Mark Lewis (storyteller) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mark W. Lewis
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Born | February 16, 1954 |
Died | December 7, 2014 Eugene, Oregon |
(aged 60)
Occupation | storyteller, short story writer, actor |
Nationality | American |
Subject | Fiction |
Mark Lewis (February 16, 1954 – December 7, 2014) was an American storyteller, actor, and teacher. He was known for bringing stories to life with his voice and actions.
Mark started his storytelling journey in high school. He won drama contests by telling stories like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." These stories later became popular parts of his professional shows. In 1971, he teamed up with Craig Coulter. They formed Coulter & Lewis and performed songs, poems, and stories. They even appeared at "The Ice House", a famous comedy club. Later, they performed for schools in Los Angeles.
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Mark Lewis's Amazing Career
Mark Lewis had a very exciting career. He was part of the Renaissance Pleasure Faires in California. He started as a silent character, then took on speaking roles. This let him share his storytelling talent with many people.
Awards and Famous Appearances
Mark won two Emmy Awards for his TV show called "Word Pictures." He also had his own radio show. You might have heard his voice on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland. He even appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Mark also acted in TV shows like Northern Exposure and Leverage. In Leverage, he played Santa Claus in an episode!
Books and Creative Work
Besides performing, Mark was also an illustrator and writer. He wrote four books, including Kaliban's Christmas and The Secret of the Quilt. He also worked as a creative content provider for big companies. These included Microsoft, Disney Imagineering, and Universal Studios. Mark truly was a magician with words.
Teaching and Inspiring Others
Mark Lewis loved to teach and share his skills. He led storytelling workshops to help others learn. He was a faculty member at summer camps like Camp de Benneville Pines Family Camp and Camp Bravo. At these camps, he taught storytelling and stagecraft to teens. He also taught Presentation Skills at the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication. Mark also volunteered for the Oregon chapter of the International Thespian Society.
Mark Lewis passed away on December 7, 2014. He left behind a legacy of inspiring stories and performances.
The Art of Storytelling
Mark believed that everyone is a storyteller. He thought that every person has a unique story to share. He was famous for his "physical storytelling." This meant he used his body and voice to create imaginary worlds. He also played many instruments, like the recorder, and sang.
Mark Lewis on Screen
Mark Lewis appeared in several TV shows and movies. Here are some of his roles:
Television Roles
Year | Title | Role | Notes |
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1995 | Northern Exposure | Rusty Keyes | |
1997 | American River Journals | Host | Won a TELLY Award |
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno | Guest Performer | ||
2011 | Grimm | Robin's Grandfather | Pilot episode |
2012 | Leverage | Santa Claus/Jack | Episode: "The Ho Ho Ho Job" |
Film Roles
Year | Title | Role | Notes |
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2014 | Nobody | George | TV Movie |