Gretchen Murray Sepik
Beatrix PotterAuthor and illustrator of the beloved story "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" and many other children's stories, talks of her life in England, when "my grandpapa was in the habit of walking in the garden and eating live snails." Ms. Potter narrates "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" and "The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse" with the help of the audience who become the characters in the stories. Teachers are encouraged to read "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" prior to Ms. Potter's visit because, as she tells the audience, "I wrote the story so long ago I sometimes am forgetful in regards to names and such. Should I forget, will you help me?" And they do, often adding their own little twist to the tale. (30 minutes) Grades: K-3 Susan B. AnthonyThe nineteenth century women's rights leader who fought for women's suffrage, emancipation of the slaves and the promotion of temperance, talks of her life and the obstacles she overcame in her quest of equal rights for all people. This program includes a display of women's clothing from the late 1800s. Grades: 4-12 Erie Canal SalMs. Sepik creates a fictitious character based, in part, on Old Black Nel, a cook on the Erie Canal. Sal talks of life on the canal and tells Irish folk tales from the Erie Canal. The audience participates as passengers on a packet boat in the year 1840. One boy becomes the captain, another, the hoggee. A girl is helping to cook, another is looking for a husband. The audience laughs as they learn about the construction of Clinton's Ditch. (45-60 minutes) Grades: 4-12 Naomi BrownNaomi Brown is a fictitious character who speaks of her life in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the early 1800s. The audience is encouraged to participate as she tells stories about Br'er Rabbit, Br'er Bear and the rest of the gang from Joel Chandler Harris' "Uncle Remus." (30 minutes) Grades: K-6 Mary JemisonMary tells the story of her life from when she was captured by the Shawnee Indians as a youngster to years later when she was offered her freedom and chose to remain with her Seneca family and friends. She weeps as she speaks of the death of her family and throughout the program she asks, "how would you feel, what would you have done, have you ever experienced...?" in order to draw the audience into all that she is speaking about. Different members of the audience become her brothers and sister and her children in this comprehensive program which includes discussion on research and character development. (45-60 minutes) Grades: K-3 In conjunction with this program, Gretchen can stay in costume and tell Iroquois Folk Tales for younger children. Gretchen narrates some fun-filled folk tales of the Iroquois, while moving in and out of the audience and engaging children in the action of the talk. Grades: K-3 Artist: Gretchen Murray Sepik |
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Twilight Educational Entertainment
The Magical World of Books"The Magical World of Books" is a fun-filled program that stresses the value of books and the importance of reading. Magic, comedy and audience participation blend together in this 40 minute performance. Janice encourages students to begin exploring the many different kinds of books available to read, and the importance of taking good care of them. They'll learn about authors and illustrators, and how to explore their own imagination. This is a perfect show to enhance your school's reading or PARP programs. Possibilities with Puppets "Even very large goals are possible when separated into many
small tasks." Artist: Janice Spagnola |
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Acclaimed
for her characterizations of memorable historical figures, actress
and storyteller, Gretchen Murray Sepik brings history to life. In
2004 she was honored by Young Audiences of Western New York for her
work with young people and commitment to learning through the arts. "I
like small groups of children in an intimate setting because this
allows me to interact with every single child there. My goal is to
awaken children to the joy of learning, the joy of life and the joy
of who they are." As one child so aptly put it, "someone
finally got me to like history."
theatreFigüren
Having
performed in schools, museums and theatres throughout Western New
York and beyond for over 15 years theatreFigüren combines mime,
mask and puppetry to bring creative and unique learning experiences
to audiences of all ages.
Janice
Spagnola has entertained thousands of adults and children throughout
Western New York performing her very popular reading shows since
1995. She is a member of The Society of American Magicians and has
been a juggling and clowning instructor. Together with her puppets
she presents educational performances full of laughter and fun-filled
magical suprises.