Events
Celebrating the Art, Craft, and Practice of the Oral Tradition of Storytelling
Open-to-the-Public Events are listed below.
The Brave Ones
Stories of Risk, Hurdles, and Heroes
Sunday, November 17
2 PM
The Rotunda
PWYC
Celebrate the Art of Storytelling and join Patchwork at its hallmark event, Tellabration 2024, The Brave Ones: Stories of Risk, Hurdles, and Heroes, on Sunday, November 17 @ 2 to 4 PM, at The Rounda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA. Tickets are Pay-What-You-Can. Suggested $15/pp. Light Refreshments. Recommended for general audiences.
About the Artists:
Michele Belluomini
Michele Belluomini has been a storyteller for over 25 years. She has been a teller at many local and national storytelling conferences and festivals. She is a member of the National Storytelling Network and Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild based here in Philadelphia
Ingrid Bohn
Ingrid Bohn, an Interactive Theater and Storytelling performance artist, has engaged audiences of all ages through story, song, dance, and poetry. Her repertoire wields a vast array of folk & fairy tales, and mythical stories. In her tales, she strives to bring each multifaceted character to life, in a multitude of ways. Mrs. Bohn has performed in PA & NJ at a myriad of venues & festivals, she’s conducted several school storytelling workshops, and has appeared in several virtual stateside & global programs. Her career spans over a decade. Ingrid's passionate and deliberate delivery style is sure to capture your imagination and heart.
Ted Fink
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ted Fink started writing poetry when he was five, stories when he was twelve, and music when he was eighteen. Throughout his young adult life, he was a restaurateur, entrepreneur, and educator. His unique businesses and life experiences helped set the stage for the tales and novels he has created to date. His original songs and music enhance his intense, humorous, and poignant monologues. He is the ultimate performance artist and has acted in several major theatrical productions. Many things may change, but one constant will always remain - Ted Fink will push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Denise McCormack
Denise McCormack is a celebrated storyteller and performance artist, renowned for her ability to bring narratives to life on stage. Her captivating presence and talent for weaving engaging tales have enchanted audiences at the National Storytellers Network conferences, NJ Storytelling Festival, Philadelphia's main stages, and NYC's Artists Without Borders. Denise's performances are marked by compelling character portrayals and an intuitive connection with her audience.
As president of Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild and a key figure in various storytelling organizations, Denise has played a vital role in fostering a vibrant storytelling culture. She also offers workshops and coaching sessions on storytelling and public speaking, helping participants unlock their storytelling potential.
MaryAnn Paterniti
MaryAnn tells traditional folk tales, fairytales, and literary stories. She has an animated style that will capture your attention and keep you very entertained. Her repertoire includes over a hundred age-appropriate stories for children, teens, and adult audiences.
MaryAnn’s also been an Early Childhood Educator for over 45 years and is a natural in the classroom. In her mind , she can play the djembe, the harmonica, and the ukulele. MaryAnn lives in Burlington, Vermont and will happily travel to your event.
Greg Snow
Greg Snow is a 2nd generation poet, emcee, and host who loves seeing poets set free. Greg was born and raised in Harrisburg, PA before moving to Philly after college. Co-founding 2 Lines open mic in 2021 with his friends, Greg continues to provide open mic experiences in hopes people would experience true and lasting freedom.His poetry is a bridge for the broken to find beauty.
Ed Stivender
Internationally-known Storyteller Ed Stivender is a force to be reckoned with. Known for his witty , original renditions of traditional and classic stories, Mr. Stivender has entertained audiences of all ages around the country since 1980.
The author of Raise Catholic (Can You Tell?), and seven spoken word albums, he is the winner of the Circle of Excellence Storytelling Award and several prizes in the Philadelphia Mummers’ Parade.
Count Your Blessings, Story Slam
hosted by Denise McCormack
part of New Jersey Storytelling Network's New Jersey Storytelling Festival 2024
12 PM
Hamilton Twp. Library, Mercer County, NJ
1 Justice Samuel A. Alito, Jr. Way
Note: The Festival runs from 10AM to 5PM and features a variety of storytelling events and activities
Calling all turkeys to "count your blessings" —whether they're a mixed bag or a blessing in disguise. Hosted by Denise McCormack, this story slam is open to all people with a story to tell.
Rules are simple:
Maximum 5 minute personal story — must be a true or it doesn’t count — related to theme
Scoring:
Content (10 points)
Presentation (10 points)
Bonus, TBD (1 point)
STORY SLAM:
THE INS & OUTS OF SLAMMING A STORY
Story Slams have become popular with tellers all over the country whose ambition is to tell original, true-to-life tales and vie for a coveted Best Teller title.
The NJ Storytelling Festival slam welcomes outrageous, thought-provoking, and adventurous personal tales. We believe "to each his own;" story selection is a matter of personal preference. However, keep in mind that content and expression should be family-friendly, and the story must connect with the overall theme of the event.
This is how a slam works:
For the purpose of regulating the event, hopeful participants enter a drawing where names are randomly selected to tell a story. Tellers are limited to a rigid time-frame – here 5 minutes, and props and notes are strictly forbidden.
Judges evaluate tellers’ performances and stories – a process that can occur in several ways. For instance, three judges might be randomly chosen to score contestants, or the entire audience might score and select the winner or winners. Moreover, multiple categories might be created and filled when it comes to winner-selection.
For our slam, each storyteller is given a score on a scale of 1-10 for two different criteria: content and presentation. Needless to say, the participant with the highest score wins the title for a job well done, a tale well told.
Timing is monitored, and signal cards are presented at designated intervals during each telling. For a five-minute story limit, a green card will be displayed to begin, a yellow card will be displayed at the three minute thirty second mark, and a red card will be displayed at the four minute thirty second mark. Beware anyone who dares to cross the five minute mark!
—based on an excerpt by Denise McCormack, editor of Story Art: A Magazine for Storytellers. Issue: April, May, June 2014
About the Artist:
Denise McCormack is a celebrated storyteller and performance artist, renowned for her ability to bring narratives to life on stage. Her captivating presence and talent for weaving engaging tales have enchanted audiences at the National Storytellers Network conferences, NJ Storytelling Festival, Philadelphia's main stages, and NYC's Artists Without Borders. Denise's performances are marked by compelling character portrayals and an intuitive connection with her audience.
As president of Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild and a key figure in various storytelling organizations, Denise has played a vital role in fostering a vibrant storytelling culture. She also offers workshops and coaching sessions on storytelling and public speaking, helping participants unlock their storytelling potential.
Woven Worlds
Traditional Tales and Personal Narratives
7 PM
The Rotunda
PWYC
Delve into "Woven Worlds: Traditional Tales and Personal Threads" with Denise McCormack at The Philadelphia Fringe Festival!
Renowned storyteller and performance artist Denise McCormack invites you to delve into "Woven Worlds: Traditional Tales and Personal Threads," a thought-provoking and captivating solo show at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, on Friday, September 13 at 7 PM.
In "Woven Worlds," Denise McCormack masterfully intertwines ancient folktales with personal insights, creating a rich tapestry of stories that resonate deeply with modern audiences. This performance offers a unique journey into storytelling, where traditional wisdom meets contemporary reflection.
"I believe that stories have the power to connect us to our shared humanity," says McCormack. "In 'Woven Worlds,' I explore the threads that bind us together, drawing from both timeless tales and my own life experiences."
Having performed at respected venues such as the National Storytellers Network conferences, NJ Storytelling Festival, and NYC's Artists Without Borders, Denise McCormack's storytelling prowess is well-known and highly regarded. Her engaging performances have captivated audiences far and wide, and "Woven Worlds" promises to be a highlight of this year's fringe festival.
About the Artist:
Denise McCormack is a multifaceted storyteller whose talents and passions encompass independent research, performance art, and video production. She has worked extensively with various museums and historical sites, refining numerous video presentations for public consumption. McCormack has been a featured teller at prominent venues, such as those established for National Storytellers Network conferences, NJ Storytelling Festival, as well as, Philadelphia's The Rotunda, NYC's Artists Without Borders, and Godfrey Daniels and the Ice House in Bethlehem, PA, to name a few.
A Patchwork of Stories for GrownUps
Patchwork Storytelling Guild presents a brand-new fringe fest showcase, A Patchwork of Stories for Grown Ups, honoring the oral tradition and artistry of storytelling on Sunday, September 8 @2 PM at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA. Tickets are PWYC. Suggested: $15pp. Recommended for ages 13 through adult audiences. Light refreshments available.
Patchwork is celebrating the art of storytelling, elevating voices from novice to seasoned professional, and bringing a vibrant mix of styles, tales, and emotional depth to the stage with boundless enthusiasm and great anticipation!
Tellers include (in alphabetical order): Michele Belluomini, Blinky Comix, Tiffani Dean, Khadijah Renee, Maria LoBiondo, Denise McCormack, Mary Ann Paterniti, Greg Snow, Christina Sturgis, and Nancy Taylor.
According to McCormack, president of the guild and MC for the show,
“A Patchwork of Stories for Grown Ups is a favorite event for Patchwork, a vehicle to promote this incredibly important pastime and integral elevation of a way of life, of being human, of celebrating our human experiences with aplomb.
Storytelling, at its core, is a grand experiment, and it really captures the true essence of the fringe! It’s exciting!”
This program is sure to delight story-lovers everywhere, and we encourage everyone to come hear some really great stories!
Celebrate Storytelling:
An Evening of Tales & Tunes
7 PM
Ice House Tonight
PWYC
Join us for a nostalgic program of old-fashioned storytelling and music at Celebrate Storytelling on Tuesday, July 16 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Ice House, 56 River Street, Bethlehem, PA, where veteran performers promise to weave together traditional narratives with folk melodies for a truly unforgettable experience.
Featuring master storytellers Charles Kiernan and Denise McCormack, alongside noted folk musicians Norm Williams and Tom and Betty Druckenmiller, this event offers a magical blend of tales and tunes that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Tickets are available online and at the door, at a Pay What You Wish rate to allow for accessibility, with suggested prices ranging from $10 for standard admission to $25 for those looking to support the arts.
About the Artists
Featured Tellers:
Charles Kiernan– Charles Kiernan, now retired from gainful employment, performs at theatres, listening clubs, schools, libraries, and arts festivals. He is recent past president for the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild, Pennsylvania State Representative for the National Youth Storytelling Showcase, Pennsylvania State Liaison for the National Storytelling Network and recipient of the 2008 Individual Artist Award from the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission.
He has, of late, been fobbing himself off as Mark Twain with some success. Twain is wont to ramble on about his boyhood memories, the newspaper publishing business, life on the Mississippi and frogs. Mostly, though, he likes to talk about the river.
Charles also performs Americana stories, collectively labeled the "Lost Dollar" stories. This is a collection of Appalachian tales whose wisdom and humor is woven into the life of a little village stuck way back in the hills. The village is named “Lost Dollar” after the original settler’s mishap that caused him to stay there. The main industries seem to be the growing of apples and the catching of cat fish. Just ask about Uncle Willard's Catfish!
Departing from this continent, he also specializes in Brothers Grimm and other fairy tales. Be warned, however, he does tell them in their original spirit, under the belief that the "grimness" of Grimm serves a purpose, and should not be removed.
In addition, Charles is a writer, best known for his long-lived blog “Fairy Tale of the Month”. However, his recent novel A Vacant Throne: Dreams Of The Sleeping Cat has earned him high praise among readers and fans of the fairy and fantasy genres. Two other middle grade novels are in progress.
Denise McCormack –
Denise McCormack is a multifaceted storyteller and creative professional whose talents focus on masterfully crafting meaningful and engaging narratives for public consumption.
Her extensive involvement in cultural, educational, and artistic endeavors underscores her commitment to fostering an appreciation of the art form. Among her many roles, McCormack serves as president of Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild, coordinator of family storytelling events—The Family Storytelling Series— for the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild and its offspring the Folk Arts Consortium, and has been recent state liaison for the National Storytelling Network, co-chair of the NJ Storytelling Festival, and editor of "Story Art," a publication by the National Storytellers League.
In a nutshell, Denise loves —and lives— the power of stories.
Norm Williams –
Norm Williams found inspiration through old-time Appalachian fiddle, gospel songs and tunes, and other folk styles, which adds a robust flavor to his musical performances on the mountain dulcimer or equally adept mastery of the guitar, banjo, ukulele, native flute, and vocals. In 2017 he released a solo recording entitled “…a Wayfarer; Songs of Hope and Encouragement.”
A co-founder of The Pocono Dulcimer Club and a coordinator of their Dulcimer Fest, as well as the Maiden Creek Old Time Music Festival, Williams shares his love of the craft in the role of faculty at festivals throughout the Northeast (including the Pocono Dulcimer Fest; Maiden Creek Old Time Festival, the French Creek Music Retreat, DAA Mountain Dulcimer Music Fest, August Dulcimer Days, Ashokan Music Camps & Augusta Heritage Center, WV) and coordinates music for Quiet Valley Historical Farm & Living History Museum in Stroudsburg for their annual Harvest Festival in October, Old Time Christmas caroling in December and their Music in the Valley program in July.
Williams performs & records with the bands Wayfarers & Company, Tom & Betty Druckenmiller, with Cliff Cole & Rob Yoder in the band, Dulcimer Boys, on occasion with his good friend Russ Rentler …and in lots of informal old-time string bands who jam at Farmers Markets and the like throughout the Lehigh Valley, and he is a volunteer news and folk programming host at WDIY 88.1FM, Lehigh Valley Community Public Radio.
Tom & Betty Druckenmiller –
Tom and Betty Druckenmiller play tried and true old-time music—toe-tapping and tuneful—including dance tunes, fiddle music, and parlor songs.
Tom has been a musician for nearly all of his life. As a guitar player he played in a number of Lehigh Valley bands, but around 40 years ago he discovered old-time music and the clawhammer style of banjo playing he’s known for today. His first learning experiences at the Augusta Heritage Center Workshops included working with Craig Johnson, Gerry Milnes, and Dwight Diller. They shared their music with him and also the history of the music and the people who played it, giving Tom the strong appreciation for both music and musicians that he passes along to his students today.
Tom also creates and produces radio programs, including “In the Tradition” for WDIY, the National Public Radio station in Bethlehem Pennsylvania, and The SingOut! Radio Magazine, which is nationally syndicated and also available on podcast.
Tom and Betty, with their son Nate, began performing and recording in the 1990s. With Norm Williams and others, they have made six recordings, most recently “Bound to Change.”
Betty began playing fiddle as a direct result of hearing J.P. Fraley play “Margaret’s Waltz” on the Augusta stage one summer evening. In following years, she learned from Rachel Eddy, Dave Bing, the late Bill Hicks, James Bryan and Mike Bryant. Luckily enough, she also spent two master class weeks with West Virginia fiddler Wilson Douglas before his passing in 1999.
Betty has especially enjoyed learning unusual older tunes and those with great stories which may or may not be true. She enjoys playing for farmers’ markets and dances, as well as singing songs with great harmonies.
About Folk Arts Consortium: The Folk Arts Consortium promotes traditional and diverse art forms—including music, dance, storytelling, and craft—to expand the role of the folk arts from entertainment to education. We encourage participation to enrich our community and ensure these creative cultural experiences are successfully passed to all generations.
About The Ice House:
“Developed as a model sustainable arts venue, IceHouse Tonight is a cultural initiative designed to serve and share the arts of the local culture. It is a vehicle for creative place-making, focusing on works created by local and regional artists.”
Note to Editors: High-resolution images and interviews with the storytellers and musicians are available upon request.
Halloween Stories
Fun for Everyone at The Trent House
On Sunday, October 29th, you and your loved ones are invited to the Trent House for an afternoon of haunting Halloween tales. From little listeners to grown-ups of all ages, all are welcome to enjoy spooky seasonal fun. The festivities will be held from 3 pm to 5 pm at the Trent House Visitor Center at 15 Market St, Trenton, NJ 08611. This event is entirely free to attend. In addition to some spooky stories and terrifying tales courtesy of master storyteller Denise McCormack, guests can enjoy prizes, refreshments, and more.
The afternoon of Halloween fun will kick off with stories curated with your little listeners in mind. The earlier portion of the day will be dedicated to stories for visitors ages eight and under. There will be two sessions, 3:15 pm and 3:40 pm, with some not-so-scary tales to help get your child in the Halloween spirit. And if you’re older, not to worry: the latter half of the afternoon is devoted to more mature listeners, allowing guests of all ages to be a part of the story time fun. At 4:20 p.m., Ms. McCormack will share some haunting tales geared toward older children, youth, and adults. After storytime, listeners will receive prize bags. You will have an unforgettable fall afternoon with ginger snaps, apple cider, and a whole host of seasonal fun alongside the stories. Find out more.
The Big Tellabration Celebration
PATCHWORK TELLABRATES AGAIN!
The Big Tellabration Celebration
Patchwork presents The Big Tellabration Celebration, a spectacular showcase of stories and storytelling, featuring the amazing talents of stalwart practitioners and members of the community-at-large on Sunday, November 19 at 3 PM at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Phila., PA. Suggested: $15/pp* with Pay-What-You-Can options to allow for greatest accessibility for all.
Running Time: TBA.
Light refreshments. Recommended for adult audiences. More details to come.
Immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling as talented tellers weave enchanting narratives in diverse ways that will leave you spellbound. From folktales to personal anecdotes and more, each unique story will take you on a journey of discovery, evoking a range of emotions and broadened insights.
Whether you're a fan of traditional tales or modern narratives, this event promises to entertain and inspire. Bring your friends and family along to experience the joy and wonder of live storytelling. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be moved by the power of words.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience The Big Tellabration Celebration, an unforgettable afternoon of storytelling.
This program is recommended for adult audiences. More details to come.
Sunday, November 19 @ 3 PM EST
Tickets: Pay-What-You-Can
Suggested Donation: $15/pp
Denise McCormack is the president of Patchwork Storytelling Guild and will be a featured teller of the event.
A PATCHWORK OF STORIES for Grown Ups
A 2023 Philadelphia Fringe Festival Feature Performance
Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild presents A Patchwork of Stories for Grown Ups on Sunday, September 24 @ 5 PM EST at Da Vinci Art Alliance, 704 Catharine St, Philadelphia, PA. This live event is open to the public. Tickets: $15. *PWYC options. Light refreshments available. Running Time: 75 minutes.
Patchwork is celebrating the art of storytelling by taking audiences on a joyride into an eclectic mix of amazing tales recounted by an outstanding group of tellers and featuring, in alphabetical order, the delightful and dynamic Michele Belluomini, Joe Dudis, Ed Stivender, and Denise McCormack. There will even be a few give-away surprises.
According to McCormack,
“A Patchwork of Stories for Grown Ups is a favorite event for Patchwork, a vehicle to promote this incredible and relevant pastime, and this year, in particular, we're pulling out all the stops to bring folks a jaunty mix of narrative modes—recitative, personal, traditional, and transformational! Each story has been carefully selected and uniquely crafted by the teller, but it's always the audience that adds the final touch, a special something to make the experience truly remarkable. Storytelling, at its core, is a grand experiment, and it really captures the true essence of the fringe! It's exciting!"
This program is sure to delight story-lovers everywhere, and we encourage everyone to come hear some really great tales and to be part of our story!
Featured Tellers
Michele Belluomini
Joe Dudis
Denise McCormack
Ed Stivender
About the Artists
Michele Belluomini has been telling stories to children and adults for the last 15 years; performed in schools, libraries, and museums, as well as universities in the Philadelphia area.Michele has performed on various "Fringe" stages, including the 2006 National Storytelling Conference in Pittsburgh and the 2012 National Storytelling Conference in Cincinnati, a host of Patchwork events, Tellabration festivals, the New Jersey Storytelling festival, and the Lehigh Valley's Story Fusion.
Joe Dudis has been a storyteller for 30+ years and tells ghost stories and literary, tall, and folk tales. He has told to adults and children at various venues and events throughout NJ, including the NJ Heritage Trail Festival and the NJ storytelling festivals at Waterloo Village and Grounds for Sculpture. He is a member of the Princeton Storytelling Circle and Toastmasters International.
Denise McCormack loves the idea of stories and is deeply committed to sharing the history, benefits, and practices of storytelling in a broad spectrum of applications — from performance for select purposes to education, business, community, and health and well-being. Among her many roles, McCormack is president of the Patchwork Storytelling Guild, recent past state liaison for the National Storytelling Network, coordinator and creative director of the Lehigh Valley Family Storytelling Series, and an active member of various other local and national organizations wherein storytelling and the arts play an integral role.
Ed Stivender is a force to be reckoned with. An international storyteller, known for his witty , original renditions of traditional and classic stories, Mr. Stivender has entertained audiences of all ages and around the country since 1980. The author of Raise Catholic (Can You Tell?), and seven spoken word albums, he is the winner of the Circle of Excellence Storytelling Award and several prizes in the Philadelphia Mummers’ Parade.
Creative Team
Denise McCormack Coordinator/Host/Storyteller
Michele Belluomini Storyteller
Ed Stivender Storyteller
Joe Dudis Storyteller
Accessibility & Content Considerations
Contact the Fringe Festival Box Office for up to date accessibility information.
This event is appropriate for ages 18+
DaVinci Art Gallery is an historic two-story row home with 4 steep steps at the entrance of the building, and a flight of stairs to the 2nd floor. This building is not wheelchair accessible, however, we will attempt to accommodate to the fullest extent possible.
For information, or to notify our team members of any needs prior to your visit, please contact info@davinciartalliance.org.
Covid-19 Safety policy
This event does not require proof of vaccination to attend or masks to be worn
Agenda
5:00 PM -6:15 PM
Performance
6:15 PM - 6:30 PM
Q & A
Light Refreshments
Frequently asked questions
Who is this performance for?
This show is intended for general audiences. The content is meaningful and entertaining and we hope that it will prompt reflection and discussion.
It is not recommended for young children.
Stories Speak! A Feast of Native American Tales
Stories Speak! A Feast of Native American Tales
Stories Speak! A Feast of Native American Tales, Plus Q&A, Saturday, April 29@7 PM, The Ice House, 56 River St, Bethlehem, PA, Tickets $10
By The Ice House Tonight
The IceHouse Tonight presents
Stories Speak! A Feast of Native American Tales, Plus Q&A
with the artists
Story Tellers Rob Aptaker and Denise McCormack weave together tales of a hero's journey and the lessons learnt along the way in Stories Speak! A Feast of Native American Tales on Saturday, April 29 @ 7 PM, followed by Q&A, as part of The IceHouse Tonight performing arts series.
About the Artists
Rob Aptaker
For over forty years, Rob Aptaker spent time visiting Native American people from many tribal nations. Rob is an avid student of Native American oral histories and of Native American historical and anthropological records and has been privileged to learn some of the stories, songs, and traditional ways of North America’s indigenous people. Rob shares, “If there is artistry in my presentations and performances, it is not in imitation; rather, it is in finding the words, sounds, and gestures to help audiences connect with what is universal in the unique and particular story I am sharing. To make history and culture come to life for school children, I call on the power of stories to awaken their imaginations.”
Denise McCormack
Denise McCormack has been a featured teller, solo artist, and organizer of various events related to the promotion of the art and practice of storytelling.
Among her affiliated roles are: president of Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild in the Philadelphia Metropolitan area, member of the board of the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild, a.k.a. Folk Arts Consortium, NJ state liaison for the National Storytelling Network, besides a member of other various and related cultural, educational, and artists organizations.
McCormack’s mantra: There is a story for every time and purpose under heaven.
Her passion is further invested in her work related to Great Mother culture, The Story Algorithm, MYOB: Mind Your Own Body, and bridging language gaps.
Agenda
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Performance
8:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Q & A
Light Refreshments
Frequently asked questions
Who is this performance for?
This show is intended for general audiences. The content is meaningful and entertaining and we hope that it will prompt reflection and discussion. It is not recommended for young children.
Winsome. Worthy. Wise.
Winsome, Worthy, Wise: Stories About Women — & Open Mic! celebrates Women's History month, World Storytelling Day, and the Spring Equinox, on Sunday, March 19 @ 3 PM at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. Light refreshments. Donations accepted, including menstrual products for local distribution by Penn Reproductive Justice Workers Group. Approx. running time: 120 minutes. Recommended for adult audiences.
Winsome. Worthy. Wise. Stories About Women —& Open Mic!
Winsome, Worthy, Wise: Stories About Women—& Open Mic! takes place on Sunday, March 19 @3PM, The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. Donations accepted in collaboration with Penn Reproductive Justice Workers Group. The event, featuring an information session, performance/speaker presentation, and open mic, hosted by Denise McCormack, is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
About this Event
Winsome, Worthy, Wise: Stories About Women — & Open Mic! celebrates Women's History month, World Storytelling Day, and the Spring Equinox, on Sunday, March 19 @ 3 PM at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. Light refreshments. Donations accepted, including menstrual products for local distribution by Penn Reproductive Justice Workers Group. Approx. running time: 120 minutes. Recommended for adult audiences.
This eclectic and energy-packed program features an array of stories re-imagined by professional speaker and storyteller Denise McCormack to illuminate aspects of the "Maiden, Mother, Crone" trilogy while recognizing that all women embody vivacious and elegant qualities regardless of mother status or age—made all the more potent by a new and fierce sense of self and an unmitigated fearlessness to pursue their own hearts' desires in their later years when fully equipped with a lifetime of wisdom.
Plus, folks of all identities are encouraged to take the stage and share a 3 to 5 minute story of their own. Sign up with registration or at the door.
But that's not all. Penn Reproductive Justice Working Group will be on hand with information related to reproductive health and will spearhead the collection of menstrual products (pads, tampons) for distribution in the local area.
According to McCormack, producer and host of the event,
"Being able to tout and share tales about the strength and fortitude of women in all phases of life is incredible and a perfect fit for celebrating Women's History Month, World Storytelling Day, and the coming of Spring is a perfect.
"But the real bonus is having the opportunity to support the efforts of Penn Reproductive Justice Workers Group which is working hard to fulfil a need in the community that is tantamount to the need for food—the need for readily available menstrual products. That need can seriously impact the day to day lives of anyone for whom the cost can be insurmountable. Truly, the idea of being in such a circumstance is one that can only invoke empathy and a desire to rectify the situation. Fortunately, this event will help with that dilemma, and we're proud to support efforts to do so with an outstanding program and a call for the community to come together for an enjoyable and purposeful afternoon."
In lieu of tickets, donations of menstrual products are encouraged.
About the Speaker/Storyteller
Denise McCormack
McCormack has been a featured teller at local and regional venues, including the National Storytellers Network conferences (KS, CA), Philadelphia Fringe and NJ Storytelling Festivals, museums, and libraries, NYC's Artists Without Borders, Godfrey Daniels (Bethlehem, Pa),and many others.
Among her affiliated roles are: NJ state liaison for the National Storytelling Network, recent past chair and board member of the NJ Jersey Storytelling Festival, president of Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild in the Philadelphia Metropolitan area, member of the board of the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild, and recent past editor of National Storytelling League's publication "Story Art." She is also a member of other various and related cultural, educational, and artists organizations.
McCormack holds a B.A. in English and an M.Ed. in TESOL: Language, Learning, and Literacy, besides several certifications and related awards. She is a dedicated lifelong learner with interests in neuroscience, linguistics, history, communications, and marketing, besides mindfulness and general health and well-being.
McCormack earned a 2014 Women's Achievement award by the National Association of Professional Women, was editor of NSL's Story Art magazine and chairman and facilitator of the AMK Short Story contest for many years, author of "Don't Let the Best Man Ruin Your Wedding: A Bride's Best Guide for the Best Man's Speech" and several articles related to the art of storytelling, for which Bride magazine noted her as an expert in the field, and has presented various workshops on the importance and application of storytelling for communication, healing, and connection.
McCormack’s mantra: There is a story for every time and purpose under heaven.
Her passion is further invested in her work related to Mother Earth culture, The Story Algorithm, MYOB: Mind Your Own Body, and bridging language gaps. Language is culture.
About Penn Reproductive Justice Workers Group
Penn Reproductive Justice Working Group is a movement of Penn students committed to expanding abortion and contraceptive access, creating inclusive sex and menstrual health education, and improving reproductive health policy in Philly. We strive to be community-conscious advocates for sustainable change in repro justice, and we emphasize inclusion and openness to individuals of all backgrounds.
About The Rotunda
The Rotunda, located in Philadelphia, PA, is a community-gathering place that is fueled by the belief that art is a catalyst for social change and that the arts can lead to the formation of meaningful partnerships between our parent organization the University of Pennsylvania, and surrounding neighborhoods. Over 300 events are offered every year, including live music, film, spoken word, theater, art, dance, education, youth programs, arts incubation, and various experimental genres. As an alcohol-free venue, The Rotunda provides a critical social alternative for all ages. At its core, The Rotunda is a shared space fostering learning, enrichment, and community support while empowering the public to present, produce, and promote their work.
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Our Storied Past
Our Storied Past, an information and performance event as part of a community history outreach initiative.
Our Storied Past
Arts Guild New Jersey presents Our Storied Past, a Burlington Community History Event, on Saturday, February 25, at the Lyceum Hall Center for the Arts, 432 High Street, Burlington City, NJ. The event, featuring an information session and performance presentation, is free and open to the public. Light refreshments, commensurate with the program, will be served.
About this Event
Arts Guild New Jersey, in collaboration with the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, hosts Our Storied Past, a community history event, led by project team Denise McCormack and Michael Skelly, to explore public history—what it is; its value; and how to take part in it—as well as to enjoy a sampling of the foods and cultures of the past, including a speaker presentation by storyteller Denise McCormack: Our Storied Past, and the Value of Myth & Folktales which will focus on the folklife, relationships, and shared values of the Lenape, Old Settlers (Dutch, Swedes, Finns) and Quaker British cultures, prior and up to the end of the 17th century, who modeled collaborative ideals and lived their integrity.
The National Council on Public History defines public (community) history as “the many and diverse ways in which history is put to work in the world.
Community History involves asking questions, researching answers, and sharing that information in ways that are meaningful and beneficial to the public.
Clearly, this is a creative process that culminates into the realm of arts and culture and that can be expressed in those terms. Everyone has a stake in it, and this event introduces and embodies that concept—to give voice to everyone in shaping future events.
According to McCormack, who will also share tales from the cultures being discussed, “The folklore and stories that emanate from each are instrumental in helping us to understand their lives and what they value, to see the similarities between those unique groups—and, just as importantly, to see how much they are like us, even now.”
About The Project Team
DENISE MCCORMACK
The Storyteller
Denise McCormack
Denise McCormack is a storyteller in the oral tradition, as well as various other mediums, and believes that stories, even and especially the simple folk and fable, shine a light on little things that have far reaching implications, including personal transformation and the power to draw us together in community. Among her affiliated roles are: President of Patchwork: A Storytelling Guild in the Philadelphia Metropolitan area, member of the board, Creative Producer, and Host of the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild Family Storytelling Series, NJ state liaison for the National Storytelling Network, recent past chair and board member of the NJ Jersey Storytelling Festival, and recent past editor of National Storytelling League's publication "Story Art." She is also a member of other various and related cultural, educational, and artists organizations, and a video specialist, writer, and coach.
McCormack’s mantra: There is a story for every time and purpose under heaven. For more information, visit www.denisemccormack.live
Michael Skelly
The Historian
Michael Skelly
About New Jersey Council for the Humanities
Michael Skelly Sr., is an historian, preservationist, advocate, and artist. He currently serves as Director of Bordentown Historical Society; Isaac Pearson Mansion; Vice-President of Friends for Abbott Marshlands which includes the Abbott Archaeological District on the National Register of Historic Places; serve as an Advocate for Faith Action Environmental Justice Task Force; and is President and Founder of Artful Explorers, an international arts and education charity. He served as Director and a leader in preservation and restoration of colonial era National Register Historic Places including 1740 Friends Meetinghouse in Bordentown, NJ; the 1773 Isaac Pearson Mansion, in Hamilton, NJ, and has served as a Director and Treasurer of the Crossroads of the American Revolution Association National Heritage Area.
New Jersey Council for Humanities launched Community History in 2021. Since its inception, 20 participating organizations have created a wide range of public history projects and connected in new ways with their communities. The Community History program consists of learning sessions attended by all participants, individual meetings with program staff, and community-based project work. During the program, participating organizations will build a new history project with support from colleagues and NJCH.
Arts Guild New Jersey
Established in 1998, Arts Guild New Jersey is a non-profit center for the arts located in the Downtown Arts District of the City of Burlington, New Jersey. It is the mission of Arts Guild New Jersey to present a variety of arts programs (visual, performing, literary, culinary, media) for the benefit of New Jersey residents, along with arts education and arts service resources. In addition to all that, we support the arts, artists and art lovers.
Lyceum Hall Center for the Arts enriches and educates the community through distinctive and engaging creative arts programming.
History
Constructed in 1839 and located in the historic City of Burlington, New Jersey, just two blocks from the Delaware River’s beautiful greenspace promenade, Lyceum Hall Center for the Arts welcomes visual and performing arts patrons to its space, continuing the history of the building as it was originally intended – a space for orators, singers, theatrical productions, and more.
Burlington, one of the oldest settlements and the earliest capital of West Jersey, had access to travelers and therefore became abreast of current trends contributing to the success of Lyceum Hall for many years until its use as the City Hall, after which Lyceum Hall reverted to its original use as an arts center complete with art exhibits, concerts, classes, and camps.
Agenda
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Overview of the Community History Project
Denise McCormack & Michael Skelly
What is Community History? Why this project; why now? How can you get involved? What can we do for you?
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Our Storied Past: The Value of Myth and Folktales
Denise McCormack
Speaker/Storyteller program highlighting how stories shed a light on the folklife, relationships, and shared values of the Lenape, Old Settlers (Dutch, Swedes, Finns) and Quaker British cultures, pri...
Q & A
5:15 PM - 5:30 PM
Light Refreshments related to the presentation topics.
Let It Snow Stories!
Part of the LVSG Family Storytelling Series, Denise McCormack extols the wisdom of stories and the power of believing.
On Sunday, January 15, Denise McCormack takes the stage of Godfrey Daniels, 7 E. 4th Street, Bethlehem, with Let It Snow Stories!, a lively and interactive sharing of tales from the oral tradition that are just the right size for young families and anyone who yearns for the enchantment of the storyteller. McCormack promises to weave a spell to make even the most cynical listener believe in the wonder of truly believing. Tickets (at the door): $5.50 for people ages 6-and-up. (Children 5 and under have free admittance.) Reservations recommended. Light refreshments are available. Books (to take home) will be provided to children by Cops N' Kids.
“I tell stories that mean something to me and that actually want to be shared. The stories and I love each other. Sometimes, I can feel them trying to get out, and what else can I do but tell them? Each story has its own personality—and a little bit of magic! And, oh my goodness, I'm very excited—and honored—that they chose me to bring them to moms and dads and boys and girls and everyone else, too. We're going to have a great time!” ~ Denise McCormack
Metaphor and the Power of Story
Metaphor and the Power of Story
Sun, September 25, 6pm – 7pm
Denise McCormack presents Metaphor and the Power of Story on Sunday, September 25 @ 6 PM at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA. General audiences. Running time: approx. 60 minutes. PWYW. Donations accepted. (Suggested $15 pp)
Denise McCormack shares early versions of the "oldest" folktales and moral guideposts to uncover the often twisted and subversive nature of stories and what really lies behind the curtains, under the covers, and even in broad daylight. Who's afraid of the big, bad, wolf?
Details to follow.
The events listed below are open to the public.
For information about specific programs, please contact me directly.
Philadelphia Fringe Festival presents
The Frog Prince & Other Favorite Stories
TBA
Calendar
Events at a Glance
Thu
Aug 26th
Patchwork Monthly Story Swap
7:00 PM-8:30 PM
Sat
Sept 11th
SPECIAL EVENT: PLAY FOR CHANGE, Denise McCormack, Singer*
12:00 PM-4:00 PM
Sat
Sept 25th
A Patchwork of Stories for GrownUps
7:00 PM-8:30 PM
Sat
Oct 26nd
Arts Guild New Jersey: Denise McCormack, Busker
12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Fri
Oct 22nd
Halloween Haunts and Horrors
A holiday favorite, this is a private event.
7:00 PM-8:00 PM
Sat
Oct 30th
Halloween Hullabaloo!
2 PM - 3 PM