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As high school teachers, we know that storytelling is something we encounter every day. Whether it's the excuse for why a student's late to class or the latest drama in their lives - students weave us tales on the daily. This is why "just Karen" Pillsworth (a title that's a story in and of itself) is an awesome guest to have in your class! My senior myth students were lucky enough to be visited by Karen, who shared both fanciful and engaging trickster tales, as well as stories from her life, her career teaching, how she makes a living as a professional storyteller. It was enjoyable, edifying, and we'd be lucky to be visited by her again!
Sara Shomo, Teacher, Kingston High School, Kingston, NY
Ciao Karen,
I never had a chance to talk to you about your storytelling and, believe it or
not, for me, your performance here at the hotel it was my first time ever that I had listen to one.
My life, probably our time, was much different than now. My mother was far to busy to look
after the family rather than read or tell a story to each of us (6 of us) during the day or even just
before going to bed!!
So, my feedback is the following: if during your performance, you did mange to get
my attention at "58 years old”, you must have skill if not a gift from God!!
Your story was so deep and well told that I remember I could picture each phrase
thanks to your rhythm-cadence telling skill. I think it was perfect and I was very
much engaged with it thanks to you abilities.
If I will have a chance to tell a story to my grandchild in the years
to come, I will remember of your performance.!!
Ciao,
Antonia
Owner, Hotel Parasifal, Ravello, Italy
Comments about the Cornerstone School Development Day February, 2021. What people said when asked the question: "What is one good thing you took away from this workshop?"
"One good thing - there were sooooo many. But if I have to list one, it would be gaining more tools to help students share their stories - particularly framing and movement integration in storytelling."
"Thank you, Karen. This has been very inspiring!"
"The "tell me more" segment was very helpful and useful because it facilitates listening. It will help me get more details from my students and enable me better to help them."
"The kinesthetic way to learn/tell a story - connecting movement with sequence."
"One good thing is that storytelling doesn't begin with paper and pencil."
"Do it learn it!"
"We had a great storyteller here last night for our SRC Party whom I would recommend to all.
Karen had an audience of 100+, ages 5-10 with parents, and kept them fully engaged for 45 minutes with an entertaining selection of stories including "Tops and Bottoms". She incorporates simple props and encourages audience participation. Parents commented that she was "fantastic" and "wonderful" at the conclusion of the program. How's that for the age of bells and whistles?"
Chris Piattelli,
John C. Hart Memorial Library
"You held your audience, both children and adults, spellbound as you wove your magic tales. Your enchanting entertaining added so much to the event Your willingness to promote literacy is appreciated by all."
Kevin A. Cahill, Assemblymember 101st District, The Assembly, State of New York
"You were superb! It was my good fortune to have you and your stories in my school during a bomb-threat! When we evacuated 200 five through eight year olds to a nearby church, your ability to hold the children's interest for over an hour was remarkable. I thank you for sharing your remarkable talent with us."
Nora Palmer-Gould, Principal, Webutuck Elementary School, Amenia, NY
"Karen, you did an amazing job! I received SOOOO many compliments about the Befana story and the Silver Pine Cones. It was a special night! So, you have a place at our Little Christmas Dinner for as long as you are able to tell the Befana Story!
You are a blessing to us."
Tony Marmo, President, Ulster County Italian American Foundation
"Your stories were enjoyed by both the children and adults. In fact, the next day following worship, I overheard folks still talking about the stories you told."
David M. Brechter, Pastor, Reformed Church of the Comforter, Kingston, NY
"You were just the best storyteller. The kids and the parents were enthralled not only with your stories but with your style and personality as well."
Sharon Waagner, librarian, Long Lake Library, Long Lake, NY
"Many thanks, Karen, for your wonderful stories by the Peterskill. We love you!"
Camp Peregrine
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