This fun, highly interactive literacy program offers two options:

WORKSHOP: In this single class workshop students learn to to tell a story in pairs without the pressure of telling the whole story themselves. This is accomplished through story listening, analysis, outlining, simple modeling, paired work, embodying the story, and license for creative ideas. Students will come away with a story to tell. And it’s fun!! This can be a stand a alone workshop or a follow-up to a performance.

RESIDENCY: This five day residency is a more in-depth study into the art of storytelling. Starting with the above workshop, students will then work with a new story of their choice and learn how to embody characters, use our imagining minds and develop the confidence to stand up and share their stories on their own! Rona will coach students and they will learn “The Art of Questioning” to understand how to respectfully coach each other. The residency culminates with the students telling their stories several times to small groups of younger students during a “StoryFest!” celebration. Emphasis is on sharing rather then performing.

IN BOTH PROGRAMS, students can enjoy what Rona calls “Living Literacy” in a non-threatening, positive, fun way. Skills include public speaking, communication, imaginative thinking, embodiment of characters, developing “The Imagination muscle”, analytical/critical skills, oral and descriptive language, active listening, auditory memory, self-confidence, sequencing and decision making. Storytelling is a great equalizer for kids who have challenges with reading and writing, allowing them to have a positive experience with language. Rona will meet with each class for 1 -1 .25 hours, up to four classes/day. For grades 3-6. Equivalent programs available for middle/senior high.

Rona’s other workshops/residencies: “The Art of Questioning”; “How to Improve Story WRITING through Story TELLING”; “Creating/Telling Personal Narratives”. Also see Rona’s UA offering “Story Toolbox”.

Use this link to view a video except from this program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEopzMncMYU

Artist Background

Rona Leventhal is the real deal! She knows how to engage kids of all ages. She understands schools. She’s an Educator. And she’s lots of fun! For three decades Rona has shared her passion for the power of storytelling and story creating as a Performer and a Teaching Artist, known for her supportive nature and enthusiastic spirit! Rona calls storytelling “Living Literacy” and “Theatre of the Imagination”….essential for inquiring and creative minds. Her motto: “Bringing Imagination and Motivation to Literacy and Learning” while meeting curriculum goals. Rona is a Storyteller, Teaching Artist, Coach, certified Teacher, Improv Theatre/Movement Specialist, Environmental Educator and Team Building Specialist. She has taught graduate courses for teachers at Columbia University, Lesley University and the University of Massachusetts, provided workshops for the Massachusetts Teachers Association and produced The Summer Storytelling Institute for seven years. Her CD, “Into The Dark: Stories From The Shadows” won a Gold Award from Storytelling World. Co-Editor, “Spinning Tales, Weaving Hope: Stories of Peace, Justice and The Environment” – Storytelling World honors award. Approved Performing Artist and Teaching Artist: Massachusetts Cultural Council, New England Touring Roster, BOCES (NY) and The Connecticut Storytelling Center. Professional Development Provider with the state of Massachusetts.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Workshop/Residency
• Discipline: Storytelling
• Grade Level: Elementary
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County