Storytelling is as ancient as language itself. Transcending age, race and culture, it goes right to the heart of human experience. Sharon Jacksties has been a professional storyteller in schools for 20 years. Her material is drawn from the vast oral repertoire of many cultures, reflecting the shared interests expressed within diverse traditions.

“… I have never seen the class so involved in an activity…” GladesmoreSchool, Tottenham

“…the best storytelling performance I have ever heard…” SomersetMuseumof Rural Life

Her practice with young people is informed by over a decade of working with the Unicorn Children’s Theatre. Collaborations with musicians, dancers and visual artists have ensured a versatile approach to performances, workshops and residencies. These can be devised to cover particular themes and topics, to relate to specific projects or aspects of the National Curriculum.

Workshop activities encourage the listening skills essential for good communication and memory development. Young people are empowered to explore material creatively and to develop their appreciation of language alongside their expressive skills. Even if only visiting your school for one day Sharon will nevertheless leave young people and teachers with plenty of ideas on how to continue their exploration of storytelling.

Sharon has worked in primary and secondary schools in rural and urban settings and has performed at nationally significant venues such as the National Theatre; the Royal Festival Hall; the Natural History Museum; Kew Gardens; the Barbican Centre and countless festivals and museums across the country. She specializes in running storytelling projects for refugee communities, and has an interest in interfaith work. She also runs storytelling and music projects for younger children and her practice is regularly informed by her public solo performances or with storytelling and music duos “Stranger than Fiction”, and “Bard for Life”.

Many schools consider booking a storyteller for special events such as National Storytelling Week at the end of January, World Book Day 1st March or International Storytelling Day on 20^th March. October heralds Black History Week, while traditional festivals like Diwali and Eid precede the Christmas period. In truth, storytelling is an engaging and entertaining experience and an effective aid to learning across the curriculum at any time of year.

Key information

• 20 years experience
• Half day or Whole day
• Performance & workshops
• Engaging Traditional Artform
• CRB Checked