Storytelling (and Drama)

[Guest guest]

>From Sankirtana Prabhu ACBSP:

 

My name is Sankirtana das, a disciple of Srila Prabhupada, and have been

involved in developing and advocating theater, storytelling and cultural

programs in the movement fro 25 years. My home is in New Vrindavan, USA.

and I am also a member of the National Storytelling Association here in

the states. Recently I have developed the VEDIC STORYTELLING INSTITUTE.

Earlier this year this short article appeared in Priti Laksanam:

 

******Storytelling As Sacred Art

by Sankirtana Das

 

I recently read the September 1996 issue of Priti-laksanam and found a

passage in Caitanya dasi's article which struck a deep cord in me, and, I

feel, that would apply to quite a number of devotees around the

movement. She says "I found that if I could not engage my propensities by

glorifying the Lord through dance, music and drama, that I was basically

useless." Being involved myself in devotional theater for many years I

can understand this sentiment. Unfortunately, it seems that the devotees

interested in theater (at least in North America) have become

disheartened, and have scattered here and there.

 

For years, developing and performing plays was something that thoroughly

absorbed my mind and being. It was exciting to probe into a pastime, make

it come alive, and present it to the devotees for their pleasure.

Although the performances were much appreciated, the general mood around

the movement, however, was that this type of activity is something to be

done in one's spare time and not much support was given to the performing

artist. Here in New Vrindavan, I earned the respect of the devotees for

serious theater when I developed the solo piece of Krsnadas Kaviraja.

Over the years, in many of my theater productions I explored the

connection of the roles of actor and storyteller.

 

Then about eight years ago I began researching the idea of just

storytelling. I was delighted to find that there was a whole movement,

embodied by the National Storytelling Association. It opened up

tremendous possibilities. No need for costumes, greasepaint or lights. No

need to cart around props and sets (what a relief!). One person telling

stories, creating a mood, enacting different characters - going to

schools, libraries, storytelling gatherings. Within this movement there

are sub groups: biblical storytellers, black storytellers, Jewish

storytellers. All sorts of books are coming out (I've recently put out a

book of Vedic stories, endorsed by Laura Simms, one of the most respected

artists in the field). North America is in the midst of a little

storytelling renaissance. People are giving it credence, and seeing that

it's much more than just something for children.

 

So I would say to Mother Caitanya and other devotees who lean toward the

performing arts - if Krishna is not giving you a theater company to work

with, do not become discouraged. With a little you can do a lot. You can

be as creative as you want to be. If you're inclined, incorporate the

use of music, mudras, dance, puppets, masks, origami. There is great

opportunity to present Krishna Consciousness through storytelling. It has

a powerful effect. It could even be a source of livelihood. I'm thinking

about offering a three day storytelling workshop here in New Vrindavan.

If anyone is interested, let me know ASAP. RD 1 - NBU#19/ Moundsville,

WV26041/ Tel: 304 845 6840/ email: story108 (AT) juno (DOT) com