"Storytelling, Creativity and Your Family"

with

Dr. Elana Ashley

(3-Hour Workshop) [Maximum: 12 Families]

SESSION I: Introduction & Performance [30 minutes]

Dr. Ashley presents three different stories using three varied storytelling techniques -- story narration and dramatization by the presenter, storytelling by the presenter and puppet(s), and dramatization using a felt board, with cartoon characters appearing as the story unfolds.

SESSION II: Puppet Construction [one hour]

The presenter brings out and demonstrates a variety of puppets for the families to view. Dr. Ashley shows how to make two different types of puppets. Members of each family will either work together as a team in the creation of several puppets, and/or help each other as each member works on his/her individual character. During this activity, the presenter walks among the participating families offering suggestions and providing construction techniques or other forms of help.

[15 Minute Break]

SESSION III: Practice for Performance [30 minutes]

Dr. Ashley suggests ways the participants can manipulate their puppets and operate their characters' voices. The presenter offers a variety of themes that families might use in developing a script for a performance using their puppet creations. Families will either use a suggested topic or base their dramatization on a well-known story or a theme of their own choosing. For one half-hour, parents and children will do some spontaneous practicing of a three to four minute puppet drama.

SESSION IV: Performance [one hour]

Each family will perform for the participating audience of families.

SESSION V: Conclusion [five minutes]

Dr. Ashley briefly concludes the dramatic storytelling workshop.

Family members have the opportunity to work individually and together in the creation of puppets, as well as work as a team in selecting a topic, developing a script, practicing for performance, and, finally, presenting a dramatic storytelling adventure with their own characters.

The host organization is expected to provide the art supplies necessary for the construction of the puppets. Dr. Ashley provides a list of the supplies needed.

Participants are also encouraged to scrounge around home for some interesting materials to be used in the making of puppets.

Great Imaginings, Inc.
An Illinois Not-For-Profit Corporation
P. O. Box 101
Northbrook, Illinois 60065-0101
847.480.8998