Once Upon a Time in Ireland is an interactive storytelling of Irish folk tales, myths and legends. Everybody is invited to join in the rhymes, the rhythms and even the dances in this theatrical, entertaining experience!

ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE:

Máire tells the students an intriguing Irish folk tale with memorable characters and exciting scenarios. As the children enter, they see Máire engrossed reading a book. She puts it down and addresses her audience, then begins to perform in a variety of vivid characters wearing an assortment of costumes. The story involves Máire chanting rhymes back & forth with the children; rhythm and body percussion interaction; props and costumes, and dancing to sublime recordings of Irish music – to which everyone is invited to participate  - yes, everybody stands up and dances on the spot!

Máire’s repertoire of magical stories include The Pot of Gold, Finn McCool and the Giant’s Causeway, The Piper and the Puca, The Magic Shoes, and Tír na nÓg – adapted for children of all levels. The school can select the story in advance. Details are available on request. At the end of the story, a dozen students are invited up on stage where they get to wear a costume or prop item or play a percussive instrument for the dance finale, following Máire onstage in basic percussive moves, as everyone else stands to join in from their place.

CURRICULUM CONNECTION TO LANGUAGE ARTS:

The nature of Irish folklore is mystery and this appeals to children the world over. Whatever their cultural background, all students can benefit from Irish folk tales and may find parallels in stories from different traditions. This program aims to expand vocabulary and open up potential for creative communication.

PREPARING FOR THE EXPERIENCE:

As in many cultures worldwide, Irish storytelling includes warnings to children, moral lessons, funny and supernatural characters, ghosts, giants, wise old women, famous warriors and leaders that keep listeners enthralled. In Once Upon a Time in Ireland, Máire draws on her background in Irish Dance to enliven her stories. Adding this visual and physical aspect to the tale not only entertains students but gives them the opportunity to physically participate and experience the lively rhythms of jigs and reels. Poetry and rhymes are central to Irish literature and culture – in this program students are able to recite amusing verses that punctuate each section of the story. Irish culture seamlessly blends story with dance, music, spoken rhymes, rhythmic games and theatre. Students can experience the stirring beat of traditional tunes and ancient sounds as they respond to Irish music and dance in shared delight.