South Carolina Storytelling Network
Celebrating The Voices of South Carolina
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Member Directory
You're never far from a storyteller
The information on the listed storytellers may NOT be up to date. If you have difficulty contacting a listed storyteller, please contact Cora Newcomb at coranewcomb1@gmail.com and she will be happy to give you up-to-date information. In the meantime, we are working on updating the website. Thank you for your patience!
The SCSN Member Directory is provided as a service for those looking for a storyteller. South Carolina Storytelling Network does not specifically endorse any teller listed here. Each storyteller has their own unique style, ability, and repertoire. Please communicate with them directly to ensure they will be appropriate for your needs. Fees vary and must be negotiated with the individual teller.
Storytellers are listed by region. Click on the Region name to go to that section.
The individual bios are listed for travel, venues, story types and performance age groups.
Lowcountry
Becky Becker
Becky's Box Puppets
1745 Heritage Park Rd.
Charleston, SC 29407
843-209-6467
Email: becky@beckysboxofpuppets.com
Website: www.beckysboxofpuppets.com
Bio:
The magical world of the humble little puppet is where I like to explore my world and others. Since starting with simple shows in 1980 at the Charleston Museum my efforts continue and happily I continue to connect with others through the random bits of fabric and paint. My stories are geared to children and their families.
Age Groups:
Family
Preschool
Primary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Holidays
Traditional Folk Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Millie Chaplin
The Princess of Possum Corner
P.O. Box 4
Harleyville, SC 29448
843-462-2137
Email: princessofpossumcorner@yahoo.com
Website: www.milliechaplin.com
Bio:
Born and reared in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, Millie loves to share stories from all cultures. She uses the dulcimer and sometimes the audience to tell her stories. Millie loves to sing the old traditional songs that children of old grew up hearing. You might hear Jacktales along with an Anansi Tale. Millie believes in “fun for all”. Find me on Facebook!
Age Groups
Adults
Families
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes
Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Bible
Fractured Fairy Tales
Ghost Stories
Holidays
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Using Music in Storytelling
Patricia DuPont
DuPontCares A Million Mobile Museum
Ridgeland, SC 29936
615-538-7668
Email: dupontcares@gmail.com
Bio:
Dr. Patricia H. DuPont is a lifelong learner who has a BA in Education, a MA in Philosophy, and a PhD in Theology. Dr. DuPont objective is to utilize her skills in creative marketing, project management, grant writing, and public service to provide a winning edge in making a profound difference serving mankind using storytelling. Dr. DuPont has served in the corporate arena as Executive Secretary, Director, Trainer, Community Liaison, and Volunteer on Library Board. Dr. DuPont is an innovative, motivator and founder of local organizations to meet the need of the community.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Bible
Corporate Programs
Food/Nutrition
History
Improvisational
Keynote
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Original/Personal
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Using Music in Storytelling
Ben Gafford
1203 Saville St.
Georgetown, SC 29440
843-616-4400
Email: benmgafford@aol.com
Bio:
Born and raised in the northwest part of Texas, I have pastored United Methodist Churches in South Carolina for 39 years. Besides working as a pastor, I am spiritual director with an emphasis on spiritual formation. In all areas of my pastoral work, I have utilized storytelling to help people to grow spiritually and emotionally. I tell Biblical, sacred, humorous, original, motivational, and traditional stories. I am comfortable with all age groups and environments.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Julian Gooding
Summerville, SC
(843) 323-6651
Email: juliangooding1@yahoo.com
Bio:
Julian Gooding has been a documentary filmmaker for over 30 years, specializing in short films that celebrate life and the preservation of cultures. From his many travels he has collected folktales and has designed original, audience-interactive tales using his collection of world percussion and other unique instruments. Add to this, he is a professional puppeteer and he teaches workshops on literacy development through the arts.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Middle Schools
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
History
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Original/Personal
Science
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Using Music in Storytelling
Suzette Hawkins
Beaufort, SC
803-960-6827
Email: suzettehawkins@gmail.com
Bio:
I’m a native of Sumter, South Carolina, can readily remember hearing family stories at my grandmother’s not knowing at that time that storytelling would become such an exciting and important part of my life. I began storytelling in 1982 after attending NAPPS now known as the National Storytelling Festival.
I view storytelling as a traditional art form, which can promote literacy, imagination, and moral values. The stories I love to tell are stories that touch people, that makes them think beyond themselves, historical stories, myths, legends, fables, ghost stories, new and old from around the world. My repertoire ranges from humorous tales to ghost stories, and other tales that lead the listener through a gamut of emotions.”
Through my storytelling I hope to enrich the lives of both children and adults.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
High School
Young Adults
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
Upstate SC
No. Carolina
SE USA
US Nationwide
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Preschools/Daycares
Story Types:
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Humor
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for Beginners
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling - Educational Setting
Storytelling - Puppets and Props
Theresa Hilliard
Mama Doonk Gullah Stories
PO Box 80523
Charleston, SC 29416
843-364-3064
Email: mamadoonkgullah@aol.com
Bio:
Theresa is a Gullah Storyteller, Educator, and Narrator. She is a retired EEO/Diversity Manager and has a B.S. Degree in Workforce Education and Development. She was born on Edisto Island and reared by her Grandmother during her early years. She has always loved talking and singing like her grandmother and emulates her grandmother's voice during her presentations. She conducts Gullah workshops; tells Gullah stories; narrates Gullah programs; reads the Gullah Bible, Gullah Poems and Gullah storybooks, as well as, write Gullah menus. She was featured in the October 2014 National Geographic Video Magazine. She has told stories at the Gibbes Museum of Arts, The S.C. State Museum, the Charleston Museum, Brook Green Gardens; Public and Private schools; MOJA Arts Festival; Charleston County Libraries; the Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival; Spoleto Children's Festival and many more. She has narrated the Charleston Symphony Orchestra Gospel Concerts and she is a Quilter and loves making baby quilts. She is doing her part to keep the Gullah culture alive by sharing the history, struggles and contributions of our ancestors.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Bible
History
Traditional Folk Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Coming of Age
Environment
Food/Nutrition
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Science
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Hawk Hurst
Charleston, SC
home 843-577-2821, cell 843-819-3789
Email: hawkhurst@bellsouth.net
Website: www.HawkHurstFlutes.com
Bio:
Hawk Hurst - Storyteller & Folk Musician: Hawk’s stories offer a fresh perspective of how ancient cultures came to respect and appreciate the diversity of each other and the natural world around them. Hawk’s creativity, in his stories, music, and artist in residency programs, are oriented to emphasize positive, uplifting attributes. An nine time recording artist and the author of two children’s books, his performances are suitable for all age groups! Hawk is a master craftsman, creating a variety of traditional Native American and African-style flutes, drums, and instruments used during his performances. Hawk’s interactive programs are perfect for ‘In School Field Trips’, and he offers unique ‘Storytelling Residencies’ for elementary and middle school students. A Lesley College (Masters of Science - Education) graduate, Hawk is a member of both the SC Artist Roster & SC Storytelling Network, as well as the NC Storytelling Guild.
Minerva T. King
P.O. Box 12631
Charleston, SC 29412-2631
843-795-0076
Email: minervaking@comcast.net
Bio:
Minerva T. King has been performing as a multicultural storyteller, largely through the Arts in Education Program of the SC Arts Commission, since 1992. Specializing in African, African/American, West Indian, Native American, and Jewish folklore, she delights in engaging her listeners in her programs that are often augmented with music. She includes in her repertoire, stories based on history, including the story of her struggles for civil rights. Min is the librarian at St. John’s High School, and an adjunct professor at Trident Technical College. A nationally board certified librarian, in 2009 Min was named “Teacher of the Year” at St. John’s.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Community Groups
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Womens Groups
Story Types:
Character Education
Coming of Age
Environment
Food/Nutrition
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Using Music in Storytelling
Tim Lowry
Summerville, SC 29485
Telephone:843-324-1366
Email: timlowry@bellsouth.net
Website: www.storytellertimlowry.com
Bio:
Telling stories of the People, by the People, and for the People. Appearing at festivals from Jonesborough, TN to New London, CT. Specializing in stories of American history and folklore as a teaching artist for more than a decade. Serving as a corporate trainer and keynote speaker. Mixing stories of the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Western Frontier with tales of growing up Baptist, teaching English to Russian immigrants, baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and a Ford Pinto station wagon!
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Coming of Age
Corporate Programs
Environment
Food/Nutrition
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Reluctant Speakers
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Medicine/Healing
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Shiela Martina
Martina Publishing, Inc.
PO Box 1216
Walterboro, SC 29488
Telephone:843-549-5286
Email: shielamartina@yahoo.com
Website: www.ShielaMartina.com
Bio:
Shiela Martina Keaise, a native of Walterboro, South Carolina, is the Children’s Librarian at the Colleton County Memorial Library with 20 years experience. She graduated from Claflin University, South Carolina State University, and the University of South Carolina. Miss Shiela is a storyteller, poet, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, author, and South Carolina Trainer. Most of the 10 children’s books Miss Shiela has written are rhythmic poems. She uses authentic words in her stories and books that enlighten and entertain. Miss Shiela’s goal as a storyteller is to encourage children and adults, alike, to think, read, dream, listen, create, and imagine.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Food/Nutrition
Fractured Fairy Tales
Holidays
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Cora Newcomb
Greer, South Carolina
Telephone:843-597-2434
Email: coranewcomb1@gmail.com
Bio:
Celebrate the magic of storytelling with this gifted storyteller who has told stories to audiences of all ages throughout Southeastern United States engaging the senses and enchanting audiences everywhere she goes. Specialties include: Storytelling, curriculum development, and teacher training.
She sparks the heart and soul of everyone as they feel the wonder and excitement of her stories told with an energetic and charming style, keeping everyone spell bound from young to old. Her vibrant style fills the stage with historic, inspirational, anti-bullying stories, ghost tales and stories that reflect her life from the delightful village of Beaufort SC.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Community Groups
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Bible
Character Education
Coming of Age
Corporate Programs
Environment
Food/Nutrition
Fractured Fairy Tales
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
Science
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Anita Prather
"Aunt Pearlie Sue"
PO Box 1712
Beaufort, SC 29901
Email: auntpearliesue@yahoo.com
Website: www.knowitall.org/gullahnet
Bio:
In the voice of her grandmother, America's preeminent cultural ambassador, Anita Singleton Prather, "the First Lady of Gullah," is the beloved character, Aunt Pearlie Sue. Gullah, the genesis of African American heritage, is deeply rooted in the Sea Islands of South Carolina. Anita is a native of the "Queen of the Sea Islands," historic Beaufort, South Carolina the epicenter of American history. She is an award-winning storyteller, educator, heritage scholar, actress, writer, singer, producer and founder/artistic director of the nationally renown musical theater ensemble, Gullah Kinfolk/Gullah Traveling Theater, Inc. She travels extensively from coast to coast and abroad weaving her Gullah-flavored folktales and spirituals bringing history alive through interactive storytelling, singing and dancing. Her work has been showcased on PBS TV nationwide, latest being, "Circle Unbroken Gullah Journey from Africa to America" ; Radio's Top Ten Gospel Chart, "Chicken Dinner Money"; Film festivals nationwide and abroad; exhibits in the nine top Children's Museums in the USA and Canada; award-winning educational SCETV website; South Carolina History textbooks; CD's, DVD's, TV and movies. Her journey as an educator and master storyteller has spanned over 35 years. She holds a psychology degree from Howard University and a Master's +30 in education from the University of South Carolina. She continues to be a "Keeper of the Culture," mesmerizing audiences from the schoolhouse to the White House and around the world.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Bible
Character Education
Coming of Age
Corporate Programs
Fractured Fairy Tales
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Kim Ruff
Ridgeville, SC
Telephone:334-224-2184
Email: kimannruff@yahoo.com
Website: www.kimruff.com
Bio:
Friends, family, and colleagues label Kim a “people person,” and that’s not such a bad thing for a storyteller. A chance meeting with one of The Moth’s (NYC) top storytellers opened her heart to a world she only thought existed between pen and paper – storytelling. Kim’s stories are true, based on her life experiences and interactions with others, and have been regarded as “raw, edgy, and real” by adult audiences in the D.C. area. She can’t wait to tell new stories about her abrupt transition from D.C. to life in the Lowcountry.
Age Groups:
Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Colleges
Festivals
Story Types:
Humor
Original/Personal
True Life
Workshops using Storytelling:
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Linda Stout
703 Serotina Point
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
843-884-0116
Email: tellstories@yahoo.com
Bio:
Linda weaves folktales and imagination together to create story magic with audiences around the state. An educator and listed on the SC Approved Artist Roster, Linda is known for her interactive performances with children, occasionally using fanciful puppets. Passionate about using storytelling in the classroom and author of "Owning Their Words", Linda’s residencies center on Story Telling to Story Writing. She presents programs for all ages, as well as workshops for teachers, seniors and child care workers. A founder of the SC Storytelling Network and former Editor of their newsletter.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Womens Groups
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Humor
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Midlands
Martha Reed Johnson
Moved to Boston, MA
Email: martha@marthareedjohnson.com
Website: www.marthareedjohnson.com
Bio:
Martha is a World Storytelling Award Recipient and has performed on stages from South Carolina to Maine. She is a sought after keynote speaker and trainer in the area of storytelling and education. Martha is co-host of the monthly “Story Swap” at the Clay Pot Coffee Shop in Florence, SC. Martha creates amazing stories from the ordinary and the not so ordinary moments in life. Her stories will tickle your funny bone and warm your heart.
More information about Martha can be found on her website.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctr
Parks/Recreation Dept
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Character Education
Coming of Age
Healing/Therapy
Humor
Keynote
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling - Therapy
Storytelling - Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling - Ed. Setting
Bob Linsenmayer
Singing Storyteller
115 Ironwood Lane
McCormick, SC 29835
864-391-2130
Email: rlinsenmayer@wctel.net
Website: www.singingstoryteller.com
Bio:
Bob Linsenmayer offers exciting, inspiring and fun-filled storytelling/music programs in schools, libraries and festivals. He tells stories with uplifting themes from around the world supported by his travels to over 65 countries. He plays 12-string guitar, jaw-harp, spoons, washboard and various other unusual folk instruments. Bob began entertaining audiences 45 years ago as a folksinger on the West Coast. He is listed on the South Carolina Artist Roster.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Preschools/Daycares
Story Types:
Character Education
Ghost Stories
History
Humor
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling for Kids
Using Music in Storytelling
Darion McCloud
803-553-2536
Email: darionmccloud@gmail.com
Website: www.darionmccloud.com
Bio:
Darion McCloud has worked with non-profits for over twenty years and has had long tenures with the Richland County Public Library and the Columbia Museum of Art. He has designed, initiated, and executed innovative programming such as Pigskin Poets, Griot Gathering and others. Darion also led the development of and is now the vice president of the Friends of African American Art and Culture membership affiliate of the Columbia Museum of Art.
He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Art Studio. He has shown work at the Atlanta Arts Festival, The Koger Center, Benedict College, Richland County Public Library and Trustus Theatre, among others. His work can be found in private collections across the country.
Darion is also a storyteller and has told for live, televised and radio audiences up and down the eastern coast for over fifteen years. A veteran of stage Darion is also the Founder and Creative Director of the NiA Company a multi-ethnic critically acclaimed theatre group where he also acts and directs. He is also a longtime company member with Trustus Theatre and the South Carolina Shakespeare Company.
Darion is on the SC Approved Artist Roster and has worked with many demographics as a performer and instructor.
Darion who is a Columbia, SC, native who resisted the tug of going elsewhere to stay home and work in his community. He has spent most of his adult life working with non-profits as an art professional by performing, educating, consulting and organizing art and art experiences in museums, prisons, theaters, libraries, schools, TV, the Internet and more.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctr.
Parks/Recreation Dept
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Humor
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for Intermed. and Adv.
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling - Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling - Ed. Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Shelagh Montes
Columbia, SC
803-776-7009
Email: Montes7009@cs.com
Bio:
Shelagh, a well respected storyteller from Great Britain, tells from a wide repertoire of tales of growing up in wartime England as well as folk tales and her own compositions. Featured as a regional teller at Stone Soup Woodruff, SC and The SC Storytelling Festival in Charleston, her programs are suitable for children adults. Frequently featured at the State Museum in Columbia for programs and events, Shelagh can make you laugh, and sometimes bring you close to tears with her truth.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
SC statewide
Venues:
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Ghost Stories
Humor
Literary
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
Frances Lee O'Neal
PO Box 983
Winnsboro, SC 29180
803-635-3027
Email: francesleeoneal@gmail.com
Bio:
Storyteller from Historic Winnsboro, SC.
Teller of Old Tales, Tall Tales,and Lies.
Member of the Three Rivers Storytelling Guild from Columbia, SC.
2015 President of the South Carolina Storytelling Network.
VP/Program Director for the Fairfield County Genealogical Society
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctr
Parks/Recreation Dept
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Humor
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Jeanette Samuels
401 Venetian Road
West Columbia, SC 29170
803-319-4543
Email: jansam4021@gmail.com
Bio:
Jeanette Samuels, a retired teacher has taught 40 years in Richland and Lexington counties combined. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master's Degree in Education from the University of South Carolina. She shares her talent for storytelling with the community on a regular basis.
The art of oral storytelling enhances classroom instruction and gives her the opportunity to perfect her craft. All modalities of learning are addressed in such an amusing way. She enjoys telling stories that build character and inspires everyone! She's an active member of the National Association of Black Storytellers and attends their annual festival and conference each year. Born in Prosperity, South Carolina, she resides in West Columbia, South Carolina. She serves on the Lexington County First Steps Board, the Brookland Academy Early Childhood Center Board of Directors and is an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. She enjoys flower gardening, traveling, writing and jazz.
Age Groups:
Family
Preschool
Primary
Travel:
Midlands SC
Venues:
Churches
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Preschools/Daycares
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Fractured Fairy Tales
Humor
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
LaVerne Shuler
Columbia, SC 29229
803-865-9011
Email: laverne_shuler@yahoo.com
Bio:
LaVerne Shuler is a lifelong learner and lover of language and storytelling. She uses stories to inspire, teach, and entertain audiences. In addition to storytelling, LaVerne is also a Distinguished Toastmaster who conducts leadership training. Storytelling, as the language of leadership, plays an essential role in organizations. LaVerne is also a member of the National Storytelling Network (NSN) Storytelling in Organizations (SIO) Special Interest Group.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Festivals
Libraries
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctrs.
Parks/Recreation Departments
Story Types:
Corporate Programs
History
Humor
Keynote
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling - Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling - Ed. Setting
Susan Douglas Taylor
PO Box 596
Winnsboro, SC 29180
803-718-0575
Email: susan@susandouglasstaylor.com
Website: www.susandouglasstaylor.com
Bio:
Susan Douglass Taylor has been playing music since she was old enough to climb onto a piano bench. Recognizing her love for music, parents George and Clyde Douglass enrolled her in music lessons at an early age. She studied under well-known SC composers Ellen McMaster Nicholson and Nelle McMaster Sprott. Susan has played in Bluegrass and Folk bands since age 20. Recently turning 50, she discovered a love for songwriting. In June 2012, she released her first solo recording "Great Falls Road", a self-produced CD of 13 all-original songs featuring Susan's vocals, guitar and 5-string banjo playing. She is accompanied by some of the finest musicians in the country.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Conf/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Festivals
Parks/Recreation Dept.
Story Types:
Musical or With Song
Elsie White
6608 Cartwright Drive
Columbia, SC 29223
803-786-5860
Email: ewhite1289@aol.com
Bio:
A retired educator from Columbia, SC, Elsie has been a storyteller for 17 years. She tells stories in churches, schools, festivals and wherever she is invited. Her repertoire includes humorous stories, fairy tales, grief stores, sacred stories and personal stories.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Primary
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Womens Groups
Story Types:
Humor
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
Jessica Willis
Florence SC
843-260-5431
Email: jessthestoryteller@gmail.com
Website: https://suchastoryteller.wordpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suchastoryteller/
Bio:
Jessica grew up in the small town of Saluda surrounded by the rolling hills of the South Carolina Piedmont. Born into a family of natural orators her earliest memories are the voices of family telling tales. Encouraged by example she debuted her storytelling career in preschool with the Classic favorite The Little Red Hen, a smashing success. Jess has refined her craft over the years through study and practice and has been honored to tell at Stone Soup, Haygood Mill, and The Storytelling Festival of the Carolinas as a New Voice. She has also had the exciting opportunity to Emcee for both Stone Soup and The Storytelling Festival of the Carolinas. From Folk and Fractured Fairy Tales to True Life and Family Stories Jess can and will tell it all
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Character Education
Coming of Age
Environment
Fractured Fairy Tales
Ghost Stories
Humor
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Zephyr, a Fairy
Wings & Whimsies
Columbia, SC 29203
803-518-7046
Email: wingsandwhimsies@gmail.com
Website: www.wingsandwhimsies.vpweb.com
Bio:
Marji Pulliam (aka Zephyr, a Fairy + Pearl, a mermaid) has spent her childhood hours weaving fantastical worlds and learning to bring those worlds to life as part of a children's theatre ensemble. Growing up to study theatre in college and tutoring school age children in writing skills, she tries to help everyone see the magic in their own world. Using a variety of props and music, she'll fly as far as her wings will take her from libraries, schools, churches, and festivals to birthday parties and beyond.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conf/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctrs
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Environment
Fractured Fairy Tales
History
Holidays
Humor
Improvisational
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling as a Business
Upstate
Frankie Adkins
P.O. Box 295
Honea Path SC 29654
864-992-0965
Email: fadkins@charter.net
Bio:
Frankie Adkins, retired school librarian, and National Board Certified Teacher began storytelling as a Girl Scout earning her Storyteller badge. She is a lifetime storyteller and particularly enjoys telling American Indian stories, Appalachian folklore, ghost stories, and original legends and stories she has researched and written.
During the holiday season Frankie doubles as Mrs. Santa Claus, telling Christmas stories and leading sing-alongs. She also has Christmas cookie decorating parties.
As Regent of her DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) chapter, and US History Chair for the SC Children of the American Revolution, she is very experienced in American history stories and presentations, as well as South Carolina history.
Frankie is Past President of the North Carolina Storytelling Guild (NCSG) and past Upstate Representative of the South Carolina Storytelling Network (SCSN). She has performed as a Regional Teller at the NCSG FallFest at Brevard, NC, at the SCSN Storytelling event at the Newberry Opera House, and at numerous schools, libraries, and festivals.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctrs
Parks/Recreation Dept
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Native American
Traditional Folk Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for the Beginner
Marc Batten
609 S. Mechanic St.
Pendleton SC 29670
864-502-3029
Email: danielbatten4@gmail.com
Website: storyguy.tripod.com
Bio:
Marc Batten has been telling stories since he told his teacher that his dog ate his homework. Past president of the Backporch Storytellers of Charleston, SC & CTM & ATM in Toastmasters International, he is currently a member of the Clemson Area StoryTellers Guild. For over 20 years he has told a variety of stories, traditional and original, in various settings including schools, festivals, clubs meetings, coffee shops, bookstores, seminars, banquets and, ghost walks. He even told ghost tales at a wedding rehearsal dinner one Halloween at a restaurant in Charleston, SC which had its own ghost. His stories are guaranteed to entertain!
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Depts
Story Types:
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Fractured Fairy Tales
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling in Museums
Candee Brakefield
Rock Hill, SC
Telephone:803-448-8076
Email: candeehb@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.candeebrakefield.com
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Story Types:
Bible
True Life
Women's Stories
Rebecca Davis
Greenville SC
864-689-1025
Email: rebecca@heresthejoy.com
Website: www.heresthejoy.com
Bio:
Rebecca loves telling stories about the great works of God so that many more people can be inspired to trust in the mighty Savior, Jesus Christ. These days, the stories Rebecca tells are true ones taken from her new series of books, Hidden Heroes, about the great works of God around the world. To view a slideshow version of one of the stories she tells, access the storytelling page of her website, www.heresthejoy.com/storytelling.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctrs
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
History
Keynote
Multicultural/Diversity
Spiritual/Sacred
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Mary Droge
Fort Mill, SC
Email: storymoves@aol.com
Bio:
Mary has performed nationally and has taught workshops, master-classes, and school residencies. She is an approved artist for the South Carolina Arts Commission Roster and has been the featured storyteller for children’s programs at the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston for 18 years. In her multicultural story programs, she uses the wisdom of folktales to bring fresh perspectives to the challenges of today’s world. Themes are uplifting and non-violent and include songs and movement games that involve every member of the audience.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Community Groups
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Womens Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Environment
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Lisa Eister
P.O. Box 55
Clemson, SC 29633
864-653-4932
Email: lisaeister@bellsouth.net
Bio:
Lisa Eister is a native of South Carolina with roots in the Appalachian Mountains. A certified educator, Lisa performs before school, festival and community audiences of all ages. Her concerts feature folktales, traditional Appalachian tales, historical stories, personal stories woven from family and mountain lore, as well as narratives based on the real life experiences of WWII veterans. In July 2011, Lisa performed at the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum in Atlanta. She is founder of the Clemson Area Story Tellers Guild.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirem't Ctrs
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Coming of Age
Corporate Programs
Environment
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Science
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Rodger Ellingwood
4461 Summerlin Place
Rock Hill, SC 29732
803-493-8030
Email: elling@comporium.net
Bio:
Rodger’s personal humorous stories have an ironic twist. He has an appreciation for day to day events that he turns into interesting and amusing stories, to which we can all relate. Rodger has a Masters of Education and enjoys working with teachers who want to increase the storytelling presence in their classroom. He performs various programs that include Christmas, Valentine’s, churches and senior citizens.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Primary
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Elementary Schools
Libraries
Parks/Recreation Dept
Story Types:
Ghost Stories
Holidays
Humor
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for the Beginner
James Foote
Simpsonville, SC
(864) 399-6584
Email: jefoot@hotmail.com
Bio:
Jim enjoyed telling stories so improve his skills, he took 18 hrs of courses and workshops at ETSU. To get some further experience, he joined the Jonesborough Storytellers Guild He became a performing Teller with the guild at their weekly concerts.
He is currently a member of the National Storytelling Network, the South Carolina Storytelling Network the Greenville Storyteller’s Guild and the Clemson Area Storytellers.
Jim has personal stories about his own experiences, stories from other countries, and several stories about a plethora of subjects.
Jim enjoys sharing his stories with all ages from school children to senior citizens
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Bible
Coming of Age
History
Holidays
Humor
Musical or With Song
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Medicine/Healing
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
John Fowler
Hairy Toe Productions
Boiling Springs, SC 29316
864-216-5578
Email: htp50@yahoo.com
Website: www.hairytoeproductions.com
Bio:
Outstanding Storyteller Johnny Thomas Fowler is an award winning old-time musician and author, a recipient of the SC Folk Heritage Award and was a featured performer at the 2014 International Storytelling Festival/Exchange Place Stage. Johnny has over 25 years of professional experience in sharing his talents at festivals, gatherings, libraries, in classrooms and performance halls from coast-to-coast. On stage his presentations are a blast of creative energy drawing on powerful storytelling techniques and professionalism. There’s nothing like the fantastic storytelling of Johnny Thomas Fowler.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School
Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Ghost Stories
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Musical or With Song
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Suzy Holloway
Suzy's Puppets at Penn's Place
Greenwood, SC 29649
864-223-7292
Email: wosce@aol.com
Bio:
I am owner of Suzy's Puppets at Penn's Place, Greenwood, S.C. There we have story and music and activities for children - all as an effort to give a cultural boost to those who lack enrichment.
Lane Hudson
211 Teardrop Trail
Seneca, SC 29672
864-903-1430
Email: originallane@yahoo.com
Bio:
“Stories remind us that after the game, the king and pawn go into the same box,” Lane says, “because we laugh and cry together.” His inspirational stories reflect the foolishness and wisdom of life because” he says, “bad decisions can make good stories”. Drawing from a lifetime of rich experiences, he’s been a textile worker, hot tar roofer, door-to-door salesman, drama producer, radio announcer, newspaper columnist, and corporate communicator and trainer. An excellent after dinner and motivational speaker, Lane teaches public speaking and creative writing at a S.C. Upstate Technical college. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Communications.
Age Groups:
Adults
High School/Young Adult
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Museums
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Karyn Page-Davies
Chair, Stone Soup Storytelling Institute/Festival
380 Mary Hanna Rd.
Woodruff, SC 29388
864-969-3330
Email: stonesoupkp@aol.com
Bio:
“Storytelling is our past, present and future. We listen. We learn. We tell.” A registered diagnostic cardiac sonographer and working in healthcare for over 40 years, Karyn realizes the ability that sharing stories has to teach and to convey compassion and empathy. Karyn is a grassroots advocate and serves on several governing boards for Spartanburg County in the arts, education, history, conservation, health and wellness and tourism. She and her husband, Tom, live on a farm in the Kilgore community near Woodruff. Karyn invites you to pour your passion into the “kettle”.
Travel:
NC and SC
Brenda Parker
Lancaster Public Library
313 S. White Street
Lancaster, SC 29720
803-285-1502
Email: brendaparker@comporium.net
Website: www.lanclib.org
Bio:
Brenda Parker tells stories to young children, middle schoolers and adults. She uses story props, puppets, sound effects and sign language whenever possible. Brenda taught in elementary school for 10 years and has been a children's librarian now for 22 years. She is also a certified early childhood trainer.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Elementary Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Story Types:
Bible
Fractured Fairy Tales
Holidays
Literary
Traditional Folk Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Judy Seeley
1120 Hamlin Rd.
Easely, SC 29642-9612
864-855-6396
Email: judy_seeley@hotmail.com
Bio:
Judy Seeley loves telling stories. Through voice and gesture, she creates memorable characters for folktales, personal stories, and humorous tales. Judy hails from Illinois, spent nine years in Georgia, ten years in Pennsylvania and now lives in Easley, SC. She collected stories along the way and joyously shares them at schools, libraries, civic organizations, and clubs. Judy’s stories challenge audiences of all ages and backgrounds to recognize their common values, foibles, and joys.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Ghost Stories
Humor
Literary
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Donna Tillman
Greenville, SC
864-704-0036
Email: donnatellsstories@gmail.com
Website: facebook.com/donnatellsstories
Bio:
-New Voice 2015-
Captivating audiences with an unforgettable telling of The Phantom Tollbooth introduced Donna to the world of storytelling in 2010. Performing has played no small part in Donna's life since childhood - retelling stories she heard or crafting new ones with her sister. Now Donna seeks to thrill audiences with her dynamic style and share the love of stories and literature with audiences across the globe. Honing her skills and gaining performance time in college, Donna starts 2015 as a New Voice in the storytelling community!
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Fractured Fairy Tales
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Humor
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Raymon White
7 Shady Hollow Lane
Greer, SC 29651
864-469-3267
Email: joanandraywhite@gmail.com
Bio:
Forty years ago as a Pastor I realized Jesus was a storyteller and began telling stories as a sermon form. From that beginning I discovered the world of storytelling and have been telling stories in a variety of settings every since. For the last 15 years my wife and I have included stories in a behavioral change program, Family ~ You Can't Beat Them!, as focal points to motivate behavioral change with violent people referred from Criminal Justice System. We continue to work in the context of reentry transition with Probation, Parole and Pardons. I am a retired Presbyterian Minister, a husband, father and grandfather. Thank you for your consideration.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Environment
History
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Outside SC
Lona Bartlett
4501 Easthaven Dr.
Charlotte, NC
704-568-9389
Email: lonabartlett@att.net
Website: lonabartlett.com
Bio:
Lona Bartlett is a puppeteer, storyteller, performance artist and educator. She has been involved with multimedia productions and her puppet creations and scripts span to four continents. She teaches workshops and performs at schools, libraries, conferences, churches, festivals, corporate and special events.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Bible
Character Education
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Pete Boggs
aka Charles Plasters
Wilmington, NC 28409
252-241-6615
Email: peteboggs59@gmail.com
Website: http://fluxav.wix.com/peteboggs
Bio:
Most of my stories have a country flavor and are augmented by my deep southern accent. I tell original humorous stories based on memories from my childhood experiences in the 40s and 50s, tall tales, legends, folk tales, and original poems.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Humor
Original/Personal
Wright Clarkson
aka StoryGuy
4833 Addison Drive
Charlotte, NC 28211-3059
704-770-0530
Email: Storytlr99@aol.com
Website: www.storyteller.net/tellers/wstoryguy
Bio:
Wright Clarkson is a nationally renowned storyteller, musician, and teaching artist. He delights in sharing with people of all ages. His interactive style utilizes folk and world musical instruments, and costumes to engage audiences in folk tales, fractured fairy tales, ghost and history stories, Jack and Grandfather tales, trickster and wisdom tales, and original and song stories. He performs in schools, teaches artist residencies for pre-schools through high schools, and conducts workshops for business, community and non-profit groups.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Bilingual Spanish
Coming of Age
Fractured Fairy Tales
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Humor
Improvisational
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Workshops using Storytelling:
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Medicine/Healing
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Using Music in Storytelling
Darcy
Asheville NC 28801
Email: Darcy@darcyworddance.com
Website: www.darcyworddance.com
Bio:
Writer, teller, teacher, actor. It's all in the stories! Storyteller and workshop presenter since 2007. Watching living history characters come to life was so compelling she created a one-woman show, performing in costume as LAURA INGALLS WILDER. Darcy considers storytelling her third act.
From her pocket she pulls out stories seasoned with humor and salted with tears. Plus a few mental caramels to chew on. Retired psychiatric social worker. Tellabration Teller. Asheville Tellers Circle award.
Darcy is partial to orange cats, blue moons, and pink clouds. If she's not out to lunch, you might find her in a brown study.
Janice Davin
Magic Words
5225 Cane Creek Rd
Waxhaw, NC 28173
704-843-4559
Email: janice@janicedavin.com
Website: www.janicedavin.com
Bio:
Storytelling saved Janice Davin’s career as a teacher and maybe her life. During 35 years in the classroom, she used stories to calm savage beasts, subdue mutinies, and make the curriculum memorable. Currently Janice provides programs for schools, after-school programs, churches, organizations, and retirement communities. She performs at festivals and provides workshops for other tellers. Janice earned a M.Ed. in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina in Greensboro and a M.A. in Oral Traditions from the Graduate Institute in Connecticut. Janice received National Board Certification in 1997. Janice has a current NC Teaching License.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
NC and SC
Venues:
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Libraries
Preschools/Daycares
Story Types:
Character Education
Coming of Age
Fractured Fairy Tales
History
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Kali Ferguson
Bilingual Arts & Cultural con Kali
Charlotte, NC
919-451-1445
Email: kali@kaliferguson.com
Website: www.kaliferguson.com
Bio:
Kali Ferguson is a sought-after bilingual storyteller (and more) based in her hometown of Charlotte, NC, after much travel. Whether she’s breathing life into African-American folktales or singing Spanish lyrics, Kali passionately shares culture and literacy through Latin American and African Diasporic traditions.
Since 2004, this “Swiss Army Knife of Culture” (with her nimble use of myriad creative expressions) has performed at the Levine Museum of the New South, Myrtle Beach’s Museum of Art, and many schools and libraries. She’s studied and traveled in South Africa, Panama, Costa Rica, and Spain, and will travel to your town, too!
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Elementary Schools
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Bilingual Spanish
Character Education
History
Keynote
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Faye Fulton
Charlotte, NC
704-421-3220
Email: ffulton50@gmail.com
Website: www.fayefulton.com
Bio:
Faye comes from a family of storytellers and has a lifelong love of story. She has lived in several countries and has traveled all over the world. She is fascinated with different languages and different cultures. She tells multicultural, diversity, and educational stories for all ages and inspires people to do their best by sharing stories of meaning and value.
In addition to being a Storyteller, Faye is a Professional Speaker and a Communications Trainer. She has conducted workshops in all fifty states in the corporate environment as well as the educational environment.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Story Types:
Coming of Age
Corporate Programs
Ghost Stories
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
True Life
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Jeanne Hewell-Chambers
Cashiers, NC
Email: WhollyJeanne@gmail.com
Website: www.WhollyJeanne.com
Bio:
Being on the finite side of infinity, Jeanne Hewell-Chambers has amassed an impressive string of Pink Galoshes stories - tales of women who are downright irrepressible, pulling on their galoshes and getting on through the mud and the muck of whatever life throws at them. Sometimes Jeanne’s daughter Alison joins her to help keep history alive and abuzz with stories of women who weren’t famous but should be. Jeanne is a hoot and a holler as a workshop leader, keynoter, and main stage performer, and she is most proud of the fact that she never, ever had to attend a PTA meeting under an assumed name.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Coming of Age
History
Keynote
Original/Personal
True Life
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling to teach Writing
Sarah Belle Hill
872 Davis Farm Rd
St Pauls, NC
910-494-4561
Email: sarahv42@Yahoo.com
Bio:
I write my own material. I have written several books. I am a retired school teacher of the blind. I will choose if I want to tell at an occasion.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Venues:
Arts Councils
Festivals
Story Types:
Ghost Stories
History
Humor
Native American
Alan Hoal
225 Heidinger Dr.
Cary, NC 27511
919-607-0993
Email: alan.hoal@gmail.com
Website: www.thehoalstory.com
Bio:
Alan is a highly energetic and animated storyteller who has taken home numerous storytelling awards. He travels throughout the United States telling stories at festivals and retreats as well as at colleges, secondary schools and libraries. Alan has also shared his talents at church, corporate and civic events. He has a diverse repertoire from the hilarious, to the frightening, to the heartwarming and inspirational. These stories are tailored for audiences of all ages. Alan's animated style and familiar themes draw his audiences into his tales as they experience the stories’ events alongside his colorful characters.
Alan’s school programs are specifically designed to focus on core curriculum and state essential standards in the areas of Language Arts, History and Social Studies. Alan can custom design his programs to meet your specific goals and objectives.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Community Groups
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Bible
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Ghost Stories
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Lynn Jaffe
Tellers of Two Cities
3540 Carnoustie Drive
Martinez GA 30907
706-860-7536
Email: ljaffe4@comcast.net
Bio:
Lynn Jaffe has been entertaining folk since she was 7 years old, from puppets to theater to storytelling. She personifies her characters as she tells folktales and humorous life stories.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Conferences/Conventions
Festivals
Libraries
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Story Types:
Humor
Traditional Folk Tales
Women's Stories
Robin Kitson
Stories That Polish Your Heart
1008 Harkers Island Court
Raleigh, NC 27604
919-342-5991
919-208-7623
Email: nanirobin@gmail.com
Website: www.robinsitson.com
Bio:
When you were born, your heart shined like gold. You smiled, giggled, and blew spit bubbles and felt happy. When you got a little older, you heard “NO” a lot; a bit of rust protected your heart. In school, you heard “not that way, “that’s wrong”. Your heart grew more rust; its’ shine became dim. By graduation your heart didn’t shine at all.
What you need is a story. As you listen your heart becomes young again, it swells and swells until Boom! That rust flies off and your heart shines again. I tell Stories That Polish Your Heart.humorous life stories.
Age Groups:
Primary
Middle School
High School/Young Adults
Adults
Family
Senior Adults
Travel:
North Carolina
South Carolina
Southeastern United States
Venues:
Arts Councils
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Festivals
Elementary Schools
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Museums
Parks and Recreation Department
Summer Camp
Travel/Touring Groups
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Story Types:
Bilingual Spanish Stories
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Environment
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holiday
Humor
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops Using Storytelling
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or
Skills for Beginning Tellers
In Business
In Museums
In Therapy
In Educational Settings
Stories and Crafts
Joan Leotta
Calabash, NC 28467
910-575-0618
Email: joanleotta@atmc.net
Website: www.joanleotta.wordpress.com
Bio:
Creating on paper with pen, with light as pen through a camera or onstage in performance, my artistic goal is always —to show the beauty of the ordinary and to encourage my audience.
I've published several books (fiction and non-fiction for adults,YA and children) and many short stories. I've received awards for my telling and stories. You can find my books on Amazon.com under Joan Leotta. I've written hundreds of articles over the years about topics as diverse as disability rights, health, parenting, food and travel. My blog at www.joanleotta.wordpress.com tells about my work.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Middle Schools
Museums
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
History
Myths
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Ray Mendenhall
aka Jolly Man Stories
101 Locust Grove Lane
Versailles, KY 40383
859-940-1735
Email: rwmend@gmail.com
Website: jollymanstories.com
Bio:
Ray Mendenhall comes from a family of storytellers. Humorous stories and family anecdotes filled his youth. In 2000, Ray began storytelling professionally and has been telling in venues across North and South Carolina ever since. Following the "jolly man" tradition, he mixes amazing songs and whimsical stories into a celebration of the storytelling art. His infectious humor and easy style has engaged audiences in Festivals, schools and libraries, even at the North Carolina State Fair. He has won gold and bronze medals for music in the NC State Senior Arts Finals. In 2009, he won first place in the Bold-faced Liars Showdown in Laurinburg, NC.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Bible
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Musical or With Song
Native American
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
David Joe Miller
PO Box 16829
Asheville, NC 28816
828-808-1150
Email: davidjoetells@yahoo.com
Website: www.davidjoemiller.com
Bio:
David Joe is the former staff storyteller for the National Storytelling Association in Jonesborough, TN. In 1994 he created the Jonesborough Storytelling Guild. He tours the United States and internationally. Previous audiences include Disney, Smithsonian, Library of Congress, Philips Medical, World Bank, Shell Oil, The Nature Conservancy and former Vice President Al Gore and family. He has toured school districts all across the country offering single performances as well as week long writing residencies. Currently David Joe lives in Asheville, NC. where he is the executive producer of David Joe Miller Presents! He's a dynamic storyteller on stage and an extremely talented presenter in the boardroom.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Coming of Age
Corporate Programs
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Improvisational
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Medicine/Healing
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Elisha Minter
aka Mother Minter's Magical Moments with Children
Charlotte, NC
704-215-2225
Email: motherminter52@yahoo.com
Website: www.motherminter.com
Age Groups:
Adults
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Bible
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Environment
Food/Nutrition
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Musical or With Song
Native American
Spiritual/Sacred
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Using Music in Storytelling
Angela O'Connell
Gastonia, NC
(803) 530-4930
Email: lexaoconnell@gmail.com
Bio:
I realized the advantage of being a good Storyteller at a young age...because bad Storytellers got caught! I love telling to children and have enjoyed telling folk tales, original stories, and scary stories for close to 15 years. I have told at "So the Story Goes", "Augusta's Bakers Dozen", Edisto Island Festival, Salkehatchie Stew Festivals, and while on mission trip in Honduras. I have told in elementary and middle schools throughout SC and once spent the summer traveling with the Colleton Bookmobile telling stories to all ages (including senior adults). Until my recent move to southern NC, I worked in the children's department at my local library you could count on me getting "shhhhhh'd" frequently, yet still enjoy spinning tales to my patrons and coworkers!
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Bible
Bilingual Spanish
Ghost Stories
Holidays
Humor
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Sylvia Payne
1621 Nathanial Street
Newton, NC 28658
828-465-1564
Email: sylpayne@bellsouth.net
Website: www.storytraditions.com
Bio:
Sylvia Payne comes from a background of Scots/Irish, English and German ancestry. She grew up near the foothills of the NC mountains listening to her mother tell family stories. A former children’s librarian, Sylvia has been telling stories and offering workshops for over 30 years. Through her animated style, her stories captivate young and old alike, transporting the audience into the depths of an imaginary world. Storytelling takes her throughout the southeast, where she shares family stories, folktales, history and stories that touch the heart.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Environment
Ghost Stories
History
Keynote
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Original/Personal
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for the Beginner
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Connie Regan-Blake
51 Vance Gap Rd.
Asheville, NC 28805
828-258-1113
800-864-0299
FAX: 828-253-2956
Email: connie@storywindow.com
Website: www.storywindow.com
Bio:
Drawing on her Irish heritage, Southern roots, and sense of humor, Connie tours throughout the US and abroad, telling traditional Appalachia Mountain stories, heroic adventures, literary tales, ghost stories and personal experiences to enthusiastic audiences of adults, families, and children. Her school assemblies are dynamic and educational and she is a sought-after workshop leader, keynoter and main stage performer. For over 30 years she has helped guide America’s storytelling revival both as a member of the famed Folktellers duo and as a solo artist. She has 5 award-winning storytelling recordings and is celebrated as a master storyteller
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Preschool
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
International
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Community Groups
Conferences/Conventions
Corporate Functions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Hospice Retreats
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Preschools/Daycares
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Womens Groups
Story Types:
Character Education
Corporate Programs
Ghost Stories
Healing/Therapy
History
Holidays
Humor
Keynote
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Musical or With Song
Original/Personal
Spiritual/Sacred
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Creating Your Own Stories
Preserving/Telling Personal or Family Stories
Skills for Intermediate and Advanced
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling as a Business
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Business
Storytelling in Literacy
Storytelling in Medicine/Healing
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in Therapy
Storytelling in a Non-Profit Setting
Storytelling in a Religious Setting
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling to teach Writing
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Using Music in Storytelling
Deborah K. Winkler, Deborah K.
2525 Labelle Dr.
Waxhaw, NC 28173
509-460-9279
Email: winklerdeborah@yahoo.com
Website: www.winklerdeborah.wix.com/storytelling
Bio:
Deborah believes storytelling is the way to go! Together with Spin-A-Story Tellers in Buffalo, NY, then with the So They Say Storytellers in Richland, WA, and now with the Tellers of Two Cities, Deborah has traveled with stories. Being a listener and teller of stories at festivals, schools, Toastmasters, museums, libraries, and so forth, she has quickened her skills. She loves learning new stories to meet special requests. Using artifacts and props, Deborah appeals to both the visual and the auditory channels. Storytelling is simultaneously a social exchange and a one to one experience for everyone. So let’s go!
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Senior Adults
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Colleges
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Museums
Nursing Homes/Retirement Centers
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Travel/Touring Groups
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Environment
Ghost Stories
History
Holidays
Literary
Multicultural/Diversity
Native American
Science
Traditional Folk Tales
True Life
Wisdom Tales
Women's Stories
Workshops using Storytelling:
Skills for the Beginner
Stories and Crafts
Storytelling and Art
Storytelling for Kids
Storytelling for Relunctant Speakers
Storytelling in Museums
Storytelling in an Educational Setting
Storytelling with Puppets and Props
Car Zara
Charlotte, NC
704-540-1456
Email: cara.zara@outlook.com
Website: www.carazara.com
Bio:
Fitness instructor and motivational storyteller believes that the experiences of today’s kids are simultaneously unique, universal and timeless. Her original tale “How to be a Super Hero” gently offers the keys to unlock the “Super Hero” within us all by teaching that bravery in the real world of challenges, bullies, and the sometimes scary unknown luckily does not involve ‘leaping a tall building in a single bound’. Cara Zara performs at festivals, schools, libraries, corporate and charity functions throughout the Milky Way and is known by many children as the “Hula-Hoop Queen of the Universe”.
Age Groups:
Adults
Family
High School/Young Adult
Middle School
Primary
Upper Elementary
Travel:
Lowcountry SC
Midlands SC
NC and SC
SC statewide
Southeast U.S.
U.S. nationwide
Upstate SC
Venues:
Arts Councils
Churches
Colleges
Conferences/Conventions
Elementary Schools
Festivals
High Schools
Libraries
Middle Schools
Parks/Recreation Departments
Summer Camps
Story Types:
Anti-Bullying
Character Education
Coming of Age
Healing/Therapy
Humor
Original/Personal
True Life
Wisdom Tales