Videos:
Mike Payton
Type of Artist:
Interactive storytelling shows, for single classes, year groups and whole schools.
Storytelling and writing preparation workshops for single classes. Larger groups can be accommodated by negotiation.
CPD for teachers, helping them to improve their own storytelling schools.
Mike has bought the joy of storytelling into over 200 schools around the UK and further afield. Shows can be based around a topic, theme or geographical area - or Mike can choose a range of world stories crafted to suit the age range of the audience.
The list of topics covered over the years is too long to write down, but has included: Ancient Egypt, Vikings, Romans, Aztecs, The Maya, oceans, trees, rainforests, mountains, working together, most of the continents, the ‘Wild West’, most well known fairy tales and also personal stories. Schools often ask if stories are available when a new topic appears on the curriculum, and the answer is invariably ‘yes’.
Shows can range from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the age of the children.
Bespoke workshops can be created for a day, running from 45 mins to full morning or afternoon. These might include:
1. Using drama to inhabit and retell a tale - particularly useful for EYFS and KS1.
2. Learning how to tell a story out loud, focusing on memory, language, sensory description and connecting with an audience - mainly used for KS2 and 3
3. Using storytelling as a preparation for writing - KS1 to 4
Details
Preferred age range:EYFS to KS4, depending on type of session. Very happy to work in schools specialising in SEN education.
Maximum number in any one session:
Workshops - 30, though more can be included under certain circumstances. Performances - up to a whole school (primary); up to a whole year group (secondary).
No of sessions per day:
By negotiation.
Session Length:
Shows: 20-60 mins
Workshop: 45 min to half day.
Areas prepared to travel to:
Within 50 miles of Notts, happy to travel within the day.
Further than that also happy to travel with overnight expenses.
Transport:
Car @40p/mile
Train if possible/reasonable
Fees:
DBS/CRB:
Yes - updated annually.
Hold PLI (public liability insurance):
Up to 5 million
Website:
Testimonials:
“The pupils were captivated by Mike’s incredible story telling, he inspired them to use their imagination and creativity. The results were evident in the short stories they then produced in our next lesson.”
Amy Gascoigne, Head of English, The Redhill Academy
“Just a quick email to thank you for the fantastic event yesterday… it was genuinely exceptional, and what you managed to draw out of the children is nothing short of spectacular. We know that children love stories and have vivid imaginations, but they can't just do what they did yesterday - that takes inspiration, motivation and expertise, and that is what you have provided. Our children and their parents could not have been more proud, and that is thanks to you.
"Thank you, and I really look forward us being part of this again next year.”
Jon Wells Head Tollerton Primary school
“Mike’s storytelling sessions for the Day of the Dead family event at the Wellcome Collection were the perfect way to celebrate Mexico's most beloved tradition. His passion, enthusiasm and incredible talent kept hundreds mesmerised while making it an unforgettable experience for everybody.”
Jimena Gorraez-Belmar, Events curator, The Wellcome Trust
Other information:
Mike often uses music with primary shows.