877-9738 E Mail: betty@bettylehrman.com Website: www.bettylehrman.com Betty Lehrman enchants audiences with programs of original stories, history, folktales, picture books and songs. Since 1978, Betty has appeared in schools, libraries, museums, festivals, and concert halls across the US, Australia, and Thailand. Broadcasts include National Public Radio, WGBH-FM, WCVB-TV and many others. She has won Parents' Choice and American Library Association awards, and is a published author. Currently she is works part-time as the drama director of the Benjamin Franklin Charter School in Franklin, MA. Her most-requested program, a dramatic presentation of the life of author Laura Ingalls Wilder, comprises a full hour of stories, music and games featuring costumed participation from selected students. Program Titles: Laura Ingalls Wilder's 'Little House' Stories (K-6); The Blue Shawl (historical drama with musician, grades 4-12); Picture Book Tales (K-2), and many others Audience Limit: 250/assembly Fee: $500 for 45 minute show; $650 for two in one day. $550 for "The Blue Shawl". Block bookings and workshops negotiable Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council and local cultural councils Language Arts: Folk Tales, Fairy Tales, Creative Writing, Reading, Children's Lit. Social Studies: Women's History, Oral History, American History - Immigration

Rona Leventhal 439 West Road Ashfield, MA 01330 (413) 586-0624/(413) 628-0031 E-mail: rona@ronatales.com Website: www.ronatales.com Rona Leventhal is one person, but many voices. Through her, skies talk, turtles sing, and magic happens! "Part mime, part singer, part actress, she walks her tales, talks them, sketches them with her hands, and stretches them from the ceiling to the floor" *. Rona will have you dancing, swaying in your seats, making funny noises, singing, and laughing, as she shares stories from the silly to the serious, from the mysterious to the monsterous! *Bruce Watson, Amherst Bullion, MA Over the past fifteen years Rona has gained a reputation as an exuberant and dynamic Performer, bringing with her a cornucopia of voices, characters and cultural accents. Dramatic and engaging, she tells tales from many cultures, as well as original stories, giving us insights on how to live more clearly with ourselves, others, and the earth. She beautifully weaves together movement, songs, and humor, encouraging audience participation, and creating a joyful sense of community! Whether in the schools or in a public forum, Rona has the ability to communicate with the audience in a way that effectively imparts a message in a captivating and entertaining fashion. But Wait! There’s more! Rona is also a Specialist of Improvisational Theatre and Movement and a Visiting Lecturer and Adjunct Faculty with the Education Departments at Columbia University, Lesley University and the University of Massachusetts. She’s a Certified Teacher and an Environmental and Outdoor Educator. Add to the mix her work in Integrating-the-Arts-into-the-Curriculum, creative writing and her work in Team Building and group dynamics and you have a multi-faceted Educator, Performer, professional development Trainer and Speaker. An Eclectic Educator, Rona is deeply committed to working with teachers in school residencies to reach their curricula goals. Developing imagination is one of the keystones of her work...... an essential component, she believes, to inquiring and creative minds. She is also passionate about bringing literacy to students an an exciting, motivational, and accessible way. This includes in-school Residencies, Teacher Workshops and Parent/Literacy Nights. Rona is an approved Teaching Artist and Performer with the Massachusetts, New York (BOCES), Alaskan, and Utah arts councils, the Wang Center for Performing Arts (Boston) and the New England Touring Roster (funding available). She is applauded for her enthusiastic spirit, supportive nature, and inspiring talent. In residencies, she works closely with teachers to meet curricua needs using an array of educational and fun activities to achieve goals. She tells stories, does residencies, gives keynote addresses, and leads workshops internationally. She performs the story-theatre piece "Degas and the Little Dancer", is co-editor of the book, Spinning Tales, Weaving Hope: Stories of Peace, Justice, and the Environment, which contains an article co-authored by Rona, “Ten Reasons to Use Storytelling in the Classroom”. The book received 2003 Honors Award from Storytelling World Magazine. Upcoming projects include several recordings, performances with historical content, and the book The Power of Imagination: Teaching to Creative Minds. Program Titles: Earth Celebrations!; Woven As One - Stories and Songs of Community; The Silkie's Song - Stories and Songs of the Sea;Turning the wheel: Seasonal Tales; Rising Up: Stories of Struggles, Justice, Freedom and Hope; Tales from Russia; Asian Sampler; Feel'in Proud: Stories of self-esteem; Go Girls!: Stories of Strong Women and Girls; A Kaleidoscope of Stories: A Medley of Tales from Around the World; Oy Vey!: Stories from the Jewish Tradition; Mysteries, Puzzles and Mind Twisters: Stories to Ponder and Play with; Haunts, Haints and Hollers: Stories for Halloween; Degas and the Little Dancer: A Story Theatre Piece; and Subject-Specific Stories upon request (additional fee for creating new shows). School Residencies and Workshops: Kids telling Stories; Kids Creating Stories; Writing Outside the lines: Storytelling as a Gateway for Improving Children's Writing (descriptive language); Story Quilts; Moving the Body, Freeing the Mind: The Art of Storytelling; Improvisational theatre and Movement; Creative Writing; What Color is the Wind: Integrating the Arts into the Curriculum; History Alive!: Collecting and Performing Oral Histories; Fictional Tales of Truth: Diversity and Anti-Bias Education; Literacy/Parents Nights; Environmental Education, Hold On!: Building Cooperative Classrooms (team building). Many curriculum-specific possibilities. Audience Limit: 200 max./assembly; prefer and highly recommend less! Fee: $425-1250 for 1 - 4 shows;; Residency fees vary depending on number of days; Travel cost extra if one hour or more driving distance. Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Touring Roster, Local Cultural Councils, local businesses. Language Arts: Folk Tales, Creative Writing, American Sign Language Science: Environmental, Seasons, Sea Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, Geography, Community, Holidays Health: Self-Esteem, Movement

Marc Levitt 20 Pinehurst Street Wakefield, RI 02879 (401) 783-0887 E Mail: marclevitt@aol.com Website: www.marclevitt.org Working throughout the United states and in over 25 countries, Mr. Levitt has brought his memoirs, his original folktales, his Halloween stories, and his writing instruction to thousands of schools and conferences. Considered a ‘master storyteller’ by School Library Journal, Marc Levitt uses a warm and engaging style to encourage students to honor themselves, their community and their physical environment. Author of over one hundred stories, award winning August House audio tapes, and a new book on writing, Teaching Writing from the Roots, Mr. Levitt humorously and interactively pulls stories and skills from his always receptive audiences. An award winning public humanist, educator and radio host, Mr. Levitt comes from a progressive educational tradition where the ‘whole child’ is encouraged, question-asking is stimulated and ‘real-world’ presentation in prioritized. His ‘museum-in-a-school’ project in Providence, Rhode Island, created through his unique philosophy of education, Site Specific Education has received national recognition and has been featured on ABC-TV affiliates throughout the United States. Mr. Levitt has also created musical narratives about houses, rivers, farms, and watersheds in New England. Mr. Levitt, additionally is an award winning radio host/producer and has recently completed a documentary film on Narragansett Tribal stonemasons. Program Descriptions: Assemblies: Mr Levitt’s programs are appropriate for K-12 and include ‘growing-up’ memoirs on topics such as getting lost, sibling rivalry and first dates, original folktale-inspired stories and juggling. These programs can be tailored for schools interested in encouraging writing and/or diversity celebration/non-violence/bullying prevention. Tales From the October Moon: Original Halloween-type stories set within the New England landscape. (Award winning August House tape) Johnny Appleseed; Gentle Hero: A one-person play on the life and times of this native New Englander. (Award winning August House tape) Marco Polo: A Multi-Cultural Adventure: One-person show with music and props on this Venetian explorer. A multi-cultural adventure. Writer-in-Residency: Mr. Levitt has created a series of stories, exercises, and games to motivate kids to write. Topics covered: sequential thinking, beginning, middle and endings, topic selection (see his new book Teaching Writing from the Roots, available from his website). Allison and the Blackstone: A story about the history of the Blackstone River, told through the eyes of an eleven year old girl and accompanied by music from the well known and regarded 'Pendragon'. Triple Decker: A story of a fictional triple decker in Providence, Rhode Island and of the six immigrant fammilies who moved in and out of the house over an eighty year period. Narrated by Mr. Levitt and storyteller Valerie Tutson and accompanied by original and traditional music performed by musicians from the different nationality groups depicted in this story of the immigration experience in the United States Program Title: Tales From the October Moon, Johnny Appleseed: Gentle Hero, Marco Polo: A Multi-Cultural Adventure, Allison and the Blackstone, Triple Decker, Stories from a New York City Childhood, Writer in Residence, Diversity Celebration, Site Specific Education: Local Culture, Questions and 'Real World' Presentation Audience Limit: 200 Fee: Starts at $500 Health: Conflict Resolution, Self-esteem Social Studies: Famous People (Maro Polo, Johnny Appleseed), American History (Immigration), Regions (New England), States (Rhode Island, Massachusetts), Holidays (Halloween), Community Language Arts: Creative Writing Science: Environment, Ecology

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/ Mary Jo is a seasoned, national award-winning, dynamic storyteller, singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and just plain entertaining performer who presents interactive variety shows for children and families. Participate in world folktales, sing, dance, laugh, listen to the fiddle, act in costumed story theater - all in one show! Since 1989, Mary Jo has performed more than 3,000 shows in libraries and schools, on PBS, featured at regional festivals: Three Apples Storytelling Festival (twice); CT Storytelling Festival; LAUGHS Fest (Virginia), Sharing the Fire conference workshop presenter, League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling, (L.A.N.E.S.) M.I.T., Boston, 2002-2005; Mark Twain Festival, Hartford, Conn.; Celebration Barn Theater, South Paris, Maine, 1992 and 1994; Norman Rockwell Museum since 1998, Schoodic Arts Festival, Northeast Harbor, Maine; and from San Francisco’s Chinatown to Scuola Gozzi in Venice, Italy. “A Great performer,” says Peg O’Sullivan, Director of the CT Storytelling Fest. Her multilingual show, “Everybody Says Hello” was nominated for a Mass. Cultural Council Gold Project Award for innovation and community building. Her audio tape, "Books Are Celebrations: Stories, Songs & Fiddling to Energize Young Readers" won a 1999 NAPPA Gold Award. New CDs include “Howlarious Halloween: Ghost Stories, Songs & Jokes from the Crypt,” and “Missing the Muffin Man,” a short story of historical fiction set in Dickens’s London. "A consummate artist, at ease with audiences of all ages and sizes." Northampton Center for the Arts 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 + travel (depends on distance)and up; strong block booking discounts Funding Source: Massachusetts Cultural Council, local councils, CT Humanities Council, other Language Arts: Folk Tales (including Animal Tales, Tall Tales), Greek Myths, Reading Social Studies: American History (westward movement), Women's History, Countries and Regions of the World, Native American, African-American, Famous People (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.), Holidays (Halloween and Winter Solstice), European (Middle Ages) Science: Animals, Insects, Nature, Sea, Solar System

Tom McCabe PO Box 128 Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 534-0797 E-Mail: info@TomMcCabe.com Website: TomMcCabe.com A Parent's Choice Award winner, Channel 5 Boston has dubbed Tom: "New England's Pied Piper." Tom’s shoes (pictured) are covered with tiny pins and trinkets - gifts from children he has met along the way. In educational settings Tom's focus is literacy. Click here: Tom tells a tale or two and listen to Tom’s unique version of CINDERELLA. Her wish? To learn how to read. Oh, she gets to the ball and meets a prince but every detail supports reading and the library. You can also listen to a family story for older children, an entire writing lesson and Tom’s own story of struggling to learn how to read. Click here: Kennedy Center: Millennium Stage to watch Tom’s 2002 solo performance. An MCC Creative Teaching Partner, Tom presents assembly programs (pre- 8), classroom writing workshops, teacher in-service trainings, parent programs and residencies. Tom teaches children, teachers and parents simple, effective strategies generating writing. He always begins by asking "How many people have ever sat in front of a piece of paper and did not know what to write?" Everyone raises a hand. After a program with Tom, you will never have that problem again. In his Conflict Resolution program he teaches the audience a four-step method for peacefully resolving conflicts. Detailed follow-up material guarantee these lessons will continue. For conferences, Tom offers workshops, key-notes or an after-dinner spoken word program. Public Performances: His family concerts at libraries and schools feature folk tales and original stories with lots of audience participation. Everyone joins in, even the dads. For Adults: a riotous evening of family tales: THE QUEEN OF FILENE'S BASEMENT. At his web site: TomMcCabe.com, you will find detailed descriptions of his many programs, numerous testimonials Program Titles: Storytelling; Writing; Conflict Resolution Fee: Upon request Language Arts: Folk Tales, Creative Writing Health: Conflict Resolution

Sumner McClain Ellen Weiner Professional Artists Management 2411 Bay Road Sharon, MA 02067 (617) 784-6394 E Mail: elweiner@comcast.net Website: www.elweiner.com A respected and sought-after storyteller, Sumner's message is Yes! You can be anything you want to be. Appreciating differences and self-esteem are two topics close to his heart and ones that are frequently requested. In addition, he has in his repertoire many stories from folk literature as well as the African-American experience. His original story about Martin Luther King, Jr., "Daddy King" is heavily booked each year. Workshops for students and teachers are also available. Audience Limit: 25/workshop; 200/assembly Fee: $500 for the first performance, $300 for each thereafter same day/same location. Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, B.O.C.E.S. (New York) Language Arts: Folk Tales (African-American) Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World, Famous People (Martin Luther King, Jr.) Health: Self-Esteem, Conflict Resolution

Medicine Story Mettanokit Outreach 173 Merriam Hill Road Greenville, NH 03048 (603) 878-3201 E Mail: medicinestory@yahoo.com NATIVE AMERICAN STORYTELLER, Medicine Story is a lecturer, workshop presenter, and author (Return to Creation, Children of the Morning Light, The Circle Way, and Ending Violent Crime). He tells stories of his Wampanoag and other Native peoples, and lectures and teaches about Native American society past and present, non-violence, spiritual ecology, communication and conflict resolution, community building through the way of the circle, and about the six successful prison programs that he currently directs. Language Arts: Folk tales (Native American) Health: Conflict Resolution

Elisa Pearmain PO Box 634 Lincoln, MA 01773 (781) 259-0492 E Mail: elisa@wisdomtales.com Website: www.wisdomtales.com With a background in dance and theater, and a Master's degree in Education, Elisa's performances, residencies, and workshops are moving, participatory, and educational. From the 1990 National Storytelling Festival in Tennessee, to First Night Boston, and The Three Apples Storytelling Festival, Elisha performs for thousands of children and adults. Elisa was a Storyteller in Residence in the Boston and Lowell Public Schools for ten years, and trains teachers and others in storytelling through Lesley College. She is the award-winning author of Doorways to the Soul: Fifty-two Wisdom Tales From Around the World (Pilgrim Press 1998) and Once Upon a Time: Storytelling for Character Development and Bullying Prevention (Character Development Group, 2006), which offers 99 folktales and follow-up activities for the K-8 Classroom. Programs Include: Wising Up - World Wisdom Tales for Character Education and Bully Prevention (grades K-8) The Calabash of Wisdom - World wisdom tales for building empathy, awareness and responsibility (Middle and High Schools, performance and follow-up workshops) For All to Share - Multicultural folktales, myths and legends (pre K-12) Halloween Tales From Around the World - Multicultural Halloween, performance (K-12) and writing/storytelling residency (5-8) I Can Tell - Storytelling residency and teacher training, K-8 A Trunkfull of Tales - Family storytelling for Home and School - a workshop for educators and parents, and residency (2-8) Program Titles: We Share a Common Story; The Calabash of Wisdom; For All to Share; Halloween Tales From Around the World; I Can Tell; A Trunkfull of Tales Audience Limit: Varies with program Fee: $400 for 1 performance; $500 for two; $600 for three +travel over 1 hour Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council Language Arts: Folk Tales, Myth, Creative Writing Social Studies: Holidays (Halloween), Countries and Regions of the World Health: Self-esteem, Conflict Resolution, Bullying Prevention

Petticoat Adventures Ellen Weiner Professional Artists Management 2411 Bay Road Sharon, MA 02067 (781) 784-6394 Fax: (781) 784-5393 E Mail: elweiner@att.net Website: www.elweiner.com Storyteller/actress Joan Gatturna presents women from history who have led unique and unusual lives. With the aid of costume and reproduction artifacts, Joan takes children into past centuries where they can meet and converse with women who defied the conventions of their times. Current productions include Petticoat Patriot-The Deborah Sampson Story, which tells of a woman who served as a soldier in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, Petticoats at Sea - which shares the adventures of a girl who lived her life at sea in the era of the Clipper Ships and the China Trade, and Petticoat and the Midnight Ride - which tells the story of Rachel Revere (Paul's wife) and her children. Hear about home life in a time of tumult and how Rachel and the children escaped occupied Boston, and much more. (Grade 3 and up; Assembly, Classrooms and Residencies) Program Titles: Petticoat Patriot- The Deborah Sampson Story; Petticoats at Sea- The Clipper Ship Girl Audience Limit: 75 for school programs Fee: $350 for the first performance, $200 for each thereafter on same day/same location. Funding Sources: Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, B.O.C.E.S.(New York) Special Requirements: Small table and chair Social Studies: American History (American Revolution), Occupations (Sailors, Whaling), Women's History Science: Sea

Diane Postoian - STORYTHEATRE/CREATIVE DRAMATIST 130 Wentworth Ave. Cranston, RI 02905 (401) 461-1322 E Mail: dianepostoian@gmail.com Website: www.dianepostoian.com In 2006, Diane Postoian received an Honorary Doctorate from Rhode Island College for her life-long achievements in theatre and education for young audiences. During her time as director of Looking Glass Theatre, she received grants nationwide for her commitment to educate through performance. "I didn't choose my profession. It chose me. Once I knew I had a gift for comedy and a love for learning, I knew I could use my performance energy to teach in a way both children and adults would find entertaining and inspiring.” Diane’s programs include: Acting Naturally About Reading- Staged stories and classroom workshops helping students to connect the passion and emotion of the spoken word to its written text. The Olga! Project- a ‘serious’ comedy routine tackling such topics as media-hype, body image, violence in entertainment and bullying. ParentZING – a playful, informative lecture/workshop for educators and parents on the value of pretend in early childhood education. Tell Me a Story- professional, exploratory coaching for beginner storytellers. Program Titles: Acting Naturally About Reading, The Olga! Project, ParentZING, Tell Me a Story Audience Limit: Shows: 150 students; Workshops - classroom size Special Requirements: open space Fee: $425 and up Possible Funding Sources: New England Foundation for the Arts, State Arts Councils, VSA Arts, Titles One and Four Language Arts: Reading Health: Self-esteem, Conflict Resolution

Robert Pottle Blue Lobster Press 3913 Union Street Levant, ME 04456 (207) 991-2580 Fax: (207) 884-4432 E Mail: poet@robertpottle.com Website: www.robertpottle.com "Call the school nurse! Robert will spread an infectious enthusiasm for poetry!" ROBERT POTTLE is a widely published children's poet. He was a first grade teacher for ten years. Robert knows how to engage, entertain, and enlighten children. He performs at schools and conferences nationwide. School visits begin with an unforgettable large group poetry performance in which he performs his humorous verse. Robert then conducts small group workshops on topics such as: how to write specific forms of poetry, how to perform poetry, the writing process, and his exclusive creative webbing activity which generates rhymes and ideas for writing funny poetry. Program Titles: Laugh and Learn Poetry; Crazy About Poetry; Write with Robert; Wicked Good Poetry; Poetry Publisher Audience Suitability: PreK - 6 Audience Limit: none Fee: Starts at $950 for a full day visit (includes travel) / unlimited number of sessions; Multi-day visit discounts available Special Requirements: A small table and a glass of water Language Arts: Poetry, Creative Writing, Children's Literature, Storytelling

Gwendolyn Quezaire-Presutti PO Box 380496 East Hartford, CT 06138-0496 (860) 528-0733 or 860-212-6129 (cell) E Mail: woventales6@sbcglobal.net Web site: www.woventales.net or www.rhetoricofsurvival.com Gwendolyn offers Rhetoric of Survival, a program that dramatizes stories of two 19th century Connecticut free women of color.  Sarah Harris (Fayeweather), who dreamed of opening her own school for African-American children, but cruel prejudice and bigotry made that a nightmarish experience.  Maria W. Stewart, cheated out of an inheritance by an unscrupulous white merchant, took up public speaking and became the first American born woman to lecture in defense of women's rights.    Spy, Nurse, and Scout Harriet Tubman was unique among black women in her military role.  She earned the honorary title "General Tubman," which John Brown bestowed upon her and by which her black countrymen referred to her, as a spy, scout and guerrilla leader for the Union army.  Several times she commanded troops, both black and white, on scouting raids, on the most spectacular of which she rescued 756 slaves.  Gwendolyn's Rhetoric of Survival programs and performances, introduce untapped history, different explorations, thereby examining a different historical perspective in the context of everyday life, these women demonstrated an unyielding fearless resolve to obtain liberty and social justice.  Incorporating a creative approach for teaching history, and language arts, Rhetoric of Survival is an ideal concept for implementing new historical information through dramatic storytelling. Program Titles: Rhetoric of Survival; Spy, Nurse, and Scout Grade Level Suitabiilty: School age (middle and high school) & Adults/Seniors Audience Limit: Classroom; 300/assembly Special requirements: a room with an amount of space for the performance and serveral set pieces provided by the actress, for assemblies a lapel Mic. Fee: Starting at $500.00 - $1,000 Social Studies: American History (Slavery) Black History, Women's History

Ann Shapiro and Tom Callinan c/o Crackerbarrel Entertainments 55 East Town Street Norwich, CT 06360-2345 Phone: (860) 889-6581 Fax: (860) 889-6648 E-Mail: ann.s@crackerbarrel-ents.com Website: http://www.crackerbarrel-ents.com/tomann01.htm For over 30 years, the husband and wife team of Tom Callinan and Ann Shapiro has toured an assortment of informative and entertaining participatory programs throughout the Eastern Seaboard of the United States for audiences as diverse as nursery schools through nursing homes. Whether appearing as solo artists or as their duo, they blend their extensive repertoire of songs, which span many centuries, with an impressive array of instruments from the wind, string, and percussion families. As storytellers, they were among the Featured Tellers at the National Storytelling Festival (1999), and "Tellers-In-Residence" at the International Storytelling Center (2003). Their stories are told in-tandem or individually, embellished with humor, music, sound effects, and audience involvement. Each has been designated a Master Teaching Artist by the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism. Tom, a former junior high school teacher with a B.S. in Secondary Education from Central Connecticut State University, and a M.A.L.S. from Wesleyan University, has written over 100 songs about Connecticut – more than anyone in history. Via legislation passed by the Connecticut General Assembly, and signed by then-Governor Lowell P. Weicker, Jr., Tom was designated Connecticut's first "Official State Troubadour" in 1991. His credits include: The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; "Good Morning America"; "Shining Time Station"; among many others. Honors include: composing songs included in Emmy Award-winning documentaries and co-writing songs on Parents Choice Gold Award recordings, among others. In addition to her work as a creative and performing artist, Ann also serves as the Executive Director of the Connecticut Storytelling Center, in-residence at Connecticut College. Ann is the recipient of a number of prestigious awards, including: The National Storytelling Network’s 2005 ORACLE Leadership and Service Award For The Northeastern United States; the 2008 Brother Blue and Ruth Hill Award from LANES (The League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling); and the 2009 Elizabeth L. Mahaffey Arts Administration Fellowship Recipient from the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism. Tom and Ann have produced over a dozen recordings on CD and cassette (see website: www.Crackerbarrel-Ents.com). A downloadable order form is available at www.crackerbarrel-ents.com/Catalog/Order%20Form.htm, and printed study-guides pertaining to their Arts-In-Education programs are available on request. Information about teacher-training, consulting services, and custom songwriting are available as well. Program Titles: Environmental Hootenanny; From Sea to Shining Sea; Brother Against Brother; Young America; Come On & Sing-Along; I'm Gonna Write a Song; Home Fires; Imagine Menagerie; Thumbs-Up for Connecticut; Sea Songs, Chanteys, and Nautical Lore; Irish and Irish-American Songs, Tunes, and Tales; Getting Along; Holiday Hodge-Podge, and more. Audience Limit: 30/class; 300/assembly Fees: Assembly- $500/solo [1st show. 2nd show @ $300]; $750/duo [1st show. 2nd show @ $450]; Classroom- $500 per day/4 classes-solo. Travel is included within Connecticut. Out of state: 55¢ per mile, round-trip from Norwich, CT. Funding Sources: Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism, New England Foundation for the Arts, BOCES (New York). Special Requirements: Access to performance space 45 minutes before first show Science: Environment, Ecology, Sea, Animals (Whales) Language Arts: Creative Writing Social Studies: American History (Colonial, Revolutionary War, Immigration, Westward Expansion, Civil War) , Country (Ireland), Holidays, Regions (New England), State (Connecticut), Occupation (Sailor, Whalemen, Railroad, Farmer, Mill Worker, Miner, Cowboy) Health: Conflict Resolution

Mark Shepard - DrumSongStory 589 Chapel Street, #3 New Haven, CT 06511 (203) 495-8808 E-Mail: mark@markshepard.com Website: http://www.DrumSongStory.com Mark Shepard is a multi-disciplinary performing and teaching artist who uses drums, songs and stories to interactively engage, entertain and educate audiences of all ages in performances, workshops and staff development programs. He is on the roster of the CT Commission on ther Arts as a performer as well as a "Master Teaching Artist". He has released 12 CDs of original songs and stories. In addition to his music and storytelling, he is a board certified master practitioner and trainer of NLP and speaks nationally on learning and communication skills. Program Titles: DrumSongStory; Breathing Underwater; Funky Monkey! Pumpkin Pie!; Birds; Beyond the Borders; Trickster Tales; Beneath the Northern Star, Mysts & Magick; The Drum of the Elephant King; The Talking Drum; Captured By the Iroquois; Abi Yo Yo; Brothers of the Drum; Shifting Shape Audience Limit: 350/assembly Fees: Negotiable Funding Sources: Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism, New England Foundation for the Arts Environment, Ecology, Sea, Animals (birds), American History (Colonial), Countries/Regions of the World (Africa, Caribbean, Ireland), Folk Tales (Inuit, Trickster), Conflict Resolution

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 Language Arts: Aesop’s Fables, Myths, and Folktales Social Studies: American History (Colonial, Lowell Mills, the Frontier, Immigration) Women’s History Science: Nature; Environment Health: Special Needs

TAINO Encore Performing Arts, Inc Roberta Wolinsky PO Box 630 Melville, NY 11747 (800) 669-9850 Fax: (631) 423-1795 Email: info@encoreperforming.com Website: http://encoreperforming.com/ta After a five year journey through Central and South America and the Caribbean, Sana and Papo returned to their homes in New England and Puerto Rico and created TAINO (pronounced tah-ee-noe) and for the past 15 years have toured the Eastern Seaboard enchanting audiences with their unique brand of worldclass, Caribbean-flavored music, with storytelling relating their on-going adventures in both cultures. TAINO is available in the U.S.A. from mid-May through mid-December; during the remaining 5 months TAINO resides on their mountain farm in Puerto Rico, conducting inter-cultural exchange programs. TAINO has two recordings of Caribbean World music for all ages. Complimentary copies with all 2001 bookings. PROGRAMS: The Journey: TAINO retraces their journey through Latin America & the Caribbean through story & song. Authentic music with student participation. Bilingual adventure. Caribbean Holiday: A music journey of the Caribbean celebrating the joyful and festive holiday season in Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Trinidad, Guadalupe, and Jamaica. Discovering Columbus: Exploring the world that Columbus encountered in his voyages to America & the subsequent transformation of that world with the meeting of the Native American, European, and African peoples. Students actively participate and will discover the "New World" for the first time. Rainforest: Travel along the equator visitng the endangered tropical forest regions through music & stories inspired by the sounds & flavors of South America, Africa, and Asia. Caribbean Carnaval: A new end of the school year show; a festive variety of Caribbean music featuring Sana's dazzling keyboard & emphasizing audinece and "on-stage" student participation. Wow! Program Titles: The Journey; Rainforest; Caribbean Holiday; Discovering Columbus; Caribbean Carnaval Audience Limit: 300/assembly Fee: $800/single; $1,050 per double show in same location. Travel fees are variable. Block booking discounts. Residencies available. Funding Source: Vermont Arts Council Special Requirements: Tech Rider will be provided with contract Social Studies: Countries and Regions of the World (Central and South America, Caribbean), Famous People (Columbus) Science: Ecology, Environment Language Arts: Bilingual (Spanish)

Tim Van Egmond 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