A few months ago, my bardic brother Doug Thew asked for permission to tell a story that I'm well-known for telling. I was flattered and honored to be asked and agreed immediately. The story is not mine to keep, but I'm always happy to hear that other people are actively passing these stories along, keeping them alive.
Doug was asked to tell a story at Sammy and Greg's wedding reception in Ontario. I didn't know the newly wed couple very well, but I did know a great many people who were there, so I asked my sweet friend Marie to record the performance.
Marie used her Blackberry to record the telling of this story, so the quality isn't very good, but you can clearly hear Doug's telling of the story. Initially, I just wanted to hear how Doug would deal with this story, but it also amused me to no end that Doug would know that I was listening (in an ethereal, big-brother way).
Upon listening to the recording, I was so impressed at how Doug made this story his own. This wasn't Doug telling my story: this was The Ferryman telling his story. I was in awe, but it also reminded me that I've gotten a bit too comfortable with my version of this story. It wouldn't hurt the tale to change it up once in awhile, to experiment with a tale I know very well.
So before I pass this story onto you, I would like to thank Doug for honoring me with such a fine retelling of this story. I hope you enjoyed telling it as much as loved hearing it, brother.
Love and Madness as told by Doug "The Ferryman" Thew(9:31 minutes)
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
November Story: The Man with No Story
I was pleased to have the privilege of spending my All Hallows Eve in a pub telling tales. Thanks be to Mike who trusted me with this sacred task! I was also honored to share the stage with Sarah, Jack, and Ruthanne Edward from Ottawa who regaled us with a couple of ghostly and ghastly tales herself.
As mentioned in the recording, this is a story that Mike Burns often tells at this time of year, but that he also published in a collection of tales called Ghostwise. This link allows you to read this story as well.
I also talk about my latest CD in this recording and have included it as a shameless plug. If you don't have the CD, why do you continue to deny yourself such pleasures? You can download the tracks from the CD for cheap by visiting CDBaby.
So, without further ado, here's the story:
As mentioned in the recording, this is a story that Mike Burns often tells at this time of year, but that he also published in a collection of tales called Ghostwise. This link allows you to read this story as well.
I also talk about my latest CD in this recording and have included it as a shameless plug. If you don't have the CD, why do you continue to deny yourself such pleasures? You can download the tracks from the CD for cheap by visiting CDBaby.
So, without further ado, here's the story:
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Where in the World is Rikki Santiago?
Our good friend Rikki Lacoste has mysteriously disappeared, but like in the Blair Witch Project, his podcast was found. Have a listen to the latest episode of his podcast Kakophonos where Rikki managed to cobble together a few terrifying Canadian storytellers and their tales of the macabre celebrating those things that go bump in the night.
Warning: the podcast does use some strong language. Parental discretion is advised.
Warning: the podcast does use some strong language. Parental discretion is advised.
Halloween Storytelling at Hurley's
Normally, Mike Burns would be telling us frightful Irish tales for the season, but unfortunately he's not feeling well, so he has asked me to step into the role of storyteller. Join us for an evening of ghostly, ghastly, and demonic tales that celebrate those dark things that go bump in the night.
Hurley's Halloween Storytelling
Sunday, October 31 · 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Hurley' Irish Pub
1225 rue Crescent
Montreal, QC
Facebook Event
Hurley's Halloween Storytelling
Sunday, October 31 · 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Hurley' Irish Pub
1225 rue Crescent
Montreal, QC
Facebook Event
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
October Story: Skeleton Woman
Sorry for the long silence, but I've been away to France for 10 days. We had a wonderful time, took loads of pictures, drank wine and champagne, and ate too much cheese and sausage. I can't wait to go back.
This month's story was told during the 92 Degrees of Love show back in February 2010. Uncharacteristically, Shayne is not playing music with this story. Instead, I'll be playing the drum! I think this is the second time I play the drum while telling at it really is tricky to get it right.
I find the Skeleton Woman story to be an odd mix of creepy and endearing. With the coming of Halloween, the end of summer, and the beginning of winter, I find this story contains many themes. I hope you enjoy it.
UPDATE: The version below is not from the February 2010 show, but from about 6 years later in Ottawa during a show called Blood and Bones, as recorded at the Origin Studio.
This month's story was told during the 92 Degrees of Love show back in February 2010. Uncharacteristically, Shayne is not playing music with this story. Instead, I'll be playing the drum! I think this is the second time I play the drum while telling at it really is tricky to get it right.
I find the Skeleton Woman story to be an odd mix of creepy and endearing. With the coming of Halloween, the end of summer, and the beginning of winter, I find this story contains many themes. I hope you enjoy it.
UPDATE: The version below is not from the February 2010 show, but from about 6 years later in Ottawa during a show called Blood and Bones, as recorded at the Origin Studio.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Guest Poem: Peach Creamed Honey
A month ago, I attended a spoken word event called Wired on Words (hosted by Ian Ferrier) at Casa Del Popolo. I met up with my friend Ruthanne who told me about the event and I met her friend Amal El-Mohtar. Amal is a poet from Ottawa who has recently published a book of poetry called "The Honey Month".
After hearing her read from her book, I immediately purchased a copy and I love it. With her kind permission, I have recorded a poem from her book called Day Two. What's cool about this collection of poetry is its origins (from her website):
To read more about this book and its authoer, please visit Papaveria Press. The music is called La Vibora by The Paperboys from the The Road to Ellenside album.
Day Two of The Honey Month (3:14 minutes)
After hearing her read from her book, I immediately purchased a copy and I love it. With her kind permission, I have recorded a poem from her book called Day Two. What's cool about this collection of poetry is its origins (from her website):
28 days there are in the month of February, a cold month in our part of the world, a month in which the summer seems an endless dream one had once, long ago. We should not be tricked by the frost, for it was during the dreaming month of February that Amal El-Mohtar composed The Honey Month, a book that tastes and smells of sun. Each day she uncapped a vial of honey, letting the brew inspire the words that became this book. Amal offers us much more than poetry and prose, however. Her words wrap around us like spiderwebs, gently pulling us into the web she weaves, where honey girls tempt and tease us, where things lost return and sorrow paints the leaves. This is a colourful book, but it is by no means a frivolous one. Remember, not all honey is sweet.
To read more about this book and its authoer, please visit Papaveria Press. The music is called La Vibora by The Paperboys from the The Road to Ellenside album.
Day Two of The Honey Month (3:14 minutes)
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
August Story: The Maiden and the Mirror
I'm starting to run out of recordings to post! That's the summer for you: storytelling tends to be an activity for the Autumn/Winter months when people are happy to be indoors, snuggled up next to a fire. Unfortunately, due to a bunch of mishaps, I wasn't able to record my final show at Hurleys, which is a damn shame 'cause it was awesome. I hope you were able to make it.
The Bard's New Hat CD is selling bit by bit and I'm getting great feedback on it. I'm more than half-way to my goal of 180 CDs sold, so that's encouraging. I'm trying to schedule some shows in Ottawa and Quebec city in the coming months, so stay tuned to this website and we might be able to bring our stories to a cafe/pub near you!
Today's story was taken from a collection of bedtime stories called 365 Bedtime Stories by Christine Allison. It was recorded in Montreal in February 2010 at Cafe 92 Degrees with the mystical Shayne Gryn on guitar. It's one of those poignant stories that moves me, but it's not a traditional plot-driven tale. It reminds me of a painting that is so moving, you can't stop finding new aspects to it.
I'd also like to dedicate this story to Isaac Bonewits who is resting quietly in his home and waiting for his time to come. Isaac is a favorite author of mine and I had the pleasure to meet him in late 2009 in Ottawa at a speaking engagement. In late 2009, he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. He went through several treatments over the following months, and although the treatments were going well, things have taken a turn for the worse.
The latest note from his partner Phaedra Bonewits (taken from Facebook):
Just wanted to address the rumors that Isaac is back in the hospital. He is at home as he had wished, but he is nearing the end. His brothers and sisters are on their way to say goodbye. Please keep us all in your thoughts and prayers.
You can read more about this on his blog and Facebook fan page:
Blog: http://neopagan.net/blog/?tag=cancer
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/isaac.phaedra.bonewits
Unlike Lilly Chen, I don't pretend to think that Isaac was goodness itself. But I know that he's been a positive influence on many, many people through his books and just by being who he is. I wish him a smooth and painless passage to the Summerlands and offer my sympathies to his wife Phaedra and I hope she leans on her family and friends during this difficult time.
Update from Phaedra Bonewits (http://www.facebook.com/#!/isaac.phaedra.bonewits):
This morning, August 12, 2010 at approximately 8 AM ET, Isaac Bonewits passed away peacefully in his sleep. All his brothers and sisters arrived at his side last night. His family and friends surround him
The Maiden & the Mirror -- Told by JD Hickey (4:55 minutes)
The Bard's New Hat CD is selling bit by bit and I'm getting great feedback on it. I'm more than half-way to my goal of 180 CDs sold, so that's encouraging. I'm trying to schedule some shows in Ottawa and Quebec city in the coming months, so stay tuned to this website and we might be able to bring our stories to a cafe/pub near you!
Today's story was taken from a collection of bedtime stories called 365 Bedtime Stories by Christine Allison. It was recorded in Montreal in February 2010 at Cafe 92 Degrees with the mystical Shayne Gryn on guitar. It's one of those poignant stories that moves me, but it's not a traditional plot-driven tale. It reminds me of a painting that is so moving, you can't stop finding new aspects to it.
I'd also like to dedicate this story to Isaac Bonewits who is resting quietly in his home and waiting for his time to come. Isaac is a favorite author of mine and I had the pleasure to meet him in late 2009 in Ottawa at a speaking engagement. In late 2009, he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. He went through several treatments over the following months, and although the treatments were going well, things have taken a turn for the worse.
The latest note from his partner Phaedra Bonewits (taken from Facebook):
Just wanted to address the rumors that Isaac is back in the hospital. He is at home as he had wished, but he is nearing the end. His brothers and sisters are on their way to say goodbye. Please keep us all in your thoughts and prayers.
You can read more about this on his blog and Facebook fan page:
Blog: http://neopagan.net/blog/?tag=cancer
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/isaac.phaedra.bonewits
Unlike Lilly Chen, I don't pretend to think that Isaac was goodness itself. But I know that he's been a positive influence on many, many people through his books and just by being who he is. I wish him a smooth and painless passage to the Summerlands and offer my sympathies to his wife Phaedra and I hope she leans on her family and friends during this difficult time.
Update from Phaedra Bonewits (http://www.facebook.com/#!/isaac.phaedra.bonewits):
This morning, August 12, 2010 at approximately 8 AM ET, Isaac Bonewits passed away peacefully in his sleep. All his brothers and sisters arrived at his side last night. His family and friends surround him
The Maiden & the Mirror -- Told by JD Hickey (4:55 minutes)
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Bard's New Hat is on CDBaby!
My latest CD The Bard's New Hat is now available on CDBaby! You can either order a physical copy of the CD or download the entire album as a set of MP3s. As of today, the MP3s aren't available yet, but they should be by the end of the week.
If you think you're going to see me in person soon, you might want to wait until we cross-paths. But if you just can't wait, CDBaby might be a good option for you. The tracks should also be available on iTunes in a few weeks as well.
If you already have a copy of my CD and enjoyed listening to it, please visit my CDBaby page and leave a glowing review to encourage others to buy it! Thanks for your support!
If you think you're going to see me in person soon, you might want to wait until we cross-paths. But if you just can't wait, CDBaby might be a good option for you. The tracks should also be available on iTunes in a few weeks as well.
If you already have a copy of my CD and enjoyed listening to it, please visit my CDBaby page and leave a glowing review to encourage others to buy it! Thanks for your support!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
July Story: The Samurai and the Teamaster
This is a story I heard many years ago by a few tellers, each with their own version, each with their own ending. However, I wasn't satisfied with any of their endings, so I came up with my own. I hope you enjoy it.
This story was recorded in April 2010 at Cafe 92 Degrees, featuring Shayne Gryn on guitar.
I would also like to dedicate this story to Rick, who says this is his favorite story from me, and to Brendan R., who says I tell this story too often. What can I say? Some stories haunt me.
The Samurai and the Teamaster -- Told by JD Hickey (5:12 minutes)
This story was recorded in April 2010 at Cafe 92 Degrees, featuring Shayne Gryn on guitar.
I would also like to dedicate this story to Rick, who says this is his favorite story from me, and to Brendan R., who says I tell this story too often. What can I say? Some stories haunt me.
The Samurai and the Teamaster -- Told by JD Hickey (5:12 minutes)
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Storytelling at Hurley's Irish Pub in July
Join us for an evening of storytelling and music with Shayne Gryn and friends at Hurley's Irish pub. This is the third and last time I'll be standing in for Mike Burns as he gallivants across Ireland.
This will also be the official CD Launch party for my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". You can by your own copy for the ridiculously low price of $10 a copy.
You can read more about the CD here:
http://www.documentia.ca/storyteller/store.html
NOTE: For my Ontario friends, I may be organizing a CD Launch in Ottawa in August or September, so stay tuned for that!
Date: Sunday, July 25, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Hurley's Irish Pub
Street: 1225 rue Crescent (Montreal)
Facebook Event Page
This will also be the official CD Launch party for my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". You can by your own copy for the ridiculously low price of $10 a copy.
You can read more about the CD here:
http://www.documentia.ca/storyteller/store.html
NOTE: For my Ontario friends, I may be organizing a CD Launch in Ottawa in August or September, so stay tuned for that!
Date: Sunday, July 25, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Hurley's Irish Pub
Street: 1225 rue Crescent (Montreal)
Facebook Event Page
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Odd Referrals
I was just checking my webstats for this blog and noticed an odd thing. If someone finds this blogcast using a search engine with keywords, I can see what the keywords are. Today, there were two entries for Google searches using the keywords:
"likes the truth" "the naked truth"
I think someone heard my telling of Truth and Story and tried to track me down with keywords from the tale. Fear not True Believer! The story postings you are looking for could be:
Truth and Story: the written text
Truth and Story: the told tale
Of course, I could mention that Truth and Story is just one of many tracks on my new CD The Bard's New Hat, but that would be self-serving and I would never fall victim to such practices.
Never. Ever.
"likes the truth" "the naked truth"
I think someone heard my telling of Truth and Story and tried to track me down with keywords from the tale. Fear not True Believer! The story postings you are looking for could be:
Truth and Story: the written text
Truth and Story: the told tale
Of course, I could mention that Truth and Story is just one of many tracks on my new CD The Bard's New Hat, but that would be self-serving and I would never fall victim to such practices.
Never. Ever.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
The Bard's New Hat: Official CD Launch
July 25th, 2010, 7pm
Hurley's Irish Pub
1225 rue Crescent
Montreal, Qc
Facebook Event
Join us for an evening of storytelling and music with Shayne Gryn and friends at Hurley's Irish pub. This is the third and last time I'll be standing in for Mike Burns as he gallivants across Ireland.
This will also be the official CD Launch party for my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". You can by your own copy for the ridiculously low price of $10 a copy.
If you can't make the CD Launch party and you still want to purchase a copy, the easiest (and cheapest) way is to buy it directly from me. You can read more about it on my storyteller website. But if you don't think you'll be seeing me in person anytime soon, I can mail you a copy for $12 ($10 + $2 for S&H). Contact me at mtlbard@gmail.com to make these arrangements (payment via cheque/money order or PayPal).
You will also be able to download the tracks only from CDBaby. Stay tuned for updates on that!
Hurley's Irish Pub
1225 rue Crescent
Montreal, Qc
Facebook Event
Join us for an evening of storytelling and music with Shayne Gryn and friends at Hurley's Irish pub. This is the third and last time I'll be standing in for Mike Burns as he gallivants across Ireland.
This will also be the official CD Launch party for my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". You can by your own copy for the ridiculously low price of $10 a copy.
If you can't make the CD Launch party and you still want to purchase a copy, the easiest (and cheapest) way is to buy it directly from me. You can read more about it on my storyteller website. But if you don't think you'll be seeing me in person anytime soon, I can mail you a copy for $12 ($10 + $2 for S&H). Contact me at mtlbard@gmail.com to make these arrangements (payment via cheque/money order or PayPal).
You will also be able to download the tracks only from CDBaby. Stay tuned for updates on that!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Guest Teller: The Debate
It is with great pleasure that I get to feature a fellow storyteller on this blogcast. Laurent Castellucci (aka LC) is a comedian, actor, writer, and storyteller based (mostly) in Montreal, but he has been known to travel hither and yon.
Back in April 2010, during the 92 Degrees of Foolishness, LC was invited to share a couple of tales with us that night. There is a bit of an ick with this story because there are hand gestures that, due to the limits of sound, you cannot see with the naked ear. Without seeing the gestures, the story loses a good chunk of its meaning.
To fix this problem, here are the gestures:
1. The Bishop holds up three fingers. Joshua holds up one finger.
2. The Bishop gestures in a circular manner above his head. Joshua thumps his chest once with his fist.
3. The Bishop pulls out a cup and a piece of bread. Joshua pulls out an apple.
Enjoy! Also, please remember that LC will be telling tales with us at Hurleys Irish Pub on the last Sunday in June! You do NOT want to miss that evening of tales!
The Debate (7:14 minutes)
Back in April 2010, during the 92 Degrees of Foolishness, LC was invited to share a couple of tales with us that night. There is a bit of an ick with this story because there are hand gestures that, due to the limits of sound, you cannot see with the naked ear. Without seeing the gestures, the story loses a good chunk of its meaning.
To fix this problem, here are the gestures:
1. The Bishop holds up three fingers. Joshua holds up one finger.
2. The Bishop gestures in a circular manner above his head. Joshua thumps his chest once with his fist.
3. The Bishop pulls out a cup and a piece of bread. Joshua pulls out an apple.
Enjoy! Also, please remember that LC will be telling tales with us at Hurleys Irish Pub on the last Sunday in June! You do NOT want to miss that evening of tales!
The Debate (7:14 minutes)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Walking the Moonlit Road...
Guess who is now featured on The Moonlit Road? I am so honored... I've been a fan of this fantastic site that specializes in Creepy and Ghostly stories from the Southern US (it's where I discovered the Hall of Wonders story). I am also doubly honored to share the page with Priscilla Howe, another fantastic storyteller from the US.
Go have a listen to these two versions of the Ghost with One Black Eye. I'm especially honored since this is one of my nieces Natasha, Sam(antha), and Alex(andra)'s favorite stories, although they refer to it as the "Apple Juice" story.
Go have a listen to these two versions of the Ghost with One Black Eye. I'm especially honored since this is one of my nieces Natasha, Sam(antha), and Alex(andra)'s favorite stories, although they refer to it as the "Apple Juice" story.
Monday, June 14, 2010
LC will be the Guest Teller in June!
We are pleased to announce that LC has confirmed he will be joining us at Hurley's Irish Pub on June 27th as our guest teller. Shayne Gryn will be providing the musical accompaniment as well as a few of his own pieces and I have a whole new set of stories to share.
We hope that you can join us for pints and a few tales too! See you in a couple of weeks!
Date: Sunday, June 27, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Hurley's Irish Pub
Street: 1225 rue Crescent (Montreal)
Facebook Event Page
We hope that you can join us for pints and a few tales too! See you in a couple of weeks!
Date: Sunday, June 27, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Hurley's Irish Pub
Street: 1225 rue Crescent (Montreal)
Facebook Event Page
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Power to the Pickle!
Our good friend Shayne Gryn is about to release his latest CD "The Untold Story of Pickle of Love", so we say Huzzah!
You can read more about it at: Power to the Pickle. You can download the CD, and if you like it, please donate and support a fellow artist!
You can read more about it at: Power to the Pickle. You can download the CD, and if you like it, please donate and support a fellow artist!
June Story: Koji and the Headmaster
This is the very first story I ever told. I read it in a collection of tales by Dan Yashinsky called Next Teller. Dan has a series of story collections that I highly recommend, including Ghostwise and Suddenly They Heard Footsteps.
What I love about this story is that it took me several years to figure out why I loved this story. It has an odd ending that moved me, but I couldn't explain what it meant. Listeners had all sorts of interpretations of what the story really meant, while others were frustrated with the ending, saying it was inappropriate. Any story that generates that much discussion is a good tale in my book.
The musical component of this story is provided by Shayne Gryn. It's sometimes difficult to focus on the story because his music is so beautiful.
If you are moved to do so, I would be interested in hearing your reaction to this story, so please leave a comment.
Koji and the Headmaster -- Told by JD Hickey (10:24 minutes)
What I love about this story is that it took me several years to figure out why I loved this story. It has an odd ending that moved me, but I couldn't explain what it meant. Listeners had all sorts of interpretations of what the story really meant, while others were frustrated with the ending, saying it was inappropriate. Any story that generates that much discussion is a good tale in my book.
The musical component of this story is provided by Shayne Gryn. It's sometimes difficult to focus on the story because his music is so beautiful.
If you are moved to do so, I would be interested in hearing your reaction to this story, so please leave a comment.
Koji and the Headmaster -- Told by JD Hickey (10:24 minutes)
Monday, June 7, 2010
Storytelling at Hurley's Irish Pub in June
Join us for an evening of storytelling and music with Shayne Gryn and friends at Hurley's Irish pub. This is the second month where I'm standing in for Mike Burns as he gallivants across Ireland.
Last month, we packed the room and even had to turn some people away! Get in early to find yourself a seat, order a pint, and settle in for some fabulous summer stories.
Date: Sunday, June 27, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Hurley's Irish Pub
Street: 1225 rue Crescent (Montreal)
Facebook Event Page
Last month, we packed the room and even had to turn some people away! Get in early to find yourself a seat, order a pint, and settle in for some fabulous summer stories.
Date: Sunday, June 27, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Hurley's Irish Pub
Street: 1225 rue Crescent (Montreal)
Facebook Event Page
Friday, May 21, 2010
Bard's New Hat is now in Beta!
I've made six copies of my upcoming CD The Bard's New Hat and I've been distributing them to people to review. I feel good about this CD, but I've been working on it for months, so I'm worried I can't be objective about it. I've seen enough questionable artistic endeavors that gave me pause and had me wondering "Did you get anyone else's opinion before you decided this was your Final Draft?" Before I make 1000 copies of this CD, I want to have a chance to get some feedback.
So if you've gotten a copy of this Beta CD, here are the things I want you to consider when reviewing it:
1. Is the collection of stories enjoyable?
2. Are there any stories you really don't like?
3. Do you like the order in which the stories are presented?
4. Are the volume levels okay? Can you hear everything clearly?
5. Did you listen to the whole CD in one shot, or did you take breaks between stories?
6. Do you find the music distracting or complementary?
7. Does the CD leave you wanting to hear more stories?
8. Would you recommend this CD to friends?
9. Would you recommend this CD to children? If so, what age level?
10. Is there anything you found inappropriate or offensive?
This list is just an example of the type of feedback I'm looking for. Anything you have to suggest would be welcome: don't worry about hurting my feelings, but try to be constructive with your feedback.
Please send all of your feedback to me by email at mtlbard [at symbol] gmail.com. If you could get me your feedback by the 26th of May, that would be great.
So if you've gotten a copy of this Beta CD, here are the things I want you to consider when reviewing it:
1. Is the collection of stories enjoyable?
2. Are there any stories you really don't like?
3. Do you like the order in which the stories are presented?
4. Are the volume levels okay? Can you hear everything clearly?
5. Did you listen to the whole CD in one shot, or did you take breaks between stories?
6. Do you find the music distracting or complementary?
7. Does the CD leave you wanting to hear more stories?
8. Would you recommend this CD to friends?
9. Would you recommend this CD to children? If so, what age level?
10. Is there anything you found inappropriate or offensive?
This list is just an example of the type of feedback I'm looking for. Anything you have to suggest would be welcome: don't worry about hurting my feelings, but try to be constructive with your feedback.
Please send all of your feedback to me by email at mtlbard [at symbol] gmail.com. If you could get me your feedback by the 26th of May, that would be great.
Monday, May 17, 2010
May Story: A Wise Little Girl
So here's another wisdom story for you for Spring from Russian folklore. This story was recorded at the 92 Degrees of Fools show back in April 2010 and features the incredibly gothic Shayne Gryn on guitar.
Don't forget the show at the end of May at Hurley's Irish Pub (May 30th, 7pm) where Shayne and I will be telling tales and drinking pints. We hope to see you there!
A Wise Little Girl (7:03 minutes)
There is a longer version of this story where the King marries the wise girl at the end, but fearing that she be too wise, he cautions her never to contract him on his judgments. Of course she does, and on the second time, with a heavy heart, he tells her to leave his kingdom, taking only what she can carry. She agrees to this, but asks for one last meal and night with her husband before she leaves. He agrees, but during the evening, she drugs his food so that he falls into a deep sleep. He wakes up to find himself in the back of a cart with his wife at the reigns saying that she agreed to leave taking her most precious thing, her husband.
I really like that ending, but I have never told it for some reason. I think I need to work that ending into it.
Don't forget the show at the end of May at Hurley's Irish Pub (May 30th, 7pm) where Shayne and I will be telling tales and drinking pints. We hope to see you there!
A Wise Little Girl (7:03 minutes)
There is a longer version of this story where the King marries the wise girl at the end, but fearing that she be too wise, he cautions her never to contract him on his judgments. Of course she does, and on the second time, with a heavy heart, he tells her to leave his kingdom, taking only what she can carry. She agrees to this, but asks for one last meal and night with her husband before she leaves. He agrees, but during the evening, she drugs his food so that he falls into a deep sleep. He wakes up to find himself in the back of a cart with his wife at the reigns saying that she agreed to leave taking her most precious thing, her husband.
I really like that ending, but I have never told it for some reason. I think I need to work that ending into it.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Back on iTunes!
I finally figured out how my iTunes feed works! There were a couple of important lines missing from the XML file, but after much searching, I found the errors, fixed them, and another story turned up on my iTunes page. Huzzah!
Right now, I have Truth & Story and Love & Madness available for free download. I may charge a fee for future tracks, but I haven't decided.
So visit my iTunes podcast and become a subscriber! Feel free to pass my iTunes page to anyone you think might enjoy my stories!
Right now, I have Truth & Story and Love & Madness available for free download. I may charge a fee for future tracks, but I haven't decided.
So visit my iTunes podcast and become a subscriber! Feel free to pass my iTunes page to anyone you think might enjoy my stories!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Another Award to Shorten the Road!
Thanks be to Juniper from Walking the Hedge for stating that this humble site as Blog Worth Reading!. I am quite honored to be named and happy that you enjoy the site so much.
This site was also featured during episode 158 at Canadian Podcast Buffet, although they didn't really comment on the blog itself. I was hoping to get some feedback, but maybe if I prod them a bit, I'll get more results.
This comes to my attention after I had such a fabbo birthday celebration on Friday. We were at the pub in the 'hood when I had to pop-out for 40 minutes to perform at a charity event just down the street. I had prefaced my two stories by stating that the opportunity to tell tales made my birthday celebrations complete, but when I was done, I was serenaded by a all-female barbershop quartet! Amazing!
This site was also featured during episode 158 at Canadian Podcast Buffet, although they didn't really comment on the blog itself. I was hoping to get some feedback, but maybe if I prod them a bit, I'll get more results.
This comes to my attention after I had such a fabbo birthday celebration on Friday. We were at the pub in the 'hood when I had to pop-out for 40 minutes to perform at a charity event just down the street. I had prefaced my two stories by stating that the opportunity to tell tales made my birthday celebrations complete, but when I was done, I was serenaded by a all-female barbershop quartet! Amazing!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Hurley's Storytelling: May 30th 2010
Rather than burying this announcement in another post, I've decided to highlight this event with its own posting! Woot!
I'm very excited to announce that I will be the new storyteller at Hurley's Irish Pub for the next three months. Mike Burns, the Irish storyteller, has been telling tales at Hurley's on the last Sunday of each month for over 14 years! But Mike has decided to visit Ireland for three months and asked me to take his place while he is gone.
I am tremendously honored to be the Hurley's storytelling for May, June, and July. Mike was the first storyteller I ever heard and was my inspiration to become a storyteller myself.
Shayne Gryn will be joining me at Hurleys with his various guitars and musical contributions. So our first show will be May 30th, 7pm. We hope to see you there!
Hurley's Storytelling
featuring Hobbes & Shayne
Sunday, May 30th, 2010
Hurley's Irish Pub
1253 Crescent Street, Montreal
7pm to 9pm
Visit the Facebook Event page for the Hurleys Show
I'm very excited to announce that I will be the new storyteller at Hurley's Irish Pub for the next three months. Mike Burns, the Irish storyteller, has been telling tales at Hurley's on the last Sunday of each month for over 14 years! But Mike has decided to visit Ireland for three months and asked me to take his place while he is gone.
I am tremendously honored to be the Hurley's storytelling for May, June, and July. Mike was the first storyteller I ever heard and was my inspiration to become a storyteller myself.
Shayne Gryn will be joining me at Hurleys with his various guitars and musical contributions. So our first show will be May 30th, 7pm. We hope to see you there!
Hurley's Storytelling
featuring Hobbes & Shayne
Sunday, May 30th, 2010
Hurley's Irish Pub
1253 Crescent Street, Montreal
7pm to 9pm
Visit the Facebook Event page for the Hurleys Show
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
May Story: Brahma and the Brahman
It's my birthday! I'm 41 years young today, so to celebrate that, I'm posting a new story that I told at the 92 Degrees of Fools show back in April. This is a relatively new story for me, having learnt it in the past year, but it is quickly becoming one of my favorites.
In a related note, I'm very excited to announce that I will be the new storyteller at Hurley's Irish Pub for the next three months. Mike Burns, the Irish storyteller, has been telling tales at Hurley's on the last Sunday of each month for over 14 years! But Mike has decided to visit Ireland for three months and asked me to take his place while he is gone.
I am tremendously honored to be the Hurley's storytelling for May, June, and July. Mike was the first storyteller I ever heard and was my inspiration to become a storyteller myself.
Shayne Gryn will be joining me at Hurleys with his various guitars and musical contributions. So our first show will be May 30th, 7pm. We hope to see you there!
Visit the Facebook Event page for the Hurleys Show
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Brahma and the Brahman (9:33 minutes)
In a related note, I'm very excited to announce that I will be the new storyteller at Hurley's Irish Pub for the next three months. Mike Burns, the Irish storyteller, has been telling tales at Hurley's on the last Sunday of each month for over 14 years! But Mike has decided to visit Ireland for three months and asked me to take his place while he is gone.
I am tremendously honored to be the Hurley's storytelling for May, June, and July. Mike was the first storyteller I ever heard and was my inspiration to become a storyteller myself.
Shayne Gryn will be joining me at Hurleys with his various guitars and musical contributions. So our first show will be May 30th, 7pm. We hope to see you there!
Visit the Facebook Event page for the Hurleys Show
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Brahma and the Brahman (9:33 minutes)
Monday, April 19, 2010
CBC's Wiretap: David, Goliath, and Superman
CBC Radio has a show called Wiretap with Jonathan Goldstein that I've been enjoying over the past year. Wiretap is a series of monologues written and performed by Montreal's own Jonathan Goldstein, as well as listening to bizarre telephone conversations he has with his friends and other invited guests.
It's not everyone's cup of tea, but I find it tremendously funny. I found myself bewildered in the first few episodes of Wiretap, unsure if this was for real or if it was comedy before I realized I was enjoying it.
Recently, the last couple of seasons have been but up on the site as downloadable MP3s, so I've been catching up on episodes I missed. There are two episodes that are exceptional that I'd like to share with you:
David and Goliath (22:24 minutes)
We Are Not Supermen (25:31 minutes)
It's not everyone's cup of tea, but I find it tremendously funny. I found myself bewildered in the first few episodes of Wiretap, unsure if this was for real or if it was comedy before I realized I was enjoying it.
Recently, the last couple of seasons have been but up on the site as downloadable MP3s, so I've been catching up on episodes I missed. There are two episodes that are exceptional that I'd like to share with you:
David and Goliath (22:24 minutes)
We Are Not Supermen (25:31 minutes)
Friday, April 16, 2010
Commentary from "Standing Stone and Garden Gate"
My good friends Brendan and Juniper have a podcast called Standing Stone and Garden Gate where they discuss music, tea, and spiritual/philosophical topics. They are kooky and fun.
In episode eight of their podcast, they interviewed a friend of mine who spoke of the power of the bards and their role in modern society. It was a great interview, but I disagreed with a central point and posted a comment on their website.
In episode ten of their podcast, Brendan read my comment and commented upon it. With their permission, this is the segment in which they talk about my comment.
Bardic Commentary (4:44 minutes)
In episode eight of their podcast, they interviewed a friend of mine who spoke of the power of the bards and their role in modern society. It was a great interview, but I disagreed with a central point and posted a comment on their website.
In episode ten of their podcast, Brendan read my comment and commented upon it. With their permission, this is the segment in which they talk about my comment.
Bardic Commentary (4:44 minutes)
Monday, April 12, 2010
Article on Storytelling and a New CD!
Our good friend Laurent Castellucci has published an article on the storytelling we've been having at Cafe 92 Degrees in the past few months. You can read it here.
In other exciting news, I've made the final selections in a new CD of stories I'll be publishing in the spring. I just need to finalize the layout of the CD package and send it off to be produced. Stay tuned to find out when my new CD will be launched! You can read more about this new CD here.
In other exciting news, I've made the final selections in a new CD of stories I'll be publishing in the spring. I just need to finalize the layout of the CD package and send it off to be produced. Stay tuned to find out when my new CD will be launched! You can read more about this new CD here.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
April Story: The Giant's Garden
Seeing as it is Easter Sunday for many people, I've decided to post my version of Oscar Wilde's classic tale The Selfish Giant. As I recall, I would often watch the animated version of this story around Easter, so I always associate it with Spring. You can read more about the animated film on Wikipedia or watch it on YouTube.
The same production house (Potterton Productions) also produced The Littlest Mermaid and The Happy Prince. I really need to learn the Happy Prince someday.
I told this story to a small audience at Cafe 92 Degrees in Montreal during a show called 92 Degrees of Foolishness. It was a great night of tales and music and I thank everyone who was able to share that evening with us. The magical, mystical Shayne Gryn can be heard providing the music ambiance.
Happy Easter Sunday everyone and welcome to Spring.
The same production house (Potterton Productions) also produced The Littlest Mermaid and The Happy Prince. I really need to learn the Happy Prince someday.
I told this story to a small audience at Cafe 92 Degrees in Montreal during a show called 92 Degrees of Foolishness. It was a great night of tales and music and I thank everyone who was able to share that evening with us. The magical, mystical Shayne Gryn can be heard providing the music ambiance.
Happy Easter Sunday everyone and welcome to Spring.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
March story: Indra and the Blind Shaman
I've been a bit at a loss to know what to post for March, which is why this posting is so late. The recordings I have don't really suit this time of year and I've already posted the others. Of course, I have those two shows in April (April 2nd and April 3rd), so I should get more recordings for the months to come, but in the meantime...
I first heard this story from my friend Dylan, who tells it masterfully. I always liked this story, especially Indra's reaction to getting shot down. This story also allowed me to win third place in the KG Bardic in 2009, so I've grown quite fond of it.
This was recorded during the 92 Degrees of Love show in February 2010 at Cafe 92 Degrees, featuring Shayne Gryn on guitar. We had about 30 people in the audience.
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Indra and the Blind Shaman (7:33 minutes)
I first heard this story from my friend Dylan, who tells it masterfully. I always liked this story, especially Indra's reaction to getting shot down. This story also allowed me to win third place in the KG Bardic in 2009, so I've grown quite fond of it.
This was recorded during the 92 Degrees of Love show in February 2010 at Cafe 92 Degrees, featuring Shayne Gryn on guitar. We had about 30 people in the audience.
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Indra and the Blind Shaman (7:33 minutes)
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Beautiful Blogger Award!
I want to give a shout-out to Analea who bestowed this beautiful award on my humble blog. Recognition at last! Thanks for thinking of me Analea and introducing me to your blog!
I'm not sure all these people will respond to this award, but I'll do my best.
Here are the rules of the award:Seven things about myself:
1. Thank the person who gave you this award.
2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Pass the award along to 15 bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic!
4. Contact the bloggers you’ve picked and let them know about the award.
- My favorite colors are dark blue, green, and black.
- I'm a proud pseudo-uncle to three girls in Quebec city, one of whom is my goddaughter.
- I would wear my Utilikilt 24/7 if I could.
- I've been an eccentric my whole life, much to the frustration of my family and loved ones.
- I have no tattoos, but I'm still trying to design one I'd like.
- I feel the most alive and happy when I'm performing.
- I still feel like I'm in my 20s when I'm really in my 40s.
I'm not sure all these people will respond to this award, but I'll do my best.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
New Promotional Spot
I've recorded a new promotional spot to, oddly, promote this podcast. You can download this MP3 and use it in your podcast, your website, or your radio show. Please let me know if you intend to use this promo spot just so I can link back to your show.
My thanks to my friend Shayne Gryn for providing the music for this promo. Here it is:
Shortening the Road Promo Spot
Thanks for your support!
My thanks to my friend Shayne Gryn for providing the music for this promo. Here it is:
Shortening the Road Promo Spot
Thanks for your support!
Monday, March 8, 2010
EVENT: 92 Degrees of Foolishness
Dates: April 2nd and 3rd 2010
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Cafe 92 Degrees
6703 Sherbrooke West
Montreal, QC
Google Map
Join us at Cafe 92 Degrees in NDG for an evening of tales of wisdom, fools, and Spring. Shayne Gryn will be providing the music and special guests include LC, Sarah, and Jack Nissenson.
We will be performing this show over two evenings: April 2nd and 3rd. So if you can't make one show, you can attend the other!
Admission: Free, voluntary contribution
Space is limited (30 people), so get there early!
Facebook Event page April 2nd
Facebook Event page April 3rd
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Cafe 92 Degrees
6703 Sherbrooke West
Montreal, QC
Google Map
Join us at Cafe 92 Degrees in NDG for an evening of tales of wisdom, fools, and Spring. Shayne Gryn will be providing the music and special guests include LC, Sarah, and Jack Nissenson.
We will be performing this show over two evenings: April 2nd and 3rd. So if you can't make one show, you can attend the other!
Admission: Free, voluntary contribution
Space is limited (30 people), so get there early!
Facebook Event page April 2nd
Facebook Event page April 3rd
Sunday, February 14, 2010
A Story of Love and Madness
I hope everyone has had an enjoyable Valentine's Day, however you have chosen to mark this day. This year, Sarah and I, along with a few good friends, told tales at Cafe 92 Degrees in NDG (see previous post). The two evenings of storytelling were enchanting and well-received, so we hope everyone had a great time. We're already planning our next evening of stories for the spring (maybe an evening of Wise Fools stories for April Fools Day).
I'm very excited to have had the chance to record this story which I have told fairly often over the years. I first heard this story told by British storyteller Ben Haggarty who visited Montreal a few years ago during the Festival Internationale du Conte du Quebec. Since then, I have made a few tweaks here and there and come up with my own version of Love and Madness.
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Love and Madness (4:38 minutes)
If you enjoy this story, please pass this post on to all your friends!
I'm very excited to have had the chance to record this story which I have told fairly often over the years. I first heard this story told by British storyteller Ben Haggarty who visited Montreal a few years ago during the Festival Internationale du Conte du Quebec. Since then, I have made a few tweaks here and there and come up with my own version of Love and Madness.
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Love and Madness (4:38 minutes)
If you enjoy this story, please pass this post on to all your friends!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
EVENT: 92 Degrees of Love
Dates: February 12th and 13th 2010
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Cafe 92 Degrees
6703 Sherbrooke West
Montreal, QC
Google Map
Join us at Cafe 92 Degrees in NDG for an evening of love stories and music with Hobbes, Shayne, and friends. We will be performing this show over two evenings: February 12th and 13th. So if you can't make one show, you can attend the other!
Admission: Free, voluntary contribution
Space is limited (30 people), so get there early!
Visit the Facebook Event pages
February 12th
February 13th
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Cafe 92 Degrees
6703 Sherbrooke West
Montreal, QC
Google Map
Join us at Cafe 92 Degrees in NDG for an evening of love stories and music with Hobbes, Shayne, and friends. We will be performing this show over two evenings: February 12th and 13th. So if you can't make one show, you can attend the other!
Admission: Free, voluntary contribution
Space is limited (30 people), so get there early!
Visit the Facebook Event pages
February 12th
February 13th
Friday, January 1, 2010
Story and Truth in 2010
Happy New Year to everyone who has blessed us with their company as we shorten our roads! I hope that you had a happy, safe, and memorable celebration and put 2009 to bed. Let's get this 2010 show on the road and I hope it's filled with great adventures and stories.
I thought it would start the year off well if I shared a bit of Truth and Story with all of you. This is a story I told at the wildly successful 92 degrees of Winter show I did in December 2009. The food was filling, the tales were inspiring, and the company was beyond compare. I'm putting together another show for February for Valentine's day called 92 degrees of Love. Stay tuned and maybe we'll see you there!
This was the first story of the evening (with Shayne Gryn on guitar) and I'm seriously considering making it a regular part of my performance.
If this story sounds familiar, you may remember that I wrote it out in May 2009.
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Truth and Story (3:12 minutes)
I thought it would start the year off well if I shared a bit of Truth and Story with all of you. This is a story I told at the wildly successful 92 degrees of Winter show I did in December 2009. The food was filling, the tales were inspiring, and the company was beyond compare. I'm putting together another show for February for Valentine's day called 92 degrees of Love. Stay tuned and maybe we'll see you there!
This was the first story of the evening (with Shayne Gryn on guitar) and I'm seriously considering making it a regular part of my performance.
If this story sounds familiar, you may remember that I wrote it out in May 2009.
News: This story was published on my new CD "The Bard's New Hat". Read more about it on my website.
Truth and Story (3:12 minutes)
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