“Ms. Harris is a true Artist and expert Storyteller. Her ability to communicate and draw students into the stories is matched only by her enthusiasm and love for her craft. I am 100% confident that when I send Ms. Harris into a school - ALL participants, both students and teachers alike, will be moved and be left wanting MORE!”

                                     - Nicole Evans Haumesser 
                                              Artistic Residency Coordinator 
                                                                  Marcia P. Hoffman Performing Arts Institute 
                          Ruth Eckerd Hall 

StellaStitches Story Seekers - Classroom Workshop

Students jump inside a story, turn it inside out, and create new worlds bursting with new characters, plots, sights, sounds, and colors. Connections are made between what is real and imagined through the use of storytelling, theater, and visual arts games. Students map out story elements, organize their thoughts and ideas, and bring original stories to life. Storytelling promotes literacy and increases the ability to learn and retain information. Language development, communication skills, and teamwork are also enhanced. Even the most reluctant students are enticed to participate. This program provides excellent ideas for Creative Writing Projects.

60 minute workshops
Available : Monday - Friday, year round
Recommended for grades: 1-5


“Miss Emily made each student feel as though their thoughts mattered. She redirected them as needed and helped them channel their excitement.”        K. Dunton, 2nd Grade Teacher

“Our students truly enjoyed this delightful program. The stories were full of energy and the enthusiasm of the class was amazing.”        T. Coyle, 4th Grade Teacher

  Hero in My World - Classroom Workshop

By listening to tales of inspiration, then asking the question, “Who inspires me?” students are encouraged to identify and discuss an individual with whom they are acquainted who is a hero in their life. As a result, students, learn how to express their ideas clearly, develop a better understanding of their own importance and recognize how even a small gesture can make a big difference. This is an excellent program for CHARACTER COUNTS CURRICULUM.

DAY 1- Identify an individual who can be interviewed in person, by phone,
or e-mail. Learn effective interview techniques through theater exercises. Assignment – conduct interview and takes notes, photographs, record, or videotape it

DAY 2- Review and discuss interviews and resulting materials. Practice storytelling and presentation skills through theater games.
Assignment – learn your story

DAY 3- Show time! Present completed stories. With permission of each student, story will be videotaped for archival purposes only

What students who have taken this workshop have learned:

“Anyone is capable of making a difference in the world.”             Heather, 6th grade
“I learned not to expect something in return just for helping.”     Andrew, 5th grade

60 minute workshops
Available : Monday - Friday, year round
Recommended for grades: 5-8

New Offering 2008-2009
Sound and Story - Performance and Workshop 

The hammered dulcimer, while not as universally recognized as the drum or guitar, has quite an extensive history. Surrender to the soothing sounds of this ancient instrument played by musician SARAH FADY while storyteller EMILY HARRIS guides you on an enlightening tour through the diverse lands and cultures where this instrument has made its home. Story and music evoke many of the same feelings and visions. A collaboration of these two art forms creates an even more moving and powerful experience. Destinations include Appalachia, the British Isles, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.

60 minute performance

60 minute workshop
Available : Monday - Friday, year round
Recommended for grades: k-12

New Offering 2008-2009

Kiss Your Worries Goodbye – Classroom,Parent,Staff,Community

A whimsical workshop with a purpose - based on Guatemalan Worry Dolls who are known to solve your problems while you sleep. While you focus on scraps of fabrics, snippets of yarn, assorted beads, and pipe cleaners twisted into tiny dolls a relaxed and safe space opens where conversations, stories, and new ideas can be shared. Listen carefully because your little dolls may have a story or two to tell!  Rediscover your creative self while you kiss your worries goodbye! (Even teenage boys enjoy this project!)  Satisfaction guaranteed!

45 minute workshop for up to 100 people
Available : Monday - Friday, year round

Recommended for ages 6 and up 

Themes for all programs may be customized to accommodate your curriculum requirements

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