The Art of Storytelling
The Art of Storytelling
Photos by Chester Weems
“The human species thinks in metaphors and learns through stories.”
― Mary Catherine Bateson
Valerie Kimble – Storyteller
The art of storytelling is a timeless and captivating form of human expression that transcends cultures, generations, and mediums. From the ancient oral traditions of our ancestors to the modern digital age, storytelling has remained a powerful and essential means of communication. It weaves together words, emotions, and imagination to create narratives that entertain, educate, inspire, and connect us with the rich tapestry of human experiences. Whether told through the pages of a book, the frames of a film, the lyrics of a song, or the spoken word, storytelling is a magical journey that invites us to explore the depths of our imagination and empathy, making it an art form that will forever hold a special place in our hearts and minds.
Through oral storytelling, the teller and listener engage in shared creation. The storyteller endeavors to transfer the images and meaning of the story to the audience, who listens and imagines what is being conveyed through words and gestures. A connection is made between teller and listener and among audience members. This shared experience is the world of the story.
Traditional oral storytelling is my passion and focus. Whether fostering early literacy skills in young children, sparking critical thinking skills in children and teens, providing tips and techniques on performance and story selection to adults, presenting information on the uses of storytelling as a teaching tool, or entertaining audiences of all ages I am available to work with groups of any size.
What Storytelling Means to Me
Storytelling is sharing. When I tell stories, I am sharing part of myself—the stories I love, my interpretation of those stories, my ideas about what is important in each story, what I feel about the story, and my best attempt to share all of that with my listeners.
People remember stories. That is what makes storytelling a good teaching tool.
People enjoy stories. That makes them entertainment as well as education.
As Jane Yolen said about stories, “This is the stuff that dreams are made of… Touch magic. Pass it on.”
What I Do
Engage the Listener
Create a Community
Entertain & Educate
Reach Every Age
Services
Story Programs
Many people believe story programs are only for children. It is vitally important for children to hear stories. But stories and storytelling are for everyone. It just takes the right story for the truth of the story to resonate. A story does not actually have to have happened to be true. Whether folk or fairy tales, literary tales, poetry, or personal stories, I can tailor a story program to meet your needs.
Workshop & Classes
“How do I engage the children?” “Where do I find stories?” “What is the best way to practice?” Whatever your questions or concerns, I can tailor a workshop—either in person or on Zoom—to address your concerns.
Years Experience
- Performances at libraries, schools, churches, treatment centers, day cares & Head Starts, senior centers, fund raisers, performing arts centers, festival stages
- Workshops for storytelling organizations, library associations, graduate classes, VISTA workers, adult volunteers
- Audiences have included babies, toddlers, elementary children, tweens, teens, adults, seniors, and mixed ages
Testimonials
“Kimble is an excellent storyteller who had the adults as spellbound as she did the students. It is not always easy to gain the attention of a group of at least thirty kids ranging in age from three to twelve, but Kimble does it so effortlessly it is truly amazing.”
“Thanks for telling us the Halloween stories. My favorite one was the yellow scarf. That was funny. I told it to my mom and she laughed so hard she fell down. I hope to see you soon so that you can tell us more stories.”
“Your storytelling was great, as usual. I could listen to you all day.”
“She’s amazing!”
“I would have stayed for a 2nd day.”
“Thank you—changed my life and inspired my heart!”