TEYA PEYA SOUL SPEAK & EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS ARE......

inspiring, fun, high energy, entertaining, informative & relaxing

Suitable for Corporate/Executive, Business, Public, Private Organizations, Groups, Conferences, Conventions, Festivals, Boards of Education, Universities, Colleges and Schools.

WHY TEYA PEYA DOES IT

"We are not here merely to make a living. We are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with finer spirit of hope and achievement. We are here to enrich the world. We impoverish ourselves if we forget our errand."
(Woodrow Wilson)

There is a growing need to re-humanize. To re-examine, question and repair our values about our place in the wider world. Self-examination includes concerns for our families, communities, work. The world is fractured and we are in search of more complementary practices and beliefs that will enhance our lives by rejecting fear and embracing Hope. Hope dwells at a primal level in the mists of our ancient brains. It is essential life. A lack of Hope occurs when we feel that our voices are unheard, when there is no sense of ownership, when we feel powerless instead of empowered.

My Workshops, Keynote Speeches, Performances celebrate Hope and embrace rest, contemplation and reflection as important life and business skills. They are critical ingredients to rediscovering the Essential Self. Team building and individual self-awareness are the benefits of feeling and hearing the universal rhythms of peaceful and supportive communication. The result is more contented home lives, workplaces and communities.

It is no secret that contented humans encourage relationships that cross cultural, political, social and professional boundaries.

Workshops/Seminars can be adapted as Keynote Addresses

In My Words are the Powers Inherited From My Ancestors

SWEET THUNDER MEDICINE WHEEL TEACHINGS IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY

DAY LONG OR WEEKEND WORKSHOP FOR ADULTS

Public, Private, Corporate, Associations

In modern terms, it is called 'Character' in First Nations terms it is called 'Medicine Wheel Teachings' and they are as relevant today as when they were told thousands of years ago.

Medicine Wheel teachings create holistic foundations for human behaviour and interaction, for individuals, communities, nations, and the world. The teachings speak to you at every level of human experience. It is your responsibility to care for each other in a manner that allows you to walk your earth walk in emotional, spiritual, mental and physical balance; in other words, as the Old People say, in a good way.

The Medicine Wheel assists in helping to seek Healthy Bodies (East); Strong Spirits (South), Balanced Emotions (West), Healthy Minds (North). A Medicine Wheel can best be described as a mirror within which everything about you is reflected back and in these troubled times, our days are filled with challenges and meeting them is often difficult. So, how do we combat depression, despair, anger, burn-out? Every negative thought and action that goes out shatters our earthly foundation just that much more. Do you really want to feed the negative energy that stress induces and damage your immune systems so that it manifests itself in not being able to combat disease?

There IS another way to think about our lives & the Environment.

Spend a day with me, Sandy or Kate and together we will build a Personal Development & Environmental Medicine Wheel Circle. The process shows that good thoughts and right action balance the scales by using the powers of: joy, love, respect, acceptance of self and others, inner peace, humility, wisdom, honour, courage, human diversity, honesty. It is magical, uplifting, fun, energizing and not to be missed.!

Drumming and Singing Circle is a powerful part of the day. It includes: Hand drums, Shakers, Moonstone & K'oolgyet Na Hool Big Drums. Depending on time, participants will have the opportunity to create their own song. I will translate it into Sm'algyax so that you can perform it in an original language.

"Thanks for the day! Building the Medicine Wheel using us as the 'stones' really opened my eyes to what it is to being a good person. I will take what I've learned into my job. You are also pretty cool, and funny." (P.A., Student, Police Foundations Course, University Ontario Institute of Technology."

"What a fabulous day. I can't think of a better way to bring us all together than building a human medicine wheel. I laughed, cried, you were wonderful, your energy and compassion is simply inspiring." (M.E., Canada Employment & Immigration Union, Conference held in Niagara Falls, ON)

Note: Self-Empowerment Issues include: Women and Leadership, What it means for Men to be Warriors of Peace - how the two combine in a good way.

High School version, Click Fire

For more on the Medicine Wheel
Want to know more about Leadership Issues?

"SPIRIT HUNDER DRUMS, VOCAL AND HEALING CIRCLES

People from many different backgrounds are get together with me to create peaceful connections through the sheer joy of vocals and drum rhythms. Drumming circles are the ultimate stress reducer, the prozac of the natural world if you will. It is a time for everyone to 'just be'. Natural biochemicals in the body are released which help boost the immune system, among other things. Inner chatter is instantly quieted, and a peaceful meditative state is often the result, as the drum connects with your own heartbeat. Adults, in particular, re-learn how to play and have fun because remember, the drum has the heartbeat of Mother Earth and the ear of your Ancestors.

Moreover, the beauty and wisdom of First Nations stories when combined with the music and rhythm bridges the cultural divide in a way that allows for the magic of all Turtle Island's Native people to be celebrated and understood in a positive and uplifting way. Peace on earth becomes a reality. So drum for the Earth, Community, Family, Yourself.

Since the beginning of civilization, Drums were one of the main universal signals for calling people together in a good way. Nothing has changed in this regard, the drums are humanity's common pulse. In other words, Drums do not know about race, racism, jealousy, hate, resentment, greed, language, genders, gender choice, human diversity. None of that matters, what matters is the magic of inclusivity and the joyful sound of one heart beating.

It is a proven fact that drumming circles in businesses improves productivity and teamwork while reducing absenteeism. It dramatically reduces stress through a synchronicity of group 'right' action. Disputes are healed with drumming, reconnections made that elevate individuals and their places of work. Come with me and do it, it works!

Participants find the drum circles exhilarating and learn a tremendous amount about themselves and other cultures. Fortunately, I am very, very good at packing sixty thousand years of Indigenous teachings into minimum 90-120 minutes and making it fun and relevant in the 21st century. I'm a professional, don't try it at home!

Canada Employment & Immigration Union, Conference held in Niagara Falls, ON

"You and Sandy were fabulous. The staff haven't stopped talking about the drums, your words, and all the laughter. The afternoon put us all back in balance. Please come back. Thank you!!!!!" (Lambton College, Sarnia)

"You were the highlight of our Women in Leadership Conference! What was to have been simply "entertainment" was educational, and connected people emotionally - a powerful combination. You have an amazing gift - thank you for sharing it with us."
(C. Simpson, Vice-President, Georgian Community College)

"We always are deeply moved by your words of wisdom, your stories and your songs. You enrich, inspire and enlighten wherever you go! Many thanks for honouring us today."
(A. Wilde, Drama Teacher/Librarian)

Elementary and High School versions

More on the Teachings from the Drum

WEST WIND & THE WOODLAND SISTER

Concert for Adults
A hilarious concert of laughter, music, stories and audience interaction

Canada Employment & Immigration Union, Conference, Niagara Falls, ON

Japan Japan Durham College

First Nations stories, teachings, music and rhythm can bridge the cultural divide in a way that allows for the culture and magic of all Turtle Island’s people to be celebrated and understood in a positive, uplifting and often hilarious way. Sandy and I always have a rollicking good time when we are in concert.

We use the dynamic combination of live theatre, music and storytelling. "West Wind and the Woodland Sisters" concert has the audience laughing from beginning to end. Enthusiastic audience participation is one of the hallmarks of this very popular show.

The concert is for adults, University, Community College students. It is an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary music, stories with modern twists, political and social humour, accompanied by authentic Native hand drums, Moonstone and K'oolgyet Na Hool Big Drums (occasionally), shakers and Sandy's fabulous bass and acoustic guitars and Flute.

This show is for all of you who want to feed your soul, elevate your spirit, participate and laugh your head off!

“Thunderbird is the first headlining First Nations performer to appear at the Imperial Theatre. We are really pleased to have someone of her calibre. Finding ways to educate people through music and theatre is what makes this inspirational woman tick.”
(Telegraph-Journal, Saint John, NB)

“I haven’t laughed this hard in years. I felt welcome in your world. The passion of your words and music had a profound impact on me. Thanks for a great evening.” (J. Costos)

KEYNOTES, LECTURES, SEMINARS

Less Stress, More Balance, Love of Self, Spiritual Grounding and Personal Value - cornerstones of living wise and well. Globally we must recognized that we are "One People" and integral parts of an harmonious universe. I present relevant, original, high energy, humorous, loaded in content program. They contain pragmatic bear medicine in finding ways to get in touch with the art of just living and working wise. After many years as a Senior Director in a large unionized, culturally-diverse company, I have seen how easy it is for individuals to lose their focus under the pressure of performance, longer hours and increased stress. My messages are conveyed combining a variety of elements.

Keynote Addresses, Talks, Workshops and Healing Drumming Circles are focused on topics that speak to the importance of being authentic; learning to recognize individual value, time-honoured traditional teachings set in contemporary contexts ("We matter. We so often feel that we don't").

Through Medicine Wheel Teachings, participants learn to access and understand the freedom and responsibility that owning their personal power brings to the dance of life; understand the 'tricky' laws of the mind, which includes recognizing self-defeating messages and negative attitudes.

My 'Speaks' appeal to all Mother Earth's people as participants learn to quiet their inner chatter, centre their minds and reconnect with themselves and others in a safe and self-empowered environment.

Note 1: I am an Educator on many things First Nations.

Note 2: My performances and teachings are geared to the specific requirements of the event.

"Shannon Thunderbird's ability to reach people with her 'soul speak' messages from all walks of life is truly amazing." (A. Michaels, Engineer)

MORE ON TEYA PEYA PRODUCTIONS

WISDOM OF THE AGES: THE ART, MAGIC & MEANING OF INDIGENOUS STORYTELLING

"We're still here, and we live on this land. We don't live in your libraries in the pages of your books. Our world is not for digging up our pottery, or for digging up our bones....We have a long surviving and sacred tradition and an experiential wisdom that's been passed on for more centuries than you can imagine. This is your chance to benefit from that. All you have to do is be quiet and listen and quit worrying about proving and start believing."
(Wallace 'Mad Bear' Anderson - Tuscarora Holy Man & Activist,
Tuscarora Nation of the Six-Nation Haudenosaunne Confederacy)

The Indigenous oral narrative sought to ground my people in the truth of their existence by providing historical connections and a world view that pulsated through the endless circles within circles of Indigenous life. Stories held a special importance particularly because, prior to European contact, Native people lacked a formal system of writing.

"In the tribes, Indigenous Storytelling, dance Dramas, Drumming and Music were sacred and artful processes. Stories formed the basis of cultural pride, equality and self-determination; they gave voice to Indigenous people as proud members of the Human family. It allowed them to understand their history within the context of the natural world because it helped define individual identity, the family, the clan, the village, the environment." (Thunderbird)

I bring my many years in the performance arts along with my experience as an Educator and a Senior Manager in a discussion of the importance of the Oral Narrative to my people. For people of all ages, the oral tradition, acting, dance, and music are necessary and valuable life skills. The Arts opens the doors to inspiration, imagination and self-confidence while holding fast to the discipline and work ethic that is crucial in any worthwhile endeavour.

Come with me and enter the world of Canada's Indigenous People with our rich and lasting contributions that continue to make Canada unique. I offer a rollicking, often humorous interactive experience where participants immerse themselves in Indigenous Culture by listening to stories, learning songs, drum rhythms and movement.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing. Some authentic Native Hand Drums and shakers will be available. Participants are invited to bring their own percussion instrument if they have one. We will also be creating our own story from the experiences of the participants.

Address issues of cultural and human diversity.

Assist in educating Educators: Politics, Social Studies, Justice, History, Music, Dramatic Arts, Native Studies.

Address Women and Leadership issues.

Help raise the level of personal consciousness to influence health and well-being.

Help centre the mind and embrace the positive messages that true self-empowerment brings.

Help understand the importance of achieving personal goals, developing positive attitudes, improving relationships and generally 'lightening up'.

Help understand the 'tricky' laws of the mind by recognizing the challenges of self-defeating messages and negative thoughts .

Finding humour, yes even in the workplace - for humour is an important binding that ties people together .

Memory and Self-Defeating Messages

Rest and Contemplation: Essential Life and Business Skills

Gender Communication

The Importance of Being Authentic

and Accountable

Why we do the things we do to each other

Looking for serenity in the same place as despair

Can positive really replace negative on a consistent basis?

Teamwork, consensus - the hallmarks of Indigenous cultures

How to balance the four realms of human existence: mind, spirit, emotions, body

Who Heals the Healer?

Self-Empowerment Using the Twin Elements of Wisdom and Courage

We are never alone

The meaning of the circle, drum teachings, the magic #4

We Are One People: All Humans are Connected.

Understanding the Roles of Women, Men, Elders, Children Within the Context of the Modern Tribe

Ontario Native Studies Curriculum (Grades 4-High School).

Importance of the preservation of culture

Digital and New Media Technologies: The Importance of the Oral Tradition as a Force for Cultural Grounding in the Digital Age

Understanding that 'Traditional' Thinking is not Old-Fashioned Thinking

Youth and Leadership; Elevating the Spirit of our Youth

TESTIMONIALS:

"Shannon, I hardly have the words to thank you and Sandy adequately. I've received lots of positive e-mails about the event, and verbal 'enthusiasms' too.I'm not sure how you'd follow up on such an amazing day, but many have suggested bringing you back next year ( works for me! ), I knew we were going to have a wonderful day together, but who could predict that it would turn out the way it did. It is the single best example of team building that I have ever seen. Your personal power is awesome, and your ability to read the people in front of you is truly a gift. (M.Lee, Education and Learning Centre)

"Thank you for your beautiful demonstration and words of wisdom. It was very much appreciated." (Crime Stoppers Committee, AB Lucas High School, London)

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS

Suitable for Grades 3 to 12 - Universities - Community Colleges

I am an Educator on most things First Nations. My performances meet provincial curriculum requirements for Native Studies, World Religions and a host of other subject. I travel widely and speak at educational institutions all across Canada.

My performances and teachings are geared to the specific grade requested (Grade 3 to University and Community Colleges). I use a combination of lively interaction with my audience, the dynamics of live theatre, storytelling, songs, drums and shakers.

My teachings include correct definitions, correct historical information and facts, contemporary social and political issues all illustrated by dramatic and humorous stories. Students of all ages have a lot of fun learning to drum on authentic Native hand drums and shakers as well as learning songs some of which are in the original Indigenous languages including: Smalgyax, Seneca and Ojibwa.

More Information on Thunderbird

I'd be honoured to be part of your Professional Development Day, other Teacher Training Events or Educational Conference

My culture is my life and I have an abiding interest in how the history, culture, spirituality and the contemporary lives of Native peoples are portrayed and conveyed to the rest of the world. For far too long, the information has been relayed, often inaccurately, with a decidedly NON-Native interpretation.

I seek always to debunk many of the myths and outright inaccuracies that are still taught in the educational system. For example, the Bering Strait Theory - there is not a shred of proof that indicates Turtle Island's Indigenous people migrated from central Asia. At the time, there was a huge wall of ice that spread across the top of the world making such travel completely impossible. The Indigenous people already on Turtle Island, knew about the wall of ice and none of our creation stories back up this theory. Let us just put this notion to rest shall we? LISTEN TO THE ELDERS!

For more Facts and Fantasy

Much Indigenous education continues to be taught in isolation. For example, in Ontario, the new Grade 10 Native Studies course, Aboriginal Peoples in Canada, asks the following question: Describe the key aspects of the Indian Act and the impact they have on the lives of Aboriginal peoples.

How is this to be answered when the student has had no previous introduction to a subject as comprehensive as this? Do students know the state of the Nations prior to contact?
Why only the key aspects of the Indian Act?
The Indian Act is the most racist documents ever written by a western democracy -- what parts would be considered KEY when the entire Act was designed to control and oppress every aspect of Native Life, by taking away rights enjoyed by every other 'free' Canadian.
This approach does not require thoughtful discourse, but merely a subjective answer by students with little preparation and understanding of previous history and the devastating impact the Indian Act had on Native societies in the last hundred and twenty-nine years.

CLICK WATERFALL FOR A MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF SCHOOL SHOWS

Click on Fire to view the Schools who have hosted SWEET THUNDER MEDICINE WHEEL WORKSHOPS

"Thank you so much for your presentation to the Elementary Teacher's Federation of Ontario Aboriginal Education Summer Academy. Your expertise and passion influences our teachers and reaches our students, ultimately. Thanks again." (K. Makon)

"Thanks for being a presenter at our Workshop today. You were wonderful." (Elementary Teacher's Federation, Thames Valley, London, ON)

"What joy you bring! The Limestone Board has been so enriched by your talents, humour and wisdom! You have started us on a journey that will be never-ending. How wonderful. Thank you. (M. McLeod, Limestone Board of Education)