A spellbinding storyteller and masterful teacher, Octavia's programs grow out of her own Appalachian roots, focusing on written/oral skills as well as Kentucky folk culture.   With programs in storytelling, the Revolutionary War, as well as programming focused on substance abuse prevention, Octavia fills multiple needs in your school.

"I have watched Octavia mesmerize an audience with just her voice, gestures, and of course, a good story. I am always fearful that T.V. and the other distractions will be the death knell of simple story-telling. But as long as there are people such as Octavia performing traditional, as well as personal and family stories, there will be an audience." - Loyal Jones, Appalachian author

About the program

A native of Eastern Kentucky, Octavia Sexton grew up in a rich tradition of storytelling. The core of Octavia’s stories are rooted in the traditions and lifestyles of her family and her past, and the combination of American folk art, Native American history, and introductory theatre skills come together in a program that gives students a pride in their Kentucky heritage and a respect for the many strands that make it unique.

With a degree in history and English education as well as certification in the prevention of substance abuse, Octavia has the tools both to teach an appreciation for our native Kentucky heritage as well as to teach young people that everyone has a story, one that should be honored and respected, as should its teller. An emphasis on written/oral language skills, coupled with publication/performance components, give students a tangible outcome in addition to sharpening skills important to school success, with many schools creating portfolio writing opportunities in addition to the many connections to be made throughout the curriculum.

About the Artist

Octavia's family heritage gives her a deep well of experience to draw from. Her English/Irish ancestors migrated to Kentucky via North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia from Europe – bringing their stories with them. Her paternal great-grandfather and maternal great-grandfather married Cherokee women from North Carolina before settling in Kentucky. She has been privileged to grow up hearing folk tales, haint tales, Jack tales and Cherokee legends which her family has told and retold for many lifetimes.

B. A. History/English Education, Berea College M. S. Health Education, California College of Health Sciences Senior Health Educator and Tobacco-use Prevention Coordinator, Rockcastle County Health Department National Storytelling Network Kentucky Arts Council