Performing for the FIRST TIME in  Signifyin' & Testifyin'

Miss Donna The Storyteller

Donna Willingham is a Children's Librarian for Cleveland Public Library, Hough Branch. She is also a multicultural Storyteller , specializing in African And African-American folktales, for adult and children's audiences. Ms. Willingham is a member of the Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. and the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. She told the "tallest tale" and won the 1997 "Liars' contest" at the National Black Storytellers Festival and Conference, held in Cleveland, Ohio of that year. Ms. Willingham holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech and Hearing from Cleveland State University.

 A Native of Denver Colorado,  Ms. Willingham spent the majority of her childhood in El Dorado, Arkansas and Cleveland, Ohio. Her experiences in these settings allowed her the opportunity to develop an appreciation for diverse nationalities and cultures.

Ms. Willingham debuted as a Storyteller in February, 1997 when she was asked to speak at a Black History program at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio.   Her success there has led her to continue telling stories in every available venue: schools, libraries, churches, Cleveland's Cain Park, The Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.  She is especially pleased with her performances at such special events as "Palooza" at Playhouse Square Center and "Jazz Portraits" in support of The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland.