I just returned from New York City where I was a featured storyteller for the art of storytelling weekend at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian. What an honor it was to perform for a renowned institution with so much such history and passion for preserving Native history. They could not have been kinder and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity.
I have the best job in the world getting to share my stories and culture with the best people, festivals, universities, and museums like the Smithsonian.
In 2023 I was honored to be the 2023 recipient of the Coleen Salley Storytelling Award. The award is given to storytellers for their commitment and excellence in the art of storytelling by The University of Southern Mississippi. I also wrote a children’s book retelling a Southeastern tale about how Possum got his tail. It’s available on Amazon, I hope you like it.
I am a registered member of the Chickasaw Nation, an award-winning storyteller, artist, and a founding member of the Chickasaw dance troupe Chikashsha Hithla. I travel around the country with the troupe educating about Chickasaw and Southeastern tribal culture. I also work independently performing at schools, libraries, camps, festivals, and museums.
I perform in my regalia and explain why we wear what we wear and share some of our stories, language, history, and culture including a few artifacts. I can create a program that fits any age group and any theme.
I am glad you found me and look forward to hearing from, and working with you. Feel free to call me if you need more information.
Chumaski (Thank-you),
Amy Bluemel
“Amy Bluemel is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever heard, of any genre. She has a deep respect for her cultural heritage and a unique way of connecting to audience members of all ages through not only the content of her stories, but her wonderful intonation, gestures, timing, and overall delivery. I have read a great deal over the years about the culture of Southeastern Native Americans, but hearing oral tradition presented so delightfully by Amy really helps to contextualize the material. I would not hesitate to recommend Amy Bluemel as a storyteller to anyone planning an event because more people need to hear her!” —Bill Bomar, Ph.D., Director of Museum Studies, The University of Alabama