A Mischievious Medieval Romp: Come and Play at the Story Cafe!

Join us for the first Story Cafe of 2011!

New Age Gawain and the Green Knight

~ a mischievous Medieval romp

Featuring Storyteller Diane Edgecomb

Accompanied by Margot Chamberlain on Celtic harp

January 22, 2011

The stakes are high for Arthur’s men’s group. First a bungee-jumping Green Man swings into their midst and delivers an ancient macho challenge. Then a mysterious rider gallops off with his head under his arm, taunting Gawain to follow. But the greatest fun comes when three outrageous female archetypes use all their wiles to assail Gawain’s new-age virtue. Welcome to New-Age Gawain and the Green Knight, Edgecomb’s hilarious send up of the men’s movement. Loosely based on the 14th century poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Edgecomb’s comedic adaptation has New Age Arthurian knights running for their therapists faster than you can say "Litigation!"

Celtic harper Margot Chamberlain provides an evocative background of original and traditional tunes as we take this fun-loving journey along the ‘road less traveled by.’

Diane Edgecomb is one of the most versatile voices in the storytelling movement today, known for the seamless way her performances weave together story and music. Diane has received three Storytelling World Honors Awards as well as a Year’s Best Performance Award from the Boston Herald. Diane has enchanted audiences with her richly expressive voice and with the wonderful characters she has created for over twenty-five years. She is equally at home telling a tale of mythic drama, singing a haunting ballad or rapping out a comedic tale. But it is Diane’s ever-changing voice and movements enlivening her tales that brings to her storytelling art an originally entertaining and thoroughly captivating blend. 

Margot Chamberlain studied piano at the Oberlin Conservatory and early music with Marleen Montgomery.  She has performed at the Gardner Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, Counterpoint Theatre and First Night Boston, as well as in many concert situations for both adults and children. She enjoys the wide range of expression, from earthy to ethereal, from mysterious to comedic, that the harp makes possible.

As a Duo: Diane and Margot combine rich story material with carefully orchestrated underscoring of original and traditional music. They have been featured on National Public Radio as well as at theaters, coffeehouses, colleges, museums, and nature centers throughout the United States.

“A storyteller in the grand tradition, Edgecomb is a virtuoso of the spoken word.... an entire cast rolled into one.” Publisher’s Weekly

"National Public regulars Diane Edgecomb and Margot Chamberlain have elevated storytelling to mythic heights." The Worcester Phoenix

ADULT OPEN MIC: Sign up for your eight minute (maximum) turn at the mic beginning at 7:00 p.m. Share your own story, song, music, essay or poem.
TIME: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (Feature begins at 8:00 P.M.)
LOCATION: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA
ADMISSION: FREE (donation suggested: pass the hat for the featured performers)
AUDIENCE: 14 and older
INFORMATION: Email Karen Chace at storybug@aol.com  or call Artworks at (508) 984-1588.
DIRECTIONS: http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN NEW BEDFORDCome early and take a stroll along the fishing docks or bring your bike, enjoy the ocean breeze and ride around beautiful Fort Taber . Prefer something easier? There is the interesting and historical Whaling Museum .

Later you can enjoy a "flight of wine" and fresh hot or cold tapas at Corks or award-winning chowder (chowda) at Freestones before the show or a night cap afterwards.

How about a trip to one of the best small zoo's in the country? The Buttonwood Park Zoo is an easy drive from downtown. New Bedford also has National Park status and there are many things to enjoy. Spend a day exploring and then relax in the beauty of ArtWorks listening to stories and song. I can't think of a better way to spend a crisp winter day!

RESTAURANTS
Information on Portuguese restaurants in New Bedford.
http://www.ci.new-bedford.ma.us/Tourism/TasteofPortugal/TasteofPortugal.html

Freestones - Affordable, casual dining and it is just around the corner from ArtWorks. http://www.freestones.com/

PARKING

Elm Street Parking Garage and Custom House parking is within easy walking distance to ArtWorks. http://www.newbedford-ma.gov/Tourism/DestinationNB/parking.html

Sponsored by Artworks! Partners for the Arts & Community http://www.artworksforyou.org/

ArtWorks! is supported in part by the MCC as well as business and individual members

Crayons, Crafts and Coloring Oh My!

"Every child is an artist; the problem is how to remain an artist once they grow up." 
                                       ~ Pablo Picasso


If you subscribe to my bi-monthly newsletter you know that along with the stories, curriculum, etc., I also highlight various craft and activities links. While there is a google search tool on the newsletter site I have categorized and compiled them here as another way for you to access them easily.

So get out the paper, paint, crayons and glue and help your students make something beautiful!


AIRPLANES
Airplane Coloring Page - http://tinyurl.com/2w32bvk
High Flying Airplane Bookmark - http://tinyurl.com/2dschv
10 Paper Airplanes – Ten easy to fold airplanes with video instructions. http://www.10paperairplanes.com/


ANIMALS

Jungle Tiger Activities - http://tinyurl.com/y97eyce
Tiger Mask to Cut and Color - http://tinyurl.com/ya4vvdg
Aesop’s Fables coloring book pages. Bats, birds, fox, hare and more are just waiting to be brought to colorful life! http://tinyurl.com/ng7elr
Dalmation Cookie Bank – http://tinyurl.com/2f5j8bg  
CD Dog - http://familycrafts.about.com/od/cdcrafts/ss/cdanimals_4.htm
Puppy Coloring Page - http://familycrafts.about.com/library/color/blcoldogbowlbug.htm

AUTUMN

Apple Activities & Crafts for Kids - http://tinyurl.com/no6xhl
Autumn Tree Craft - http://tinyurl.com/lwwsxa
Paper Bag Trees - http://tinyurl.com/6pyoz3
Scarecrow Craft - http://tinyurl.com/kp2cgg
Word Jumble - http://tinyurl.com/ycfsfj6
Fall Word Search - http://tinyurl.com/ya3cux8
Autumn Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/6jvvwm
Build A Tree Leaf by Leaf - http://tinyurl.com/68y23p
Paper Bag Trees - http://tinyurl.com/6pyoz3

APRIL FOOLS

Bestkidsbooksite.com - Strut your stuff on April Fool’s Day with this Jolly Jester’s Hat at http://tinyurl.com/cvdew8 and tons of Easter coloring pages to keep you coloring in or out of the lines! http://tinyurl.com/cwqyfo

BACK TO SCHOOL

Back to School bookmarks your students can print out and color - http://tinyurl.com/ls287p
September Bulletin Board Project - Welcome your students back to school in style! http://tinyurl.com/m6z2sp
Teacher’s Survival Kit – School is in session and the teachers in your child’s life will love you for thinking of them. Put together this easy and charming “survival kit” and add a smile to their year! http://tinyurl.com/2frdeng
KinderArt - A Bulletin Board of Spring Flowers - Ages K - 6 http://tinyurl.com/b9w58r
Bug Jars - Children will learn to look at the details of bugs and plants as they learn about symmetry and asymmetry. This is a craft and lesson plan all in one! http://tinyurl.com/dlooot
How to Plan a Scarecrow Storytime - http://tinyurl.com/yckv2ge
KinderArt - A Bulletin Board of Spring Flowers - Ages K - 6 http://tinyurl.com/b9w58r


BASTILLE DAY

O la la…some crafts to help you celebrate. Build an Eiffel Tower http://tinyurl.com/mzspa7  
or Arc de Triomphe - http://tinyurl.com/npueoq

BIRDS AND BUGS

Happy Feather’s Day - http://tinyurl.com/cyuybg
Easy Bird Feeder - http://tinyurl.com/cf43t8
Paper Bag Crow Puppet - http://tinyurl.com/n4kojy
Bug Jars - Children will learn to look at the details of bugs and plants as they learn about symmetry and asymmetry. This is a craft and lesson plan all in one! http://tinyurl.com/dlooot


BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Black History Month Activities - http://tinyurl.com/23ekb2y
Diversity Banner - http://tinyurl.com/djfymu

BOOKMARKS

Arthur Character Bookmark - http://tinyurl.com/llurp9
Bookworm Bookmark – http://tinyurl.com/2f26sl4
Beaded Bookmark for the older students - http://tinyurl.com/nn7qf7
Curious George - http://tinyurl.com/nx7gxn
Scarecrow “If I Only Had A Book” - http://tinyurl.com/lntj54
Back to School bookmarks - http://tinyurl.com/ls287p


CHINESE MOON FESTIVAL

Chinese Moon Festival Coloring Pages – From the Moon Goddess to moon cakes, many choices to choose from. http://tinyurl.com/3yyorka
Follow up with a lesson plan and activity on painting watercolor Chinese Dragons. http://tinyurl.com/8jutqw  


CHRISTMAS

Origami Star - http://www.planetpals.com/ppcraft2.html
Christmas Tree - http://www.tammyyee.com/origamitree.html
Christmas Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/yk5uu4a
Paper Bag Reindeer Puppet – http://tinyurl.com/39yppmg
Paper Plate Poinsettia - http://tinyurl.com/39jmkws
Christmas Crafts and Printables - http://tinyurl.com/yxwong
Gingerbread Man Ornaments - Preschool http://tinyurl.com/5g6pon  
Holiday Origami - Spice up your holiday stories with two easy to do origami folds; a star and a Christmas tree:
http://www.planetpals.com/ppcraft2.html
http://www.tammyyee.com/origamitree.html
World of Christmas – This link will lead you to a wide variety of games to entertain the children through the holiday. http://tinyurl.com/ykcoxud


CINCO DE MAYO

Kaboose.com - Say “Ole!” with these crafts and activities to help you say celebrate Cinco de Mayo. http://holidays.kaboose.com/cinco-de-mayo/
Mexican Bird Craft - http://www.dltk-kids.com/world/mexico/mbirdrattle.htm


DIWALI

Diwali Diya Mobile - http://tinyurl.com/ya64rf5
Diwali Door Hanging - Traditional embroidered door hanging to welcome visitors and hopefully the Goddess of Fortune Lakshmi. http://tinyurl.com/ydr5pch
Diwali Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/ykwu7dt%20


EARTH DAY - RECYCLED CRAFTS

Cutlery Wind Chimes - The summer cookout season is over. Here’s a clever craft to recycle all of the leftover plastic utensils. http://tinyurl.com/mt76o7
Brown Paper Kites - For grades K – 6. http://www.kinderart.com/crafts/bagkite.shtml
Milk Carton Pen Pot - For grades 2 an up. http://tinyurl.com/mxn6sg
Puzzle Piece Picture Frame - For grades K– 2 http://tinyurl.com/n96pxw
Earth Day Crafts - Dig around; there are plenty of crafts here to help you celebrate. http://tinyurl.com/ba67fb
Earth Day Litterbug - Using recycled items help your students make their Earth Day litterbug. http://tinyurl.com/d6mpxq
Ladybug Rocks - Of course, my favorite! http://crafts.kaboose.com/earth-ladybug-rocks.html

FATHER’S DAY

DLTK.COM - Lots of things to make that special man smile on Father’s Day: Crafts, poems, printables, recipes and songs! http://tinyurl.com/nrssk

FLOWERS

Giant Tissue Paper Flowers – Decorate with this lovely flowers. No watering required. http://tinyurl.com/3438nvo
Handprint Lilies – Cute and easy craft for ages 5+. http://www.dltk-holidays.com/mom/mlilies.htm
Flower Coloring Pages – A garden of choices. http://flowercoloringpages.org/


FOURTH OF JULY

Enchanted Learning - Crafts and Activities for Flag Day. http://tinyurl.com/ce59vx
For some extra fun, a word search and maze to celebrate our country's anniversary:
Maze: http://tinyurl.com/n7curj 
Word Search: http://tinyurl.com/lss2pe
Kaboose.com - Lots of fun Fourth of July crafts to make your holiday sparkle! http://tinyurl.com/nymrap
USHistory.org - It was said that Betsy Ross could cut a five pointed star in one snip of the scissors. Learn how to make your own star the same way. http://tinyurl.com/ywoo8r

GRANDPARENT’S DAY

Activity Village - A wonderful page full of activities, printables and information on Grandparent’s Day, sure to put a smile on your face no matter what age! http://tinyurl.com/lbu8t2
Coloring pages and crafts for Grandparents Day - http://tinyurl.com/l88g79
Grandma or Grandpa Apron - http://tinyurl.com/njaamh

HALLOWEEN

Halloween Crafts - Bats, and pumpkins and vampires oh my! Lots of fun, spooky crafts to make your Halloween craft time as easy as saying, trick or treat! http://tinyurl.com/lbffm7%20
FamilyFun.com - Lots of spooktacular ideas for Halloween fun; activities, recipes, games, costumes, crafts and more. http://tinyurl.com/583jd
Kinderart.com - Ghosts in the Graveyard – Using recycled egg cartons you can create your own ghostly setting. Suitable for all ages. http://www.familycorner.com/family/kids/crafts/ghosts_in_the_graveyard.shtml
How to Plan a Scarecrow Story Time - http://tinyurl.com/yckv2ge


HANUKKAH

Menorah - http://tinyurl.com/yl82unf
Star of David - http://tinyurl.com/yg9gvvs
Window Sparklers, Star of David and more. http://tinyurl.com/yjqn5ce
Milk Carton Dreidel - http://tinyurl.com/2dknzg9  
Easy Cut and Fold Star of David - http://www.dltk-kids.com/world/jewish/starofdavid.htm

KWANZAA

Kwanzaa Crafts for Children - http://tinyurl.com/yb9fy9m
Kaboose.com Kwanzaa Crafts - http://tinyurl.com/yht48lk
Kwanzaa Coloring Pages- http://tinyurl.com/yffaodm
More Kwanzaa Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/3aceesk
Kwanzaa Placement – http://tinyurl.com/256u4nv  


LA POSADA

Pinata - “One piñata tradition says: You go around life with your eyes covered, trying to find the good things and working hard to get them.” The original, traditional shape of the piñata is the six pointed star although today countless forms are used. http://tinyurl.com/y9uhmlw


MARDI GRAS

Celebrate Fat Tuesday - http://tinyurl.com/yfxxg55
Mardi Gras Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/cusd89  
Mardi Gras Masks - http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/mardig


MISCELLANEOUS

Origami Peace Crane - http://www.planetpals.com/IKC/peacecrane.html
Peace Lantern - http://www.planetpals.com/IKC/peacelantern.html
Peace on Earth - http://tinyurl.com/yknakrv 
Sea Serpent Games and Activities - Lots of creativity swimming around these pages! http://tinyurl.com/mkubfj
Mermaid Paper Doll - Children can color her pretty with your own paints and crayons! http://tinyurl.com/mvkgn5
DLTK 'S Holiday Crafts - "Crafts to help you decorate, games to help you celebrate, worksheets to challenge your mind and songs to sing together!" http://www.dltk-holidays.com/ 
KidsStuffCanada.com - Creative, downloadable coloring pages to complement the stories of Grimm and Andersen. Also, interactive pages for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Halloween, etc. Enough activities to keep you coloring outside the lines until the New Year! www.kidstuffcanada.com/en 


MOTHER’S DAY

Bath Salts for Mom – http://www.kinderart.com/seasons/mother7.shtml
Flower Doorstop for Mom – Just in time for Mother’s Day! http://tinyurl.com/32mrspl
Kinderart.com - Crafts and gifts to make for Mom including Mother's Day, May, Arts and Crafts Activities, Lessons, Coloring Pages, Ideas, Recipes and Treats. http://tinyurl.com/cagxwy


MULTICULTURAL

Activity Village - Make your own carp kite or origami to celebrate Kodomo no hi (Children’s Day). There are many other crafts, activities and printables to make this Japanese national holiday shine! http://tinyurl.com/cxwwv3
Children of the World Necklace - http://tinyurl.com/l6cqsu
Egyptian Crafts– A great selection of Egyptian crafts for all ages. http://tinyurl.com/344bmh8  
Hieroglyphics Bookmarks – Two choices, one with hieroglyphics and another with a maze on the back. Mazes have been in existence since ancient Egypt, when Amenembet III built a funerary temple consisting of 3000 chambers. http://tinyurl.com/38hxvnj  
Japanese Kokeshi Doll - http://tinyurl.com/cscr76
King Tut Mask – Definitely for older children but this would be a wonderful art project to complement an Egyptian unit. http://tinyurl.com/3xenscl
Hawaiian Lei Flower Necklace - http://tinyurl.com/ysydbf
New Zealand Koru Art - “The koru is the Maori name given to the new unfurling fern frond and symbolizes new life, growth, strength and peace. It is an integral symbol in Maori carving and tattoos.” http://kinderart.com/multic/koruart.shtml
Origami Doll - http://tinyurl.com/ddo8w2
Peace Dove - http://tinyurl.com/n4wfwh
World Neighbors: Handprint Craft and Poem - http://tinyurl.com/l45smb


RAMADAN

Children’s Activities for the Month of Ramadan - http://www.submission.org/YES/child2.html
Make a Ramandan Collage - http://www.theholidayspot.com/ramadan/crafts.htm


SAINT PATRICK’S DAY
Leprechaun Crafts - http://tinyurl.com/yl3rmq9
St. Patrick’s Day Wreaths – http://tinyurl.com/yz4bw29
St. Patrick’s Day Word Jumble - http://tinyurl.com/ykjhtf8
St. Patrick’s Day Word Search - http://tinyurl.com/ylx8537
St. Patrick’s Day Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/yz7guar
St. Patrick’s Day Crafts and Printables -http://tinyurl.com/cxfe9a
St. Patrick's Day Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/cy9pwd

SPRING CRAFTS

Frog Pouch Craft – Ages 3 and up http://tinyurl.com/ykjkko5
Frog Paper Bag Puppet – Ages 2 and up http://tinyurl.com/yjc9cbd
Frog Paper Crafts – Ages 2 and up http://tinyurl.com/yjb5tok
Spring Crafts - http://tinyurl.com/adaz63  
Flowered Hat - http://tinyurl.com/b36hnx
KinderArt - A Bulletin Board of Spring Flowers - Ages K - 6 http://tinyurl.com/b9w58r

STORYTELLING

Fables Theme: Preschool Activities and Crafts - “Visit a theme to find activities that include easy instructions and a list of materials needed related to Aesop's and other fables. You will find crafts, printable activities, and related resources.” http://www.first-school.ws/theme/fables.htm 
Story Sack - ‘This is a fun way for parents and children to read stories together. Grandparents, teachers, childcare providers, babysitters and anyone else who spends time with children will also find these useful!” http://tinyurl.com/27pwh8j
Fairy Tale Crafts - From dragons, to princes, knights and wizards, lots of crafts to keep everyone busy. http://tinyurl.com/an3lay

SUMMER

ChildFun.com - Summer brings a bounty of fresh fruit so why not have some fruity fun! http://tinyurl.com/m99dj4
DLTK Crafts – Lots of flavorful ice cream crafts to keep you cool through the summer months. http://www.dltk-holidays.com/summer/national_ice_cream_month.htm
Danielle’s Place - A great site full of very creative, easy and inexpensive paper plate and paper cup crafts for kids. http://tinyurl.com/lyd6cy
Kids Summer Crafts and Summer Printables - http://tinyurl.com/njew6g  
Kinderart - Summer is tine to take the children to the zoo. Download some cute animal printables to keep your students and children roaring with delight long after the field trip! http://tinyurl.com/mfoajz


THANKSGIVING

Blessing Boxes - http://tinyurl.com/5zuk4x
Thanksgiving and Fall Crafts for Children - http://tinyurl.com/ylfuhze
Thanksgiving Coloring Pages - http://tinyurl.com/yauxtpy


VALENTINE’S DAY

Educational Valentine’s Day Crafts - http://tinyurl.com/yawdrqt
Valentine’s Day Word Search - http://tinyurl.com/c6lldr
Kaboose.com - Valentine’s Day word searches, math puzzles, and more. http://tinyurl.com/bfrrnt
Kaboose.com - Lots of easy crafts to make your heart flutter for Valentine’s Day.
http://tinyurl.com/ackzdb


VETERAN’S DAY

Veteran’s Day Activities - Coloring pages, crafts for kids, word searches and more. http://tinyurl.com/kslkv7


WINTER

Family Fun.com - Tons of winter fun; crafts, games, activities, printables and more! http://tinyurl.com/9n2gyt
Kaboose - Winter clip art, games, activities and crafts to help warm your spirit. http://holidays.kaboose.com/winter/
Kinderart - Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…Decorate your classroom or library with an array of beautiful paper cut creations. http://tinyurl.com/94n9gj
Penguin Fun! Coloring pages, mazes, worksheets, songs, riddles and more! http://tinyurl.com/5g6pon
Polish Gwiazdy – Beautiful paper cuttings that look like snowflakes but they have eight sides not six. http://tinyurl.com/22jo2gd

Fall Into Fun with the October Story Cafe!

This will be our final Story Cafe for 2010. If you have been before, please come again. If not, we love new faces and talents. Take your turn at the open mic then sit back and enjoy the stories and music of our talented feature. Help us close out our second full year with a full house!

Music, Mystery, Merriment & Magic!
Featuring Tim Van Egmond
Saturday, October 16, 2010

Tim Van Egmond weaves together tales, tunes, and songs to share their wellspring of wisdom, humor, warmth, and excitement! He will serve up a refreshing dipperful, from a captivating Irish tale (with the rippling accompaniment of the hammered dulcimer) about a man's quest to learn an enchanted tune, to a gripping African story of judgment set to the driving rhythm of the hand drum.

Tim has been chosen for the New England States Touring Program (under the New England Foundation for the Arts), has been a featured performer at the Three Apples Storytelling Festival, and presented a number of workshops at Sharing the Fire Northeast Storytelling Conference (including one on music in storytelling).

As a member of the contra dance band Swallowtail Tim has performed nationwide, including appearances on National Public Radio's "A Prairie Home Companion" and at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History. He's recorded three albums with the band, and has played on various other recordings as well. He is also a member of the folk singing duo "Yankee Notions," which has performed throughout New England and beyond, including heritage museums such as Old Sturbridge Village and Mystic Seaport .


"Tim is a triple treat. He can sing, he can play a variety of wonderful instruments, and he can tell whopping good tales!" ~ Jane Yolen, author and storyteller

ADULT OPEN MIC: Sign up for your eight minute (maximum) turn at the mic beginning at 7:00 p.m. Share your own story, song, music, essay or poem.
TIME: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (Feature begins at 8:00 P.M.)
LOCATION: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA
ADMISSION: FREE (pass the hat for the featured performers)
AUDIENCE: 14 and older
For more information email Karen Chace at storybug@aol.com  or call Artworks at (508) 984-1588.
DIRECTIONS: http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html
PARKING: http://tinyurl.com/5qdafo


THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN NEW BEDFORD
Come early and take a stroll along the fishing docks or bring your bike, enjoy the ocean breeze and ride around beautiful Fort Taber . Prefer something easier? There is the interesting and historical Whaling Museum.

Later you can enjoy a "flight of wine" and fresh hot or cold tapas at Corks or award-winning chowder (chowda) at Freestones before the show or a night cap afterwards.

How about a trip to one of the best small zoo's in the country? The Buttonwood Park Zoo is an easy drive from downtown. New Bedford also has National Park status and there are many things to enjoy. Say goodbye to summer and spend a day exploring and then relax in the beauty of ArtWorks listening to stories and song. I can't think of a better way to spend a gorgeous autumn day!

Say Goodbye to Summer in Style at the September Story Cafe!

Not in my time, and not in your time:

The folktales of Newfoundland

Featuring Storyteller and Author Dale Jarvis

 of Newfoundland

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Let storyteller and folklorist Dale Jarvis whisk you away to a fog-shrouded island of flying boats, giants, missing fingers, fairies, phantoms, and a well-travelled fellow by the name of Jack!

Dale Jarvis is a professional performer and folklorist living in Newfoundland, Canada. The proprietor of the St. John's Haunted Hike ghost tour, Dale tells ghost stories, faerie stories, legends and traditional tales from Newfoundland, Labrador, Ireland, United Kingdom and beyond. Columnist and author of several books, he is a tireless promoter of the oral tradition.

"Dale's telling style was masterful-- confident on stage, with a strong, clear voice, thoughtfully placed gestures, rhetorical flourishes that harkened back to an earlier era, a playful attitude toward the audience, and a deferential one toward the story." ~ Tim Ereneta, Storyteller, Performance Artist

"A teller of spine tingling tales that are so convincing that even if you don't believe in ghosts, you soon will!"  ~ Wayne Rostad, On the Road Again (Award Winning Canadian Broadcasting Television Program)

ADULT OPEN MIC: Sign up for your eight minute (maximum) turn at the mic beginning at 7:00 p.m. Share your own story, song, music, essay or poem.

TIME: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (Feature begins at 8:00 P.M.)

LOCATION: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA

ADMISSION: FREE (pass the hat for the featured performers)

AUDIENCE: 14 and older For more information email Karen Chace at storybug@aol.com  or call Artworks at

(508) 984-1588

DIRECTIONS:  http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html

Sponsored by Artworks! Partners for the Arts & Community http://www.artworksforyou.org/

ArtWorks! is supported in part by the MCC as well as business and individual members

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN NEW BEDFORD

Come early and take a stroll along the fishing docks or bring your bike, enjoy the ocean breeze and ride around beautiful Fort Taber . Prefer something easier? There is the interesting and historical Whaling Museum.

Later you can enjoy a "flight of wine" and fresh hot or cold tapas at Corks or award-winning chowder (chowda) at Freestones before the show or a night cap afterwards.

New Bedford has National Park status and there are many things to enjoy. Say goodbye to summer and spend a day exploring and then relax in the beauty of ArtWorks listening to stories and song. I can't think of a better way to spend a summer Saturday!

August is Red Hot at the Story Cafe!

If you were at the January 2009 Story Cafe you know the caliber of talent Bob Reiser brings to the stage. And now, for his second appearance he has teamed up with the equally amazing Clare Vadeboncoeur.

Please join us for what is sure to be a delightful evening. The August heat will be no match for this red hot duo!

Reaching for the Moon!
Featuring Bob Reiser and Clare Vadeboncoeur
Saturday, August 21, 2010

Spend a night with lovers and loons, leap for the impossible and touch the moon. Join Clare and Bob in an hour of stories in words and mime and celebrate your inner wild romantic. Once you feel the kiss of moon dust on your hands, you will never be the same!

Bob Reiser, teacher, author and storyteller, has tickled audiences from New York to Vancouver; his books include Carry it On and Everybody Says Freedom, both written with Pete Seeger, and David Gets his Drum, a children’s book written with jazz great, the late Panama Francis.

“Bob Reiser is a wonderful storyteller, with tales for every age and temperament. I hope he keeps on for another half century. ” ~ Pete Seeger

“Bob Reiser is magic. He plays with words, songs stories and life. His warmth alone makes an audience laugh. Bob Reiser smiles with his whole body. ” ~ Jay O'Callahan Master Storyteller

Clare Vadeboncoeur is a story performer and teaching artist. She is a Trinity Repertory Conservatory graduate with a Masters of Arts Degree in Theatre and Dance, a C.M.A (certified movement analyst) from the Laban Institute of Movement Studies in New York and is a RI certified teacher of theatre, dance and elementary education. She combines her talents as actor, dancer, mime & writer to create and perform unique, interactive storytelling programs.

“Clare, you are a fantastic actress, storyteller, movement genius who creates expressive theatre –much larger than your petite self.” ~ Ivy Brunelle, Scituate Librarian Scituate RI

"Clare your stories were so compelling, funny, meaningful, clever and full of heart."  ~ Annie Geissinger, Drummer/Artist

ADULT OPEN MIC: Sign up for your eight minute (maximum) turn at the mic beginning at 7:00 p.m. Share your own story, song, music, essay or poem.
TIME: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (Feature begins at 8:00 P.M.)
LOCATION: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA
ADMISSION: FREE (pass the hat for the featured performers)

NEW INFORMATION: AGES 14 AND OLDERUsually, the Story Cafe audience is 18 and up. However, in the interest of bringing the art of Oral Tradition to a wider audience Bob and Clare (our featured artists) have shared that their show is suitable for teenagers as well. If you would like to bring along any young adults on August 21 please feel free to do so.
DIRECTIONS:  http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html
For more information email Karen Chace at storybug@aol.com  or call ArtWorks at (508) 984-1588 

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN NEW BEDFORD

Come early and take a stroll along the fishing docks or bring your bike, enjoy the ocean breeze and ride around beautiful Fort Taber . Prefer something easier? There is the interesting and historical Whaling Museum.

Later you can enjoy a "flight of wine" and fresh hot or cold tapas at Corks or award-winning chowder (chowda) at Freestones before the show or a night cap afterwards.

New Bedford has National Park status and there are many things to enjoy. Spend a gorgeous summer day exploring and then relax in the beauty of ArtWorks listening to stories and song. I can't think of a better way to spend a summer Saturday!

Sponsored by Artworks! Partners for the Arts & Community http://www.artworksforyou.org/
ArtWorks! is supported in part by the MCC as well as business and individual members

Storytelling, Music and Fun, Oh My!!

I am excited and honored I am honored to be one of the performers at the 10th Annual Mohegan Storytelling and Music Festival in Crompond, NY on August 14, 2010. How can you go wrong with storytellers like Michael Parent, Carol Birch, The Storycrafters, Johnathan Kruk and more?

Let's make this a fabulous 10th Anniversary for the festival and all of the dedicated workers who make it happen.


Date: Saturday, August 14, 2010
Workshop: 10:00 am - Noon
Performances 12:30 P.M. - 10:30 P.M.
Audience: Families and Adults







Location/Directions: 99 Baron de Hirsch Rd, Crompond, NY 10517 Off Lexington Avenue, between Routes 6 and 202

Additional Information: For Workshop Registration, Volunteer Opportunities and more call Ellen Monten
914-528-5830 or Judith Heineman 312-925-0439.

For more details go to http://www.storycircleatproctors.org/hv/mohegan/ or email Judith Heineman at juhestories@aol.com  Funded by the Westchester Arts Council

The festival will go on rain or shine but why don't you pack some of your own sunshine and stories and meet us there!

July Fireworks Continue at the Story Cafe!

July 4th is just around the corner but the fireworks will continue into the month with fabulous tales of myth and madness at the Story Cafe!

Mommies, Mummies and Madness. How Much is Too Much?

Featuring Katie Green
Saturday, July 24, 2010

Tales of awe, of mystery, and tales of love. Katie takes us to Egypt with ancient stories about contemporary issues. Join us as Katie weaves myth and mindfulness in story.

Katie Green tells stories to bring people closer to one another and to the environment. Her tales of truth, folk and faerie are engaging and lyrical, transporting the listener to another time and place.

Katie received the National Storytelling Association's 1998 Service Award for the Northeast. She was awarded an NSN Members Grant and Heubner Award in 2006. Katie is a Creative Teaching Partner with the Massachusetts Cultural Council and is listed with the New England States Touring Roster. www.katiegreenstories.com

"Katie Green is a wonderful storyteller. You will have a wonderful time." Jay O'Callahan

"Katie's stories invite reflection and open doors for insight." Carol Burnes

TIME: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (Feature begins at 8:00 P.M.)
LOCATION AND ADDRESS: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue,
New Bedford, MA
ADULT OPEN MIC: Sign up for your eight minute (maximum) turn at the mic beginning at 7:00 p.m. Share your own story, song, music, essay or poem.
ADMISSION: FREE (pass the hat for the featured performers)
AUDIENCE: 18 and older

For more information email Karen Chace at storybug@aol.com  or call Artworks at (508) 984-1588 For directions: http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN NEW BEDFORD

Come early and take a stroll along the fishing docks or bring your bike, enjoy the ocean breeze and ride around beautiful Fort Taber . Prefer something easier? There is the interesting and historical Whaling Museum.

Later you can enjoy a "flight of wine" and fresh hot or cold tapas at Corks or award-winning chowder (chowda) at Freestones before the show or a night cap afterwards.

New Bedford has National Park status and there is lots to see and do. You could spend a gorgeous summer day exploring and then relax in the beauty of ArtWorks listening to stories and song. I can't think of a better way to spend a summer Saturday!

Sponsored by Artworks! Partners for the Arts & Community http://www.artworksforyou.org/ ArtWorks! is supported in part by the MCC as well as business

Naked Hearts at the Story Café

Naked Hearts

Featuring Eshu Bumpus
and
Motoko Dworkin

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Humor, music, love and desire intertwine as these two award winning storytellers weave tales that speak to the vulnerability of human hearts. Eshu's smooth, bluesy voice and Motoko's graceful movement will entice you to a journey of the ins and outs of romance.

A rare opportunity to hear two amazing award-winning storytellers in one evening! Eshu and Motoko shine up a storytelling event wherever they appear. Though diverse in style and culture, they blend and tell as one. Absolutely charming, they bring humor, a sense of drama, a talent for singing, and present a seamless performance.

ESHU - Eshu Bumpus captivates his audience by telling a variety of African, African-American and World folktales leavened with music, humor and mystery. He is a renowned storyteller, an accomplished jazz vocalist and a master at physical characterization. He has performed on the Exchange Place stage at the National Festival (1998), and performed 36 sold out shows in 13 days at the Smithsonian (1997). After appearing at the 10 Annual Connecticut Storytelling Festival (1991), Eshu was acclaimed as," … a fresh, responsible and knowledgeable voice... distinct and compelling... the hit of the Festival.

MOTOKO - Parents’ Choice Award-winning storyteller Motoko enchants audiences of every age with her weaving of ancient lore, original tales, lyrical movement and traditional music. Her repertoire includes Asian folktales, Zen tales, comical tales from rakugo (a Japanese traditional style of storytelling), funny mime vignettes, as well as personal stories from her childhood in Japan and her life as an immigrant in the U.S.

ADULT OPEN MIC: Sign up for your eight minute (maximum) turn at the mic beginning at 7:00 p.m. Share your own story, song, music, essay or poem.
TIME: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (Feature begins at 8:00 P.M.)
LOCATION: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA
ADMISSION: FREE (pass the hat for the featured performers)
AUDIENCE: 18 and older
For more information email Karen Chace at storybug@aol.com or call Artworks at
(508) 984-1588 For directions: http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html

ArtWorks is right in the middle of the historic district of New Bedford. Come early and enjoy a beautiful spring day, have dinner, then join us for the perfect "night cap" at the Story Cafe!

City of New Bedford http://www.ci.new-bedford.ma.us/
Restaurant Information: http://www.freestones.com/
Parking: Elm Street Parking Garage and Custom House parking is within easy walking distance. http://tinyurl.com/ylx2akr

Put Your Story Where Your Mouth Is!

The MassMouth organization has been making great strides in bringing storytelling to new audiences throughout 2009-2010 with their amazing Story Slams. Next week, they will host the final slam of the year. You won't want to miss a word!

                SLAM OF ALL SLAMMERS
                     THE BIG MOUTH OFF

The final contest in Boston’s first story slam season, produced by massmouth and will be held. 6:00 P.M. on April 20, 2010 at in the Boston Public Library’s Rabb Auditorium, Copley Square, Boston MA.

Come hear the winners of the monthly slams plus one People’s Choice entrant compete for the grand prize – a week at a medieval Tuscan townhouse. There are more prizes for the winners chosen by the distinguished judges; including Jay O’Callahan (master storyteller), Charlie Pierce ( Boston Globe, panelist on npr's "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me" NPR) Brian O’Donovan ( host of a Celtic Sojourn- WGBH-FM, Josna Rege ( English professor, blogging at Tell Me Another ) and Jay Allison ("Independent journalist and producer for radio, including NPR's This I Believe") In between sets of judged stories, the audience and People’s Choice entrants will participate in a mini-slam of stories on the theme - “ the first time”.

Rabb Auditorium is in the new wing of the Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston Street, Boston, at the Copley T stop. We start at 6:00 P.M. sharp on April 20th. Come to a virtual marathon of storytelling! massmouth presents a program of stories that highlight the human experience in all its darkness and light. Seasoned professionals and fledgling storytellers strut their stuff, share their experiences and reveal their insights in this epic competition of 21 finalists. Any one of them can win the grand prize – it all comes down to the winning story. So… if you ran the Boston marathon, come recharge with us! If you didn’t run April 19th and want a different kind of marathon, come experience massmouth‘s 26+ story marathon! After Slam at Kennedy’sMidtown.com – see http://www.massmouth.com/ for details.

It's Not Easy Being Green: Frog Tales From Around the World

Frog Prince
by Walter Crane (1845 - 1915)

April is National Frog Month so get let’s get hopping with these tales from around the globe!

STORIES

Allaboutfrogs.org - Sixteen fables and parables about frogs.
http://tinyurl.com/36fjtg

The Armadillo's Song – Bolivia
http://tinyurl.com/yzwl3lq

Brer Fox Catches Old Man Tarrypin – USA
http://tinyurl.com/ybds94o



Frog Kings – Fourteen folktales from around the world.
http://tinyurl.com/28ukyj

Why the Stork Eats Frogs And The Wolf Hunts Sheep - Ukrainian Folktale
http://www.4to40.com/Folktales/index.asp?p=Why_The_Stork_Eats_Frogs_And_The_Wolf_Hunts_Sheep&c=English&k=stork

How Frog Went to Heaven A Tale of Angola – retold by Aaron Shepard
http://tinyurl.com/yk8cdjh

Story-lovers.com – A virtual pond filled with Folktales, Folklore, Fairy Tales, Legends, Myths, History, and more.  
http://tinyurl.com/ya8v8ma

The Two Frogs – Japan
http://tinyurl.com/y9ngkky


CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS

Additional facts and information to complement your program of frog tales or use in the classroom.

A Frog’s Life – Lots of information to share with your audiences from the American Museum of Natural History.
http://tinyurl.com/ykyypoz

Suite 101.com – Information on the mythology and folklore associated with frogs.
http://tinyurl.com/y93hchv

Tiddalik the Frog Folktale Reading Lesson Plan - Teach How to Compare and Contrast Setting, Character, Plot.
http://tinyurl.com/y8pxy8f

CRAFTS

DLTK.com - Frog Activities for children.
http://www.dltk-kids.com/animals/frogs.htm

Family Crafts.com - Clay Pot Frog
http://familycrafts.about.com/od/frogcrafts/a/ClayPotFrogCraft.htm

Frog Coloring Page
http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/frogcrafts/l/blcolorfrog1.htm

Karen Chace ©

This blog post was researched and compiled by Karen Chace. Permission for private use is granted. Distribution, either electronically or on paper is prohibited without my expressed written permission. For permission please contact me at storybug@aol.com. Of course, if you wish to link to my blog via your website, blog, newsletter, Facebook page or Twitter please feel free to do so; I greatly appreciate your support and personal integrity.

He-roes and She-roes, Unsung and Unlabeled

Award-winning storyteller, musician and raconteur Michael Parent will grace the space at the Story Cafe on Saturday, April 10, 2010 . Join us for an amazing evening of stories of heroism, of people whose deeds are not trumpeted by a media hungry for sensation, but who are appreciated by the people whose lives they touch!

This is a fundraiser for ArtWorks, through the generosity of award-winning storyteller Michael Parent. Come and support this wonderful non-profit venue so they may continue to  offer new and exciting artistic programs throughout the year.

Michael Parent, a Franco-American Mainer, has performed as a storyteller-singer, in both English and French, since 1977. He is a 1999 recipient of the National Storytelling Network's Circle of Excellence Award and his recordings have won the American Library Association Notable Record Award, Parents’ Choice Magazine Gold Award and the Cine’ Golden Eagle Award. He has been featured at events throughout the U.S., as well as in Canada, France, Austria, New Zealand, Ireland, England, Poland, Brazil, and Costa Rica.

"(He) was almost a festival in himself. He played, sang in French and English, and juggled balls, rods, and what-nots as he simultaneously told the story of a down-and-out juggler. A magnificent voice, an inexhaustible fund of stories, wit, charm, a gift of mimicry..."
Layna Verin - U.C. Berkeley Daily Californian"

"The storyteller, in the fullness of his craft, has struck, and the spell is on, as surely as it was when Homer conjured up a fleet of ships on a wine-dark sea bound for the walls of Troy."

Melvin Maddocks - Time Magazine

“He created characters they knew, sang songs they could remember and gave new life to traditional forms of entertainment."
Madge Manfred,  Mohegan College, Norwich, CT

"Michael Parent is a unique blend of consummate professional, yet wonderfully approachable artist. Audiences of all ages loved him, as was evidenced by the standing ovation! Distractions fall away as Michael lures listeners into his tales and heart. Pure joy was the outcome of Michael's visit to our festival." Teresa Clark, Director, Snake River Storytelling Festival

Seating is limited so get your tickets early! Call
(508) 984-1588 for tickets.
Audience - 18 and Up There will be NO open mic this evening.
Members: $15 for one ticket/$20 for two
Nonmembers: $20 for one ticket/$35 for two

Time: 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. (there will be an intermission and refreshments)
Location: Artworks, 384 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA
Admission: Ticket required - Call Alanna Schull at (508) 984-1588
Audience: 18 and older

ArtWorks is right in the middle of the historic district of New Bedford. Come early and enjoy a beautiful spring day, have dinner, then join us for the perfect "night cap" at the Story Cafe!

City of New Bedford http://www.ci.new-bedford.ma.us/
Restaurant Information: http://www.freestones.com/
Parking: Elm Street Parking Garage and Custom House parking is within easy walking distance. http://tinyurl.com/ylx2akr
Directions: http://www.artworksforyou.org/hours.html