Storytelling Concert

• Event Date: Saturday, March 12, 2005
• Time: 2:00 pm (CST)
• Cost: $5. Tickets are required.

• Performance
• Family-Friendly tag

By Gayle Ross
Nationally renowned Cherokee storyteller and author

Gayle Ross is a direct descendant of John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee during the Trail of Tears. Her grandmother told stories, and it is from this rich Native American heritage that Gayle's storytelling springs. A professional teller since 1979, she also has authored five critically acclaimed children's books. Gayle has been named to the Circle of Excellence by the National Storytelling Association and was the 1997 Wordcraft Circle Storyteller of the Year (National Association of American Indian Writers and Storytellers). Her performance highlights include the Discovery Channel, Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institution, and tours throughout North America and Europe.

Larry Lockwood (Northern Cheyenne) is cultural instructor of the Native American Heritage Perspective and is dedicated to helping students develop a sense of appreciation for the unique Native American Heritage of this country and Mother Earth through music, dancing and storytelling. He has served as the cultural program aide for the American Indian Center of Chicago and has worked for various tribal schools and Title IX Indian education programs since 1989. Larry is also the recipient of the 2003 Quad City Arts Individual Artist Grant. He and his family have performed to audiences of all ages at the Spurlock Museum.

At 2:00 PM, Ms. Ross will be performing a family concert of American Indian stories, sharing favorites from her rich cultural heritage. Joining her will be Larry Lockwood, who returns to the Spurlock Museum to perform the opening drum and song. This concert is recommended for adults and youth ages five and up.

For more information about Gayle Ross, visit this comprehensive website: www.ferrum.edu/applit/bibs/ross.htm.

The concert is sponsored in part by the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, and an endowment from Reginald and Gladys Laübin.