Stories and More
Folktales From Far Away Places
"Stories and More" is a colorful host of folk tales from
faraway places. In this one-hour school-based performance stories are told with costumes and other authentic Indian artifacts. A sensory appreciation of a foreign cultural setting is created in an interactive manner. Children are randomly selected from the audience to portray characters in the story. A dance, choreographed and performed by Ranna Jani, is a part of the presentation. Several stories are offered in this format, usually determined on a "seasonal" basis. The "Legend of Divali" is done in the fall (Indian New Year) and in the spring the "Legend of Holi" (Indian Spring Festival). A preparatory study kit for teachers and librarians is distributed prior to program dates. It contains information on the oral tradition of Indian literature, news items, a colorful poster, a pronunciation guide and a fact sheet on Indian customs and traditions. Packets also include instructions for a crafts activity relevant to the story. Students are asked to critique performances through letters and illustrations.