dvanderstoop@storytellingalberta.com

President

Rebecca Smyth

Born in Ireland, Rebecca grew up steeped in the rich oral traditions of a storytelling culture, where tales flowed from firesides, fishing boats, and family gatherings. Her storytelling journey began with young children and grew into a lifelong exploration of stories gathered from communities around the world, from Bulawayo to Berlin, and Kathmandu to Kerala. Drawn to stories of resilience, humour, and connection, she brings a deep respect for the tradition, and a genuine passion for story.

 

kmuzaic@storytellingalberta.Com

goodtell@telusplanet.net

Past President

Doreen Vanderstoop

Doreen Vanderstoop is a Calgary storyteller, musician and writer. In her theme-based performances, Doreen enjoys actively engaging her listeners with song, story reflections and humour. Doreen has performed her original creative non-fiction stories, personal anecdotes, literary adaptations and folktales at conferences, festivals, schools, libraries, Jane’s Walks, church gatherings, Tellarounds, story cafes and more. Doreen recently signed a contract with Freehand Books to publish her first novel. She also leads workshops on storytelling to inspire in others a passion for the oral tradition. Doreen is a member of Storytelling Alberta and Storytellers of Canada/Conteurs du Canada.


 

Secretary

Pearl-Ann Gooding                           

 "I love the quick-paced interaction that a room full of children wrapped up in a story can bring. The fun, the laughter, the sparkling eyes, from a tale well-told has a joy that can touch your soul. But, the intimate telling of a tale that has several layers and meanings to an older audience is extremely fulfilling to me." Pearl-Ann's love of oral literature has taken her across Canada performing and attending concerts, festivals, museums, libraries, schools and conferences.

 
 

cowlinga@telus.net

Treasurer

Anne Cowling

Anne Cowling has been writing stories since she was six years old, at which time she was introduced to some Russians and their folk tales. While she still enjoys telling folk tales, especially Russian ones, she more often tells personal stories - the adventures and pratfalls and moments of joy in everyday life.