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Reply to "Biblical Storytelling Manual from Amy Crane"

Also from Amy Crane...

BASIC STORYTELLING TECHNIQUES TO KEEP IN MIND:

First, remember that storytelling is an art, and there are many styles of performing that are acceptable. Therefore, use these tips and techniques and experiment to find what works best for you and your style.

Memorization?

The story should not be memorized word for word. The story should flow when told; the teller should not have to stop to think about what comes next.

However, memorize the first and last lines of the story for a comfortable start and a smooth finish.

If you goof, keep going. Just pause, take a deep breath, and continue. Don't interrupt the flow of the story by apologizing or starting over.

If you skip part of the story, just work it in when it fits. For example, if in telling "The Three Billy Goats Gruff" you forgot to mention that their grass was all eaten up on their side of the river, have the first goat say to the troll, "It's me, the little Billy Goat Gruff, and I want to cross the bridge to go eat the grass on the other side because there is no more grass on this side."

Vocal quality:

Projection: the storyteller should speak so that all can hear.

Diction: the storyteller should enunciate carefully and use her/his voice effectively.

Speed: not too fast and not too slow.

Personality:

The flavor of the story should be brought out by the storyteller's presentation; i.e., humorous story, scary story, tall tale.

Voices should be used effectively to bring the characters to life. However, do not use more than three different voices in one story. Believe me, you will get confused!

Use plenty of expression. Your voice should show when characters are sad, happy, frightened, sleepy, etc. You will lose the listener's interest if you speak in a monotone.

Vary your volume and speed. Use pauses effectively.

Add some movement to add interest to the story and emphasize key plot points and actions. However, do not act out the story.

Poise:

The teller should be relaxed while presenting. Beware of nervous habits, such as playing with hair, shuffling feet.

The teller should make good eye contact. If you have a hard time looking audience members directly in the eye, look at their foreheads.

General:

Always introduce yourself and your story before you begin. Plant your feet firmly on the ground (if you are standing). Look around at the audience, take a deep breath, and then say: "My name is ____, and I'm going to tell you the story of _____," or any appropriate introduction.

Wait for the audience to finish applauding before you start discussing the story. Take a short bow if you'd like, and say, "Thank you."

Always credit the source of your story.

Last edited by Luanne Payne
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