A Road Scholar program by Brian “Fox” Ellis

Imagine an evening at London’s Royal Geological Society, with the affable, young Charles Darwin, among friends, telling the stories of his amazing adventure sailing around the world on HMS Beagle. Darwin tells humorous tales of his training as a naturalist, his insights into South American geology, his discovery of strange creatures on the Galapagos Archipelago and most importantly, the scientific evidence that lead to his revolutionary theory. Storyteller and science teacher, Brian “Fox” Ellis steps into Darwin’s shoes to model the scientific process, engage listeners in a discussion of the facts so they can draw their own conclusions. Equal parts dramatic storytelling, stand-up comedy and show and tell, the audience is immersed in the intellectual world of one of history’s greatest scientific minds. He brings a wide array of fossils, insects, plants and study skins so the audience can experience the discoveries of Darwin with hands-on analysis.

Brian “Fox” Ellis is a storyteller, author, and naturalist and has worked with The Field Museum, The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, and countless smaller county museums to provide docent and teacher training, develop curriculum, and present public programs. He is the Artistic Director of Prairie Folklore Theatre, a unique theatre company that celebrates ecology and history through original musical. Brian is also the author of eight books including, Learning From the Land: Teaching Ecology Through Stories and Activities, (Libraries Unlimited, 1997) and a new children’s picture book, The Web at Dragonfly Pond, (Dawn Publications, 2006).

For more information contact Sharon Wagenknecht| 815.224.5891.