WORDS + PHOTO / CAROLINE BIVENS

Students are unafraid to share their craziest thoughts and ideas at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School.

Young Storytellers is a writing program designed to encourage kids to share their voices through performance-based storytelling. The nonprofit program started in Los Angeles around 20 years ago in response to arts program budget cuts. Since then, the program has expanded to 45 schools across the nation. Head Mentor Graham Gordy brought the program to Little Rock last year with the help of the Arkansas Cinema Society.

Teachers help choose 10 fifth graders who would benefit from one-on-one writing help from volunteer mentors.

“[Knowing that] the kids that go on to write or work in the film industry is all great, but the program is more about honoring their voices and acknowledging that they have a story to tell,” Gordy said. 

The Young Storytellers program spans nine weeks. The kids spend seven weeks learning the elements of storytelling and playwriting In the final two weeks the kids see their stories brought to life on stage.

“Kids get applause and photos and attention and it’s very moving. It gives them a jolt of confidence,” Gordy said. “We want them to know that [they’re] good at this, [they] can do this.”

Student Kate Lovett wrote her story “Sprinkles on Top” about a dragon and magical unicorn that farts sprinkles. 

Lovett said Young Storytellers has helped her break out of her shell, and that she wants to keep writing funny stories.

“I’m proud of myself because I’ve never shared stuff I think about with anyone,” Lovett said. 

Mentor Gerard Matthews said his interest in film led him to become a mentor to student Riley Matthews.

“Riley has a good imagination. He’s really thoughtful.” Matthews said. “It’s interesting as an adult to see his stream of consciousness because when you’re older you second guess yourself a lot.”

Gordy said the program has had a positive effect on mentors and students alike. “I’ve never seen children become [so] willing to raise their hands, and be brave and vulnerable.”