Nerita Aparecida Vieira Pio (photo), our guest this week, is an artist from the Brazilian city of Araraquara, where she works as a Spiritist volunteer directing youth study groups at the Casa de Fraternidade Chico Xavier. In this interview, she shares her experience in storytelling and explains how that approach has helped her disseminate the Gospel and the Spiritist Teachings.

How did you become interested in storytelling? 

I have always been fascinated by the imaginary world, since I was a little child. I liked to read and to hear other people telling stories. I loved the theatre, the cinema and anything that could take me away from my reality. My parents argued all the time and we had very little money, which affected the whole family from an emotional perspective too. I lived almost next door to the local library and to the Senac Centre, where I graduated in arts. Whenever I felt the need to disconnect from reality, I found joy in the books and the contact with other people. I enjoyed hearing the stories my colleagues told me. I thought then that I would also like to tell stories one day, to help other people who were looking for a different life.

What is the main technique for storytelling?

You must really get into the world of fantasy. You need to get into the mind of the character, to live fully all that the story has to offer and to be fearless to use all the creative resources available, including props, costumes and sets. You must use body language and intonation of the voice as much as you can. You must keep eye contact with the listeners, you have to be a keen reader, someone who likes to talk and who is not afraid of being exposed. You must have good enunciation, you must like to try new things and not be afraid to make mistakes. You must always bear in mind that the words you say are extremely important, as they will give life to the thoughts of the author and will bring about a profound change in the lives of the children as well as adults who hear them.

What is the main problem you normally face?

It is children who mature too early. Children who behave like adults end up not living their childhood, which is an essential part of their lives. Those children stop playing and stop taking an active part in the stories because they become scared of making fools of themselves.

Is it easier to deal with adults or children?

Storytelling is a magical and enchanting activity. It is so nice to see those little eyes shining, with a big smile on the face of those who enjoy dreaming and believe that anything is possible. As I said before, many children lose their childhood too early and miss important steps of their emotional and intellectual development. They become introverts, linked more to their mobile phones and the internet. But no one can ignore a good story if it is well told, with love. Adults, then, become children again. And children recognise their place in the world.

Costumes and props are normally used in storytelling. How does storytelling differ from the theatre? Do these activities complement each other? 

They complement each other. It is good to tell a story in a theatrical manner, but that is different from playing in the theatre. In storytelling, it is essential to use the language of the theatre. We need to use sets, costumes, makeup and sound effects. What makes storytelling different is the interaction with the public, which is much more limited in the theatre.

What is your strongest impression of all those years in storytelling?

It is the look and the smile I have to get from those who listen to me. And, obviously, the warm hugs I get after each performance.

How do you feel about your activities in storytelling, both as a professional and as a volunteer, in the Spiritist Movement?

To be able to work in the art world, either in storytelling or in the theatre, brings me calm, comfort, fulfilment and many opportunities to reflex on my life and everything around me. With the stories I told, I learned to trust, to forgive and not to give up on what I really believe. I began using art techniques in 1997 to teach children about Jesus and his teaching at the Spiritist Centre. I think it has been a very positive and pleasant experience, which has yielded good results.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

There is a colourful world out there that needs to be known. And behind that world, there is a great deal of hard work that also needs to be known and appreciated. We, as educators, must work hard to make sure that this magic world continues to be present in our schools and expands beyond the classroom too.