by Erica Calkins

I.     Storytelling can re-create the feel of telling family stories around the kitchen table. Cemeteries just happen to be where these people are and can make them more personal to a visitor.

II.     Do the Research -- once you find the stories, they’ll tell themselves. I like to look for the poignant and funny -- kids appreciate adventure, kid-related tales and humor, although a sad story is a nice spice to toss in. Local historical files or the Lockley File series would be good starting places.

III.     Costuming -- this doesn’t have to be expensive but makes you more memorable and larger than life. Appropriate props for your stories not only help keep the interest, but I use them to remind me of my story line. Lavender Green in Hillsboro or J&J Ventures in Oregon City can make you costumes. Patterns for sew your own are available at the End of the Oregon Trail store in Oregon City.

IV.     Study other people -- this isn’t high drama, but there are styles of delivery that make it more than just a casual talk -- perhaps a turn of phrase, a pause, or a mannerism. See many different folks where possible.

V.     Technique Tips --

	Ask limited questions, allow audience to relate to situation or guess an outcome
	Try to have touchy feely props where possible
	Vary tone of voice soft-loud
	Exaggerate motions and facial expressions where possible
	You are not a teacher lecturing -- facts are important, but I try to stress the human side/condition
	Try for a motivational/attention grabbing open and close
	When selecting your stories combine funny with straight history with sad
	Touch on your own experiences when telling the stories, i.e. if telling a sad story think of a difficult time in your life -- people pick up on the emotion
	Time your presentation for the age of the audience -- 15-20 minutes is probably max for a lot of school kids
	See if your stories lend themselves to a theme, repeat that theme where possible
	Change your physical location, use hand gestures, and go out into audience if possible

VI.     Practice -- some folks practice alone in front of a mirror, but I actually find that harder than seeing someone face to face. Consider a series of rehearsals in front of other storytellers and never turn down a chance to "perform." I find that when I’m under the adrenaline I do much better and can refine my programs better.

VII.     Have fun -- even if the delivery isn’t perfect, if you’re having fun your visitors won’t even notice and you’ll improve with practice.

Storytelling isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you like people and like to talk you’ll probably be a good one and in return, you’ll probably hear a lot of fun stories in exchange.

NIGGLETYTWIST
15301 S. Loder Rd. -- Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 656-6892 -- Email JHnck1776@aol.com