Online story telling will support Sussex children’s charity

Jason Buck, from Haywards Heath, is giving his services free of charge in aid of Chailey Heritage Foundation, which supports children and young people with complex neurodisabilities such as cerebral palsy.

It will take place during half term week on Wednesday February 17 between 6-7pm and anyone can book for just £5 per household.

Every penny will go to the charity, which provides specialised support for children and young people with complex disabilities.

Jason is delighted to be helping out.

He said: “I met one of Chailey’s staff at a Storytelling Club in Cuckfield so I was so pleased when she asked if I could help.

“Charities are obviously having a challenging time during the pandemic so I am happy to be doing my little bit to support what is obviously a very worthwhile cause..”

Jason will tell four stories in the hour which are suitable for all ages, from adults to families with little ones. They contain a mixture of origins, mythical and epic, and fun.

He said: “Engagement and rapport are key components of storytelling. I compare it to a stand-up comedian performing.

“Storytelling can make someone laugh and it can also make someone feel sad. It’s a pleasure reducing adults to tears in the kindest possible way.

“It’s a live experience, I talk directly to the audience and I aim to get everyone immersed into the story I tell.

“The evening will be great family entertainment. It can be a bit like interactive TV, watching me online while at the same time eating some crisps and having a drink.”

The four stories are

‘The Treasures of the Gods’ or How Thor got his hammer (Norse)

‘Rainbow Crow’ (Native American)

‘How Ganesh got his elephant head (Indian)

‘The boy who had an eating competition with a troll’ (Norwegian)

Jason blends traditional and contemporary themes, music, vocal sound effects and pure, unadulterated fantasy.

He has performed across the UK and mainland Europe, He has been a performer most of his adult life, including gurning, comedy and sword swallowing, but his passion lies in stories.

Jason has written and published three collections of his own stories, won silver at the 2016 Lying Festival and won ‘Best Bard’ at Profound Decisions’ ‘Theatre of Joy and Sorrow’.

The storytelling performance will take place on Zoom. For more details, and to buy a ticket, go to www.chf.org.uk/storytelling-evening

If you can’t join the performance live, you can still book a ticket, then get a link to watch it back at a later date.

Chailey Heritage Foundation is a charity providing education, care and transition services to children and young adults with complex physical disabilities. Its mission is to give disabled children and young adults every opportunity to pursue their fullest potential.

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