STORIES ALIVE!

My name is Deva Daniel. I'm a teacher of young children with a passion for storytelling. In my years as a first grade teacher and a substitute teacher, I've come to know the value of oral storytelling. My passion for expanding the imagination and wonder of young learners has become central to my life's purpose. The rich themes, language, and colorful archetypes within the world's cultural oral folk tales engage children of all ages like nothing else - not even today's myriad electronic media forms. The right tale, carefully chosen and well told, can introduce subject matter, create curiosity, provide emotional literacy, convey values, and enliven the spirit. 

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I believe that everyone is a natural-born storyteller. We are constantly telling and listening to stories with one another, whether or not we realize it. As we enjoy movies, YouTube videos, documentaries, books, gossip, and even our dreams and the thoughts in our minds, we are thoroughly engrossed in stories all our lives. I believe that when we, as 21st century people, regain oral storytelling skills, we reclaim our inherent birthright: the ability to influence our community, and to preserve and create culture. By developing storytelling skills we become conscious crafters of the themes and storylines of our own lives. 

 

By creating Stories Alive! I'm setting the intention to create a strong storytelling community. 

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-I'd like to host a monthly full moon storytelling event in Chico, California's Bidwell Park, at the campfire council ring.

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-I'm creating a weekly storytelling class for children ages 6-12. 

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-I'm envisioning a class for parents and teachers to learn to tell/create stories for/with their children and students. 

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-I want to produce puppet plays for and with local youth! I'll needs lots of involvement to undertake this endeavor, from people that can do lighting, sound, acting, puppet making, etc. I know lots of people that are super excited about this one.

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In the meantime I'm available for hire at your special event to tell just the right story. 

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Birthday Parties: I can help make your child’s birthday party fun and memorable with the telling of her favorite fairy tale. Or tell me about your child and I can help personalize one for her special day. Once the story is told, I can lead the children in a fun craft activity, based on the story and/or your child’s interests.

 

School Assemblies/Festivals/Events: Stories are simply the best way to convey essential community values to youth. I tell stories based on the themes of tolerance, cooperation, hard work, overcoming obstacles, the value of education, compassion, etc. My stories are sourced from the world's cultural folk tales, as well as my own creative inspiration. 

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I really look forward to connecting with you, and sharing all the joy and power I've discovered in storytelling.