| Dan Gibson Storyteller, Banjoplayer Dallas, Texas  Phone: 214-331-4559 Updated July 19, 2010 |
Breathe stories and songs into the air.They will fall to earth, who knows where. But then one day from beginning to end, You'll find them all in the heart of a friend.
"Storytelling reveals meaning without
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"We are much pleas'd and thankfull to you for the banngeau for altho' we can't make musick on it yet it is a great curiosity." - Sarah Anderson, London, writing to her uncle, James Hollyday, Maryland, December 11, 1758
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Download, Print High Res Photos.
Download, Print Brochure, 
Telling a Jack Tale, Lancaster, TX
Photo-op, Gainesville, TX
Banjo Power, Gainesville, TX
 
Making up Verses to a Song, Plano, TX
Chasing Bubbles, Cockrell Hill, TX
Playing the Pickin' Bow, Ennis, TX
Eyes on the Storyteller, Hewitt, TX
Banjoplayer/Storyteller, Emory, TX, Library
Mountain Dulcimer Demo, Windthorst, TX
Sign Language Story, Palestine, TX
Publicity Photos
Experience Past Performances
Past Performances
Links to Sample Stories Ghost Stories Poetry & Satire Storytelling Links
People from these nations If you are viewing this web site from outside the United States, please send me an e-mail and let me know.
Thanks.
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NEW! Gourd Banjo and
Programs for Schools, Libraries and Private Events
"A World Full of Stories & Music"
"Texas Tales 'n' Tunes for TEKS"
"Songs & Stories from the U.S. Civil War"
Supports school curriculum objectives nationwide in history and social studies. (Good for all grades and grownups, as well.)
Grain Measure Banjo (photo coming soon)
The Gourd Banjo It was the common form of the banjo in North America through the early 1800s. This one is made from a large "canteen" gourd. It is tuned to a lower pitch than modern banjos. Its skin head and gut strings give it a great, thumping mellow tone that adds a unique flavor to Dan's programs.
"Family Friendly Fun" A natural for family reunions and other gatherings of grownups and children. Stories and music, of course.
"A Likely Story"
Storytelling Workshops
Travel, lodging expenses (if any)
Schools:
Half-day: $325 plus travel -- up to three 45-60 minute programs
Block Booking Discounts Are Available
Libraries:
Festivals, Fairs, Celebrations, Civic Events:
Other Public and Private Events:
His programs are for all ages. He will entertain you, but he will also help you laugh, stimulate your thinking and stir your imagination.
Dan's repertoire includes adaptations of traditional folk tales from many cultures, ghost stories (if requested) historical tales, original stories, a bit of outrageous cowboy poetry, shameless whoppers about eccentric people and strange animals, and songs to get you singing.
Singalong, tap your toe
His whoppers include stories about a champion liar caught telling the truth, an ill-tempered paraplegic who invents a new way to communicate, a chicken rancher who triggers a massive disaster, self-skinning skunks, high plains sponge turtles, laser-guided biting flies, and more.
Every winter, all the water pipes in town froze.
They would freeze a little at a time – first, some here; then, some there – until they were all frozen. All, that is, except old Hattie Smith's. Her water pipes never froze, even in the coldest weather.
The townspeople were extremely jealous of her. Some believed she had made a pact with the devil. How else could anyone explain the simple fact that her water pipes never froze.
They complained to the mayor. They complained to the courts. They complained to the churches. They complained to their Congressmen. They complained to God. Some even complained to the devil.
They made life miserable for Hattie. But she never complained. She never said a cross word to anyone.
But, still, every winter it was always the same. All the water pipes in town would freeze up, little by little, except for Hattie's.
As the water pipes in each household froze, neighbors would visit neighbors whose pipes had yet to freeze. They'd ask for just enough water to last until the weather warmed up and the pipes would thaw and flow freely once again. But the neighbors always refused. They had to save their water. They couldn't let any of it go. They had to take care of themselves. A few people got a little water. Some got what they needed. And, little by little, all the pipes in town would freeze up, every time – except for Hattie's.
When Hattie died, she had no living relatives. Most of the townspeople hated her. Just a few old friends attended her funeral.
All of her property went to the state and was sold. There was a huge clamor among the townspeople, though. They all wanted to buy her house – the house with the water pipes that would never freeze. It sold for ten times what it was actually worth. The family who bought it was extremely proud of their new possession, and thrilled to have a house whose pipes would never freeze.
That next winter was the worst on record. And for the first time, the pipes in Hattie's house froze -- just like all the others in town.
The people who bought the house couldn't understand why. They were upset. They were mad. They complained to the mayor. They complained to the courts. They complained to the churches. They complained to their Congressmen. They complained to God. They complained to the devil. But most of all, they complained to the real estate agent. "Why did the pipes never freeze when Hattie lived here? Was the old lady a witch? Is this old house haunted?"
Someone suggested that Hattie's ghost was getting revenge for the way people treated her when she was alive.
But, no one had seen a ghost. No one had heard chains rattling in the attic, or unearthly sounds coming from the basement. Nothing in the house had ever moved by itself without the help of a mortal.
But, as a matter of fact, the answers came from Hattie's ghost.
They found a letter hidden under a kitchen drawer. It was addressed to, "The New Owners."
Dear Friends,
With love,
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| References and Kind Words from Nice People |
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"One of our teachers said Dan is a natural storyteller and he truly is that. He had teacherrs and the students on the edge of their seats, all participating. Dan was pickin' and grinnin' the whole three hours. He brightened our day."
Patricia Lee, Library Media Specialist, Daniel Webster Elementary School, Dallas, Texas
"I Loved the way you involved our students all the way. They enjoyed it, while you also made them think. Thank you! I am spreading the word that any elementary campus would enjoy your visit."
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Vickie George, Justiss Elementary, Paris, Texas
"Dan Gibson is a master storyteller and expert entertainer who drew in our students ranging from pre-kindergarten to sixth grade. He had them from the very beginning and they were absolutely enthralled during his entire performance. We all look forward to his return with great anticipation."
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Amy Money, Librarian, Caddo Grove Elementary School, Joshua, Texas
"If you need a storyteller/banjoplayer, Dan Gibson is your man."
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News & Record, Greensboro, North Carolina
"Dan's storytelling and playing of several musical instruments was superb. He fascinated our entire school -- from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. Each audience, regardless of age level, was kept captive by his talents. Students were also visiting the school library because of interests sparked by Mr. Gibson's topics. Red Rock Elementary would love to have Mr. Gibson back on campus in the future."
| Wanda Lentz, Title 1 Teacher, Red Rock Elementary, Red Rock, Texas
"Dan provided our residents with a wonderful entertainment event, and left them humming and chuckling. He's a talented and gracious performer. I have had requests to invite him back!" | Carolyn Dennis, Life Enrichment Fine Arts Resource Coordinator, Grace Presbyterian Village, Dallas, Texas
"I can't remember when I've heard high school students yell, 'Encore.' The kindergarten teachers keep stopping me and telling me how perfect you were for their students."
| Paula Salter, Librarian, Heritage Christian Academy, Rockwall, Texas
"Dan Gibson is magic! Children are held spellbound by his stories."
| Linda Bradberry, Children's Librarian, Palestine Public Library, Palestine, Texas
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"Thank you for the wonderful performance at our library. It is always a sign of a successful performance when the audience doesn't want to leave."
Jennifer Beach, Central North Carolina Regional Library, Burlington, North Carolina
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"It was great that the students were able to help say parts of the story. The music made the stories more interesting." "I applaud Dan Gibson for asking children to 'chew on the' meaning of the butterfly story. It is an ingeneous way to encourage kids to transfer meaning from a story to their own experiences. I would have liked to have more time added to his presentation."
"The students were enthusiastic and engaged throughout Dan's stories and songs. His interactive program was great!"
Teachers' comments, Brentfield Elementary School, Richardson, Texas
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"I have had Dan out to the library many times and each time he has been
absolutely wonderful. The children are able to engage with him, and his
stories are always entertaining and educational. Plus, the banjo is a big
winner with the kids and adults."
Erik Knapp, Children's Librarian, North Oak Cliff Branch Library, Dallas, Texas.
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"Dan Gibson visited our K-3 graders and kept their attention for the full 45 minutes. He could have gone longer if time had allowed. He had their attention the whole time, telling stories, interacting with the kids, and playing his banjo and mountain dulcimer."
Sharon Morgan, Bryant Elementary, Arlington, Texas.
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"The students really enjoyed your visit. Your stories were perfect for our students on many different levels. The sign language story gave them an outlet for expression other than language; they get tired and frustrated with the language acquisition process. With this story they were actually able to 'see' the words, and it didn't matter how they pronounced them or what grammar they used! In addition, the song, 'Away Down in the Valley,' was excellent preposition practice! (Many of our students have trouble with this.)"
Aubree Evans, English Language Institute, University of Texas, Arlington
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"Our students were mesmerized by your animated stories and songs. You were able to hold the interest of all our students, from kindergarten through fifth grades. Like your storytelling, the impressions you made upon them will stay with them for a long time and will further cultivate their love of literacy. We certainly look forward to you coming to our school again."
Cathy Rumley, Principal, North Graham Elementary School, Graham, North Carolina
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"Dan's enthusiasm for his work with children is heartwarming. He loves to
connect and to entertain and children respond infectiously to his antics.
His humorous stories and music are just plain fun, but often they contain a
life lesson slipped in as well. Dan can work with any age and any size
group. He's the kind of 'people person' you like to be around. I heartily
recommend Dan for any organization. He'll meet the needs of whatever group you have."
Carol Dengle, Children's Librarian, Dallas Public Library, Dallas, Texas
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"Your presentation was chock full of inter-disciplinary experiences: Language Arts, Science, Communications, Cultures Around the World, Reading and Writing. I was impressed with your stamina to maintain the attention and interest of different groups of children, K-5th grade, from morning to afternoon. I particularly enjoyed the demonstration of rare and exotic instruments from around the world. I will strongly recommend our P.T.A. invite you back."
Suzanne Terrio, Ed.M., M.A., C.S.C. Program Coordinator, Bridlewood Elementary School P.T.A., Flower Mound, Texas | |||||||
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"You have a unique way with middle school students, which is no mild feat, and the stories and songs you shared were right on target with our theme. Many students commented to me how much they enjoyed your performance. Thank you for making our 'Westward Yo!' an extra special day."
Terry L. Cherry, Teacher, 8th Grade U.S. History, Memorial Preparatory School, Garland, Texas | |||||||
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"Children, daycare providers and librarians at the Hampton-Illinois Branch Library enjoyed the program presented by Dan Gibson. He shared a variety of stories that were very well told, amusing and hilariously funny. The children were attentive, involved and had lots of fun as Dan encouraged them to help him tell the stories. Some of the children remembered stories he told at previous programs and requested to hear them again. Mr. Gibson provided the children with a number of thought-provoking, entertaining folk tales and played exciting banjo music to begin and end the program."
Janet S. Johnson, Children's Librarian, Hampton-Illinois Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
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"You definitely left your mark at our library with your lively musical stroytelling talents. We listened. We laughed. We sang. Most importantly, we participated! The real test came when we had teenagers in the audience who do not usually pay attention to the Summer Reading Club performances. You passed this test with 'flying colors.'"
Latonya S. Pegues, Youth Services Librarian, Lancaster Memorial Library, Lancaster, Texas
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"We had a great variety of age groups at our Story Time gathering, and Dan did a fantastic job of keeping their attention with songs and stories. More than just the children were entertained. The parents, patrons and the staff were greatly engaged by his music, stories and wisdom. We all appreciated learning a story in sign language."
Paula Clark, Story Lady, Seaside Public Library, Seaside, Oregon
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"A delightful storyteller, his interaction with his audience, no matter the age, makes this ancient art come alive."
Jenny Cunningham, Curriculum Director and Sherry Wortham, Librarian
Slocum School, Slocum, Texas | |||||||
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"Children know the difference between a performer and a friend. Dan Gibson not only carries on the fine tradition of storytelling, but he truly likes and understands children. Treat yourself and your patrons to a delightful program by scheduling Dan Gibson."
Jeri Baker, Manager, Park Forest Branch Library, Dallas, Texas | |||||||
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"My 4-year-old daughter sat on the front row in rapt attention during your Audelia branch library show and ever since she has been telling people the "Pushing Up the Sky" story and the story of "The Hen, the Librarian and the Big Mouth Frog." When she finishes, she even tells people,'now it's yours.'"
Laura Griffin, Dallas, Texas | |||||||
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"Your performance really had something for everyone. It brought in a record crowd for us. The children were completely wrapped up in the stories, actively listening and participating. I think the grown-ups enjoyed your take on 'Old McDonald' as much as the children. My son retold 'Cecil the Caterpiller' in American Sign Language to his dad over dinner that evening. Many of our patrons have stopped in to say how much they enjoyed the evening, and they hope you will come again sometime."
Heather Holley-Hall, Manager, Graham Public Library, Graham, North Carolina
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"Thank you for the fun program. Our children were captivated by your singing and storytelling. They particularly enjoyed hearing and watching you play the banjo and dulcimer. You had great rapport with the children and
parents."
Marsha Barker, Assistant Manager/Youth Librarian Renner Frankford Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"Thank you for visiting us here in Wichita Falls. As our 'kick-off' performer for 'Read Across Texas,' we received only positive and enthusiastic audience feedback for your program. Hopefully, we can persuade you to make the trek up north again."
| Lesley Daly, Wichita Falls Public Library, Wichita Falls, Texas
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"Dan Gibson came to St. Bernard of Clairvaux Elementary School to help us celebrate our festival of Irish culture. His music and stories were a wonderful finale to our week's events. His style has universal appeal: the children and adults alike appreciated his easy delivery, comedic timing, extensive musical training, and especially the heart in his selection of stories. He was obviously in charge of the audience and allowed lots of interaction within the boundaries he created. The children thanked him personally at the end! We are grateful for his time with us and whole-heartedly recommend the talented Mr. Gibson to any group, large or small."
Carolyn McCormick, St. Bernard's Home & School Assoc., Dallas, Texas
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"Thank you for your wonderful presentation. The teachers and students all enjoyed your lively, musical, storytelling sessions. The music, both instrumentals and vocals, had a strong captivating influence on your audience, especially when the students tend to get noisy (such as when they are entering or leaving). The music was also very effective for re-focusing their attention on you after a discussion time. It always makes my job easier when the presenter can handle the crowd, like you did."
Janet Baria, librarian, Valley Ridge Elementary, Lewisville, Texas
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"Dan Gibson's easy going delivery leads the listener into a land
where truth becomes relative. Suspending belief, the audience follows
Dan down paths that yield laughter and delight. His tall tales are sure
to please."
Dr. Trudy L. Hanson, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas
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"I appreciate your talents, both musically and in storytelling, and it was obvious that those in storytime did as well. What a special treat for our library patrons, and for those of us on the staff to have you here."
Patrick M. Mullin, Amarillo, Texas, Public Library
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"Thanks again for a great workshop.Everyone was most complimentary. The Friends of the Library thought you were just terrific."
Wanda Berry, Director, DeSoto Parish Library, Mansfield, Louisiana
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"Thank you so much for making our meeting so enjoyable. Everyone enjoyed your storytelling and banjo playing so much. The number of people gathered around you as you were trying to leave tells all -- they loved you and were anxious to hear just a bit more."
Nancy J. Bennett, Senior Adult Coordinator, AXE United Methodist Church, Garland, Texas
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[Return to top of page] [Past Performances 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 & 2005 ] [Past Performances 2004 and Earlier]
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Upcoming and Recent Performances in 2010 and 2011 For the very latest schedule and availability information, contact Dan Gibson: 214-331-4559, or
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May 1 Plano, Texas |
Schimelpfenig Library, Family Program 2:00 p.m. |
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May 3 Dallas, Texas |
Happi Times Clown Alley |
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May 7 Dallas, Texas |
Dallas Heritage Village |
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May 8 Dallas, Texas |
Central Congregational Church |
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May 11 Richardson, Texas |
Richardson Public Library, Teens (Tentative) |
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May 18 Plano, Texas |
Girl Scouts, Mother-Daughter Banquet |
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May 22 Arlington, Texas |
National Scouting Muesum Cub Scout Music Belt Loop Program 11:00 a.m. |
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June 9 Haltom City, Texas |
Senior Center 11:00 a.m. |
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June 10 Dallas, Texas |
Skillman-Southwestern Branch Library 2:00 p.m. |
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June 12 & 13 San Antonio, Texas |
Texas Folklife Festival |
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June 15 Aubrey, Texas |
Aubrey Area Library, Summer Reading Club 11:00 a.m. |
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June 16 Mineola, Texas |
Mineola Library 2:00 p.m. |
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June 17 Richardson, Texas |
TEA Region 10 Service Center Live Video |
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June 23 Burnet, Texas |
Burnet Public Library Summer Reading Club 10:00 a.m. |
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June 24 Corsicana, Texas |
Corsicana Public Library 11:00 a.m. |
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June 26 University Park, Texas |
University Park Public LIbrary 10:30 a.m. |
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June 28 Sherman, Texas |
Sherman Public LIbrary 2:00 p.m. |
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June 28 Lewisville, Texas |
Lewisville Public Library, Summer Reading Club 7:00 p.m. |
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June 29 Prosper, Texas |
Prosper Library 11:00 a.m. |
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June 29 Celina, Texas |
Caline Library 2:00 p.m. |
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June 30 The Colony, Texas |
The Colony Public Library, Summer Reading Club 2:00 p.m. |
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July 1 Sachse, Texas |
Sachse Public Library, Summer Reading Club 11:00 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. |
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July 6 Garland, Texas |
Nicholson Library 7:00 p.m. |
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July 14 Ennis, Texas |
Ennis Public Library, preschoolers 10:00 a.m. |
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July 14 Bridgeport, Texas |
Bridgeport Public Library 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. |
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July 15 Weatherford, Texas |
Weatherford Public Library Summer Reading Club 10:30 & 11:30 a.m. |
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July 17 Paris, Texas |
Pine Tree Ranch |
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July 20 Spurger, Texas |
Spurger Library 2:00 p.m. |
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July 22 Bartonville, Texas |
Premier Academy |
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July 26-30 Plano, Texas |
Summer Music Adventure for Kids St. Andrews United Methodist Church |
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July 28 Rowlett, Texas |
1st United methodist Church Seniors 10:00 a.m. |
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September 8 Norlina, North Carolina |
Norlina Elementary School |
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September 16 Fort Worth, Texas |
Region 11, Education Service Center Library Harvest |
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September 27 Mtount Pleasant, Texas |
TEA Region 8 Showcase |
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October 26 Frisco, Texas |
"Frisco Read" |
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November 5 Dallas, Texas |
Brookhollow Country Club |
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January 20, 2011 Garland, Texas |
Chambrell Retirement Center |
| Dan also tells stories at other private events which may not appear on this calendar. These include public and private schools, home schools, daycare centers, retirement centers, nursing homes, hospitals, corporate activities, civic and professional organizations, youth groups, and many others. |
[Return to top of page] [Return to Upcoming and Recent Performances] [Past Performances 2004 and before]
| Past Performances (2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005) Include: |
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2010 (Go to Calendar of Upcoming and Recent Performances) 2009 (Go to Calendar of Upcoming and Recent Performances) 2008 (Go to Calendar of Upcoming and Recent Performances)
2007 (Go to Calendar of Upcoming and Recent Performances) 2006 2005 |
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National Storytelling Network
 Dallas Storytelling Guild |
 Tejas Storytelling Association |
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Copyright 2010 Dan Gibson