Around The Campfire

Campfire Storytelling
 

A storyteller is one whose spirit is indispensable to a campfire. He/she is a magician, artist and creator. Stories are made of words and of such implications as the storyteller places upon words. Words are the primary tools of the storyteller.
It is to his/her purpose to use words well.
 
 

Tips!

It is important to know a story well before telling it. Read a story many times before attempting to tell it to someone else. Most stories in Indian literature are meant to be told out loud. They become more alive when they are spoken. As you tell the stories, pause every now and then and say the word “Ho!?” Tell your listeners to respond with “Hey!” each time they hear you say “Ho?” By involving your listeners in the story, you enable them to feel more a part of the story. Remember when you tell stories to speak slowly and clearly; don’t rush your stories. You should feel relaxed. Either stand close to the campfire, turning slowly and easily to face all points of the circle of listeners as you unwind your story, or stand at a central point in the circle where you can be seen at close range by most of the audience.
 
 

Campfire Program

A good campfire program has several components. Start with an opening ceremony, colorful and related to the lighting of the fire. Have some songs and icebreakers to provide fun, action, and variety. If possible add games and/or contests to your campfire. Skits or stunts performed by the boys are always a hit and fun for all present. Storytelling is another component that is wonderful at a campfire. There are lots of resources for stories: this book, Scouting Magazine, Boys Life Magazine, and Indian lore books located at the library.

Recognition
A campfire is a great location for recognition ceremonies: boys and adults alike. It provides an atmosphere for memorable ceremonies. Always, I repeat, always keep announcements brief. And always end your campfire with a closing ceremony - Cubmaster’s Minute, a quiet song or a benediction. A good rule of thumb for campfire programs is to follow the fire. Start loud and lively, then slow down, get quiet and inspirational as the fire dies down. A good campfire program should have in it good fun, good manners, and the Scout ideals translated into action.
“Remember, the sparks from your campfire may live in the eyes and heart of a boy for the rest of his life.”

Location

When planning your campfire consider location. Where will the participants be seating? Will the smoke be going their way? Will the sun be in their eyes? Is there a highway close by where the noise will be bothersome? Will you need to provide your own firewood or water buckets? Look over the location before you start your campfire so that you will be prepared for any emergency.
 
 

Stories For Fun!

Following are several "teasers" which can be used to start a storytelling session. Most of them will elicit a moan from the group and set the stage for things to come. "Do you want to hear the story about the dark sky?" Nah, it's over your head. "Do you want to hear a real ghost story?" Nah, you'd see right through it. "Did you hear the story about the skeleton?" There is nothing to it! "Did you hear the story of the corduroy pillow?" I don't know why not, it made headlines. "Did you hear the story about the slippery eel?" Nah, you wouldn't be able to grasp it.   Well, I think you get it..... Stories are an important part of any campfire program, along with cheers, songs, and then the quiet insperational closing of the council ring.
 

Scout Vespers
(Tune - "O Tannenbaum")
 

Softly falls the light of day,
As our campfire fades away;
Silently each Scout should ask,
"Have I done my daily task?
Have I kept my honour bright?
Can I guiltless sleep tonight?
Have I done and have I dared
Everything to Be Prepared?"