When Linda Gorham began telling stories, she told African and African American folktales during Black History Month. After a few years, she realized that there was a hunger for stories about important African Americans whose actions and/or experiences made a positive impact on our country. She began researching people with whom she felt a connection. Her repertoire of American heroes includes: Rosa Parks, Ruby Bridges, The Little Rock Nine, Young Barack Obama, and Young Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She also has programs entitled “100 Years of Black History” and “Freedom’s Children.” Typical 45-minute programs include one folktale and one ‘hero’ story. Learning about our history helps us preserve the past, clarify our identities and self-worth, and create empathy for the struggles of those who came before us. “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” Marcus Garvey
Both in-person and virtual (live and pre-recorded) options are available for this program.
Artist Background
Linda Gorham’s performances are filled with surprising twists and unconventional humor. For 25 years, Linda has engaged audiences with highly interactive folktales, distinctive myths, notably twisted fairy tales and riveting well-rehearsed historical stories. Each age-appropriate performance is infused with Linda’s unique, signature ‘sophisticated attitude.’ Linda’s award winning children’s CD “Common Sense and Uncommon Fun” breathes new life into timeless multicultural folktales. Linda performs internationally and has been featured at storytelling festivals all over the United States. “Linda can rivet people of all walks of life with tales from all over the world. To some, Gorham is a hip, here-and-now modern day griot.” -Chicago Tribune
Search Criteria
- Program Type: Performance
- Discipline: Storytelling
- Grade Level: Elementary, High, Middle
- Cultural Context: African-American
- Accepts bookings in Johnston County
- Virtual option available