MASKS

A Tale of Redemption 

"A few can touch the magic string, and noisy fame is proud to win them;

 Alas for those who never sing, but die with all their music in them!"

Oliver Wendell Holmes

I am a professional storyteller, born with a birthmark that covers the right side of my face.  Growing up, I learned to deal with the cruelty, shame and isolation that came from being obviously different.  But my journey -- this wonderfully challenging, tragic, comic journey we call Life -- has led me from feelings of inferiority to a true appreciation of my own uniqueness.  MASKS -- the story of that transformational journey -- has been called "as tender, moving and funny as it is painful and raw.  In the course of one simple hour, Carolyn's MASKS becomes everyone's story."

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT MASKS

"A beautiful work of courage, humor and honesty."  
Donald Davis, Storyteller

"It was amazing to hear you say out loud so many things I have felt for years -- the hiding, the self loathing and other limiting beliefs.  Now I want to share your courage.  Not to mention your humor and energy.  You gave me strength and hope."  Woman in the Audience

"This story is universal and can transcend race and gender and class and all sorts of barriers people feel.  It is so funny and heartbreaking in places and disarming and true that you come shining through as an extraordinary human being and left me feeling stronger within myself."

Odds Bodkin, Storyteller

"People made me feel I was dumb or weird, but I always held my emotions in.   Hearing your story made me realize I can't let anyone make me feel bad and ruin my life.  I have to live and be who I want to be before it's too late.  Thank you for having the courage to come to my high school so you could give out your message to all of us."  

Male High School Student

“MASKS has great power and is beautifully accessible to anybody who has ever known the fear of true self-- that is, everybody!  You have created a comic world of depth and texture  . . honesty made of unique experience.   

Director of Theatre, University of Oregon

“You have a strength that lets us know it is safe to travel with you, and yet a vulnerability that lets us walk in your shoes, as much as we possibly can.   No one who heard you can ever forget it.” . . . Audience member

"I heard only superlative comments about your workshop.  It was a powerful and amazing session and we were truly honored t hat you participated in this event."     ...Manager, Communications and Public Awareness, Massachusetts Mentoring Partnership

"Your message was very appropriate for young adults, most of whom are struggling to find out who they are, accept themselves and overcome insecurities."  ...Teacher, Magnet High School,  Quinebaug, CT