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Reconnecting Through Story: A New Series with Talia Levy
There’s something timeless and comforting about sitting in a circle, hearing a story unfold. It reminds us of childhood, of family, of quieter moments when words painted pictures and sparked imagination.
This winter, Byron Seniors Club invites you to return to that magic with a new six-part Storytelling Series led by local storyteller Talia Levy. Held at the Byron Community Centre and free for Byron Seniors Club members, these sessions offer a welcoming space to listen, reflect and reconnect – with yourself, with others and with the simple joy of story.
Whether you’re a quiet listener or someone ready to share a tale or two, all are welcome. To learn more about the heart behind the series, we sat down with Talia to hear her thoughts on the power of storytelling, especially for our senior community.
Meet Talia
What inspired you to become a storyteller, and what continues to draw you to this work?
When I discovered storytelling I found it to be the perfect outlet for my creativity! I was never any good at fine art but I realised that through storytelling I was able to paint the pictures in my mind through words. But it’s the stories themselves that continue to draw me back, their many layers of wisdom and wonder. I love how they speak to us so directly and yet so non-confrontationally.
What can participants expect from the Storytelling Sessions with Byron Seniors Club?
Expect to hear stories! They might make you laugh or cry, think or imagine. They might inspire you or move you in unexpected ways. Expect a space to share your thoughts and feelings about the stories and how they’re relevant to your own life and experience. Expect activities and exercises to stimulate your mind, your curiosity, your joy and the storyteller within you.
Why do you think storytelling is particularly meaningful or powerful for seniors?
I think it’s meaningful for everyone! However seniors hold a special place in my heart. Sometimes I think of stories as our wise elders – they point us down the right path without demanding anything of us, they have a way of showing us and then allowing us to find it for ourselves. I’m not a senior myself, but similarly to how I approach stories, when an elder speaks, I listen. So, in a way it feels to me that by bringing seniors and stories together we are gathering a council of elders, wise ones who can share their experiences, ideas and reflections for our world.
Do you have a favourite story, theme or moment you like to share during these sessions?
I love to share an old story from The Maggid of Dubnow. In its simplest form, it’s a story of a young archer who never misses the mark, and the way she does it is by shooting the arrow and then drawing the target around it. I share this story as an example of my role as a storyteller – I’m here to tell the story, and then it’s the listener’s job to draw their own rings of meaning around it.
What do you hope participants take away from this experience?
Connection. To themselves, each other and community. A sense that their voice is important and that their life experiences and perspectives are valuable and necessary in our world. Creative inspiration and fresh perspectives to weave through their lives.
About the Storytelling Sessions
Thursdays: June 12, 26 | July 10, 17 | August 7, 14
10:30am – 12:30pm
Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson Street
Free for Byron Seniors Club members
Bookings essential – June sessions now open:
Book for June 12
Book for June 26
Each session includes:
- A live storytelling performance by Talia
- Group discussion on the themes shared
- Gentle writing prompts and creative exercises
- Tea and coffee
Whether you feel like simply listening or exploring your own memories and experiences through story, this series is designed to be welcoming, relaxed and inspiring.
About Talia Levy
Talia is a trained storyteller and graduate of the International School of Storytelling (UK). Having returned to the Byron Shire, she brings with her a deep passion for sharing stories that bridge generations, spark connection and celebrate the wisdom of elders. Her warm and engaging presence invites participants to immerse in the magic of storytelling - whether as quiet listeners or active contributors.
We warmly invite you to join us for this special series - reconnect with your imagination, your memories and your community.
Contact
For any questions or more information, contact:
Program Coordinator: Shanti Des Fours
seniors@byroncentre.com.au
(02) 6685 6807
0437 597 128
www.byronseniors.com.au
Not a Byron Seniors Club Member?
Simply register at www.byronseniorsclub.com.au
