Artist Statement
Stories connect us, uno al otro, one to another. With stories in Spanish and English I entertain and educate, share insights and experiences, laughter and joy. I believe that by sharing our stories we can improve communications, learn about one another and increase respect and peace.
Artist Bio
Blending traditional, international & personal tales, award-winning bilingual storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar takes her listeners on a journey into the imagination connecting people, languages and cultures through her stories that flow effortlessly between Spanish and English. A nationally known Chautauqua scholar, as well as a Kennedy Center & Wolftrap trained Artist in Education, her tales celebrate both the similarities and the differences of our culturally diverse communities. As a third generation storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar learned early on the power of the oral tradition and it’s capacity for healing, inspiration, education, and entertainment.
Program Description
Telling in both Spanish and English, she has worked as an artist/educator for over 30 years with students from preschool through college aged as well as adults in the United States and Mexico. As a Kennedy Center and Wolftrap trained Teaching Artist, Carrie Sue offers Professional Development opportunities to teachers and librarians and other storytellers as well as designing residencies for students. As a Chautauqua, a Road Scholar, and a Speaker with the Florida Humanities Council she shares history and subjects that encourage critical and creative thinking. She performs in schools, colleges, parks, libraries, community festivals, museums, outreach programs and conferences.
Performances & Residencies include:
Wolf Trap Early Childhood and Baby Arts Residencies
School Arts integrated storytelling programs and residencies
Storytelling Performances
Chautauqua Performances of Rose Weiss: Mother of Miami Beach and Dr. Anna Darrow: Petticoat Doctor of the Everglades
Quotes
“I loved the way you told the stories in two different languages. Even though I don’t understand Spanish I still thought it was cool! ” Jackie, student from Morton, MS OR “I was having a bad day, but the stories made me laugh and forget my troubles. Thank you.”
– Jessica, student, Panther Run Elementary
Quotes/Reviews: “As she tells her stories, Carrie Ayvar gets enthused with childish glee. Whether in English or in Spanish, her tales … deal with simple facts about nature, animals, daily life, with beautiful images and constructive morals.”
– Norma Niurka, journalist, El Nuevo Herald and the Miami Herald
“She embodies learning in and through the arts… Carrie Sue is a Master Teaching Artist.”
– Sheila Womble, Executive Director Arts For Learning/ Young Audiences Miami
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUXQKPjkl_w