Folktales - Storytelling Workshop

Presentation by: Nelson Mapako

 @ Samaritans 06/12/13 

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
 
Single Narratives
This is a presentation done by a solo artist. (one person)
The story teller plays multiple roles, as he/she does not have any other player for support.
Single narratives demand that the storyteller does the following:-

1.      Narration

- A storyteller should have what I term a “visual voice”. A voice that makes the listener/ audience see pictures in the voice.

- The story teller has to be good in voice management techniques i.e

a) Diction – (natural voice is a vital tool for the storyteller)

b)  Voice projection

-  be conscious of the performance space you are using. Is it an open air space, a general hall, or a theatre with proper acoustics?

-What other sounds are there in the surroundings which are competing with you.

- Performance spaces vary in size and design and your projection is determined by the provided performance space

c) Voice variation (levels- select a level that will allow you to switch levels in an interesting manner & tone)

2.      Playing of multiple characters.

-          The story teller has to be in a position to play different characters within a particular story. (Human characters, animal characters, and other imaginary characters such as ogres.

-          Mannerisms, gestures and character traits should be given attention so as to be able to present well-built and developed distinct characters.

-          Characters can be defined through costume, voice, movement and props

3.      Transformation to become objects.

The story teller should be able to transform into other objects- wind, rain, trees, plane, mountain etc. depending on whatever the story is demanding. Keep it as visual as possible.

4.      Stage management

-          It is important for a storyteller to understand performance space.

-           Is it a presentation that involves multi entrances and exits or it is a single entrance and exit type of presentation?

-          Is a set involved?

-          Where are you going to place your props?

-          Which one is the hot spot for the storyteller, in order to reach out to the entire audience?

-          Interaction with props and other visual aids being used in the presentation.

Multi Narratives
This is presentation done by an ensemble.
It can either be one person or more in the ensemble narrating the story.
Ensemble members support in various ways.

1.      Alternate in narrating the story.

-          Also each narrator can tell his/story however all should be driven by one overall plot even when sub plots or parallel plots are used.

2.      Playing different characters created in the story.

-These characters can be human beings, animals or imaginary characters such as ogres

3.      Producing sound effects.

-  To set up a background mood for a particular scene.

- Sound effects can also enhance the believability of particular characters.

4.      Moving props around.

It props are used it is the ensemble can be handy in making sure they are move as the story demands.

5.      Playing different objects.

-          Such as rocks, Structures e.g hut, etc.

6.      Backing the narrator if songs are used.

Song in communication is common in storytelling and the ensemble can assist in bringing out melodious music.

GROUPWORK

1.      What are the advantages and disadvantage of single Narratives

2.      What are the advantages and disadvantages of multi Narratives