Spotlight Series

Ed Stivender joins the SRP E-Spotlight Series for an engaging conversation about a lifetime devoted to storytelling. Described by the Miami Herald as “the Robin Williams of storytelling” and by Kirkus Reviews as “a Catholic Garrison Keillor,” Ed has entertained audiences around the world since leaving his career as a high school teacher in 1977 to become a full-time storyteller.

Over the decades, Ed has performed at major storytelling festivals and venues across the United States and internationally, including the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, the Cape Clear International Storytelling Festival in Ireland, and festivals in Austria, Indonesia, and New Zealand. His work has also included collaborations with orchestras, narrating classics such as Peter and the Wolf and Ferdinand the Bull.

In addition to performing, Ed has contributed significantly to the development of storytelling programs and historical interpretation. He helped create and train storytellers for the Once Upon A Nation project in Philadelphia’s Independence National Historic Park, bringing short historical stories to life for visitors from around the world.

Ed is the author of the books Raised Catholic, Can You Tell? and Still Catholic After All These Fears, and his work has appeared in Chicken Soup for the Romantic Soul. In 1996 he was inducted into the National Storytelling Association’s Circle of Excellence, recognizing his lasting impact on the storytelling community.

Join us for this special online spotlight as Ed reflects on his career, the traditions that inspire him, and the enduring power of story.

Registration Required