National Storytelling Week 2003

1st - 8th February 2003

Have you got any reports from the week to publicise? Then E-Mail the Webmaster and get it placed here. For a detailed list of other UK storytelling events look in the Storytelling Diary.

For further information on the National Storytelling Week, or if you would like to take part next year, call Del Reid on 020 8866 4232 or 0118 9351381, or by e-mail, reidthewords@hotmail.com.

For a detailed list of other UK storytelling events look in the Storytelling Diary.

What stories got told in 2002? See the reports.

What happened in 2003 – first some reports, then the event listing

In message <001001c2d05d$b03cb660$c24b2850@f3k1g9>, Pete Castle <steelcarpet@lineone.net> writes
>Hi Kevin & Del
>Report on my NSW event in Gargrave, N.Yorks.
>I had no idea what to expect as the idea of storytelling was competely
>new to the area. In the event it was great! We had a lovely little
>room, the Parlour, in the Old Swan Hotel, and it was packed solid with
>about 25 people most of whom had no idea what to expect. They all
>enjoyed it and we will probably do another event, possibly in the
>summer. Pete
>
>Pete Castle
>Steel Carpet Music and Facts & Fiction
>e-mail: steelcarpet@lineone.net
>web-site: www.folkmusic.net/petecastle
In message <14c.1b97ea17.2b796cb0@aol.com>, JADowling@aol.com writes
>Del and kevin
>
>this is what I/we did in Surrey for NSW
>
>Stories at the Learning Resource Centre, University of Surrey at
>Roehampton with PGCE students
>
>Stories for children at Childrens Trust, Tadworth, Surrey
>
>Workshop for beginners in storytelling
>
>Launch of the Surrey Storytellers Guild with coverage by local papers
>and an interview on the local radio
>
>twice as many events as last year!
>
>Janet Dowling

In message <BA706573.575%Honor.Giles@talk21.com>, Honor Giles <Honor.Giles@talk21.com> writes
>Dear Del,
>
>As requested, NSW with Word of Mouth Storytellers, Manchester.
>
>Wednesday 5th Feb. Honor Giles
>
>Morning session with Big Issue Vendors at regional headquarters in
>Manchester, arranged in conjunction with Manchester Libraries.
>
>Tim Harper, the training officer at the Big Issue offices had no idea how
>many vendors would turn up, but had, as usual, provided warm drinks,
>sandwiches and biscuits as an incentive! In the end, a group of 16 came and
>stayed (3 or 4 left after the refreshments), and after a lot of lively chat
>and many assurances that I would be hearing some good stories from them if I
>cared to listen, we settled down to some serious (and not so serious)
>storytelling. To start with one or two of the group were rather disruptive,
>but eventually the others got so fed up with the interruptions, they shouted
>them down and told them to get out if they didn't want to listen. Before
>long I became almost un-nerved by the rapt attention, and each story
>finished with comment and discussion amongst the group, and the moral
>messages debated - in fact, one bloke was so determined to discover all the
>hidden undertones of a story that I felt obliged to point out that sometimes
>it was good to listen purely for the sake of enjoyment!
>
>It was a salutory experience for me. The group were such a diverse bunch of
>characters, many of them articulate, fiesty, intelligent, charming. Several
>had aweful physical problems caused by their life-style, and a few were
>obviously finding it hard to keep their heads together. Tim was amazed that
>so many came, and even more amazed that so many stayed. He also commented
>that the levels of concerntration were unusually high, and it was obvious
>that it had been an enjoyable experience. Everyone was enthusiastic about
>doing it again - I hope we can.
>
>Wednesday 5th Feb. Honor Giles and Nick Johnson
>
>Evening storytelling session at the International Society - an association
>for foreign students studying in Manchester.
>
>25 - 30 students came, with probably 20 different nationalities represented.
>Apart from our storytelling we asked the audience to tell us about their own
>culture's story heritage, and whether there was still a live storytelling
>tradition. Several students volunteered to tell us tales from their
>homeland - Pakistan, Canada, Rumanian and Taiwan. We were particularly
>delighted to hear the Taiwanese stories as the two tellers, Henry and
>Patricia, had attended one of our workshops with a view to improving their
>English. They had confessed that they knew no Taiwanese folktales, as such
>stories had been wiped out of peoples' memory by the Chinese insistance on
>the use of Mandarin, and the virtual banning of spoken and writtenTaiwanese.
>Fired by enthusiasm to rediscover their heritage, they are plundering the
>internet for information and stories, and every time we see them they have a
>new tale to tell. When they return to Taiwan later in the year, they are
>determined to continue their new found skill.
>
>Friday 7th February. Vergine Gulbenkian as guest.
>
>Monthly Word of Mouth gathering, Briton's Protection Pub, Gt Bridgewater St,
>Manchester
>
>Packed room - 60 odd. Delightful evening during which Vergine introduced us
>to a whole landscape and cast of characters in such a way that the city
>sounds outside faded into insignificance. We were especially delighted to
>welcome some members of the Armenian community in Manchester - we sent a
>poster to their church - who were completely entranced by Vergine's tales.
>We hope that Vergine will return again before too long.
>
>Saturday 8th February. Honor Giles and Helen Stewart
>
>Storytelling in Borders Bookshop, Stockport.
>
>Family audience with mostly young children. We were placed in a quiet
>corner (the Business Section!) and the staff made regular announcements to
>promote the event. Some came and went as a story finished, and some stayed
>and stayed - to the point where we were getting dispairing looks from
>parents!
>
In message <F122YRussIW5h8lbC1000003d47@hotmail.com>, France Ellul <france_ellul@hotmail.com> writes
>Dear Del and Kevin,
>
>Here's my report for you as requested.
>
>Best wishes,
>
>France Ellul.
>
>Report by France Ellul on event for National Storytelling Week.
>
>THE MYSTIC JOURNEY 1 - "The Guardians". Saturday 8th February 2003,
>2pm. Venue: Windsor Arts Centre, St. Leonards Road, Windsor.
>
>This was a show, for National Storytelling Week, that I developed with
>Elaine Samuels and was the first in a series of unique "Celtic rock
>story" experiences.
>
>Elaine and I are already working on Part 2 which is about a fantastic
>grail quest.
>
>The format was a bardic narration by Celtic harp player and
>storyteller, France Ellul ie me! Between narrations there were songs
>written and performed by Elaine and her Kindred Spirit band augmented
>by myself, as well as some solo Celtic harp pieces.
>
>The event was such a success that the arts centre are considering
>another showing possibly in the autumn, saying that the show had Huge
>potential (Graham).
>
>We actually have two comments from members of the audience, written
>just after the show:
>
>1. "Very good - really enjoyed the story and music combined plus
>the rock aspect". - Mandy Smith, Slough.
>
>2. "Enjoyable, thought-provoking and exciting. Loved the combination."
>- Helen Vick, Windsor.
>
>The gist of a remembered comment from a family who brought their two
>daughters was that it was fantastic and it was giving them goose -
>pimples!
>
>There will be a live album of this first show coming out in the spring.
>
>I was particularly pleased that a story was the main feature of a
>successful event at an arts centre; it has really encouraged us to
>take our stories to similar venues.
>
>If anyone knows of a venue that would like us to put on the show for
>them, then please let me know: france_ellul@hotmail.com
>
>
>National Storytelling Week is a really important concept that is
>helping to spread the ancient and venerable art of storytelling: long
>may it continue!

In message <BA730C26.90A%scan.yad@wanadoo.fr>, CANNAROZZI Salvatore <scan.yad@wanadoo.fr> writes
>Greetings.
>
>If I'm not too late and you would like to hear how our Story Evening
>went, I announced to audiences that although we were in France it was
>National Storytelling Week in Britain.
>
>In the tiny village of Rivolet in the Beaujolais wine district just
>north of Lyon, 120 enthusiastic family listeners turned up and paraded
>between the town hall, the local school and pub to listen to stories
>from Cameroon drummer Patrick Kamal, French teller Bernadette Hisaberne
>and myself Sam Cannarozzi from Chicago.
>
>The afternoon kicked off the program with Senegalese storyteller Abou
>Fall who had to leave quickly to catch his plane for Dakar where he is
>organizing a festival for the end of the month. Then each room was
>arranged in a special ambiance to accomodate the stories from three
>different geographical areas- Africa, Europe and the American Plains.
>
>The audience was divided into three groups each of which got to hear
>three half hour sessions. We of course went over time and the evening
>finished well after after 11pm around glasses of fruity Beuajolais
>wine.
>
>The evening in Rivolet was organized by a local cultural group,
>Hippotoufer, manned by professional volunteers who are likewise
>planning a massive village street celebration for mid May. If you're
>ever in the area, stop by the pub and just ask for directions on how to
>find the local artists and storytellers. You'll be met with wide
>grins and a delicious glass of the bubbly!
>See you soon - Sam Cannarozzi

In message <OE21jVIKkB078HdcY7U00002f3d@hotmail.com>, Sharon Jacksties <sharonjacksties@hotmail.com> writes
>Dear Kevin or Del,
>please could this be forwarded as a contribution to the request for reports
>from venues etc. about events for National Storytelling Week.
>
>The session happened at the Peat Moors Centre, a reconstructed iron age
>village near Glastonbury, Somerset. The centre reflects the activities and
>concerns of the Celtic culture, but has never before celebrated Imbolc as it
>is usually closed to the public during winter. It was great to have this
>facility available to also celebrate National Storytelling Week. It was also
>the first event in the centre's year long storytelling programme, organised
>after the appointment of a "Bard of the Avalon Marshes". So auspicious
>omens, but it is always hard to know what to expect on the night.
>
>Despite February dark and wuther, there was a good turnout, any more and
>further seating would have had to be improvised. People were well up for
>putting up with draughts and smoke for the incomparable and authentic
>atmosphere of a roundhouse - authentic because what else are you going to do
>there at night with a large group other than storytelling? Despite being
>such a motley crew, contributors respected the request to tell material
>related to Brigit and/or Imbolc. Another good sign was that although the
>event lasted for 3 ample sets + shuffling around, eating sheep's cheese and
>drinking mulled apple, there was plenty of untold left over.
>
>The evening was enhanced by 2 musicians who improvised on a range of
>instruments at a moment's notice. This contributed to whatever the
>atmosphere needed, and allowed the listeners adjusting time between
>different tellers
>
>This inaugural event gave me plenty of pointers on how to continue. Because
>of the range of form and the generosity of contributions, I have decided
>that the pattern to follow for the moment is to have tellers "from the
>floor" as well as a professional storyteller. Again I am emphasising that
>this is a place for traditional material, and encouraging contributors to
>have a site specific approach in chosing content relevant to time, place or
>occasion. There have been requests for a story circle where we help and
>support eachother in the development of our telling skills, which will be
>meeting monthly to begin with. I already have a Lughnasa (August) booking at
>a prestigious local venue for a group performance that may emerge from this,
>inspired by Storytelling-in-Hope's wonderful example. So far, of course,
>this is all too good to be true, so I shall have to tell stories about it.
>All best wishes, Sharon Jacksties

In message <140.a295030.2b793a69@aol.com>, FionnaghalTales@aol.com writes
>Hi
>There seemed to be very little for the public in Berks
>I did a session in the local library. A small piece was covered in the
>local press and by the local radio.
>I had a reasonable number of children mainly under 8's unfortunately.
>However I also had about 14 young teenagers, visiting an other part of
>the museum. One of their adults thought they might like a story and
>some came reluctantly. Five stories later they were dragged away!
>Fionnaghal
In message <002a01c2e7d4$fc0898a0$8f807ad5@yourawlbu0iq9i>, peter dicken <peterk.dicken@btopenworld.com> writes
>National Storytelling Week was celebrated in fine style in Lazonby this
>year.
>Taffy Thomas opened the week with his autobiographical show "Take These
>Chains from My Heart", accompanied by Janet Russell who sung the songs
>and played the guitar. This proved to be a really polished performance
>from two top professionals who are going to release the show as a CD.
>in the near future. Anyone who has suffered with their health and needs
>inspiration and direction would be well advised to to obtain a copy; or
>better still, go and see the live performance.
>Saturday saw the Eden Valley Storytelling Club taking part in Lazonby
>Village Hall's "open day" and the week was rounded off by Shonaleigh
>Cumbers with her superb one woman show "The Golem". This legend taken
>from a true incident in Prague in late 1599, early 1600 is a chilling
>reminder of how vunerable minority peoples are in the world. Shonaleigh
>weaved in and out of the story, bringing humour, pathos and personal
>family involvement to this fascinating tale. With her commanding stage
>presence and clear singing voice the rapt attention of the Lazonby
>audience was guaranteed. Thaks must go to Eden Arts for their support
>in this venture.
In message <000c01c2d100$4928a1c0$16c8fea9@freeserve.co.uk>, Malcolm Green <Trokki@care4free.net> writes
National Storytelling Week was celebrated by A Bit Crack, North East
Storytellers with Wild and Wonderful Tales at Cumberland Arms Pub on the
morning of February 1st.
We attracted an audience of 50 or so younger children and their
accompanying adults. It was a bit of a treat for us because it was one
of the rare occasions when all four of us in A Bit Crack did a gig
together.
It was a very lively and most enjoyable event, with a very definite
African theme.
The £160 of proceeds went to ‘Betterworld’ an organisation, known to
Malcolm, which trains people for sustainable employment in Cameroon.
Michael, the publican, arranged for sumptuous food to be served
afterwards in the bar downstairs and this provided a lovely opportunity
for people to meet and chat.

Thanks to Michael for the venue and thanks to the Society for inspiring
the event.

Malcolm Green
A Bit Crack, North East Storytellers.
In message <Law15-DAV18kyPzGNso0000476d@hotmail.com>, Carl Merry <carlmerry@hotmail.com> writes
Hi, last year a number of reports on activities during National Storytelling Week were posted on this
site. I thought it might be of interest to SfS members to hear what Essex Storytellers got up to
during the week.
Jan 31st: Jan Williams was interviewed on BBC Radio Essex giving publicising
National Storytelling Week and talking about storytelling events in Essex.
Feb 1st: Essex Storytellers Jan Williams, Carl Merry and Peter Maskens were telling
stories connected with the sun, moon and stars at St. Edmund's Church,
East Mersea. A small family audience enjoyed stories from a wide variety of cultures
which sought to explain "The Coming of The Light" and man's relationship
with, and understanding of, the heavens.
Feb 4th: Jan Williams was telling Welsh folktales at Clacton library to a group of
senior citizens. This programme was well received by both the librarians and
the audience.
Feb 5th: Jan Williams gave a talk on "The Work of the Essex Storytellers" to scout
leaders in Colchester. The talk was interspersed with stories to
illustrate the nature of storytelling, and the richness of the tales Essex Storytellers
discovered during their "Islands of Essex" project which lasted from from May to
Sept 2002.
Feb 6th. At The Fold, Billericay, Carl, Jan and Peter told tales from East Anglia and
Essex to a large appreciative audience of adults. The majority of the
audience were new to storytelling and many were surprised at the power of the tales told.
The programme prompted informal discussions at the end with members of the
audience keen to learn more about storytelling.
The numbers present and the enthusiasm makes it likely that we will try a further
telling at this venue later in the year.
Feb 7th: AM: Carl was interviewed on BBC Radio Essex to give a report on the activities
of The Essex Storytellers during National Storytelling Week.
PM: Peter and Carl repeated much of the East Anglian Tales programme at
Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch. Although the numbers were not as great
as the night before, the audience were very appreciative and interested in
what we did as tellers.
All in all I believe that our week was enjoyable for both our audiences and ourselves. Through our
performances, the various articles in local newspapers and the two interviews on BBC Radio Essex
the profile of storytelling was given in much needed boost in Essex.
In message <BAY7-DAV46211IZTJJQ00007895@hotmail.com>, Phil Keating <wizardstories@hotmail.com> writes
>Acclaimed storytelling company Wizard Stories celebrated National
>Storytelling week in Redbridge Libraries. Wizard's Storytellers worked
>with London Borough of Redbridge tom help launch the boroughs first
>ever Literature Festival through National Storytelling Week Gary and
>Phil toured each of the nine libraries in the borough. Schools from the
>local area were invited to experience Wizard's interactive brand of
>storytelling.
>
>Wizard’s magical brand of storytelling encourages children and young
>people to use their own ideas to create unique, powerful stories and
>prove that we all have the chance to be the next JK Rowling!
>
>Wizard believes the power of stories can release creativity and fire
>the imagination within each child, allowing them to explore ideas,
>themes, emotions and take them to extraordinary places. Founded in
>2001, Wizard Stories builds on over ten years of storytelling to
>thousands of children, young people and adults throughout the country.
>
>Gary Potter, who founded the company with fellow storyteller Phil
>Keating explained, “We were delighted to be a part of the borough’s
>Literature Festival. Everyone knows what fantastic imaginations
>children have. Wizard harnesses these ideas, then with a little bit of
>help from original music, sound, curious objects and narrative skill, a
>brand new and totally original story unfolds in front of the children’s
>eyes. We certainly enjoyed creating a little bit of havoc in the
>borough libraries”
>
>The two week tour, funded by Redbridge Library Service was a huge
>success and there are plans to relaunch the tour for next years
>festivities.
>
>Phil Keating
>Wizard Stories
>020 8539 3225
>wizardstories@hotmail.com
In message <NGBBJKGDKLOOEHGGGAOEMEKKEBAA.tellinghistory@btinternet.com>,
Maureen James <tellinghistory@btinternet.com> writes
>Kevin
>I don't recall sending a report on the National Storytelling Week activities
>which were held in Suffolk as part of the Gathering 2003 Wordhoard
>Project...If I did send one then apologies 'cause I am sending it again!!!!
>
>The Libraries National Storytelling Week Community Project
>As a means of increasing public awareness of the Gathering, we held a series
>of free storytelling events in towns in Suffolk and the Coastal area which
>reached over 700 people, well in excess of our estimated audience of
>approximately 400 people. Analysis of library project audiences (below) show
>that they consisted of 64 pre-school, 467 primary school, 45 secondary, 134
>adults = 710
>
>Felixstowe Library - John Row (Saturday 1st) about 30 children 4-12 years
>old about half a dozen with obviously far eastern parents. About twenty
>adults listened mainly in the queue although some sat with their children.
>Lots of good comments to the librarians as the books were being checked.
>
>Lowestoft - Gunton Residents Hall, Hollingsworth Rd, Lowestoft - Andy
>Jennings (Saturday 1st) Kirkley Centre, London Road St, Lowestoft (Monday
>3rd) Kesslingland School (Weds 5th) about 200 children and 12 adults in
>total community centre event attendance poor despite much publicity . Last
>years national storytelling week sessions in Lowestoft library had attracted
>about 30 people to each (mixed children and adults) the majority sitting
>with a few standing around.
>
>Brandon Library - John Row (Tuesday 4th) 20 playgroup children plus 3 adults
>plus10 families i.e. 10 mothers, 1 dad, 15 children from babe in arms to 4
>years old. Bury Free Press took photos. Librarian wants to do more similar
>projects as Brandon is a regeneration area.
>
>Stoke Community Library, Ipswich (Tuesday 4th) Set inside Stoke High
>School. Thirty 7 year olds from hillside school plus teachers and parents
>(6) and one middle aged gent member of public. Obvious ethnic mix 6 mixed
>race children but also likely to be many Irish and european mainland among
>the parents. After school a small group (3) 14 year old girls came in and
>listened. The Advertiser took pictures
>
>Chantry Library, Ipswich - John Row (Weds 6th) Twenty year seven high school
>children plus one boy who was obviously out of school and on the library
>computer listening with one ear plus about half a dozen adults around the
>library.
>
>Sudbury Library - Hugh Lupton - 60 children KS2 including one wheelchair and
>5/6 special needs. 10 parents and teachers. Many had not been in the library
>before. 30 adults mixed male/female library users and friends (some of which
>had not used the library before). One school plans to visit the library
>again. Sudbury Press article attached.
>
>Gainsborough Library, Ipswich _ John Row (Weds 5th) 77 children from two
>local schools plus about another ten with mothers ie twenty adults. A mixed
>group with about twenty children from obviously Asian, Far Eastern and
>Caribbean background. Later John did another session with 9 children and
>three adults. The Suffolk County Council photographer took pictures and John
>also did a live broadcast on BBC Suffolk
>
>Bury St Edmunds Library - Peter Hilken (Friday 7th) 60 children KS1, 3
>teachers, 2 librarians an excellent response including comment at end from
>teacher Ive never known you be so quiet. The library were unable to
>arrange a session for adult audiences.
>
>Woodbridge Library - John Row (Saturday 8th) About thirty children. Most
>stayed for a couple of stories and were spread through the morning. Half a
>dozen adults sat with the children. John was accompanied by Russell Clark
>from Ipswich Central Library.
>
>All the sessions received positive feedback from the libraries.
>

Saturday 1st February

Jacksons Lane Community Centre in London hold many storytelling events but on Saturday 1st February Taffy Thomas will be telling tales with Spiders Web Storytellers at 8pm. Jacksons Lane is opposite Archway Station Tel: Box Office 020 8341 4421

Chris Bostock <chris@chrisbostock.co.uk> writes To celebrate National Storytelling week A Bit Crack - North East Storytellers will be sharing Wild and Wonderful Tales at the Cumberland Arms, Newcastle upon Tyne on Saturday 1st February from 11.00am to 12.30pm for children, their friends and families. Food available. Children £2.50 Adults £5 Family Ticket £10. All the money raised will go to support the Better World Education Project in Yaounde, Cameroon

<suzanne.moriarty@lcl.lancscc.gov.uk> writes Storytimes will take place throughout the libraries in South-East Division of Lancashire (Hyndburn and Rossendale). Contact local library for details or contact Mrs Jane Wood (01254) 306915. Special storytimes will be held during the week 1st to 8th Feb.

Honor Giles <Honor.Giles@talk21.com> writes Could you mention that Word of Mouth Storytellers, Honor Giles and Helen Stewart, have fixed another gig for National Storytelling week, as follows: Wild Tales and Wonder Tales. Saturday 8 February at Borders Bookstore in Peel Retail Park, Stockport. 2 - 4pm. A family event especially suitable for those with children 6 - 12 years old.

Free.

Sunday 2nd February

The Eden Valley Storytelling Club


“Take These Chains From My Heart”

with

Taffy Thomas and Janet Russell


A tremendous mix of ‘Farce’ and ‘Courage’ from

a well loved storyteller.


Sunday, 2nd February, at 7.30.p.m.

------------------------------------------------------------

Lazonby Village Hall

*** Tickets:- £5 and £3 ***

** Full details from Peter Dicken:- 016974 72256 **

Eden Valley Storytelling Club, Crack @ the Crown

New Crown Inn, Ainstable,


Leslie Melville <info@thestorytelling-resource-centre.com> writes Stanley Park, Blackpool - A Family Fun Day,which features a 'Coded Message Treasure Trail' plus Stories and Magic in the Park Conservatory. 11.00 a.m. until 3.00 p.m.



Monday 3rd February

A Soldier’s Tale

Learning through Interactive Story at Segedunum Museum

“The place that I liked best was the storytelling house.” Ashleigh


At the storytelling “house” in the Activities Area, Flavia, a Roman lady, will tell a story which follows the fortunes of Roderick. Roderick leaves his childhood friends when he joins the army. Life becomes harder and harder as Officer Draco breathes down his neck and bullies him. Woven into the story is a touch of myth and mystery as the friends share a set of magical blue glass dice.

“You told us a lovely story. I really enjoyed it. The best thing was the way you put expression in it.” Amy

The story will be in three parts. In the intervals there will be object handling and dice games.

“I didn’t like the smell of the herbs. They were disgusting.” Alana

In the third part of the story everyone can puzzle over Officer Draco’s moral dilemma and then decide how it will all end for him and for Roderick and his friends.

Objects in the story can be found in the Roman gallery.

“Thank you for telling me the story about Roderick. I enjoyed finding the things on the list. When I found the spoon with the knife it looked funny.” Paige.


You told me a lot about the Romans. I am coming back.” Amy

“I was very pleased at how much they had remembered”. J. Hogg, Teacher


“Thank you for the enthralling storytelling session. The girls were captivated by your story and thoroughly enjoyed the workshop. H. Robson, Teacher.


“I had a wonderful time” Daniel

The workshops are designed for approximately 30 children. A workshop costs 50p per child + Museum admission £1.50 (Total £2). Pre-booking is essential.

Bookings can be made by contacting our Reception Staff; Tel: 0191 236 9347

Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths & Museum, Buddle Street, Wallsend, Tyne & Wear, NE28 6HR

Email: segedunum@twmuseums.org.uk

Availability in Spring 2003: National Storytelling week: 3,4,5,6 February, 12,13,14 February, 19,20,21 March.

A Walk on the Wierd Side


Tales from The Workhouse


The Workhouse, Southwell is holding two special nights of ghoulish entertainment for National Storytelling Week.


Explore the dark and eerie building to meet ghostly figures who will tell stories to make your blood run cold!


Based on four Victorian ghost stories written by famous authors such as Bram Stoker and Edgar Allan Poe. The audience will be led around the dark empty Workhouse to meet four characters in four rooms for spine-tingling phantasmagoria!


How to find us: The Workhouse, Southwell is a National Trust property on the A612 between Southwell and Upton, 13 miles from Nottingham, 8 miles from Newark.


Dates: Monday 3rd Feb and Friday 7th Feb


Times: both nights, meet in car park at 17:50, start at 18:00, end 19:00


Price: £2 children, £4 adult


NB: not recommended for children under 7 years or children who don’t like to be spooked!

Wrap up warm and bring a torch.


Booking essential, call 01636 817262


"Marguerite Osborne" <marguerite.osborne@dial.appleinter.net> writes Storytelling and art project with children at West Oxford Primary School. Marguerite Osborne and Andrew Walton.

Leslie Melville <info@thestorytelling-resource-centre.com> writes 'Tales of Terror!' in the Blackpool Central Library. 6.30 p.m. until 8.30 p.m. A scary story night plus mask making workshop in association with Lifelong Learning. I have arranged for the storytelling pupils of Southlands High School in Chorley to participate on the Monday evening show at the Library. Those who attended the Lakeland Festival last September, may remember how good they were.

Gwyn <gwynwood@connectfree.co.uk> writes Hi! My name is Gwyn Wood and I am the librarian at Bramhall High School in Stockport. I would like you to know how we are celebrating National Storytelling Week in our school. We have invited a local bookseller, Sue Steel from Simply Books in Bramhall Tel 0161 439 1436 www.simplybooks.info, to narrate a story to a group of Year 8 students during their Religious Education lesson on Monday 3rd February. We are very fortunate to have a good quality independent bookshop in our village who are interested in helping promote reading in our school. Sue will be bringing to life an extract from the Adele Geras book 'The Girls in the Velvet Frame". This is a story about a Jewish family which ties in with their studies of Jewish family life. Adele Geras is visiting our school on February 28th as part of World Book Day and we thought it would be a good idea to tie the two events together. If you need to contact me for further information please email me at GWood@bramhallhigh.stockport.sch.uk or telephone 0161 439 804.

Tuesday 4th February

D Reid <reidthewords@hotmail.com> writes Tuesday February 4th National Storytelling Week Del Reid will be giving an illustrated lecture on The Maggidic Story Tradition to a local community gathering in Middlesex.

A Soldier's Tale – see entry on the 3rd.

John Sullivan-Blakeney <john@sullivan-blakeney.fsnet.co.uk> writes Just to let you know that the Birmingham Storytelling Circle, which had its first meeting in November 2002 meets on the first Tuesday of every month. For national storytelling week we are going to change our usual programme and are having an open session for anyone who wants to come along and tell / listen to stories. We are meeting on the 4th February at the 'Peaceful Mind' cafe on Poplar Road Kings Heath from 7.30pm – 10pm.

Tony Aylwin <tony.aylwin@cwcom.net> writes Tuesday 4 February 8pm at St.Mary's Community Centre, Eltham High Street, London SE9. First of a five-session course of storytelling workshops for adults 'Gift of the Gab 2003'. Led by the Ring of Hope branch of Storytelling-in-Hope Club, this is intended for both experienced and inexperienced storytellers. Fee: £5 per 2-hour session or £20 for all 5 sessions. Info: 020 8467 9183

Wednesday 5th February

Tony Alwyn <tonyaylwin@hotmail.com> writes: I have arranged an event during National Storytelling Week. TUUP will be performing 'Journeys of Juba', stories from North Africa, at The Studio, 28 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 4LS (020 8663 0103) at 8pm Wednesday 5 February 2003. Entry £6 (£4 concs). Not our usual venue, but it is a Storytelling-in-Hope production and it is a very nice place.

At Gargrave, nr Skipton, N.Yorks: Chapter One Bookshop presents Pete Castle at Old Swan Inn, High St. Gargrave on Wed. 5th Feb; 7.30pm. Tickets on door: £4/£3. Enquiries to Chapter One, 01756-748894 or Pete steelcarpet@lineone.net


Honor Giles <Honor.Giles@talk21.com> writes 10am - 12noon: Honor Giles will be storytelling/workshopping with Big Issue vendors at the Big Issue in the North office, Oldham Street Manchester, arranged in conjunction with Manchester Libraries.


Honor Giles <Honor.Giles@talk21.com> writes 7.30pm: Honor Giles and Helen Stewart will be swapping stories with a multinational audience at the International Society, 327 Oxford Road, Manchester.


A Soldier's Tale – see entry on the 3rd.


"Marguerite Osborne" <marguerite.osborne@dial.appleinter.net> writes 11am. Storytelling for Adults at Botley Library by Marguerite Osborne.


Maeve O'Connor <moconnor@libraries.manchester.gov.uk> writes Word of Mouth, the Manchester based group of storytellers, are going to run a performance plus workshop session with Big Issue vendors on Wednesday morning 5th February, at the Big Issue Office in Manchester.


Kevin Walker <Bardictraditions@btinternet.com> writes performances/workshops with Year Two children in three schools funded by NOF money.


Leslie Melville <info@thestorytelling-resource-centre.com> writes Tales of Terror!' in the Blackpool Central Library. 6.30 p.m. until 8.30 p.m (also Monday). A scary story night plus mask making workshop in association with Lifelong Learning. I have arranged for the storytelling pupils of Southlands High School in Chorley to participate on the Monday evening show at the Library. Those who attended the Lakeland Festival last September, may remember how good they were.

Thursday 6th February

THE KENTON BRANCH OF THE NATIONAL WOMEN'S REGISTER IS HOLDING THEIR 2ND EVENT FOR NATIONAL STORYTELLING WEEK ON THURSDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2003. DETAILS: PIPPA REID 020 8866 4232

Jacksons Lane Community Centre in London have Stories on the Slab with Calvin Cumiskey. Jacksons Lane is opposite Archway Station Tel: Box Office 020 8341 4421

storyclub writes Southampton Storyclub will be meeting during National Storytelling Week at the Bosun's Locker, Upper Bugle Street, Southampton at 8pm. This is our usual meeting time and location (we meet on the first Thursday of every month) but hopefully we can have something a little special planned for Storytelling Week! Details are posted at www.storyclub.org.uk

A Soldier's Tale – see entry on the 3rd.

Kevin Walker <Bardictraditions@btinternet.com> writes storytelling session with Early Years children and their parents at Rawthorpe Inf. and Nurs. School to introduce their book club and get over the importance of storytelling to youngsters.

Lynne Kirk <ancestralvoices@hotmail.com> writes Ancestral Voices (Lynne Kirk) will be telling tales at the Basement Bar at York City Screen, Coney St. £4 & £3

mikerotheatre <mikerotheatre@lineone.net> writes Southampton Story Club will be holding its usual meeting on the first Thursday of the month in the Bo'sun's Locker, Bugle Street, Southampton - and luckily it coincides with national Storytelling Week, being on February 6th! Mike Rogers (for Izz, who's busy) Like ghost stories? Try these - they're not like any others. http://website.lineone.net/~mikerotheatre/GhostStories.htm

Marie joelle Deschamps <mariejoelled@AOL.com> writes Dear SFSAt lyndhurst primary School in Camberwell, london, we are celebrating national story week this year with a fun Fairy Tale Character Popularity Contest. Everyone in our school community, kids, staff and parents and carers is allowed to nominate their favourite character. All you have to do is design an election poster explaining why the school should vote for your favourite character. Election day is Thusrday. We'll let you know who won. We are also receiving a visit from two workers from our local library: Camberwell Library, Camberwell Church Street, who are coming to tell us stories on Tuesday and Friday. Some of the older kids have been rehearsing stories to tell the younger ones and several classes are having a story-making workshop based on the Chinese story of the four identical brothers. We'd love to know what other people are doing and if anyone would like to visit us and tell us stories... Please contact us! Marie joelle Deschamps Lyndhurst School, Grove Lane, London SE5 8SN, 0207 703 3046.

Friday 7th February

Pete Maskens <peter.maskens@lineone.net> writes: Friday 7th February 2003. 8 pm. Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch ( opp: Queen's Th: ) The "Essex Storytellers", Peter Maskens and Carl Merry, present " The Dark Side of the Moon " for the National Storytelling Week. Tales of Essex and East Anglia. £4. Tel: 01708 454220 for details. Not suitable for young children.

Jacksons Lane Community Centre in London have “The Melted Heart” by “Wonderful Beast Storytelling Theatre Company - a feast of stories from around the world with live music.” Jacksons Lane is opposite Archway Station Tel: Box Office 020 8341 4421

Chris Bostock <chris@chrisbostock.co.uk> writes: On Friday 7th February at 7.30pm Storyteller Martin Manasse and Musician Bridget Enever will share Tales of Love, Luck and Laziness. A local storyteller and local musician team up for the first time to celebrate National Storytelling week.

Honor Giles <Honor.Giles@talk21.com> writes Friday 7th February, 8.00pm: Word of Mouth welcomes Vergine Gulbenkian who will be telling episodes from the Armenian epic tale "Tavit of Sassoun" concerning four generations of superhuman men who find themselves superhuman wives, beginning with a young woman named Dzovinar who drinks from a fountain of immortality and conceives twin giant sons. At the Briton's Protection Pub, Great Bridgewater St, Manchester (Close to the Bridgewater Hall and G-Mex centre.) £4.00 (£3.00).

Kevin Walker <Bardictraditions@btinternet.com> writes Running a course for Kirklees teachers on the importance of storytelling in the classroom/and techniques.


A Walk on the Wierd Side- see entry on Monday.


Lynne Kirk <ancestralvoices@hotmail.com> writes Ancestral Voices (Lynne Kirk) will be telling tales at the York Steiner School on Fri. 7th Feb. 4pm. Donations

Saturday 8th February

THE MYSTIC JOURNEY 1 - "The Guardians". Saturday 8th February 2003, 2pm.

Venue: Windsor Arts Centre, St. Leonards Road, Windsor. Families welcome.

Advance bookings, box office no. 01753 859421

This is a project which I helped Elaine Samuels to develop and from which a CD arose. Click on the NEWS link (on my website) to find out about the CD. Elaine has already written about the project so I will adapt part of her summary here:

"The Mystic Journey 1" is the first in a series of unique "Celtic rock story" experiences, with a bardic narration by Celtic harp player and storyteller, France Ellul. The show was written by France Ellul and Elaine Samuels and features music from Elaine's whole Kindred Spirit band. The show is a fusion of Elaine's songs together with a spellbinding, uplifting and mystical story, narrated by France.

The story takes you from the dawn of time to the present day, combining Celtic myth and mysteries. It features the warnings of the Morrigan, the rise, fall and re-emergence of the Green Man and the transcendental wisdom of the ancient Watchers. The Watchers guide the Green Man on a quest to save a world on the verge of extinction.

There are moments of lilting Celtic ballad with Elaine's haunting and beautiful voice, Annie's flute and France's harp. There are dark moments with stirring and mystical drumming and chanting. There are also stunning moments of electrifying Celtic rock featuring the whole band and especially Sim Jones' scorching electric violin playing.

Elaine's songs have been featured on both television and radio and both she and France have performed at festivals and music venues across the country to great acclaim. You can find out more about the show and France, Elaine and Kindred Spirit on Elaine's website

www.elainesamuels.co.uk as well as France's website www.france-ellul.fsnet.co.uk

Sharon Jacksties <sharonjacksties@hotmail.com> writes Would you please let people know of a storytelling event happening on the 8th February in celebration of National Storytelling Week. It is at the Peat Moors Centre, Shapwick Rd. Westhay, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 9TT tel:01458 860697 from 18.00 to 21.00. On this occasion there is no charge, but there will be a basket for donations.

This is a centre with 2 recreated iron age round houses that enables visitors to discover how our prehistoric ancestors lived in ancient wetlands. The centre marks some of the ancient celtic festivals in reference to the Iron Age way of life.

As part of the last Samhain events, storytellers were invited to tell tales for the title of "Bard of the Avalon Marshes". I now have the delightful and impossible task of living up to this accolade. I consider that my role should include the promotion of traditional storytelling in the area, and have started by co-ordinating a year's programme with the Peat Moors Centre's warden. It is a rare priviledge to find an ideal venue for storytelling with an already converted staff team. Accordingly, the centre not usually open to the public until April, is hosting this event that celebrates storytelling week, the ancient festival of Imbolc and the inauguration of it's storytelling programme of performances and workshops.

Former participants of the "Bard of the Avalon Marshes" contest are also invited to tell stories on the 8th, and the suggested themes are the returning of the light and all that is associated with Brigit such as fire, inspiration, healing, cattle and sheep, crafts, particularly smithying.

Jacksons Lane Community Centre in London have “The Melted Heart” by “Wonderful Beast Storytelling Theatre Company - a feast of stories from around the world with live music.” (a repeat from the 7th). Jacksons Lane is opposite Archway Station Tel: Box Office 020 8341 4421

Ramsey Storytellers are telling stories in Ramsey Library on 8th February 2003 for National Storytelling week, details from Richard and Eilish Storey Tel: 01487 710363. They are also performing in local schools but these sessions will not be open to the public.

"Marguerite Osborne" <marguerite.osborne@dial.appleinter.net> writes Afternoon. Storytelling and art project for children and parents at West Oxford Primary School. Marguerite Osborne and Andrew Walton.

Events Through the Week

As part of Wordhoard - The 10th Society for Storytelling Annual Gathering 2003, people in Suffolk will be able to enjoy a number of free storytelling events which will be suitable for all ages during National Storytelling Week which runs from 1st 8th February . The events will take place around the county and form part of the Wordhoard project, which will culminate on the weekend of 4th 6th April when Woodbridge School will be the setting for an exciting weekend of workshops, talks and seminars on aspects of storytelling, plus a FREE ceilidh in a yurt.

This project is part funded by Suffolk Arts for All and the Heritage Lottery Funds Awards for All and is being organised by a group of story tellers from East Anglia on behalf of The Society for Storytelling.

The FREE events in National Storytelling Week are

Sat 1st Feb. 10.30am-12.00 Felixstowe Library John Row

Sat 1st Feb 2.00-4.00pm Gunton Residents Hall, Hollingsworth Rd, Lowestoft. Andy Jennings

Mon 3rd Feb 2.00-4.00pm Kirkley Centre, London Road St, Lowestoft Andy Jennings

Tues 4th Feb10.30am-12.00 Brandon Library John Row

Tues 4th Feb2.00-4.00pm Stoke Library, Ipswich John Row

Weds 5th Feb10.30am-12.00 Chantry Library, Ipswich John Row

Weds 5th Feb3.30-4.30pm Sudbury Library (participants must pre book on 01787 296000) Hugh Lupton

Weds 5th Feb2.00-4.00pm Gainsborough Library, Ipswich John Row

Sat 8th Feb10.30am-12.00 Woodbridge Library John Row

For more information on all events phone 01354 650586 also in Cambridgeshire we will be hosting the following events-

Peter Hilken will be leading a workshop on Voice in Storytelling on Saturday 8th February 10am-4pm at 78 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1ER, tel 01223 709769, peter.hilken@ntlworld.com. Hurry as it's recruiting well!

Also on Saturday 8th February at Ramsey Library, Ramsey Storytellers will be holding a storytelling session - contact Richard & Eilish Storey for more info 01487 710363



Liz <liz.platt@eclipse.co.uk> writes I'm a teacher at the West of England School for children with little or no sight, some of whom have additional complex learning difficulties. We are celebrating Storytelling week with an author (Gene Kemp), Magic Carpet (an interactive storytelling group based in Exeter and a story teller called Amada from Bath. We are also going to do a character treasure/story trail. However, if you have any info or ideas we would be very grateful to receive them!

Thanks in advance, Liz Platt, Teacher & English Co-ordinator in St David's House

Charlie Wilson <charlie@crickcrack.com> writes For the third year running, I have a multi-national sponsor enabling me to visit several schools in Essex during National Storytelling Week. For the previous two years I visited Junior schools, but this time I will be visiting Infant schools on Canvey Island.

I'll be sharing stories and songs with over 2000 children and their teachers. It's great that BP have again supported me so I can spread the storytelling message and the schools don't have to pay!

Roger & Lesli Day <day.barn@talk21.com> writes Dear Kevin I will be telling stories at schools in the North and south of Wiltshire during National Story telling week plus a course on Shakespeare's stories for teachers cheers Roger Day of DRAMAWORKS.

Kathryn Boothroyd <Kathryn.Boothroyd@lcl.lancscc.gov.uk> writes storytimes will take place in all libraries in the Central Division of Lancashire (Preston and South Ribble). Contact your local library, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries or contact Kathryn Boothroyd, Senior Librarian - Young People's Services on 01772 262463

Events leading up to National Storytelling Week



Events following National Storytelling Week


The Eden Valley Storytelling Club

------------------------------------------------------------

“The Golem”


with


Shonaleigh


Passion and Mystery in Medieval Prague.


Sunday, 9th February, at 7.30.p.m.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Lazonby Village Hall

*** Tickets:- £5 and £3 ***

** Full details from Peter Dicken:- 016974 72256 **

Eden Valley Storytelling Club, Crack @ the Crown

New Crown Inn, Ainstable,


Tony Alwyn <tonyaylwin@hotmail.com> writes: We are also having our 10th anniversary in 2003 and will be holding a storytelling party celebration at 7.30pm on Sunday 16 February in the Bob Hope Theatre Bar, Wythfield Road, Eltham London SE9. All our previous guest performers (over 70 of them!) have been invited. Further details (Tony: 020 8467 9183).

Fionnaghal <FionnaghalTales@aol.com> writes: Hi, I am doing a drop in session for school age children, at the Museum of Reading on Sunday 9th Feb. 2-3.30pm

"Marguerite Osborne" <marguerite.osborne@dial.appleinter.net> writes Saturday February 15th.11am to 4pm. Workshop for adults on Storytelling Skills: Selecting and Narrating a Tale at the Ferry Centre, Summertown, Oxford, arranged by NAWOCEC (West And North Oxford Community Education Committee)/Oxfordshire County Council. Tutor: Marguerite Osborne.

Chloe.l <chloe.l@tinyworld.co.uk> writes Dear Kevin - As near to National Storytelling Week as the venue was available...

Sunday16 Feb Food for Love - Ruskin Mill (Nailsworth near Stroud) 7pm The storytellers of Gloucestershire celebrate love's many forms! (Not suitable for under 12s!) Profits to African famine relief. Books for sale.Details: Diana Humphrey (SfS co-ordinator for Gloucestershire) 01453 750 009 or Ruskin Mill 01453 837 537. Tickets at the door: £5 (concessions £4)

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