The Shape of Things Other: A journey into, and with, the work of Daniel Deardorff and his book The Other Within: The Genius of Deformity in Myth, Culture, and Psyche (3rd ed.,Inner Traditions, 2022)

Judith-Kate Friedman, life partner of storyteller, mythsinger and polymath Daniel Deardorff (1952-2019), joins The Fifth Direction to offer a deep dive into Danny’s soul-stirring book The Other Within over four Sunday mornings, culminating in a half-day retreat.

This online exploration invites us to engage with Deardorff's profound reflections on outsiderhood, the phenomenon of 'othering,' and the hidden gifts that lie within all who dwell on the fringes. We’ll find keys to unlock imprisoned parts of the imagination and wander in good company with the wild and the wyrd.

As a prelude to the course, Judith-Kate will also offer Mythsinger StoryNight bringing Oral Tradition practices alive as we gather ‘round the virtual hearth with Danny’s voice, music, images, and presence beaming from the centre (via archival audio and video).

After the fire is called and the story told and received, we feed the story, each other, and the mythteller. This is an interactive and sacred space/time for listening, reflection, wonder, sharing, and tenderness. Judith-Kate, alongside storytellers Audrey di Mola and Asher Packman, will be your hosts.

Schedule:

Mythsinger StoryNight*: Tuesday, October 15, 7:00pm-8:30pm AEDT
(12:00am-1:30am PST - Tues Oct15)

The Shape of Things Other (Session #1): Sunday, October 20, 8:00am-10:00am AEDT
(3:00-5:00pm PST - Sat, Oct 19)
The Shape of Things Other (Session #2): Sunday, October 27, 8:00am-10:00am AEDT
(3:00-5:00pm PST, Sat Oct 26)
Break
The Shape of Things Other (Session #3): Sunday, November 10, 8:00am-10:00am AEDT
(3:00-5:00pm PST, Sat Nov 9)
Break
The Shape of Things Other (Retreat Finale): Sunday, November 24, 8:00am-12:00pm AEDT
(3-7pm PST, Sat Nov 23)

All sessions via Zoom. Sessions will be recorded and available to registered participants only.

*NOTE: Members of The Fifth Direction are welcome at Mythsinger StoryNight at no additional cost.

The Fifth Direction is a welcome community for everyone. This includes people of all genders, faiths, backgrounds, orientations, ages and abilities. For more information, head to www.thefifthdirection.com

For more information about Daniel Deardorff and the ongoing work in his legacy, please visit Mythsinger Legacy Project.