Peninnah Schram
Peninnah Schram, well-known storyteller and author, is Professor of Speech and Drama at Yeshiva University’s Stern College. Vibrantly elegant in her storytelling, she tells Jewish stories of wisdom and wit. Her latest book is an illustrated anthology, "The Hungry Clothes And Other Jewish Folktales" (Sterling) and a CD, "The Minstrel & The Storyteller," with singer/guitarist Gerard Edery (Sefarad Records). Peninnah is a recipient of a covenant Award for Outstanding Jewish Educator and the 2003 National Storytelling Network’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
FAMILY: Jewish Stories One Generation Tells Another
Family Friendly,
Identity and Responsibility
In this program, Peninnah Schram interweaves folktales of various genres from the Sephardic (Middle Eastern) and Ashkenazic (Eastern European) oral traditions. Some are filled with intrigue and clever wit, but all focus on wisdom and values that have been treasured by the Jewish people throughout the generation.
Standing on One Foot: A Storytelling Workshop in Process
Global History and Culture,
Identity and Responsibility
Peninnah Schram will explore the power of storytelling, illustrate effective storytelling and share the techniques for telling through non-threatening participatory creative dramatic exercises. We will also work through the process of learning a story and integrating stories within the classroom, at home and in your life.
FAMILY: Traveling in Time: Family Stories and Songs
Arts and Performance,
Family Friendly,
Global History and Culture
In this participatory workshop, Peninnah will help participants explore some of their personal and family stories, beginning with names and lullabies. These are the stories that keep people and memories alive, influencing, reflecting and shaping us. Peninnah will also lead the group in participatory exercises to help retrieve these stories. In this way, we can actively recall and retell our own stories.
Reflecting On Our Jewish Journeys
Identity and Responsibility
Journeying has been an integral part of the Jewish experience. Some of our journeys have been similar to those of biblical characters. Some journeys are actual; some are psychological or spiritual. Wherever we have crossed borders, we remain connected through our sacred stories and folktales, which can be identified as our family stories. These stories are our legacies. In small groups, the participants will discover patterns of their own personal journeys and share their stories. We will use questions as springboards. Handouts will be provided to help us explore our journeys.
