Paula Larke
Singer, Storyteller, Humorist, Multi-instrumentalist
Paula Larke is a dramatist, writer, musician, and, in her own words, a "story-teller / gatherer". She was artist - in - residence at the Riverside Church, NY, until May of 2002.
She is a veteran of the Broadway, Off-Broadway, and touring stages. For over 25-years and counting, Paula has performed nationally, primarily in the South and Northwest, presenting chants, songs, and spirituals from Tuskegee, Alabama; the Georgia Sea Islands; the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains; and the Piedmont Plateau region of North Carolina.
She tells and gathers tales, as well, from many cultures. She is a modern-day djali (village chronicler in West Africa), carrying the personal stories of ordinary people to the altar of life for benediction and forgiveness.
Her Tools...
• Infectious rhythms on electric bass guitar, djembe, or anything within
reach.
• Humor - down to earth and relevant.
• Storytelling from real life.
• Singing music from the roots of human experience.
• Delivery - passionate, powerful, persuasive.
• Unconditional embracing of all in her audience as family.
• Universality - understanding and appreciation of diverse
cultures.
• Determination to celebrate common bonds while appreciating crucial
differences.