Heather Whaley

is a storyteller and songwriter for adults and children. She brings both traditional tales and her own stories to life by combining narrative with rhyme, chant and song.

Educational!
"The whole class listened intently to her presentation; and later , in their stories , I saw elements of the suggestions she had given them."(Leena Rahussar, Henry Street High School English Department)

Heather Whaley's presentations always include an educational component that enhances the existing Ontario elementary and secondary curricula.

Cultural!
"Another strong feature of her presentation is its Canadian content which helps to kill two birds with one stone when she is performing for my spanish students."

(Paul E. Emond, The Language Workshop)

Her performances transcend all ages and cultures, and preserve the dignity and heritage they embody.

Entertaining!
"Ms. Whaley's enthusiasm as a storyteller and songwriter is contagious, and she easily captivated an audience of all ages with her animated presentation. Our 12 year-old named her 'the best performance of the day'!"

(Carin Oldfeild, The Writers Circle of Durham Region Word is Out Festival Committee)

Heather also provides theme-related programs upon request, which may include writing, songwriting and puppeteering workshops. Occasionally, she even invites other artists to work with her.

Dear Teachers, Educators & Event Organisers

I am involved in the education and entertainment of performing arts, and in promoting literacy. My expertise is in creating and delivering performance programs and workshops which include telling traditional, original and personal stories, and incorporating song and verse poetry into my performances. I am known as a musical storyteller and singer-songwriter to both children and adults, and am often hired for the literacy component of my programming and authorship of songs and some of the stories I tell. I perform for all ages, including adults, but my specialty seems to lie with primary and junior grades for Family Reading / Literacy Nights and special Education and Literacy Celebrations in the schools and at festivals. I am also involved with ArtSmarts programming through the Durham Board of Education. I will be available again this year for grades 7-12 upon the request of teachers.