Program

In an indescribably unique style of storytelling, San Francisco's master storyteller Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo introduces students to folk tales and myths from Asian cultures, including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, the Philippines, China, Japan, Tibet, and Korea. Using a combination of music, Asian phrases and gestures, and lively facial expressions reminiscent of Asian mask theater, Robert performs stories that feaure positive role models, encourages truth and honesty, and builds a sense of both the individual and the community. Robert also shares his life experience growing up as an Asian in America and conveys a positive role model for bicultural pride and inclusivity. During the program, Robert plays several bamboo instruments from various Asian cultures. He draws students from the audience to play instruments, participate in call and response rhythms and phrases, experiment with hand gestures that imitate animal shapes, and, in some cases, reenact folk tales.