Could You Be a Professional Storyteller?

I've always had a deep respect for folklore and have been collecting stories and rhymes since childhood. As a former Seattle radio broadcaster, it only seemed natural to pursue this special interest as I evolved into an at-home mom raising two young boys. Storytelling has enabled me to maintain my familiarity in the Seattle job market and practice my character voices too. I'm able to schedule my storytime sessions to blend with my family's needs and add to the family income too.

Here's how I got started in this unusual occupation. I enrolled in voice lessons, improvisational workshops and joined the Seattle Storyteller's Guild. I attended some of their beginner classes and watched other storytelling performances whenever I could. I spent many hours in my local library, researching anything I could find on storytelling. I gathered props, costumes and practiced stories on my own children. I rented countless videos about children's entertainment and puppetry. I tried out a few stories at our preschool during recess time with the youngsters. Finally I approached a nearby day-care center and traded storytelling for free childcare. I chronicled what worked and what didn't. I volunteered in the library of our elementary school and occupied students during lunchtime and after school. With new business cards and word of mouth, I was soon telling stories at bookstores, libraries, museums and community festivals and getting paid for it!

I tell my stories using bits of puppetry, costumes and special props. Sometimes I draw a picture on a chalkboard while telling a story. My stories range from seasonal and holiday themes to classic and original tales. I love to tell Native American tales and stories explaining the wonders of nature. (My father was of German and Ojibwa Indian descent and a natural storyteller too!) I always make sure I involve the audience in some way, either with gestures; vocal input or even have young ones on stage to help hold story props.