Storytelling is a type of performance art that has the power to heal, educate and entertain. It is especially useful for helping even the most contentious of communities gain perspective and understanding of their unique differences. It is a craft that Ivan Coyote has honed very well. In fact the word "disarming", which has been used to describe Coyote's work, seems to be the most flatteringly accurate description I have heard yet.
removing or capable of removing hostility, suspicion, etc., as by being charming: a disarming smile.
Ivan Coyote, a Canadian from the Yukon who now lives in Vancouver, has published six books through Arsenal Pulp Press, been a columnist for Xtra! since February of 2005, recorded three CDs and four short films, and all while traveling nationally and internationally to perform and teach to both youth and adults through the craft of storytelling. The following video (originally published as Hats Off to Beautiful Femmes) was first released on YouTube this past April and has already had a very warm welcome from many members of the LGBT and Queer communities, but as stated earlier, the true beauty of Coyote's craft of storytelling and writing is that the messages in the stories transcend labels and barriers.
After having the privilege to spend a bit of time with Coyote on the Hammer and Nails tour with comedian Jessica Halem in California, I can assure you that Coyote is an artist who is truly walking the walk. The tales that Coyote crafts are true stories of love, pain, growth, and humor; they are intimate and authentic and accurately reflect the pulse of humanity as seen through Coyote's eyes and heart. These are stories for everyone. A review of Ivan Coyote's latest book, Missed Her mirrors my thoughts about the powerful work.
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