Margaret Copland history of Canterbury storytelling for Tour Groups

Margaret Copland - ' no one does heritage stories better ...'

... a one-woman show at your time and place

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"The Immigrants" "Dear Margaret Copland, My husband and I were privileged to hear one of your storytelling presentations in February of this year, in Christchurch, NZ. We were with Grand Circle Travel; You certainly made the past quite vivid for us, and it was good to learn so much about the early settlers. ..... ... You have made a super niche for yourself with your research and your talent. I have done some little theater acting here in the States and know credible acting when I see it. You were not only convincing; you were also entertaining with the skilful use of your accents. Keep up the good work and know that you are a worthy ambassador for New Zealand. You and the area history will live on in our memories." *Gerry & Paula McNabb, 122 Cloverleaf Lane, Asheville, NC 28803, U.S.A* *Photograph by The Christchurch Press* "The Immigrants" is A one-hour historical storytelling programme especially developed for tourists to Christchurch, New Zealand. featuring the stories of Sarah Stokes and Rosalia Gierszewski
	Before it was off the drawing board, the story of "Sarah Stokes" was snapped up by an American tour company. They were looking for an historical experience to enhance the Christchurch part of their South Pacific tour. Even in its then unfinished state it was an instant success. "Sarah's" story told of the beginning of European settlement in Canterbury, the First Four Ships and the women and men travelling steerage.
	"Rosalia Gierszewski" is the story of a German-Polish immigrant family arriving in Christchurch in the 1870s.
It was a time when millions left Europe for the "new world." Thousands of American tourists have found a common heritage in this story. Rosalia touches the heart and awakens memories. Like Sarah, she has a distinctive personality and manner of speaking. Like Sarah, she has her own brand of humour. Some of her friends and relatives emigrated at the same time to America, Canada and Australia.
The researching, shaping and presenting of these stories is the original work of Margaret Copland. Sarah Stokes and Rosalia Gierszewski were her ancestors. The details of their lives have been thoroughly researched and used to give a unique view of Canterbury history. Costumes are by Gina Mintrom. More comments from Tourists .... "... gives (history) a personal and human expression. Obviously she is well researched and history comes alive." F.Dreicks, U.S.A. "Margaret Copland is a fantastic, gifted storyteller who truly involves the listener in the story she is weaving. She takes you right into the development of the tale - you are experiencing it with her." Euginia Muller, Beach Haven, New Jersey. U.S.A. "What a great way to learn history! ..... so stimulating .....We felt we were there with you!" Patricia and Jim Brehulier "The best performance I have ever had the privilege to see and hear." Elizabeth Varn, Birmingham, Alabama, U.S.A. "Mrs Copland's research was so thorough that it added tremendously to her storytelling presentation. We really wished we could hear more of her stories. Her acting ability was most enjoyable." Doris Burke, Madison, Wisconsin, U.S.A. "A fascinating evening. Never have I experienced an evening of history that was so real. It passed in a flash and I was sorry when it was over." We felt like we were there." "You made New Zealand history come to life." `About Margaret` Schools Immigrant Stories Women & Politics Dissent & Disaster Te Puna Ora Workshops Audio Contact