"The spirit of creation, if you let it, will move you out of your familiar world into a larger dimension"

                                                                         - Michelle Cassou

 

 

“Like a young child, Emily has the energy of new awareness.  However, her expertise and talent fine tunes this awareness to capture the heart of children and adult alike.  Emily always tailors her work to meet the needs of her audiences.  Her energy is contagious and you will be glad you caught it!"  

                                                                                                             -Kevin Cordi
                                                                                                              Nationally Known Storyteller and Teacher

                                                                                                              National Consultant for Story, National Storytelling Network

 

 
Emily puts her imaginative thinking, training, and enthusiasm for the magic of story to use as a teaching artist and storyteller. She sees the world through the eyes of an artist - observing patterns and connections that others may miss. These important elements give richness to people's lives. She says, “I love listening to people tell their stories. People don't give themselves enough credit for being amazing. My proudest moments are not when I am telling stories, but when I am helping others discover theirs.”

Emily received her B.F.A. in Textile Design from the Rhode Island School of Design. She has been a weaver of tapestries and fabrics, a designer of costumes, puppets, patchwork quilts and dolls. All of these skills and interests have converged into the engaging programs she presents in schools, libraries, synagogues, churches, and casual dining restaurants where storytelling is not often found. Emily coaches young storytellers - several of whom have presented at national storytelling competitions and festivals. She also conducts teacher training programs that illustrate how effective it is to enhance any subject through the use of storytelling techniques.

She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Florida Storytelling Association and is Committee Chair of its Youthful Voices Program She is also an active member of the Tampa Bay Storytellers' Guild and the National Storytelling Network.

As a member of an interfaith storytelling trio, Emily shares the beloved stories of the Jewish people with those not well acquainted with Judaism. It is a personal way for her to honor her heritage and encourage connection with those of other faith traditions. “It is my hope that somewhere between the telling and the listening we may all find common ground - a place where hearts and souls connect.”