TELLABRATION 11172018 (150)

As a young girl Debra Ballou spent weekends on her grandparents’ farm listening to the stories her grandmother told. This New Hampshire native now tells stories to people of all ages involving the natural and cultural history of the world. Some stories include musical instruments like her Native American cedar flute, singing, and/or audience participation. Debra immerses her audience in the wonders of the real and imaginary in her workshops and performances.
A professional storyteller since 1996, Debra tells a variety of stories including folktales, fairytales, Native American stories, original stories, personal stories, and poems for all to enjoy across New Hampshire and beyond.
In 2007, Debra became the Coordinator for Seacoast Storytellers (a member since 1997), a storytelling guild based out of Portsmouth, NH for which she currently serves as their coordinator, facilitator, and event planner. As a member of LANES (League for the Advancement of New England Storytelling), now called Northeast Storytelling (NEST), she served on the Board of Directors for two separate terms for a total of five years, as President for one year and later as Treasurer.

As a member of New Hampshire Storytelling Alliance (NHSA), she has volunteered and performed at many of their storytelling events. In 2012 she received the Gateways Award from NHSA for “Consistently Promotes Community, Understanding and Appreciation through the Oral Tradition of Story Telling”.
Debra has over twenty years of experience educating people from various age groups about environmental topics. She has a B.A. in biology and M.S. in Environmental Studies Education. Her talents have led her to teach for the University of New Hampshire Sea Grant Marine Docent Program, Seacoast Science Center, Massabesic Audubon Center, Workshop in the Woods, and Great Bay Discovery Center. She encourages others to explore the natural world and its influence on their cultural heritage. As a naturalist and an educator she uses her storytelling and her great love of science together for all to enjoy.
Debra would be happy to tailor her programs to your needs. Please contact her via phone: 603-749-9634 or email: debra@debraballou.com

About Debra's Storytelling

“Debra is a wonderful storyteller who puts people at ease with her relaxed style. She connects with and engages her audience” – Trish Churchill, Concord NH

Debra Ballou

Storyteller, Flute Player, Teaching Artist

“Debra Ballou is a gifted storyteller. Blending the spirit of a story with an understanding of her audience, she creates a memorable and intimate experience. Whether telling an old Native American story with the sage-like wisdom of an elder or a personal story with the excited fervor of a child, Debra entertains and educates with her tales. Continuing the heartfelt tradition of storytelling, Debra Ballou delights audiences young and old with her candid stories, resonant drumming, and lilting flute work. A Debra Ballou performance is a warm and heartfelt event that is a refreshing change of pace from today's garish, in-your-face media. Bravo for Debra Ballou and Tales from the Heart!” --- Phil McGrail

 

About Debra's Flute Playing

“…mesmerizes… with her Native American flute and her nature-oriented stories.”
–Concord Monitor, Concord, NH