TELLING AROUND THE TABLE
Instructor: Monica Ladd
Workshop Description:
In this hands-on, interactive workshop, families will explore the timeless tradition of storytelling to build connections, share memories, and ignite creativity. Gather around the table to engage in fun and meaningful storytelling activities that bring everyone’s voices to the forefront. Whether it’s an old family anecdote, an imagined adventure, or a personal reflection, each participant will have the opportunity to contribute their stories, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences.
This workshop will introduce simple techniques for crafting and telling stories, such as using props, drawing from memories, creating characters, plots, voices and timing. The focus is on fostering communication, public speaking and strengthening family bonds by discovering new ways to listen to each other, encourage creativity, and appreciate the unique perspectives each family member brings to the table.
Key Activities Include:
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Story starters & prompts: Fun and engaging activities to help everyone find inspiration.
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Group storytelling: Collaborating to build a collective tale, where each participant adds their twist.
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Personal stories: Encouraging you all to share your own stories of past adventures, traditions, or values.
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Memory sharing: Learning how to preserve family stories for future generations.
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Character development: creating engaging characters using voices, timing and descriptive narratives.
By the end of this session, participants will leave with a deeper sense of connection, a toolkit for future storytelling sessions, and a newfound appreciation for the power of stories passed down from one generation to the next. Join us for a cozy, creative day of laughter, reflection, and bonding over the shared art of storytelling!
Monica studies & creates retellings of folk tales, fairy tales, legends and lore from various cultures around the world, occasionally sharing a personal story or two. Her style is a blend of porch telling, family dinner table talks and her experience in small theatre. She creates an engaging interactive storytelling experience that transcends all ages from the young child to the young at heart, performing throughout the United States at festivals, libraries, museums and schools.