When you listen to a storm or walk through the forest, you can hear nature’s special symphony, an old story that has been told over and over again. In ancient times, people explained a scientific phenomenon with a story or a song. Through drama, storytelling and music the students discover the how’s, why’s, and what’s of STEM curricula. Arianna’s custom-designed STEM residencies weave the power of storytelling, theatre, writing science and math together. During the residency, the class could explore either a specific scientific process or answer an overarching question such as “Why is the Desert expanding?” After they have laid the groundwork in science and drama, the students will take on the roles of professional scientists seeking to solve a problem. The arts combined with these subjects enhance and motivate students’ understanding of a variety of topics, strengthen critical thinking skills, develop self-respect, and create positive group dynamics.

Use this link to view a video excerpt from this program: https://vimeo.com/67667057

Artist Background

Story Tapestries and Arianna Ross create educational, entertaining, international programs that weave the power of dance, storytelling, writing, visual art and theatre. Arianna and her ensemble uses the tools of their art forms to help youth foster a deeper connection to the subjects they’re learning and to guide educators to increase their effectiveness by incorporating arts-based strategies in their lesson plans. For 20 years they have performed and taught in schools, colleges, community centers, and concert halls. They custom design every program to fit the age and needs of the audience. They have performed for over 1 million individuals. They have executed innovative, custom-designed performances, workshops and hands-on community and educational experiences across the United States, Canada, India, Vietnam, and Brazil in festivals, concert halls, schools, community centers and hospitals. Some of those venues have included The Reach, The National Theatre Family Series, Hillwood Museum, Libraries Across the Country, Multiple Smithsonian National Museums, The Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, East TN State University, National Storytelling Festival, National Association of the Educators of Young Children National Conference, Alternate Roots Week, American Alliance for Theatre and Education. They believe in the power of the arts to Empower, Educate and Engage.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Workshop/Residency
• Discipline: Dance, Multi-Disciplinary, STEAM, Storytelling
• Grade Level: Elementary, High, Middle
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County