April Armstrong, Storyteller

In a world where everything from natural disasters to the current jobs numbers are spun into everyday narratives, it's nice to sit and hear simple, yet intriguing stories that unveil the mystery of how a leopard got her spots or how an elephant got his tusks.

Last weekend at the Warner Library, featured storyteller, actor and singer April Armstrong. To a packed audience of kids and adults, she shared stories that took the audience down to the banks of the Mississippi and to the faraway lands of West Africa and Zimbabwe.

Ms. Armstrong is a graduate of Manhattan School of Music and Columbia University's Teachers College. After her performance, she sat and talked about being more than a storyteller, the joys and challenges of pursuing her artistic goals, and what inspires her creativity.


The stories you tell come from other sources, how do you tell them?

There is a curious line we cross when we tell other people's stories; we always try to give credit where it is due. Of course, when we tell them, they become our own stories in some way. Every good storyteller puts his or her own spin on the tale.

You are more than a storyteller, how would you describe yourself?

When I am introduced to people or an audience, I usually say I am an actor and storyteller. But sometimes, that's not the way to go, especially, if I am being introduced at a singing function. Sometimes, I am a singer and actress. Or sometimes, I am a Teaching Artist and my artistry is theater. Or I am a musician, if I am around a bunch of other musicians. Then, my instrument is voice. Just depends upon the conversation.
Given that living as an actor is challenging, what keeps you going?

My friends definitely keep me going especially the ones who know me best and know what my talents are. They are the ones who always have an encouraging word, a reminder of what I have done before and what good things will come.

People who have seen me perform and tell me that they enjoyed or were moved by my performances, also keep me going.

And hugs from the children. They can be so full of love, and so courageous. To come over without provocation and reach out and want to hug me because they have been entertained, moved, inspired, charmed, tickled. That is always what brings me back again and again.


If you missed April Armstrong at the Warner Library she will appear at the "Pinkster Celebration" at the Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow, NY on Sunday May 15th. - Tarrytown-Sleepy Hollow PATCH