:: Adult & General Public Storytelling & Cultural Presentations ::

Native American Storytelling Presentations

From animal lesson stories to trickster heroes & monster tales audiences of all ages will not only be amused, at times even scared, but learn valuable lessons as well. Since most of the stories Jim shares have been passed down from generation to generation they also serve as great windows into Native culture. During storytellings Jim may also include the use of Native Instruments such as drums, rattles and flutes When requested Jim can also expand on any cultural and philosophical connections found within the stories and songs he presents.

Jim Bruchac - Storyteller, Animal Tracker, and Beyond

During this program audiences will be treated to some of Jim's favorite stories including various Native legends, Adirondack tall tales, animal interactions combined with some of his own often comical life experiences. A scary story or two as well as the learning of a few plaster casts of various animal tracks may also be included in such presentations.

Writing & Storytelling Workshops

During Writing Workshops, Jim helps participants compose their own stories. Using his various books as examples, the most popular lesson choices include animal lesson stories and cautionary monster tales . Jim's Storytelling workshops use highly interactive exercises to help students develop key storytelling techniques. In the context of longer workshops participants can not only create but share their own stories. Special teacher oriented workshops also available.

Native American Culture and the Use of Natural Resources

Focusing on natural resources from plants, trees, rocks, animals, and water - to the soil beneath your feet - Jim provides physical evidence to show how Native Americans shaped these key resources into everything they needed to survive. Along with showing objects such as deerskin clothing, furs, a birch bark canoe, snowshoes, wampum, baskets and hunting tools, Jim also explains the ways this original reliance on the natural world helped shape the many Native legends, cultural values and social interactions that continue to this day.

Field Trip to Visit Jim (at Ndakinna)

Groups and all others within driving distance of Greenfield Center, New York, can visit Jim at his family founded Ndakinna Education Center & Nature Preserve. Housing all of his Native American exhibits with over 2,500 square feet of teaching space, the Education Center is surrounded by an 80-acre nature preserve. Half day to multiple day experiences offered. Visit www.ndcenter.org for more information.

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