REPERTOIRE
storytelling programs targeting
multicultural & special populations
Twilight Tales
Inspired by the great archetypal characters and situations occurring in Stephanie Meyers' beguiling Twilight series, Antoinette draws from her Native Canadian heritage as well as the larger body of romantic folklore to create this haunting program. The storyteller selects stories about a woman singing bones to new life, children surviving a smallpox epidemic with the help of a female wolf, a woman whose love for her shape-shifting husband is remembered by successive generations for hundreds of years, and an ancestor who challenged all the values of her community to be with the man she loved. It's time to explore a world of dangerous love, animal transformations, and intimations of immortality. You may not have a direct encounter with a werewolf or vampire, however. This program is recommended for ages 12 through adult.
Click here for optional companion workshop: Masks and Archetypes.
Talking Quilts, Hidden Stories: An Exploration Of Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt
In a real departure from previous programs, our Storybird unearthed some of the hidden stories preserved in a quilt made by former slave, Harriet Powers (1827-1911). Now part of the Smithsonian Textiles Collection, the quilt is a visual record of an oral tradition rich with African lore, secret doctrines, and far-reaching symbolism. The appliquéd panels of the quilt depict a variety of Biblical and related events that attest the strength and spirituality of its maker. Powers' artistry and unique vision shine with hope for all who must survive hard times. The new program is especially suited for quilting groups, ecumenically oriented bible study groups, and women's and black history study groups and special events. Although created as a program for adult audiences, a version for younger folks is on the way. Performance should take place in an area where the quilt can be hung for the audience to see while the presentation is in progress. (See image of entire quilt and photo of Harriet Powers)
Animals as Teachers
Heartfelt stories drawn from personal experiences and world mythologies support our understanding of the intelligence of animals, and the importance of human stewardship in protecting all of earth's creatures. Suitable for families and all age groups. A special version for high school students and Earth Day festivities is available.
Ghost Stories: Speaking Of Bluebeard
Not just for All Hallows' Eve--these stories reach into the mysterious, the unknown, the deeply thought-provoking.
"Few will forget Antoinette Botsford's chilling retelling of Bluebeard at the NW Folklife Festival Ghost Story Concert. She has an uncanny ability to draw the listeners into the story, making them active witnesses as events unfold. Her well-textured voice adds depth and color to the telling, builds suspense, and puts the audience on the edge of their seats. Bravo!"
Cherie Trebon, Storytelling Coordinator, NW Folklife Festival
The Peacemaker and the Creation of the Iroquois Federation
The historical and legendary beginnings of the Iroquois Confederacy provide deepened understanding of the ideas that inspired America’s founding fathers in creating a democracy. The story takes about 45 minutes to tell and is best when fortified with a follow-up workshop of one to two hours per classroom. The workshop employs the “talking circle” method as developed by the Iroquois for problem-solving and peacemaking. Ask about plans for a more extensive residency involving interdisciplinary creative work in combination with active conflict resolution strategies. Grades 7 and up.
Children as Peacemakers
Ask Antoinette about her "Children as Peacemakers" residency: a mixture of story, poetry, visual arts, and other communicative activities designed to deepen understanding and creativity among all people. The focus can be intercultural, interfaith, etc. (Image above is dreived from the Hiawatha Belt representing unity. The Tree of Peace is in the center.)
The Pilfered Box Of Pauline Johnson (Tekahionwake)
Emily Pauline Johnson, chieftain’s daughter, Métis storyteller and writer, travelled extensively in North America and England a century ago, when it was widely believed that “the only good Indian was a dead Indian.” She started publishing while in her teens, and her writings are among the first contributions of women in published Canadian literature. Botsford weaves some of Johnson’s electrifying stories and poems in a retrospective narrative in which the poet sorts out the main themes of her life.
Appropriate for teenagers and adults.
Especially recommended for Woman’s History Month (March) and National Poetry Month (April). The Woman Chautauqua Institute of Missouri selected this program to showcase, 2006, Cottey College.
Coming Of Age
Depending on audience interest, topics will be chosen from Native American cultures and European fairytales to illustrate issues faced by middle school students today. The stories are chosen to stimulate values analysis, cultural awareness and respect for the earth, while cultivating understanding and acceptance of differences. Optional class visits reinforce the stories and can include written or oral participatory activities. Ms. Botsford will consult with teachers who wish to help students create a “Coming of Age” ceremony.
Grades 6-12
Tales From A Métis Childhood
A variety of stories, selected from those heard at her elders’ knees, and created from her experience growing up in a French-speaking Metis family, delight and invite listeners into a world remarkably similar to the one experienced by many of today’s immigrant children.
Stories of bears and ravens old as "the beginning of time" and newer stories about children growing up in an old-fashioned farm delight audiences. Songs in Chinook and French dialects enliven the tales which suit the listeners’ ages. Ask about the optional accompanying workshop or classroom visit: How to Make Stories Out of Your Own Life and/or Creating a Drama from a Traditional Story.
All grades. Study Guides available.
The Celtic Knot: The Forest of Broceliande
Stories from Brittany, Ireland, Scotland and Wales link an ancient culture in powerful images and sprightly language.
"Reaching into the heritage of her European ancestors Antoinette is as comfortable in the magical world of these stories she as in the native tales for which she first became known. I've seen her perform six different programs over the last ten years and I would never tire of her."
A. J. Bergen, retired English teacher, Kennewick, Washington and frequent audience member for programs sponsored by the Washington Commission for the Humanities.
The Primordial Sea
You'll relish the life story of Joshua Slocum (the first man to sail around the world alone), another tale of Pirates Who Met Their Just Desserts, A Merman Who Overdrank, How Raven Brought Back the Tides, a haunting story about Sea Turtles, The Maid of Deception Pass, and others.
"These tales leave you with the taste of salt on your lips, the smell of kelp in your nose and a song in your heart."
Glynnis McClure, Stories for the Global Village, Renton, Virginia, October 2002
On The Trail With Sacajawea
Stories about the Lewis and Clark expedition mixed with traditional stories from the tribes Sacajawea knew during her life. Though too late for the Lewis and Clark expedition centennial, this program remains vital and timely through the perspective it offers on the influence of European immigrants on Native American culture. Suitable for schools, libraries, historical recreations, etc.
Pricing:
Single performances in public venues: $400, plus expenses,
except for those supported by Inquiring Mind funds.
Two same-day performances (schools, festivals, etc.)
$550 plus expenses.
Two back-to-back school performances: $450
Workshops and residencies: Negotiable
(2-3 hour workshops start at $80 per hour).Call: 360/ 376-4285
Or:
