Workshop and Residency Schedule for Storyteller Laura Simms

	About Laura Simms Marketplace Stories and Essays What's New Laura Simms Home Page

Universal Voices: Song & Story Festival
Saturday, March 26 through Friday, April 1
Findhorn Foundation, Scotland
From ancient times people have gathered together to raise their voices in joyful expression of all that is dearest to their hearts. Join us at Easter for a glorious week of singing, storytelling and sound healing at the Universal Hall, which was conceived as a centre where the sacred aspects of the performing arts could be celebrated. We offer this week as a re-dedication of ourselves and the Hall to the spirit of creativity and joy. We have invited a number of outstanding international artists to facilitate a transformative week of workshops, performances and participatory group events. You will have the opportunity to develop skills in singing, storytelling, composition, improvisation and sounding which can be used for community building, healing, celebratory festivals and personal creative expression. For info see www.findhorn.org/brochure2005/programme55.php

april 2005

Conference on Children's Literature
Friday, April 15, 8:30am - 4pm
Broward Library, Fort Lauderdale, FL
For parents, teachers, librarians, etc.

2005 Children's Reading Festival: Once Upon a Fairy Tale...
Saturday & Sunday, April 16 - 17
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m, Sunday Noon to 5 p.m.
Broward County Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Avenue
Downtown Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Fanciful tales spring to life at this free, family festival as we join the world community in celebrating the 200th birthday of Hans Christian Andersen. The two-day event will feature fairy-tale characters, storytellers, stage shows, musical performances, magic, craft activities and more. Don't miss this Fairy-Tale Weekend! (2005 is his bicentenary)
www.browardlibrary.org/web/crf.htm. Need more information? Send e-mail to kmullon@browardlibrary.org

may 2005

Pearl of Joy & Sorrow: Tales from Hans Christian Anderson
Thursday, May 5, 6:30 - 7:30 pm
Donnell Library Center, 20 West 53rd St., NYC
Storytelling and history of Hans Christian Anderson by Laura Simms.
Free and open to public - seating is first come, first serve.

Women's Health Day: Storytelling & Health
Saturday, May 7
Anchorage, AK

Saturday, May 14
The Horticultural Society: Trees Horticultural Society, NYC
Family activity with storytelling about trees and creating your own tree tale

Vesak Day: The Birthday of the Buddha
2 - 5 pm, Celebration sponsored by NY Buddhist Council.
4 pm, Laura will tell the story of the Life of the Buddha for children.
New York Shambhala Center
15 W. 22nd Street, 6A, New York, 212-675-6544

june 2005

2005 Contemplative Education Conference: The Lost Arts of Learning
Thursday, June 23, through Sunday, June 26
Shambhala Mountain Center, northern Colorado. www.naropa.edu/spirited

october 2005
Oct. 20-22, Michigan Story Festival
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
The two-day Michigan Story Festival offers a complete showcase of the power of storytelling in all its art forms. Michigan Story Festival is oneof the only storytelling festivals to integrate the stories of many cultures and traditions. With the exception of the opening and closing performances, there is no charge to experience the magic of Michigan Story Festival events.

Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:30 pm
Mt. Pleasant High School Auditorium
Laura Simms: “Eyes in My Heart: Transforming Illness into Joy”

Saturday, Oct. 22, 10:45 am
The Broadway Theatre in Downtown Mt. Pleasant
Laura Simms: “Image, Heart, and Symbol: Why and How Story Heals”

Saturday, Oct. 22, 3:15 pm
Townsend Kiva, Moore Hall at Central Michigan University
Finale Performance featuring Laura Simms. For more information, a complete schedule and tickets to the Finale Performance,
visit www.michiganstoryfestival.org or call (989) 774-1885.

Sunday, Oct. 23, 11am
Jewish Stories at Temple Benjamin
502 North Brown Street, Mount Pleasant, Michigan
$8 adults, $4 children/seniors
All are welcome. Reception to follow. For more info, call the Laura Simms Studio at 212-674-3479.

Saturday, Oct. 29, 10 am to 5 pm (also December 17)
Thinking Like a Storyteller workshop
For many years Laura conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft called THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER. Laura will give the first and second of four day-long workshops that explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each day is limited to ten people. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. The days will be taped and the CD will be available to all who attend.
You may sign up for one, all four, or any combination of dates. Spring dates TBA. Each workshop will be unique and complete taken independently, but will also be enhanced by the other workshops. Cost: $120 per workshop.

Sunday, October 30, 2005, 8:30 pm
Haunting Halloween Tales at the Provincetown Playhouse
An evening of storytelling the night before Halloween.
Laura performs the unnerving tale of “The Girl Who Married a Ghost.” This event at the historic Provincetown Playhouse is geared toward adults and older children. Masks and costumes are welcome!
133 MacDougal Street, New York, NY. $5 general admission, Children and NYU folks are FREE
For more information or tickets call (212) 998-5867 or email ed.theatre@nyu.edu

november 2005

Monday, November 14
United Jewish Communities General Assembly. Toronto, Canada
UJC provides life-saving and life-enhancing humanitarian assistance to those in need, and translates Jewish values into social action on behalf of millions of Jews in hundreds of communities. For information on Laura’s performances and programs in Toronto, contact Dan Yashinsky at dan_yashinsky@hotmail.com. For information on the UJC General Assembly, visit www.ujc.org and click the link for “GA.”

december 2005

Saturday, Dec. 10, 9:30 am - 5 pm
Your Life’s Story—A Tool for Growth and Change
An all-day seminar at the Smithsonian Museum. How is your life like a story unfolding? What does that story tell you, and how can it serve as a guide for growth? Learn from master practitioners how to become more attuned to your own story, see yourself as the protagonist, and discover the mythic themes and characters woven into the narrative. Through lectures, discussion, and guided interactive exercises, learn how your story can foster greater personal insight and better decisions.
1:45 - 3 pm The Power of Story with Laura Simms
How stories can help you to realize new options and move ahead with confidence. Guided exercises illustrate how people make life choices, and how to be active in shaping your life story as it develops.
The S. Dylan Ripley Center of the Smithsonian Museum, 1100 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington D.C.
For more information, a full schedule, and ticket purchase, visit http://residentassociates.org/otodec/lifes_story.asp

Sunday, Dec. 11
THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER in Frederick, Maryland
Laura will give a workshop in Frederick, Maryland that will explore how to uncover the hidden meaning in a story for performance. Each participant is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to work with Laura and other tellers in an intimate setting. Beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion.

Saturday, Dec.17, 10 am to 5 pm
Thinking Like a Storyteller workshop (first NYC workshop was on October 29)
For many years Laura conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft called THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER. Laura will give the first and second of four day-long workshops that explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. In these workshops, based on her THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER courses, Laura is going to concentrate on the remarkable way in which fairytales reveal truth and wisdom and provide an unforgettable process of awakening the spirit and heart akin to ritual. We will focus on how one can uncover a way to tell the tale that is as personal as true story, replete with humor and profundity, and can be recalled easily like skin to bone. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. The days will be taped and the CD will be available to all who attend. You may sign up for one, all four, or any combination of dates. Spring dates TBA.

2006

january 2006

Thursday, January 5, and Monday, January 9, 2006
THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER workshop in Los Angeles, CA
In these workshops, based on her THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER courses, Laura is going to concentrate on the remarkable way in which fairytales reveal truth and wisdom and provide an unforgettable process of awakening the spirit and heart akin to ritual. We will focus on how one can uncover a way to tell the tale that is as personal as true story, replete with humor and profundity, and can be recalled easily like skin to bone. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the workshop. There is no prerequisite; beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. Info: Please email storydevi@earthlink.net for information on details and how to sign up.

february 2006

Friday, February 10 at 8 pm, New York Open Center
Special Performance: An Evening of Love Stories for Adults
This evening come experience delightful and uncanny tales of romantic and spiritual love, a celebration of the heart to heal and reconcile as it opens outward. One of the world's most riveting storytellers, Laura Simms, whose first evening telling some of these stories was at the Open Center nearly 15 years ago, will draw from her new book, The Robe of Love, to weave true experiences with symbolic tales from New York, Ancient Greece, Tibet, Russia, Ireland, Africa and the Black Sea in a performance that is as hilarious as it is
moving and surprising. Cost: Members $16/Nonmembers $18. Call: (212) 219-2527 ext. 2 for information or reservations

april 2006

Saturday, April 1 (no foolin!), 10 am - 5 pm
New York, NY. Workshop: Thinking like a Storyteller with Laura Simms
814 Broadway, Third Floor, between 11 and 12th Streets (closest subway station is Union Square)
For many years, Laura has conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft. Laura will give the fourth day-long workshop of the year exploring how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each workshop will be unique and complete taken independently, but will also be greatly enhanced by the other workshops.

Each day is limited to ten people. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event, uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion.
$120 for the day. Please bring lunch. Tea and coffee provided. For further information or to reserve a spot (a few spots still open!), call (212)674-3479 or email storydevi@earthlink.net
SAVE THE DATE. The next workshop will be SUNDAY, May 7, 2006.

Wednesday and Thursday, April 5-6, Palm Desert, CA
THE MUD SISTERS and Other Stories about Friendship
Laura Simms’ enthralling tales and Steve Gorn’s fanciful music endlessly delight audiences of all ages. In addition to kids’ concerts, Laura and Steve will participate in a training workshop for teaching artists. www.mccallumtheatre.org.

Monday, April 10, South Hampton, NY
The Tiger Kloof - Trinity School Retreat
Laura will teach a workshop for students and teachers from the Trinity School in New York City and The Tiger Kloof School in South Africa, two schools who have partnered to promote cross-cultural exchange and tolerance and broaden their global perspective. Laura will work introduce the central role of storytelling in this process in an in-depth workshop at a retreat with students and teachers from both schools.

Tuesday, April 11, Poughkeepsie, NY
The Arabian Nights at Vassar College
Laura will be a guest lecturer in the English Department senior seminar “The Thousand and One Nights.” Laura will teach about storytelling and contextualize the class content, as well as perform for students. She will also be working one-on-one with a professor to train her to teach storytelling in a university setting.

Thursday, April 20 at 6 pm
New York Public Library presents Laura Simms’ Three Golden Apples
Laura is performing at the celebration for the participants of Assembly Member Daniel O'Donnell and the New York Public Library Community Reading Challenge at the Morningside Heights Branch.
2900 Broadway (at West 113th Street)
Free. For more information, please call (212) 864-2530.

April 28 and 29 - Florida Performances
Laura will be making a tour of Florida! The Holland & Knight Charitable Fund has invited Laura to bring the Little Mermaid to life for a daycare in Jacksonville. After attending a luncheon in her honor, Laura will give public performances in Broward County and Miami.

Friday, April 28 at 8 pm
Arts at St. John’s and The Miami Beach Shambhala Study Group present
A Shambhala Arts Festival with Laura Simms, Steve Gorn and Rachel Faro
Laura will tell love stories from her book The Robe of Love, accompanied by musician Steve Gorn. Rachel Faro will sing original songs. The evening will conclude with a raga by Steve Gorn.
St. John’s Miami Beach, 4760 Pine Tree Drive, Miami, FL
$15 at the door. Free parking.
For more information, please call Rachel Faro (786) 553-1634 or
Carol Hoffman-Guzman of St. John’s (305) 613-2325.
www.rachelfaro.com or www.stjohnsmiamibeach.com/thearts

Saturday, April 29
Broward County Library presents
Children’s BookFest: A Celebration of Children’s Day/Book Day
A festival of storytelling, performances, crafts, and books. For details, visit www.broward.org/library and click on the Children’s BookFest button or call (954) 357-7846.
Noon: Storytelling with Laura at Northwest Regional Library, 3151 University Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065
3:30 pm: Storytelling with Laura at Westin Library, 4205 Bonaventure Blvd., Westin, FL 33332
7 pm - 9:30 pm: Moonlight Tales featuring Laura Simms at Main Library,
100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Moonlight Tales will offer a free family storytelling concert under the stars.

may 2006

Saturday, May 6
United Nations International School Book Fair, New York City
Laura will tell Native American and other stories for children.

Saturday, May 6, 2-5 pm
Vesak Day
Laura will be the Mistress of Ceremonies at Vesak Day, Celebrating 2550 Years of The Buddha’s birth, Enlightenment & Parinirvana. The theme is “The Buddha's Teachings: Going Beyond Extreme Views and Ideologies.” There will be keynote speakers, performances and meditations, as well as a procession at Madison Square Park.
At the Shambhala Meditation Center of New York, 118 WEst 22nd Street, New York City. 6th floor.
$7 donation. Please call (212) 781-1947 for more information and complete schedule.

Sunday, May 7, 10 am - 5 pm
New York, NY
Workshop: Thinking like a Storyteller with Laura Simms
814 Broadway, Third Floor, between 11 and 12th Streets (closest subway station is Union Square)
For many years, Laura has conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft. Laura will give the fourth day-long workshop (and final one of this year) exploring how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each workshop will be unique and complete taken independently, but will also be greatly enhanced by the other workshops.

Each day is limited to ten people. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event, uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. $120 for the day. Please bring lunch. Tea and coffee provided. For further information or to reserve a spot (a few spots still open!), call (212)674-3479 or email storydevi@earthlink.net

Thursday and Friday, May 11-12 in Snowbird, Utah
27th Annual Conference of Agencies and Organizations Serving Troubled Youth
"The Dance of Life, The Promise of Youth" at the Cliff Lodge in Snowbird, Utah. Laura will be giving two presentations on using storytelling to work with troubled youth: "Making Peace" and "Becoming the World."

Friday, May 12 at 7 pm in Salt Lake City, Utah
Performance: An Evening Concert with Laura Simms
At the Orem Pubic Library. Free. Open to children with parents and adults. See. www.oremlibrary.org for more information.

Saturday, May 14, 9:30am - 12:30 pm
Thinking Like a Storyteller Workshop
$40, open to everyone. To register or for more information, email Janet Low or call 801-229-7132.

Thursday, May 18 at 7:30 PM
Shambhala Center in Seattle, WA
"Exploring Image, Voice and Story: Compassion and Communication"
A public talk by Laura Simms about performance, meditation and compassion. Free.
3107 E. Harrison Street, Seattle, WA.
For more information see www.seattle.shambhala.org.

Saturday, May 20 at 7-9 pm in Seattle
The C.G. Jung Society presents
Performance: "Feast of Inseparable Union Between Masculine and Feminine Principles"
Laura Simms with Jerry Wennstrom & Marilyn Strong. Our evening concert is an illogical and delightful collaboration of song, storytelling and sculpture. Three artists who have devoted their lives to uncover the spiritual meaning of art and the art of spirituality will perform and engage our audience in a dialogue about how symbol, sound and story awaken the inner union of masculine and feminine that is in secret service of peace, within and without.
$15 Jung Society and Storyteller Guild Members, $18 Non-Members.
For more info, call the CG Jung Society at (206) 547-3956 or visit www.jungseattle.org.
The Good Shepherd Center, 4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Seattle, WA. Hosted by C.G. Jung Society, Seattle

Sunday, May 21, 1 - 5:30 PM
Thinking Like a Storyteller - Seattle
Trinity Church, 8th and James in Seattle, WA
The experience of a story in the dynamics of engagement reveals the most profound meaning beyond analysis. It is the way in which story heals, nourishes and provokes an awakened heart. Using a single fairytale, our own associations and sudden poems, we will explore and map the genuine alchemy of narrative that is revealed in the experience of listening. This workshop will include participatory activities that inform contemporary storytellers, therapists or listeners of another way of knowing how a story heard or told is direct “meaning” that provokes enduring transformation. Each participant is invited to bring one fairytale of their choice. Please bring a notebook and wear relaxed clothing.
Open to everyone. $70 for Jung Society Members and Seattle Storytellers Guild Members/$80 for non-members.
Contact 206-547-3956, contact Diane by email (put "Laura Simms Workshop" in subject line) and Laura Simms at 212-674-3479.

Wednesday, May 24 at 7-10 PM
The META Center, NYC
ALCHEMYSTERY LIVE: AN EVENING OF SPIRITUAL ENTERTAINMENT
214 W. 29th Street, New York City

An enchanting and soul-stirring evening of spiritual music, storytelling, and film featuring artist and author Jerry Wennstrom, singers Marilyn Strong and Susan Mckeown, and storyteller Laura Simms. Hosted by Institute for Spiritual Entertainment (ISE)-NY. Cosponsored by: Center Heart (Charlie and Patricia Hess.) For more information viair http://www.ISE-NY.org
Contact Guirlaine Belizaire, Director of Programming, by email Guirlaine@ISE-NY.org or Muriel Stockdale, Co-Founder, by phone: 212-475-1875

june 2006

Thursday to Saturday, June 1-5, Canada
Storytelling Conference at the Arthur Mauro Center for Peace and Justice
University of Manitoba in Winnepeg, Canada
For more information or full conference schedule, contact senehiji@ms.umanitoba.ca or call 204-474-6052.

Friday and Saturday, June 9-10, Nova Scotia, Canada
The Tenth Annual Cape Breton University Storytelling Symposium
in the city of Syney of Capre Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada
Presentation and storytelling conference. For more information contact afra.kavanagh@capebretonu.ca or call 902-563-1431.

Saturday and Sunday, June 17-18, storytelling on June 19
Shambhala Arts, Baltimore, MD
Level 1: Coming to our Senses with Laura Simms and Judy Bond
For information contact Judy at arthurbond@aol.com.
Father's Day storytelling at the Baltimore Shambhala Center

Friday, June 23 at 8 pm, The Skillful Tales of Sheherazade
Open Center, New York City
For a thousand and one nights, to forestall her death, Scheherazade spun tales for an unjust king, but she ultimately saved her life and her world by covertly transforming his hard heart with fierce kindness, armed only with her voice, compassion and her powerful stories. Laura will retell some of these tales of the Arabian Nights, interspersed with true-life stories, to open our hearts and celebrate the power of non-aggression and tolerance in our troubled world.

Saturday, June 24 at 11 AM, Central Park, NYC
Storytelling: Two Dog Sisters and The Steadfast Tin Soldier
Meet at the Hans Christian Anderson Statue by the boat pond in New York's Central Park. ENter the part at 72nd Street and 5th Avenue and head north. Rain or shine. Free

Sunday, June 25, 10 AM - 3 PM, New York, NY
Laura Simms Workshop: THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER
814 Broadway, Third Floor, between 11 and 12th street (closest subway station is Union Square)

2007...New Cycle Starting of Mentor Program starts in September.
The Mentor Program has cycled through for spring, and we look forward to offering another six-month Mentor Program cycle in September. Participants from all over the world have worked with Laura to explore storytelling, moving into the second half of the year. You can also have the option to continue beyond six months. We invite you to consider joining this exciting program.

the Mentor Program is a way of climbing underneath the literal structure and meaning of the words to enjoy the dynamic quality of the special relationship instigated by the story, told and envisioned. The process is relevant to those who are intrigued and have fallen in love with stories; professional and new storytellers working in every possible kind of venue ranging from theatrical performance and children’s programs; and those working in business, the environment, humanitarian work and so on. The program consists of monthly conversations with Laura, stories, online group discussions and assignments.

june 2006

Thursday to Saturday, June 1-5, Canada
Storytelling Conference at the Arthur Mauro Center for Peace and Justice
University of Manitoba in Winnepeg, Canada
For more information or full conference schedule, contact senehiji@ms.umanitoba.ca or call 204-474-6052.

Friday and Saturday, June 9-10
Nova Scotia, Canada
The Tenth Annual Cape Breton University Storytelling Symposium
in the city of Syney of Capre Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada
Presentation and storytelling conference. For more information contact afra.kavanagh@capebretonu.ca or call 902-563-1431.

Saturday and Sunday, June 17-18, storytelling on June 19
Shambhala Arts, Baltimore, MD
Level 1: Coming to our Senses with Laura Simms and Judy Bond
For information contact Judy at arthurbond@aol.com.
Father's Day storytelling at the Baltimore Shambhala Center

Friday, June 23 at 8 pm
The Skillful Tales of Sheherazade
Open Center, New York City
For a thousand and one nights, to forestall her death, Scheherazade spun tales for an unjust king, but she ultimately saved her life and her world by covertly transforming his hard heart with fierce kindness, armed only with her voice, compassion and her powerful stories. Laura will retell some of these tales of the Arabian Nights, interspersed with true-life stories, to open our hearts and celebrate the power of non-aggression and tolerance in our troubled world.

Members $16 / Nonmembers $18. For more info or to reserve ahead, see www.opencenter.org

Saturday, June 24 at 11 AM
Central Park, NYC
Storytelling: Two Dog Sisters and The Steadfast Tin Soldier
Meet at the Hans Christian Anderson Statue by the boat pond in New York's Central Park. ENter the part at 72nd Street and 5th Avenue and head north. Rain or shine. Free

Sunday, June 25, 10 AM - 3 PM
New York, NY, Laura Simms Workshop: THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER
814 Broadway, Third Floor, between 11 and 12th street (closest subway station is Union Square)

Laura will give the fifth day-long workshop of the year exploring how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. It is limited to ten people. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event, uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion.
$120 for the day. Please bring lunch. Tea and coffee provided.
For further information or to reserve a spot, call (212) 674-3479 or email storydevi@earthlink.net

august 2006

Laura Simms 25th Annual Storytelling Residency
August 13 though August 20
Wellspring Renewal Center, Philo, Calif.
Laura has lead a week-long intensive workshop and retreat for storytellers. Join us this August for another wonderful week of storytelling and renewal!
For information about the Residency, and /or travel to and from Philo, call our Residency assistant, Robin Borgers at (415) 624-9094 To learn more about the Center go to www.wellspringrenewalcenter.com or www.wellspringrenewal.org
See our Residency page for more information and application form

August 25-27
East Hill Farm Conference and Retreat Center in Middlesex, NY
The Rochester Folk Art Guild presents Laura Simms in a public performance on Friday night and full-day workshops on Saturday and Sunday exploring the intersection of myth with personal story in a secluded and contemplative setting. $240 includes workshop fee, lunch both days and Friday's performance. For information and registration, please contact Victoria at (585) 554-3945, email vitahri@yahoo.com, or visit www.rfag.org
7:30 p.m. Friday: Public performance by Laura, $10 in advance, $12 at the door.
Saturday & Sunday: Full-day Workshops, $240 (U.S.) includes workshop fee, lunch both days,
and the Friday evening performance. Registration limited to 30 participants. Early registration is recommended. $100 reservation
Bed & Breakfast accommodations available at the Farm and nearby. For information and registration, call 585-554-3945 or e-mail vitahri@yahoo.com. For more information about the Rochester Folk Art Guild, visit www.RFAG.org

fall 2006

Sundays, 10 am - 5 pm
October 1, November 12, and December 10
New York, NY
Laura Simms Workshop: THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER
814 Broadway, Third Floor, between 11 and 12th street (closest subway station is Union Square)

Laura's intimate day-long workshops explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Workshops are limited to ten people. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event, uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. You can take one or any number of workshops. $120 for the day. Please bring lunch. Tea and coffee provided.
For further information or to reserve a spot, call (212) 674-3479 or email storydevi@earthlink.net. See workshops page for more information.

october 2006
October 6-8
Shambhala Arts Weekend, Baltimore
"The Creative Process: Joining Heaven and Earth"
October 6-8. Baltimore Shambhala Center, Marylander, 3501 St. Paul Street
How to cultivate the appearance of a brilliant idea in your mind (heaven) and implement it within the
practicalities of your world (earth) with wisdom, humor, and compassion for all.
Exercises in different media, storytelling, discussion and meditation. Open to all. More info.

October 11-13.
Storytelling Residency and Performance, The Leonardo, Salt Lake City
October 11-13. See pdf flyer for more details. Go to The Leonardo at Library Square website.

October 15-20.
Storyteller in Residence, National Storytelling Center, Jonesboro, TN
October 15-20. Email for more details. See lineup of weekly storyteller

november 2006

Thursday, November 30, 12:30 - 2 pm
Stories from Afghanistan with Laura Simms
presented by the HCC Book Connection and the Office of Student Life
Burrill Galleria, Howard Community College, Columbia, MD (view poster)
"How does image and story heal community, bind us to ourselves and each other and the continuity of past tha circumvents fixation on misery, war and the dreams of materialism that breed isolation and desire rather than resilence and creativity?" - Laura Simms
Explore these ideas and more through vibrant tales from Afghanistan and an exploration of stories such as "The Kite Runner" in healing painful divides. Free.

december 2006
sunday, December 10, 10 am - 5 pm
Laura Simms Workshop: THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER
814 Broadway, Third Floor, between 11 and 12th street (closest subway station is Union Square). See description. For further information or to reserve a spot, call (212) 674-3479 or email storydevi@earthlink.net. See workshops page for more information.

December 16 - 18
Email for info about "by invitation only" Thinking Like a Storyteller Workshop in Baltimore.
Limited to ten people. Or create your own custom storytelling workshop in your city.

SORRY...A LOT OF EVENTS ARE MISSING FROM THIS PAST EVENTS SCHEDULE.

sept 2007

September 9, 11am - 12pm
LAURA SIMMS PERFORMS STORIES - peaceful children, peaceful world.
THE MUD SISTERS AND OTHER TALES ABOUT FRIENDSHIP:
Laura Simms, one of the best known performance storytellers in the world, combining global stories with personal narrative. Just right for families, these tales are riveting, entertaining, poignant and meaningful. Join in as she and her childhood friends dig through the mud in search of China and discover the magic of play and loving kindness. Other tales from West Africa, Korea and the Moduc Indians of Oregon. For children four and over. CONTACT INFORMATION: the New York Society for Ethical Culture, New York City
Contact Rita Chawla at rchawla@nysec.org. Reserve now via email or RSVP at 212-874-5210, ext 106
Tickets are $5.00 in advance, $10.00 at the door | Visit the New York Society for Ethical Culture Website

September 16 - 26, 2007
Laura Tours Malaysia and Singapore

September 16, 17, 7-9 pm. Storytelling healing and transforming conflict into conversation. Laura offers a two-evening workshop that helps storytellers working on conflict, trauma, and healing. Focus on the process of engagement. Contact Roger Jenkins. See http://storytellingsingapore.com.

September 19-22. Mini Residency in Malaysia at Fraser Hill.
Contact Kirin Shah at 65 64473320.

September 24 - 28. Artist in Residence at the International School in Singapore.
Daylong performances, teacher workshop and parent talk. Tour contact in Singapore: Katherine McCleod.

oct 2007
Tuesday, October 2, 6:30 pm
Ishmael Beah, author of the NY Times bestseller "A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier"
receives Humanitarian Award from the Rubin Museum of Art. Laura presents the award and introduces Ishmael. By invitation only.

Wednesday, October 17, afternoon.
Afternoon Performance, Danville School.
To schedule Laura give a performance/workshops for students and/or teachers at your school, see School Performance Info Page and School Program/Workshop List.

Thursday, October 18
Vermont School Library Association keynote address "Storytelling as a Path toward Peace," followed by workshop and reception. Contact Caroline De Maio. Program and registration info.

Friday, October 19, 8 pm
The Writer's Voice Visiting Author Series Presents
Laura Simms and Dan Yashinksy
Laura and Dan will be performing an evening of stories and storytelling.
Wine will be provided by 67Wines; books provided by Mobile Libris.
The West Side YMCA, 5 West 63rd St (between Central Park West and Broadway), NYC.
Admission free, no adv. registration necessary.

Saturday, October 20, 10 - 4 pm
Thinking Like a Storyteller Workshop
at The Laura Simms Studio, 814 Broadway, New York.
10 am - 4 pm, limited to 12 participants.
$125. Call 212-674-3479 for more information or see here.

For many years Laura has conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft called THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER. These day-long workshops explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. The days will be taped and the CD will be available to all who attend. (Participants can take additional workshops if they desire. Next one will be November 17.)

Sunday, October 21
Long Island Children's Museum, Garden City, NY
"Your House My House," a cross cultural look at how people live in Fiji, Malaysia, and Mongolia.
Details to Come. Contact Leonard Marcuis.

Sunday, October 21
First Annual Meditate NYC, Synod Hall on the Campus of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine.
Free. 1-7 pm. An afternoon of meditation instruction offered by Buddhist teachers from different traditions, periods of meditative movement, and music. Laura will tell Buddhist tales in the late afternoon.
http://www.newyorkbuddhist.org | New York Buddhist Council.

Monday, October 29
Laura performs as a special guest at Franklin School (Westfield, NJ) during Red Ribbon Week. During this week, students focus on activities and presentations that promote health, awareness, and opposition to substance abuse. For information contact the school at 908-789-4592.
To schedule Laura give a performance/workshops for students and/or teachers at your school, see School Performance Info Page and School Program/Workshop List.

nov 2007

November 1 - 5
Laura Simms performs and gives workshops at the International Storytelling Festival in Aachen, Germany. For more information and program details, email Regina Sommer.

Sunday, November 11, 3 - 4 pm (house opens at 2:30)
Storytelling at The Provincetown Playhouse
Moments of Mercy: The Secret of Making Peace. World renowned storyteller Laura Simms returns to the Provincetown Playhouse with a wildly imaginative, zany and moving fairytale from northern Romania, "BREAK OF DAY." Interwoven with true-life stories and folktales about the power of kindness, this enchanting program is about the importance of the quest within and without to bring joy to the world.
For adults and children 5 years and older. Admission $5, Children free.
Provincetown Playhouse, 133 MacDougal Street, just south of Washington Square in Greenwich Village, NYC.
212-998-5867.

November 15 - April 2008
Laura's Storytelling Mentorship Program begins November 17. Each participant commits to working with Laura and other mentees for six months. Full details here, (newly posted details on Oct. 24).

Saturday, November 17, 10 am - 4 pm
Thinking Like a Storyteller Workshop
at The Laura Simms Studio, 814 Broadway, New York.
10 am - 4 pm, limited to 12 participants.
$125. Call 212-674-3479 for more information or see here.

For many years Laura has conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft called THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER. These day-long workshops explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There is no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. The days will be taped and the CD will be available to all who attend. (Participants can take additional workshops if they desire. These are scheduled regularly.)

dec 2007

Monday, Dec. 3, 10:30 am -11am
Three Golden Apples, with music by Steve Gorn
Presented by Theater Development Fund
Kingsborough Community College, PAC Performing Arts Center
2201 Oriental Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11235
1 - 2 pm, Presentation for Consumer Eyes, Marketing and Storytelling

Dearest Laura & Steve,
Thank you for your beautiful performance of “The Three Golden Apples” on December 3 for the 450 fifth graders. You both work so wonderfully together and the story with the music was such a gift to these kids---and to us, the grown-ups hanging on your every word & note of music. The kids sat on the edge of their seats with their jaws dropped open the whole time. It’s a fabulous sight!
 
Thank you for being the best of theatre—the simple art of telling a riveting story and transporting kids to a whole other world and giving them a whole new way to look at the world.
 
You are both treasures. Thank you.
Love,
Marianna Houston, Education Director

December 14 - 24
Storytelling Tour of Bhutan
Presented by the Eastern Tennessee State University Graduate Program in Storytelling.
This travel course to the Kingdom of Bhutan to attend this storytelling festival can be taken solely for the storytelling adventure itself or for three units graduate credit through ETSU. We will participate in lectures, receptions, and tours of villages, monasteries, and other sites of cultural, spiritual and scenic interest. Besides Laura, storytelling guides include Dr. Joseph Sobel, Steve Evans, Kunzang Choden, Tandin Dorji, Dorji Penjore, Dasho Karma Ura, and HRH Princess Sonam Choden Wangchuck. See beautiful PDF brochure (registration deadline extended to Dec. 1). Email Leonard Passmore at Summit Travel for latest tour info. or phone 423-282-4223; contact program coordinator Joseph Sobel at 423-439-7863 or email at sobel@etsu.edu. Note: Laura plans to return to Bhutan in April of 2008. Email for details.

jan 2008

Monday, Jan. 7
Presenting Stories for Peace
Auditorium Show at Strayer Middle School
1200 Ronald Reagan Drive, Quakertown, PA 18951

Tuesday Jan. 8
Philadelphia Concert with Julia Haines and Laura Simms
At Stratford Friends School. For more information, contact Julia Haines at julia.haines@verison.net

Friday, Jan. 11
St. Hilda's School
Storytelling program in honor of teacher-storyteller John Coligan.

Saturday, Jan. 19, 10 am - 4 pm
Thinking Like a Storyteller Workshop
At The Laura Simms Studio, 814 Broadway, New York
Limited to 12 participants.
$125. Email for more information

For many years Laura has conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft called THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER. These day-long workshops explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There are no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. The days will be taped and the CD will be available to all who attend. (Participants can take additional workshops if they desire. Next one will be March 8, 2008)

Jan. 23 - 27
Next Generation Gathering
Laura Simms co-facilitates with Terry Tempest Williams
Will be held at Chappaqua Park in Boulder, Colorado
Sponsored by Murie Center for the Environment

Jan. 28 - Feb. 3, Oslo, Norway
Jan. 31, Making Monsters: Transforming Aggression into Compassion
Laura will engage in a creative process of creating a personal and imaginative story that explores the source of power and how we can work with you in communities in conflict in order to generate peaceful abiding. The day will combine story making, exploration of tools for working with conflict, intolerance and bullying.
Laura’s work is based on her book “Becoming the World” incorporating new exercise designed through work in Romania and with youth in crisis. For more information contact: Heidi Dahlsveen
Jan. 30, 8 pm: Moments of Mercy. Performance. The inner work of making peace combining real life stories with a remarkable Romanian Fairytale, for adults. Location: Kulturkirken Jakob, Hausmannst. 14.
Feb. 1, Workshop with students at University of Oslo.

feb 2008

Feb. 6-10 (POSTONED UNTIL SPRING, dates TBA)
Salt Lake City, University of Utah
Feb. 7. The Environment and the Power of Story with Ishmael Beah (author of A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier, Laura Simms, and Terry Tempest Williams. Book reading, storytelling, and conversation. Public event at the University of Utah. Time and place TBA.
Feb. 8 & 9. Working with students on storytelling at the University of Utah Dept. for Environmental Studies. Sponsored by The Leonardo. For more information contact Alexandra Hesse at The Leonardo, 801-531-9800

Saturday, Feb. 16, 4 pm
Presenting “A Long Way Gone” with author, and Laura's son, Ishmael Beah.
Brooklyn Public Library in the Central, Dweck Auditorium
10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238
For more information contact Meredith Walters.

Feb. 21
Danville and Other Schools
St. Johnsbury, Vermont
For more information, contact: Caroline Demaio

Feb. 22-28
Laura leads a simplicity meditation retreat
Karme Choling, Barnet, Vermont
For more information: 802-633-2384

march 2008

Saturday, March 8, 10 am - 4 pm
Thinking Like a Storyteller Workshop
At The Laura Simms Studio, 814 Broadway, New York
Limited to 12 participants.
$125. Call 212-674-3479 for more information For many years Laura has conducted an ongoing workshop in her loft called THINKING LIKE A STORYTELLER. These day-long workshops explore how to uncover the inner meaning in a story for performance. Each person is requested to choose a traditional story to work on during the day. There are no prerequisite, beginners and advanced performers are very welcome. We will work with the structure of the story as a reciprocal event; uncovering levels of meaning as we develop personal styles of performance, and taste the power of presence and compassion. The days will be taped and the CD will be available to all who attend. (Participants can take additional workshops if they desire.)

Saturday, March 15, 9 am – 5 pm
Gettysburg College All Campus Conference (Engaged Learning)
Laura will work with students during a "working lunch" to help them tell their stories. Workshop 12 pm to 2:30 pm; Group talk 4 pm.
Gettysburg College, Center for Career Development, College Union 260.
Contact Katherine Mattson at kemattso@gettysburg.edu

april 2008

Tuesday, April 1
Children’s Author Symposium: Home Is Where the Heart Is
William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ
An evening exploring the concepts of home and family through books and stories of children throughout the world. The evening includes dinner, a panel discussion, a history of children’s books about home and family, and a storytelling workshop. See page 5 of catalogue for details. http://www.wpunj.edu/cpe/PDF/Catalog_Spring_08.pdf
Contact Nancy Friend, 973-720-3829, friend@wpunj.edu

Saturday, April 12
16th Annual Conference, Storytelling for Children
"Why are Stories Powerful?
Keene State College, Keene, NH
Laura Simms gives keynote address where she will explore the power of narrative to heal and transform.
Laura's workshop will be "Making Fairy Tales with Children: Finding the Hidden Story."
Call 413-498-4484 for details. See this page to register.
Keene State College, Keene, New Hampshire.

Monday, April 14, 4-5:30 pm
“Sweet Words: Storytelling as Compassionate Action”
Seattle, WA
Laura will conduct a workshop to expand ways in which the process of storytelling nurtures innate compassion in our children. Laura's workshop is part of the SEEDS OF COMPASSION: A five day event with the Dalai Lama for the benefit of children (April 11-15). Laura's son Ishmael Beah speaks that morning with the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu on the main stage. See http://www.seedsofcompassion.org for details.

April 15-17
A Laura Simms Special Storytelling Project:
Storytelling with Refugee Youth
Laura continues the work she has done with her students at the University of Manitoba's Arthur V. Mauro Centre for Peace and Justice last summer. Marc Kuly, teacher, conducts program.
Winnipeg, Canada. (Not open to the public.)

Friday and Saturday, April 25- 26
33rd Annual Rocky Mountain Storytellers’ Conference
Broomfield, CO
“Storygarden: From Seeds to Blossom”
Laura is the featured national storyteller. Performances and workshops.
Broomfield Auditorium, 3 Community Park Road, Broomfield, CO 80020
See conference website for schedule and registration details.
Contact Jane Treat at jane@janetreat.com

April 26-28
Next Generation Project: 4th Meeting
Tucson, Arizona
Laura is co-faculty with Terry Tempest Williams, Brooke Williams and Chris Peterson. Sponsored by the Murie Center. (Not open to the public.)

may 2008

Thursday and Friday, May 1 - 2
11th Annual Pastoral Care Conference
“Looking for Life in a Shattered World: Implications for the Helping Professions”
Laura Simms and Ishmael Beah, author of “A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier” conduct workshops on how storytelling can promote individual, familial, and community transformation. They will also explore the journey of reclaiming one’s humanity after extreme psychological trauma.
MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109
Cost: See website, continuing education credits available for counselors, healthcare professionals, etc. Contact: Wayne Brass at drossbach@metrohealth.org

Wednesday through Saturday, May 7 - 10
The 2008 Winnipeg International Storytelling Festival
“The Rights of the Child”
Laura will work with kids and their experiences to convey the depth of their experience with immigration and the culture they imported with them.
Various venues. Visit the festival website for details
Cost: FREE. Email Sean Byrne or phone 204-474-6052, Fax 204-474-8828

In Sierra Leone
Laura will be visiting schools in the Kono District and Freetown in Sierra Leone for 2 weeks. Laura Simms and Susan McClelland are also organizing a reunion of children from Sierra Leone who are amputee victims who now have a theater company in Freetown. Renunion to be held at the UN in July. Dates TBA. For more information, email Laura's office.

june 2008

June 29 - July 3, 2008
Plan now to attend the
Laura Simms Annual Storytelling Residency
Philo, California

Cost $1450 (discount for those returning or part of the Mentorship $1300) To reserve a spot for the last year at the gorgeous Wellspring Renewal Center, please send a $175 non refundable deposit. Registration is open until June 5, 2008 but the week is limited to 16 participants so please reserve your spot as soon as possible! If you pay in full before April 1, the cost is reduced to $1350, returnees $1250. See residency page for more info.

october 2008

Tuesday, October 21, 2 pm
Changing the World by Changing our Mind
About storytelling and the power of compassion. Traditional tales and stories about becoming a mother.
Dept of Journalism and Communication, University of Utah, Logan. For info email coy.w@aggiemail.edu

October 22 -25
Four Day Residency with Laura Simms
Salt Lake City with The Leonardo
The Unity Center and Community Theater in Salt Lake City
Community Workshop, Performance and discussion with school children, teen workshop, youth provider workshop, family community performance, Leonardo story booth, story concert "Episode in a Vertebrae: True Life Tales and Symbolic Fairytales" on Sat. 8 pm at The Leonardo. See pdf flyer for full details and schedule.

For information call Alex Hesse 801-937-4214 or email ahesse@leanardo.org

October 31 through November 2
"Be Like the Moon"
Storytelling as healing with Laura Simms and Ishmael Beah, author of A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier
Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, Stockbridge, MA
Laura and Ishmael will join musician Steve Gorn on the Saturday night public performance.
For more information and reservations call 413-448-3331 or click here

november 2008

November 6-9
Aachen International Storytelling Festival, Germany
A Day of Crystals: Memory and forgiveness: The 60th anniversary of Kristalnacht.
For information contact Regine Sommers, reginasommers@aol.com

November 8, 4 - 10 pm
Workshop with Heidii Dahlsveen, Laura's guest teacher, facilitated by Robin Bady
Daylong workshop developing stories. Limited to ten persons.
Laura Simms' loft, 814 Broadway, New York, NY 10003.
Cost is $60, paid in advance or at the door (with permission)
Contact our office in advance at 212-674-3479 or email Laura.

November 9, 3 pm
Family storytelling by Heidi Dahlsveen at NYU (rsvp 212-998-5667)

November 10-20
Macondo Refugee Center
Vienna, Austria with Cabula6
Storytelling and workshops with refugee community. Laura's storytelling process with refugees is being documented by Gillian Huebner in collaboration with Caluab6, supporrted by the EU and a Brimstone grant.

december 2008

Monday, December 1
"Misfortune's Fortune: New young adult show with music by Julia Haines.
Not open to the public. Brooklyn, NY. Sponsored by Theater Development Fund

Monday, December 1 (Postponed, will now start early January 2009)
Storytelling Mentor Project starts. A long distance learning course with Laura about how to deepen one's understanding of how stories have meaning and come alive in performance. The mentor program is open to 14 people and continues over seven months, with assignments, essays, stories on a blog, ongoing group discussion, mentor conference call, and privat phone coaching each month.

CANCELLED
December 6-9, Freetown, Sierra Leone

December 22, 2008 - January 1, 2009
SIMPLICTY RETREAT. One day or whole retreat. Also a holiday family program with storytelling.
at Karme Choling, 369 Patneaude Lane, Barnet, Vermont
Shambhala Buddhist Meditation Center.
Open to all. Call for info 802-633-2384

january 2009

January 4 through July 4, 2009
Storytelling Mentor Project starts. A long distance learning course with Laura about how to deepen one's understanding of how stories have meaning and come alive in performance. The mentor program is open to 14 people and continues over seven months, with assignments, essays, stories on a blog, ongoing group discussion, mentor conference call, and privat phone coaching each month

Residency at PS 89 in New York as part of the School Twining project with Aberdeen Primary in Freetown sponsored by Ruff & Cut, Inc. and PS 89. Not open to the public

february 2009

Feb. 17-224-day Storytelling Residency in Columbia, MO
with Ishmael Beah. Storytelling, talks, and workshops sponsored by Kind Crone Productions Kid Crone Prods.: 573- 443-3131

march 2009

Monday, March 9, 5-7:30 pm
The Gift of Story
with Laura Simms and Connie Regan-Blake.
A free professional development training for educators, librarians, social workers and caregivers. The workshop provides simple tools and creative ideas wo work with children, engaging our youth's own imaginative, educational, and emotional processes as they navigate their worlds. Includes practical "how to's": using stories in your curriculum, styles and techniques of stories, reading/creative writing motivation and more. Participants will also receive "Becoming the World" workbook, developed to respond to the aftereffects of 9/11 in NYC. Refreshments will be served. Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., New Orleans, LA.
Space limited. Email Elsie for reserveration by March 6.

Thursday, March 12, 7 pm
The Gift of Story
A free performance for families with kids age 6 and over by Laura Simms and Connie Regan-Blake.
During this energetic evening, families will learn how storytelling can be used to bring literature alive and how to use the of story to connect and communicate as a family. This free performance made possible through funds from Mercy Corp.
Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., New Orleans, LA.

March 25, 6 - 9 pm
Stay Inspired's "Friend Raising" party
The Stay Inspired Community is sponsiring a gathering for those who want to explore how to serve spirit. The evening includes a presentation by artist/author Jerry Wennstrom, stories by storyteller Laura Simms, and performance by poet/musician Steven Weitzman (aka, Mud Roues). Refreshments will be served. RSVP to Lauren so they can plan food.
Tibet House, 22 West 15th St., New York City.

March 26, 7 pm
Dreaming of Boro Park
Stories from the Stoop: Borough Park, Brooklyn:
Laura Simms with Gioia Timpanelli and Steve Zeitlin of City Lore. Sponsored by the Storytelling Center of New York City and The 92nd Street YM-YWHA. Buttenwieser Library at 92nd St. Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., New York, NY
$25/$20 STC Members (Members use code TOUR). Must reserve in advance.
For information or Ycharge at 212-415-5500 See online. View flyer.

april 2009

April 1st, 8:30 am - 4 pm
William Paterson University
"Waking the Dragon: Caring for Your Inner Muse"
Laura Simms and author Trish Marx
storywriting /story performance to integrate Asia in to Humanities studies for teachers
1600 Valley Road Wayne, NJ 07470
Call 973-720-2354

April 6-11
World Affairs Conference
Boulder, CO
1344 Grandview Avenue
UCB 465 Boulder, CO 80309-0465
Call 303-492-2525, fax 303-492-3934
Email cwa@colorado.edu or see http://www.colorado.edu/cwa/
http://www.colorado.edu/cwa/sponsors.html
There will be additional performances in and around Boulder, TBA.

Saturday, April 18, 7-9 pm
Mercy into the World
New York City

Fairytales for adults, in the tradition of tea houses of Central Asia and the Middle East, told by storyteller Laura Simms. We are very happy to welcome back internationally celebrated storyteller Laura Simms. We’re sure that all who heard Simms tell stories from her book The Robe of Love at Orchard House Café in February will agree with the reviewer who wrote, “Laura Simms tells stories with the elegance and precision of a Japanese print.” Simms is also author of the award-winning children’s book Rotten Teeth, the spoken word recording The Gift of Dreams and a longtime contributing editor to Parabola magazine. Her latest book Under the Currant Leaves (Codhill Press) will be out later this spring. Her book The Robe of Love is available for purchase in the café.

Orchard House Cafe, 1064 First Ave., New York City. Suggested donation $15. Reservations recommended: Email.

may 2009

Sunday, May 2, 7 pm
"Mercy into the World"
Orchard House Cafe, New York
An evening of storytelling, true tales of outrageous acts of kindness and an ancient Romanian story. With guest musician. This is part of the "True Tales for Adults" series. Delicious food, great wine and conversation.
Orchard House Cafe, 1064 1st Ave (between 57th and 58th Streets) New York, NY 10022, 212-371-1173. Suggested donation $15 (students $10). RSVP by phone or email.

May 3 - 18
In Nepal for Search for Common Ground and Unicef

Saturday, May 23
The Sunflower StoryArts Festival (which runs from May 22-24)
Mt. Kisco, NY
Featured performer. Workshop in morning and performance of "Mercy into the World" at 8 pm.
Fellowship Hall, St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 85 East Main Street, Mt. Kisco, NY
Info. 914-248-0800 or email singingharp@optonline.net

MANY EVENTS MISSING HERE...

december 2009

December 4-6
THE PEACE MAKERS ART: AN UNBIASED HEART
The Power of Telling Your Story. with Laura Simms and Ishmael Beah. The focus of this workshop that goes to the core of understanding how and why stories are told. We have developed a profound experiential process to explore the role of stories in effecting transformation in individuals, families, groups, schools or communities based on uncovering our capacity for compassion: the unbiased heart. Esalen Institute, 55000 Highway 1, Big Sur CA. Register on the web or call 831-667-3005.

The MENTOR PROGRAM with LAURA SIMMS Starts December 20, 2009 through July 1, 2010

To read more about it and register, go to Mentor Program page
The blog's website is http://storymentor.blogs.com/story_mentor/

December 20, 4 - 6 pm
Storysalon: Readings and Discussion. Sponsored by the New York Storytelling Center
Laura Simms Studio, 814 Broadway, NYC

December 26, evening
Rejoice: Stories for the Season. Orchard House Cafe, 58th Street and First Ave in NYC.

january 2010

Five Thursdays: 7 - 9 pm, January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11 +
Weekend session: 10 am - 4 pm, January 23 Saturday
PEMA CHODRON's PRACTICING PEACE IN TIMES OF WAR
New York Shambhala Center with Laura Simms
In these difficult times learning how meditation and contemplation can expand our capacity for inner and outer peace is deeply important. Laura brings her experience as a senior Shambhala Buddhist teacher, and work in the humanitarian field as a storyteller to these penetrating and practical teachings.
Cost: $150 + source materials To register online visit: New York Shambhala Center Website

february 2010

February 5-7, 2010
Karmê Chöling Shambhala Meditation Center in Barnet, Vermont
THE STORIES WE TELL: THE ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR TRANSFORMATION