Saturday Morning Matinees

Performances geared for young audiences.

For more information call (901) 726-4656.

Autumn Harvest Folktales

With storyteller Wanda Holliday

September 26, 2009 at Playhouse on the Square

Wanda began telling stories in 1983 while working in the bookmobile department of the Memphis Public Library. She has told tales in many places including the National Civil Rights Museum, The Mr. Chuck Show, Brooks Halloween Trek, and Davis-Kidd Bookstores. Ms. Holliday, an expressive storyteller, loves to see children and adults of all ages enjoy stories. Some of WandaÕs favorite stories are ÒLittle Eight John,Ó ÒThe Photograph,Ó and ÒThe Value of Prayer.Ó Fall has arrived! ItÕs the perfect timeÊto come insideÊ on a crisp Saturday morning to hear great stories.

Mississippi River Life

With storytellers Annie McDaniel and Jim Young

April 4, 2009 at Playhouse on the Square

Frances Miller has been an Orff Music Teacher in the Memphis City School System for many years. Her interactive presentation will provide children the opportunity to perform songs, folk dances, and stories of America in an encouraging and nurturing environment. Through singing, dancing, speaking, as well as pantomiming characters, they will be actively involved throughout the presentation. This dynamic learning experience will build their repertoire of performance skills, facilitate a cooperative musical experience, and will broaden their knowledge-base of our American culture.

Seuss Scenarios, adapted by Jason Gerhard

With University of Memphis Theatre Students

October 10, 2009 at Playhouse on the Square

Seuss Scenarios, is a narrative adaptation of some of the works by the beloved childrenÕs author, Dr. Seuss. Directed and performed by students of the University of Memphis Theatre Department, the production started as a class project and has been brought back to share the tales that come from our youth with Seuss. Following the performance, there will be a workshop in exploring narrative text and storytelling.

Tricksters & Tall Tales

with storyteller Luna Dara Kelondra

October 17, 2009 at Playhouse on the Square

A teller of folktales from around the world, Luna loves to share fun tales of animals, tricksters, and adventurers from all quarters of the world. From Anansi in Africa to Brer Rabbit in America, from Coyote of Native American tradition to Hodja in the Middle East, there’s laughter in every country and tale. Luna Dara Kelondra is Yarnspinners of Memphis’ President and on the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Storytelling Organization.