Storytelling Workshops & Residencies

“Michael worked closely with our teaching staff to develop a storytelling program that was appropriate to the needs of our student population. Michael fully conveyed his love of storytelling. Students demonstrated increasing confidence in themselves as storytellers and showed great enthusiasm for the workshop sessions. Michael Katz is an extremely talented artist, an ideal resource for school's searching for innovative ways to enhance their student language arts abilities.”

– Michael Vail, Principal, Cleveland Elementary School

Available Workshops

  • In-School Storytelling Residency

    One of Michael's most popular workshops is his in-school storytelling residency. The residency includes assembly performances and in-class workshops. Students have the opportunity to work directly with storyteller Michael Katz to learn the art of storytelling. Students conclude the course with a story they can tell to the lower grades. The workshops are Language and Theatre Arts based covering:

    • reading comprehension

    • theatrical movement

    • storytelling rhythm

    • sequencing

    • vocal projection

    • eye contact

    • and so much more.

    The residencies go from 1 to 4 days, or more if desired. Give your students the opportunity to watch, learn and perform!

  • In-Service Storytelling Workshop

    Michael works with teachers to educate them on how they can be better storytellers and incorporate storytelling in their teaching curriculum.

    “Michael was an inspiration to me as a novice storyteller and to my students, whose love of storytelling increased dramatically after watching Michael perform and coach them through the telling of their own tales. Michael is a gifted storyteller who imparts a unique warmth and richness to the stories he tells. My students were so inspired by Michael's stories that he became their role model. I was impressed by the way Michael reached out to all my students, and he set the stage for me to continue developing the stories with my students and to move onto the next storytelling project.”

    — Harriet Wingard, 4th Grade Teacher, Monroe Elementary School, Santa Barbara

  • Adult Storytelling Workshop and Public Speaking Coaching

    Michael works in groups or on an individual basis helping people strengthen theirs skill at telling a story or with their public speaking. For booking info, contact Michael.

    “Michael is a gifted storyteller and teacher; he knows his craft and communicates it clearly. It didn’t matter whether people were working on stories for kids, the stage, or their next dinner party: Everyone’s work blossomed as a result of Michael’s warm and expert guidance. It doesn't matter whether he's telling or teaching, Michael is constantly creating learning opportunities for his audience and students..”

    – Chris Wolfe, Adult Storytelling Student/Actor, San Francisco

  • Create Your own Storytelling Workshop

    Just as it says, work with me to create your own storytelling workshop to fit your needs.

    “What a joyful performer! He embodies his characters and charismatically invites everyone in, leaving everyone feeling satisfied and delighted. As a coach, I've found him insightful, supportive, encouraging and aware of each individual's needs.”

    — Miriam Mills, Asian Art Museum, San Francisco

  • 〝Thank you for teaching me how to act in front of people and how to believe in myself.〞

    — Andrew Brian Johnson, 6th grader, Franklin School, Santa Barbara

  • 〝The class was just terrific. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to add greater depth to their storytelling. The critiques were right on target. I really appreciated the supportive and honest feedback both you and the class gave to me. In addition, I learned so much from hearing the stories of class members.〞

    — KW, Santa Barbara

  • 〝Itzel is one of our special needs students. Those are the most words I’ve ever heard her speak. Your storytelling workshop is amazing.〞

    – Ms. Thomas, Elementary School Teacher