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The Magic of Storytelling

  ​In the winter time, the people gather around the fire waiting to hear the stories that they will later tell the next generations. Stories represent various aspects of human life. Often with a touch of humor and vividness, these tales teach us how we should behave, how things came to be and to give […]

Tales from Turtle Island

Many Native Americans refer to North America as Turtle Island. Storyteller Rob Aptaker shares traditional Native tales, including Earth on Turtle’s Back (Iroquois), The Coming of Stories (Lenape), and more. Voices, gestures, animal sounds, and audience participation help bring the characters to life, along with authentic Native American songs accompanied by drum and rattle. Historic […]

The Ways of the Lenape

Who were the Lenape Native Americans of New Jersey and Pennsylvania? Following years of conversation and relationships with Native people, Rob Aptaker gives students the opportunity to explore the tools, clothing, toys, games, medicine and music that have historically been a part of their daily lives, building a picture of pre-colonial life. Note: Rob no […]

Hiawatha

Hiawatha, a curious young boy, decides to disobey his grandmother and seek a vision alone in the forest. There he finds a sacred cave and enters a magical world full of talking animals and fantastic spirits! He meets a wise Mohawk, called The Peacemaker, who teaches him a wonderful lesson. At last, with the help […]

Yah-Oh-Way

Yah-Oh-Way means “It is good” in Hopi. This exciting and athletic performance by the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers highlights the depth and complexity of several Native American societies. Students witness the origins and meanings of songs, dances, and traditions of many tribes that inhabited North America before the arrival of Europeans. By participating in traditional ceremonies—including […]