Theatre of the Performing Arts of Shreveport presents a storytelling experience with Toni Simmons, Master storyteller & Author on Thursday, March 19, 6:00 pm, at the Hamilton/South Caddo branch library, 2111 W. Bert Kouns. Toni Simmons is a professional author and storyteller, graduate from Fisk University, where she majored in speech and drama. After receiving a master’s degree in library science, she began working as a children’s librarian combining her knowledge of children’s literature and creative drama in storytelling sessions. She continued this activity while working for public libraries in Miami, Florida, Des Moines, Iowa, Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Cedar Hill, Texas. As a professional storyteller, she brings new life to the stories she tells; with the use of rhythms, songs, and audience participation, she draws listeners in and places them in the story. Her work appeals to audiences of all ages, young and old, and includes a wide variety of literature from different cultures.

Toni has conducted storytelling, creative dramatic and movement workshops in schools, community centers, and theaters, and has worked with teachers helping them to incorporate the arts into their curriculum. Ms. Simmons served as a Storyteller in Residence for the Ouachita Parish and Monroe City Schools in Northeast Louisiana and taught drama at The Hockaday School in Dallas, Texas. More information can be found on her website at www.tonisimmons.com.

This storytelling experience with Toni Simmons is “supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, as administered by SRAC. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment of the Arts.”

This performance is FREE and open to the public. For more information, contact our office at 318-525-0740 or 318-584-1610. Visit our website at www.tpaarts.org.