This program will involve the audience in a variety of storytelling traditions. It will provide a number of tools and examples to help participants find, learn and share stories from a variety of sources, as well as information about how to use storytelling at home, school and at work. Exercises will include storytelling games, vocal techniques and guided imagery. Hand-outs, including follow-up activities and a resource guide, will be provided.

About Davis: Davis Bates has been telling stories for over forty-five years, in schools, libraries, colleges and community settings around New England and across the country. His recording of Family Stories won a Parent’s Choice Gold Award, and was named one of the year’s best Audio Recordings by Booklist Magazine. Davis has also served as director and consultant for several local and regional oral history and folk arts projects. Davis lives in the village of Shelburne Falls, MA, and when he isn't collecting or learning stories and songs he spends his time working with the Hampshire College Alumni Action Group and on various pollinator and wildlife preservation projects on campus and at home.

This program is funded, in part, by the Tyngsborough Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the MA Cultural Council.