Bobby Norfolk - African-American Storyteller
Bobby Norfolk is a three time Emmy award winning African-American storyteller and author from St. Louis who specializes in family entertainment, and educational programs. He also does public programs at festivals, libraries, museums, theaters, colleges and private and public schools. He travels nationally and internationally offering storytelling performances, living history programs, workshops, and keynotes for all ages.
His multi-cultural shows feature program themes such as character education, Black Studies, cultural diversity, Black History topics, history, literacy & reading, nature and animals, holiday stories, Young Authors, Black History Month, summer and camp themes, conflict resolution, Anansi the Spider stories, Br'er rabbit, ghost and Halloween tales, musical shows, African, Caribbean, and African-American tales.
Educational and Community Programs
Themes of respect, responsibility, cooperation, honesty and self esteem are found in each story.
- Straight Talk
- Bobby uses story, poetry and raps to teach valuable lessons in a show geared for older students that promotes conflict resolution and making the right choices.
- Anansi the Spider
- Black History Month comes alive with African stories that instill wisdom and good choices through story.
- Back to the Books
- Librarians and parents love this program! It focuses on reading and literacy, and promotes creativity and imagination. Br'er Rabbit tales are featured too.
- Rap, Poetry and Prose!
- If you like poetry and rap, Bobby turns classics like"Little Red Riding Hood" and "The Party" by Paul Laurence Dunbar into progressive raps that are great fun!
- Holiday Stories
- Many holidays such as Christmas, Kwanzaa, Valentine's Day, Hanukah, Easter, Black History Month and Thanksgiving are celebrated through story, and Bobby can craft a program to meet the needs of your group.
Living History
History comes to life through living history shows that Bobby has written and created.
- Before the Lights go Out: The Story of James "Cool Papa" Bell and the Negro Leagues
- This historical journey through the heyday of the Negro Baseball Leagues brings to life one of its most talented players - St. Louis's own James "Cool Papa" Bell. In this powerful and educational performance, Bobby depicts the life and career of Bell, including his exploits on and off the field, and the discrimination and adversity he faced
- The Harlem Renaissance
- This show brings to life Harlem, New York and the poetry, song and prose of the African-American community in the early 1900's. Legends include Ellington, Langston Hughes and Zora Neal Hurston.
- The Eyes of York
- Bobby brings to life the adventures of the only African-American on Lewis & Clark's famous trip across America, William Clark's slave York.
- This Side Up
- Stories of the Underground Railroad are brought to life, including the popular story of Henry Box Brown's famous escape from slavery!
- In the Shadow of Lincoln
- Bobby brings to vivid life The Civil War and the Lincoln legacy by portraying a freed slave named Elias Jacob. Through narratives, poetry and song, Bobby highlights this extraordinary time in history.
Musical
These programs feature Bobby and a live musician who enhances the storytelling experience.
- Scott Joplin, The Ragtime King
- Bobby and a pianist bring to life the American legend. Features Joplin's favorites, his life story and audience participation with the cake walk dance.
- Drums and Music of Africa
- Bobby and his drummer bring to life traditional African stories, dance and song with this perennial favorite for all ages!
- Swingin' with Duke Ellington
- Bobby explores the life of one of America's most prolific and versatile composes. This program includes live music on the piano.
- Conversations with Jesse B. Simple and Langston Hughes
- The lively poetry and prose of Langston Hughes is brought to life through music, theatre and song.
Workshops & Keynotes
Children and/or adults experience hands-on training with a master storyteller/educator.
- Hidden Heroes
- Can be either a keynote or workshop about Bobby's childhood in a rough neighborhood. He tells how role models helped him overcome adversity through theatre and storytelling. Bobby also offers creative techniques for parents and educators to help students reach their full potential.
- Compelling Characters: Enriching Your Stories
- Bobby teaches storytelling techniques and tools for interpersonal communication. Students receive practical skills for improving their public speaking and acting skills. Workshop can be geared toward African-American themes and characters. Can be adapted for all ages!
