In this interactive workshop, participants are guided through a Story Drama, or immersive storytelling experience, where they dramatize a picture book, using drama, movement, writing, and music exercises to investigate character perspectives and choices, build environments, and explore present themes. This workshop offers step-by-step guidance to successfully implement Story Drama into regular storytelling sessions for groups of all ages. Space is limited! Free for CODE Members. Register today!
Participants will:
- gain the confidence and ability to embed drama and dance into their storytelling to provide an active and engaging experience
- learn how to integrate drama and dance across the school curriculum
- learn how to plan and evaluate Story Drama sessions for K-8.
Michelle Gram Giesen has worked at the TDSB for 17 years as an elementary homeroom teacher, drama specialist, integrated arts teacher, librarian, and presently as an Arts Teacher Mentor. She is an actor, puppeteer, voice actor, and the founder of Story Drama Suite, which provides drama education workshops, consulting, and presentations for educators, children, and theatre practitioners. Michelle holds a BFA Honours from York University's Creative Ensemble/Devised Theatre Program and a B.Ed. from OISE/UofT. She has studied various drama techniques and teaching styles and facilitated conference sessions centered on using Story Drama to explore themes such as mental health, social justice, environmental stewardship, bullying, Truth & Reconciliation, neurodivergence, and more in Canada, the USA, Europe, and New Zealand.