Why I Tell Stories!
By Bobby Norfolk
I started telling stories when my son was 3 - he is now 33. I began buying books to read to him at bedtime and as I would read these stories, vivid pictures would appear in my mind. I soon started doing my own versions of the stories, giving my son a real theatrical performance. I mean, this kid was ready for popcorn and soda by the end of it! It really surprised both of us. Later on, I realized that my background as a comedian and actor lent itself well to storytelling.
When I tell stories, I like to use all my physical resources to pull my audience in. Vocal sound effects help to enhance my stories such as the creaking of a chair, or the slamming of a door. Storytelling is such a versatile art form since it gives me the opportunity to combine poetry, humor and theater into my own special package.
Storytelling is for all ages and I easily adapt the stories, depending on the age of the audience. For instance, one story could be performed for middle school kids, and that same story told completely different for an adult audience.
Character education traits such as respect, responsibility, cooperation, honesty and self-esteem are tools of my trade. I feel stories also help us enter the "Theatre of our Minds." Today what I like best about telling is watching the responses on the faces of my audience. Time almost seems suspended when I am performing. It is cool to see the rapt attention listeners give to me as I tell a story. The energy level I receive from the audience also helps me to enhance the story even more!
I tell stories to see the happiness and joy that can be shared through the oral tradition. No fancy electronics, just teller and listener.
