Overview
Vanessa leads vibrant storytelling sessions & literacy workshops often using music & props. Exciting, scary, funny, interactive stories from around the world.
Choose from one of my programmes or create your own…
- For Foundation and KS1:
Funny unusual tales from London and around the world with lots of audience participation, singing and actions. London history, local history walks. - For KS1 and 2:
Storytelling themes include Pirates, Greek Myths, Forests, Local History, London tales, Folk Tales from around the World and World War 2. - For KS2, 3 and 4:
Storytelling workshops: Creating Characters and Geography, Becoming a storyteller and Telling True Tales.
(30 participants maximum)
‘The Golem’ is a Victorian gothic retelling of the ancient Jewish legend of The Golem set during the industrial revolution with themes of creating life, justice, citizenship and ‘knowledge’.
‘Commander’s Car’ is an incredible true story of a Polish boy scout who escaped from Auschwitz in the camp Commander’s car, dressed as an SS officer. It links well with themes of citizenship, and poetry from other cultures.
‘Princess Neon’ is the true story of a female sword swallower who became the best in the world.
I also do storytelling with a real Victorian magic lantern and have a wide selection of original story-slides available.
Experience
Regular clients include the Southbank Centre, Walker Books and Dulwich Picture Gallery.
Other clients include National Geographic, the Royal Academy of Arts, Kensington Palace, the Mayors Thames Festival, Discover Story Centre and the Guildhall Library. Her innovative storytelling project with UCL university won the Provost award for public engagement 2014
Testimonials
“…Her playful, inclusive method of storytelling makes the audience feel like they are helping her to create the story!” Southbank Centre London
“Vanessa’s fabulous retelling of Ancient Greek Myths had the children (and adults) hooked from the start! The children were captivated and engaged throughout…I would thoroughly recommend it- breathtaking!” Year 6 Teacher, Boutcher CE Primary SE1
“…Total silence, open-mouthed …many, many thanks! Amazing, inspiring day!” Polish School Enfield EN1
“We especially liked…the enthusiasm, eloquence and energy of the story teller, the quirkiness of the story and the way the story made the audience question their assumptions.” UCL Academic Centre for Medical Education London. I participated in their award winning public engagement project ‘Reel Health Stories’.
“…Fantastic feedback from all age groups and practitioners. All children were engaged and were enthralled by you!” Coin Street Nursery SE11
“…Children were eager to use more ambitious adjectives, trickier vocabulary and took more ownership over their work” Year 4 two-term writing project Boutcher CE Primary SE1
