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Performance Storytelling
By Leslie Melville
Reviewed
by Quentin Reynolds
The
cover of the book promises to be, ‘An Invaluable Source for Mystery
Entertainers, Storytellers and Magicians’.
Leslie Melville has the enviable knack of taking a simple, puzzle, trick or
story and turning into a full performance piece, one that people will remember
and talk about. This 110 page A5 book is crammed with examples. Take the
Ferryman’s Tale which I’ve been using for the past seven years since Leslie
first showed it to me and gave me permission to use. Basically, a simple puzzle.
Yet, if out for dinner or with a small group, I always use it to start a short
magical performance. It intrigues people and gets them involved. The
presentation hooks them in. That’s only one of many examples in this treasure
trove of usable material.
If you’re a children’s entertainer, you might be stuck and need to fill in extra
time. There’s stories here a plenty, all with gags, timing and presentational
tips. There’s even a section on using puppets, complete with a full routine.
Another section on stories for the under 5’s. And this is not filler material.
It all stands solidly on its own two feet.
Storytellers who may already be familiar with some of the stories will find
hints, tips and pointers on how to make each story more fun and memorable. Many
of the stories lend themselves to educational purposes, perfect for school
presentations.
The book is not just for storytellers or magicians, it is for anyone who
entertains or performs for the public. Does it live up to its promise on its
cover? Definitely!
Highly recommended.
Available from www.magick2go.com
© Quentin Reynolds, March 2023