“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis
I am building my dream of becoming a dramatic storyteller on a strong foundation established during my lifetime as an actor, puppeteer, and playwright. As an actor, I’ve told other character’s stories in first person. As a puppeteer, I’ve played up to twelve characters in one production – bringing all twelve to life! When I wrote and produced plays for my theater students, I leaned on those life experiences because I had no formal training.
As I reach retirement, I’m standing on my strong foundation and have committed to getting the training (online and in class), the practice (at home, in my classroom), and to implementing the affirmative coaching process (during class).
It’s taken me 30 years to sign up for the Storytelling Institute. Becoming a storyteller is not a new idea, it is simply the right time in my life to do it. I knew that I needed to learn story structure and other expectations of an audience with practiced ears. To my surprise, much of the learning would be in the form of an app – Canvas – which was where I’d find the class syllabus, a schedule, recordings of storytellers, readings, handouts, discussions, extra-credit, reflections, and other resources on the subject of storytelling. I realized the learning curve would be steep, especially since I am not an accomplished computer user. I have successfully completed assignments, evaluations, and quizzes!
The “in person” experience brings it all together. I quickly found myself among people who, like me, were on a storytelling journey. These people would be my peers, my audience, and my support system. My teacher, my storytelling “sensei,” provides encouragement, makes herself available for my needs and the needs of my peers.
In summary, the goal and the dream are coming into focus. The first steps of the journey have been taken – boldly! The map lies before me. I have begun to interpret its legend and have recognized some challenges. I have learned from the storytelling adventures of those who have gone before me that I will need to find the stories I am compelled to tell, do the research, the writing and rewriting, the rehearsal and practice before audiences. I will appreciate the talents I have to make this life’s journey a fulfilling and exciting one.
(Connie is behind the puppet at the far right in the photo at the top of the post.)
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