Learn the art of storytelling with GreenMan Theatre’s 18th annual series

Interested in learning how to tell a more polished story or how to improve your storytelling abilities? GreenMan Theatre’s 18th annual Storytelling Classes are scheduled over three Saturdays this August.

“Storytelling is an activity you can do anywhere,” said Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff, class instructor and chair of the education committee. “For example, it can be great for keeping children entertained on car rides, which can help to limit their screen time. Storytelling can even be used in the work environment.”

There will be an “Introduction to Storytelling” class in the mornings, and an “Advanced Storytelling” class in the afternoons. The classes will be Saturdays, Aug. 1, 8 and 22, at GreenMan’s rehearsal location at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, 125 W. Church St., Elmhurst.

The morning classes, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will cover how to tell traditional folktales, personal stories and urban legends.

The afternoon classes, from 12:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. (open to those who have taken the intro class), will focus on writing and how to develop a very short story into a richer, more complex piece.

While experienced storytellers are not required to take the Introductory class more than once, many storytellers choose to do so to refine their storytelling techniques, Thomas-Davidoff said. Experienced storytellers are strongly encouraged to take the afternoon class.

For interested afternoon participants, the classes will transition into rehearsals that will become “Spooky Stories and Songs of the Season” storytelling performances at the end of classroom work.

Students do not have to perform in the show to participate in the classes, nor do students who wish to perform have to tell their stories in all scheduled performances. The director reserves the right to decide if each student is ready to perform.

Most rehearsals are individual, so rehearsal times are flexible. Rehearsals can be in person or on Zoom. Two dress rehearsals will take place in person at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ.

Cost for the morning or afternoon classes is $25 for GreenMan members; $30 for non-members. Payment is required at the first session on Aug. 1; however, those planning to attend should send their name and contact information (both phone number and email address) to thomdav@comcast.net in advance, and advise whether registering for the morning classes, the afternoon classes or both. There will be a discount for taking both classes.

For additional information about these classes, future offerings and sign-up details, call GreenMan Theatre at (630) 464-2646 or visit www.greenmantheatre.org.

“Spooky Stories and Songs of the Season” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in Elmhurst

In addition, Elmhurst Public Library will host the program at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, in the library’s large meeting room. The library performance will be both live and online (by registration) through the library. Registration will open at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, via elmhurstpubliclibrary.org.

In its 22nd season, GreenMan Theatre Troupe is a nonprofit 501[c]3 organization whose mission is to provide a source of cultural enrichment and pride for the community by presenting diverse, quality productions and providing opportunities for personal growth in the theatrical arts. GreenMan has been presenting plays in Elmhurst since being founded in 2003. Past productions include “Dracula,” “Pride and Prejudice” and “Doubtful Abbey.” GreenMan also offers classes and workshops for members and the community and welcomes new members and participants in all aspects of theater production. GreenMan programs are partially supported by Explore Elmhurst, as well as other individual and corporate donations.