|
Bradley Debrick
debrickb@yahoo.com
INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
I grew up in and around
small farming towns in eastern Kansas and moved to Overland Park (a suburb of
Kansas City) in 1996. In my current position as a youth information specialist
for the Johnson County Library, I provide storytimes for preschoolers, homework
help and reader services to school-age children and teens, and outreach programs
to schools and daycares. I am currently pursuing a graduate degree in library
science from the University of North Texas.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
M.S. Library Science
University of North Texas,
Denton, TX
Program of Study: Youth
Librarianship
Graduate Academic
Certificates: Storytelling and Youth Services
(anticipated graduation
date: December 2005)
B.S. Elementary Education
Emporia State University,
Emporia, KS
Natural Science & Language
Arts concentrations
STORYTELLING INTERESTS
I was first bitten by the
performance bug in 2nd grade when I was chosen to be the narrator of our school
Christmas play. A gymnasium filled with people relying on me to get the
story. I firmly believe it was that Christmas play that foreshadowed my
storytelling future. High school and college drama was the first organized
environment for storytelling in which I had participated. Afterwards I began to
explore the realm of storytelling possibilities.
Through my job, I have told
stories at libraries and schools; at conferences and festivals. I have a
particular fondness for American folktales especially regional tales of the
Midwest and the Ozark Mountains. I also enjoy stories that rely on music and
audience participation to tell the tale. I tell stories to illustrate points,
enliven uninspiring topics, and entertain the masses.
In addition to receiving a
M.S. in Library Science in December 2005, I will also receive a graduate
academic certificate in storytelling. To satisfy requirements for this
certificate, I have completed courses titled “Storytelling for the Information
Professional” and “Advanced Storytelling.” These classes broadened my
understanding about the power of stories, story research, methods of
performance, and performance preparation. I have attended workshops lead by
puppeteer and author Judy Nichols and nationally known storyteller Beth Horner.
I have also been a regular participant at the annual Storytelling Celebration
events in Kansas City.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
I own an odd assortment of
musical instruments some of which I can actually play. My favorite is an
antique student-sized accordion I picked up at an auction several years ago. I
also play the trumpet and autoharp which I have successfully used in storytime
and storytelling programs. I have years of training in vocal music and have an
intense interest in stage acting.
In addition to music, my
hobbies include gardening, home improvement projects, thrift stores, and
travel. I have a new found love of cruise ship vacations and am always on a
countdown to my next sailing. I also spend a great deal of time dusting my
glass & ceramic cookie jar collection.
|
