The workshop was organised by Writing West Midlands and led by Maria Whatton, who proved to be an excellent teacher. I don't want to do a 'school report' here, so let me just give you the bullets:
Storytelling is not a performance; rather it is a way to engage with the people listening.- Unlike writing, where we have a reader in mind, a storytelling session depends on who turns up on the night.
- The more thoroughly you can imagine the world you are creating, the better and more believable your stories will be. Interrogate your characters. Put yourself in their shoes - and heads. Draw the world you are creating - see pic.
- There is value in the rhythm of the story; it's almost like music. Read aloud, even if your story is for publication.
- Walk as you think. A change of physical surroundings can stimulate the mind.
- Inanimate objects can be characters. Push yourself to explore the less usual points of view.
It sounds like a fabulous day! We have a member of our writing group who writes a story then tells it (we never actually read it). She's captivating, and I imagine you are, too, when you tell a story.
ReplyDeleteIt's a different skill: part author, part actor, part magician!
DeleteYou beat me to it! Lovely to meet you on Saturday and to read your 'take' on the day now.
ReplyDelete