Looking for a Storyteller? Check out our professional storytellers below. Contact tellers individually to inquire about programming, rates, availability, etc.
SCROLL DOWN TO BOTTOM OF PAGE for suggestions on how to find just the right teller for your event!
Michelle Adam
Michelle Adam has always been a storyteller, spinning tales and telling stories as a child growing up in Switzerland, Spain, and the U.S. She’s worked as a journalist, professional writer, and educator in the schools for 25-plus years. She has created and presented a series of bilingual children's stories that honor Mother Earth, and has done so in parks, schools, and many other venues throughout New Mexico to hundreds of children and their families (See here.). Her first two tales, Adventures with Duende in the Ocean and Adventures with Duende in the Forest, are about elves inviting children on magical adventures into different realms of the earth. These stories come with letters from plants and animals for children to write or draw back to and are available for sale. They are presented with 13 beautifully illustrated cards that Michelle, with her elf puppet, weaves in and out of a wooden theatre box offering an ancient and interactive Kamishibai storytelling tradition. Her first story, Adventures with Duende in the Ocean, was featured on The Children's Hour radio show. (The Children's Hour)
Michelle has also published a novel, Child of Duende: A Journey of the Spirit, which is translated into Spanish as Niña Duende: Un Viaje del Espíritu and Portuguese as Duende: Guardiã de Terra. She has performed with Flamenco musicians and sound healers on the West Coast and New Mexico, in addition to Argentina and Spain, while also working as a Spanish teacher, shamanic healer, and ceremonialist. She’s available for storytelling events that offer a bilingual and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Contact Michelle, call/text at505 923 0649 or Visit Michelle’s Website
Juba Addison
Juba learned the art of storytelling from her grandmother Sarah Jane, a descendant of West African Griots. She is dedicated to performing, preserving and promoting traditional storytelling for people of all ages and cultures. Juba entertains audiences of adults, families and children with her repertories of folklore, fables and fairy tales, plus historical and inspirational stories. Juba encourages everyone to tell his or her story. Everyone has a story and by telling/ sharing your stories, you form a bridge for others to cross and get to know you, your culture and most importantly your history. Juba has performed at White Sands Monument, Fort Seldom, National Story League Convention, Border Book Festival in New Mexico and Chamizal Festival in El Paso Texas. Juba’s mission statement is: I share what I know so that others may grow. Contact her and she will share her stories with you so that you too can grow. Juba currently serves as President of the STNM Board of Directors. Contact Juba
Harriet Cole
Harriet Cole arrived in NM as a baby in a basket strapped into the back of a pre-war Plymouth driven by her father on his way to start a career at LASL/LANL. Harriet grew up as a “glow-in-the-dark-kid,” and yes, she has stories. She raised her own children in Los Alamos working as a reporter for a weekly paper and later a traffic signal repair technician. (More stories!)
She discovered the power of oral storytelling when she moved AZ, where she attended the Mesa Storytelling Festival and enrolled in the South Mountain Community College Institute, earning her Academic Certificate in Storytelling and AA. As the oldest undergraduate in captivity, she earned a BA at ASU and then an MA at Prescott College.
Harriet worked for 10 years as an adjunct faculty member at the Storytelling Institute and developed/presented workshops, including at the 2015 NSN Conference. She’s performed in the Phoenix Fringe, the Gila Bend Shrimp Festivals, the Musical Instrument Museum, the NSN Western Showcase, and the Desert Conservancy’s Star Party. She’s also told portions of the Völsunga Saga as part of the Storytelling Institute Myth Informed. Harriet was listed on the Arizona Commission on the Arts Roster and, in 2019, became part of the first cohort of the ASU-Gammage Molly Blank Fund Teaching Artist Program. Contact Harriet or visit her website and Facebook page
Lucinda deLorimier
Through the art of storytelling and various careers in education and librarianship, Lucinda is a strong proponent of active narrative as a force for positive change. She’s been bringing the heart connection of storytelling to folks since 1986.
As a performer, her wit, warmth and skill in enrapturing her audiences gives listeners permission to create and pass along stories for the enrichment of all. As a teacher of storytelling and workshop leader, her experience and high encouragement quotient work to enlighten the world with even more storytellers. She taught the core courses in Dominican University’s Certificate-in-Storytelling program for twelve years, and has led numerous workshops on varied aspects of telling to educators, park rangers and library staff.
She tells mostly traditional tales, often with personal stories woven into the narrative. She likes the unusual stories, especially those with a twist. Contact Lucinda
Eldrena Douma
Storytelling was a way of life in Eldrena's upbringing. She grew up in New Mexico and Arizona among the Pueblo tribes of the Laguna, Tewa & Hopi. Activities with family and friends included listening to songs and stories. Eldrena pursued and obtained her Master's degree in Elementary and Early Childhood education to impact the lives that surrounded her. Her experiences as a public school teacher and her unique Native upbringing benefited her tremendously as she began her next journey as a professional storyteller, author, and workshop presenter. In 1993, she was encouraged to teach through storytelling about her life experiences, sharing the history of the Pueblos and their contributions to our country. Eldrena travels the country offering captivating stories, a variety of recorded music, and historical accounts from Native American tribes. For example, a story presentation, "Bison, Bison," gives insight into the history of the bison. A workshop, "Creative Spirit," focuses on imagination, listening, and story crafting using creative thinking. A lecture, "Nampeyo, Her Legacy," showcases her revival of Hopi pottery. In 2014, the Tejas Storytelling Association awarded Eldrena with the state’s prestigious John Henry Faulk Award for her significant contribution to the art of storytelling in the southwest. Photo by Katy Pair. Contact Eldrena or Visit Eldrena’s Website
Kim Delfina gleason
(She/Asdzáán)
Kim is a Diné (Navajo) Director, Dramaturg and Actress for stage and film. She’s been active and dedicated in the theater and film community for over 25 years advocating and promoting Native American performing and cinematic arts in New Mexico. She studied music and theater professionally at the University of New Mexico and most recently graduated with her EMBA from the Anderson School of Management in 2022. Kim is the founder and artistic director of Dancing with Fire Productions, dedicated to lifting up native, indigenous and local writers. Previously, Kim was the Artistic Director for Two Worlds, a Native American theater and performing arts organization (2009-2024). She has extensive experience producing full-stage productions, staged readings, short films and collaboration projects. She is a Co-Founder for Native Women Lead, a Commissioner for the City of Albuquerque’s American Indian and Alaska Native Affairs, and a part-time faculty instructor for the UNM Theatre Department teaching Native American Theatre and Storytelling this year. Kim is currently pursuing her goal to open up the first Native American performing arts center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Represented by: Kreativ Media Partners (CA) 310-907-5735, resume, Kim Delfina Gleason: IMDB, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Contact Kim at: dancingwithfireproductions@gmail.com
elizabeth ellis
Designated as an American Masterpiece Touring Artist by the National Endowment for the Arts, Elizabeth Ellis is also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award and Circle of Excellence Award from the National Storytelling Network, as well as additional accolades too numerous to list. Suffice it to say, Elizabeth is a master storyteller whose generosity, creativity, depth, and compassion are endless. Elizabeth has blessed Storytellers of New Mexico with two storytelling workshops in the past, and continues to provide access to her monthly storytelling event online. We are blessed to have Elizabeth Ellis as one of our professional members!
Online COACHING available. Contact Elizabeth.
Vivian Harris
Daughter of a diplomat, Vivian spent a good part of her youth living in Canada and Europe. She earned her BA plus Standard Secondary Teaching Credentials at Fresno State University. Later she earned an MBA at Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico. Vivian has taught public speaking and other subjects at a variety of educational institutions, including: New Mexico State University, College of Santa Fe, University of New Mexico and Central New Mexico Community College. She has taught a variety of students, including prison inmates. Vivian has spoken at various clubs, conventions, and conferences and conducted training for a variety of organizations in New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, California, and Puerto Rico. Vivian has demonstrated a life-long commitment to giving back to the community where she has lived. Her volunteer duties have included: working on a suicide prevention line, working for the Animal Humane Society, organizing a major marathon, president of a Toastmasters club, teaching English as a second language to refugees, etc. email Vivian or call Vivian
Joe Hayes
Joe’s tales are a combination of the traditional lore of the American Southwest and his own imagination. The traditional part is based on things people have told him or what he has learned from reading the work of folklorists and anthropologists. Joe’s own contribution is based on his instincts as a storyteller and what his experience tells him listeners need in order to feel satisfied with a story. He has visited thousands of schools around the U.S. and is working on his fourth decade as resident storyteller at the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian in Santa Fe. A whole generation of Southwestern children has grown up listening to Joe’s stories. He is an award-winning author and received the Talking Leaves Literary Award from the National Storytelling Network for serious and influential contributions to the literature of storytelling. He is a recipient of the New Mexico Governor’s Award for Excellence and Achievement in the Arts, along with many other tributes/awards. Check out our Member Publications page for information about Joe's recent recordings on YouTube of his entire repertoire - a gift to posterity! Joe is also an award winning author, with 25 published books and three anthologies. Learn more at Joe Hayes on Wikipedia. Joe’s Website
Johanna&Scott
HONGELL-Darsee
We have traveled far and wide to find the most beautiful, enthralling and mysterious songs, melodies and stories, to take you on a journey to far away islands, deep forests and magical gardens. We will tailor a program to fit your audience. We live in Albuquerque, New Mexico, but are happy to tour throughout the country. Visit our Member Publications page for information about Scott & Johanna's most recent CD, The Mountain King. Contact Scott & Johanna or Visit Scott & Johanna’s Website
Nicholas johnson
Nicholas is a born and bred New Mexican. As a child he would listen to stories on tape cassette on repeat, especially “The Hyena and the Ox” as told by Jay O’Callahan, and his love and appreciation for storytelling has grown ever since. Years of exploring the wide variety of arts have led him to approach stories from several different angles. He attended high school at New Mexico School for the Arts in Santa Fe, and through his life he has drawn, cartooned, danced, played music, acted, and written plays, screenplays, and poetry. All these aspects apply themselves to his projects in some way. Since 2014 he has been participating in the Albuquerque theatre community, and in 2018 he graduated from UNM with a BA in Theatre & Dance. During his education, Nicholas learned techniques to public storytelling with an emphasis on performing “ancient texts” (Greek, Shakespeare, Poe, you name it). He has always had a fondness for exploring themes of trauma, how the past influences the present and future, and the revelation of new knowledge. He firmly believes that storytelling is important to the human experience, and that every person has a perfect version of a story in their mind: it’s only a matter of getting it out to the world. Watch Nicholas’ voice over YouTube of Poe’s “Shadow” short story. Click HERE. Contact Nicholas at ravenpicnic@gmail.com
Bob Kanegis
Just imagine children and adults alike, fully engaged- learning, laughing, and participating actively in performances and workshops. That’s my style...getting people of ALL AGES participating together to enjoy the wonders and benefits of storytelling. I’ve been telling and teaching storytelling here in New Mexico and across the country for 25 years and my passion is undiminished. I draw from a large repertoire of tales from around the world to bring your listeners programs designed to fit almost any theme. I also draw on my background as a camp director, naturalist and traveler, and season my stories with a heart-full dose of respect for the earth and other cultures. In addition to performance storytelling,with my partner Liz Mangual, I offer workshops and residencies that address improving school climate, oral language development and strengthening families through family storytelling experiences. Contact Bob, Call Bob at 505-306-4476, or Visit Bob’s Website
Matilde machiavello
Matilde Machiavello comes to STNM from her adoptive home of Argentina. Born in Uruguay, Matilde is enjoys sharing both fanciful and realistic tales in either her native Spanish, or in English. Full of energy and joy for life, Matilde's performances are charming and engaging for all. Contact Matilde or Visit Matilde’s Website
Sarah malone
Sarah Malone is a Spanish/English storyteller who has woven tales for children and adults for over 35 years. She treasures the powerful relationship of teller and listener. She is a published author, recording artist, a founding member of Storytellers of New Mexico and a board member. Since September 2023 she has produced the popular Duke City Story Slam. Her 2003 award winning CD, “Holding Up the Sky: Peace Tales for Kids” generated $30,000 in donations to peace causes. Sarah has presented at the United Nations in NYC, the Four Corners & SOMOS Taos storytelling festivals, at numerous libraries and private functions and on safari in Africa. Sarah received the National Storytelling Network 2017 Oracle Award for Service & Leadership in the Western Region. Given her work with STNM she no longer keeps a separate website. Contact Sarah
Photo by Bob Kanegis
Liz mangual
Ever since I hid under the kitchen table to eavesdrop on the colorful characters that populated my childhood, I’ve been in love with stories. I am a bilingual storyteller with years of working with children and families, from inner cities to rural villages. I tell stories that capture the whole range of human experience, from funny and foolish to serious and mysterious. I’ve traveled from coast to coast-offering library programs and workshops in hundreds of communities. In partnership with fellow storyteller and husband Bob Kanegis, our school residency programs were designated one of five exemplary programs by the NM Public Education Dept. 2008-2013. Most rewarding for me as a storyteller, is the joy I see on children’s faces as they listen and learn to tell stories themselves. Contact Liz, Call Liz at 505-514-5471, or Visit Liz’s Website
elaine muray
Elaine Muray integrates movement and narration to deliver tales from around the world as well as personal stories. She offers both virtual and live performances, the former of which includes choices of 1) live; 2) prerecorded; and 3) hybrid performances (highly recommended to eliminate unanticipated environmental interruptions). Elaine has performed and conducted residencies and workshops both nationally and internationally, including storytelling tours to China, Korea, Colombia, Peru and Ecuador. Her DVD, Embodied and Enchanted: Physical Tales from Elaine Muray took the prestigious Storytelling World Resource Award in the DVD category. Elaine has over 15 years instructional experience as an ESL instructor. For more information, visit her website or contact Elaine by email.
Paulina przystupa
Encouraged from an early age to focus on one thing, Paulina quickly and regularly ignored that advice. Instead, this mixed-race, of Philippine-Polish descent, Canadian-born immigrant to America, does a bit of everything. Unfortunately, she realized that those things do have something in common, they cross-paths with storytelling. That's probably because, for Paulina, just answering the question “Where are you from” becomes a longer story than people expect. Currently, Paulina is “from Albuquerque” but grew up in Kirkland, the Costco-famous suburb of Seattle. Paulina explores storytelling in comics and popular culture for WWAC as a writer, practices a bit of academic storytelling as an archaeologist (drawing from historical documents and maps), and makes her own inspiration for stories through doing things like martial arts and buying too many candles on a regular basis. Paulina’s performance storytelling skills come from recounting stories to friends, some high school theater training, experience as a games master for table top roleplaying games, and years of archaeology lecturing. Paulina tends towards telling slice-of-life stories based on personal (mis)adventures (buying new hats, losing gifts, getting a dog) to embody that idea that a little effort can lead to great adventure any day you want it to. Or at least a great story. Stories that acknowledge and embody diversity trough time and space, that others tell with energy or the right amount of humor, or that contain some fictitious mystery, murder, or mayhem most often capture Paulina’s attention in print, on screen, and in person. You can find Paulina writing on WWAC and contact her through przystupa.work with inquiries. Seal suit not included. "
Regina ress
Regina has been a professional storyteller for over 35 years, for all ages and in a wide variety of settings across the US, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. She teaches applied storytelling at NYU and produces a long running storytelling series at NYU's Provincetown Playhouse. She was on the Board of the NYC Storytelling Center for 15 years and won two National Storytelling Network Oracle awards, She has been on the STNM Board for 8+ years. Regina co-hosts the popular monthly Santa Fe StoryCrafters. www.reginaress.com
Dianne Rossbach
Dianne grew up thoroughly vested in the tall tales of northern Minnesota, histories of the Voyageurs, and even gangster tales from the limestone tunnels under the city of St Paul. Her imagination became quite vivid at an early age. Fortunately, it is great fun to share your imagination through storytelling.
As an oral, tale-spinning artist, Dianne enjoys sharing old stories: generational histories, origin stories, and traditional folktales. These she integrates with her abiding interest in family, nature, and the power of a good tale well told. Her tales are sprinkled with creativity, humor, and natural or cultural history as she invites listeners to discover ways that the past can bring meaning to the present. Although sometimes animals do talk in fables, those animals can teach us to look with our hearts. Dianne says she learns something new each time she tells a tale. Contact Dianne by email or call/text (505) 610-1971.
Things to Consider When Hiring a Storyteller
Storytellers come in all shapes and sizes with different levels of experience, genres in which they tell, audiences with whom they share their stories, and more. Remember that a teller’s fee reflects not just the time they will actually be telling at your event… but all the time and preparation that goes into delivering a successful program. This document serves to help our potential clients make well-informed choices based on what each storyteller brings to the table.
In addition to reviewing a storyteller’s website, testimonials, references, and social media, the answers to the following questions might help to pick the storyteller that is right for your event and budget.
Questions to consider:
1. What is the purpose of the event? What is the desired outcome?
2. Who is the audience? Does the performer have experience with this audience?
3. How large is the audience? Does the performer have experience telling to this size audience?
4. How long of a program are you looking for?
5. Do you view this as a themed or educational event, or is it strictly entertainment? Does the performer have experience with what you are looking for?
6. How long has the performer been telling?
7. Does the performer have a unique niche, e.g., bilingual, puppetry, movement?
8. What are the venues the performer has told in, e.g., libraries, schools, black box theater, festivals?
9. Has the performer received any special recognition for their work?
10. Can the performer provide references?