Noa Baum

About this Artist

Pronouns: she/her

The Washington Post describes Noa Baum as someone who “Spreads cultural truths that eclipse geopolitical boundaries…” Born and raised in Jerusalem, Noa is an internationally acclaimed storyteller, author, and educator who uses storytelling to builds bridges of peace and compassion.

With warm authenticity, mesmerizing voices, and humor, Noa’s uplifting programs combine story, song, and audience participation. Her stories draw on the wisdom of many traditions and her own rich Jewish heritage, to highlight our similarities, celebrate our differences, and encourage curiosity, tolerance, and ethical responsibility.

Noa holds a graduate degree in Theater-in-Education and Drama Therapy from NYU and brings over four decades of teaching experience and expertise to engaging student residencies and interactive Professional Development workshops that focus on listening, literacy, communication and social emotional skills. She is the author of two award-winning books “How the Birds Became Friends,” on the power of kindness to create change, and a memoir “A Land Twice Promised – an Israeli Woman’s Quest for Peace.” She is a Parents’ Choice Award winner and recipient of numerous awards from the Maryland State Arts Council and the Montgomery County Arts Council.

Artist Statement

I grew up in Israel and between acting roles in Jerusalem, I took a job telling stories at a community center. On my first day, a troubled nine-year-old girl walked in late, kicked the kids sitting on the floor and sat on the windowsill. But as my story began she listened, and then transformed into a graceful majestic princess as she acted out the story with the group. The community center staff told me this was the first time anyone had seen this child participate without breaking chairs. It was a powerful moment that set me out on the path to become a professional storyteller and teaching artist. For nearly 30 years I’ve been using the transformative power of stories to motivate students to learn through storytelling, movement, and dramatic play. I marvel at the power of storytelling in developing the social, emotional, and cognitive skills of children. I absolutely LOVE it and look forward to sharing my passion with Maryland students and educators.

Testimonials

"A spell-binding storyteller… held our children and adults enthralled with delightful stories and audience participation!"

Judy Librarian, Rockville, MD

"I absolutely LOVED it!!!! I had tingles up my spine the whole time. There are no words to describe how much I love your storytelling!"

Madison, 6th grade student

"Noa Baum’s rich storytelling brought to life stories from around the world to emphasize the respect and compassion we should have for all people."

Principal, Olney Adventist Preparatory School

"Noa's residency was a huge success! It was obvious that the students walked away with many new skills... this residency allowed the students to express themselves and use their imagination in so many ways! They actively looked forward to their sessions together and could not wait to see Ms. Noa! Thank you for all your hard work!"

Mary, Howard County Arts Council, Maryland Head Start Programs

"Noa Baum is fantastic! She brings her stories alive so that this petite woman actually resembles a lion, a turtle — any character she takes on, when performing — without costume! I cannot say enough about Noa — the teachers, staff and most importantly the students were captivated by her storytelling."

Pamela, PTA, Silver Spring, MD

"I appreciated the diverse nature of the stories you told both at the performance and on your CD and how well you brought in elements of the cultures that the stories sprang from… you made the stories come alive with your dramatic telling of them. You are truly an exceptional performer."

Katherine, Waverly Elementary, Frederick MD

"Every year I hire a storyteller from a different background. Noa Baum is my favorite. Ms. Baum was able to engage 200+ students, some with special needs, for the entire duration of the show. Her stories are whimsical yet thought provoking—the way memorable stories should be. Her voice, poise, facial expressions, and colorful attire arouse the kids' curiosity while the stories' twist of fate satisfy their sense of justice. The disappointment was palpable when the bell rang for lunch and the stories had to cease.

Catherine, PTA, Wayside ES

"Noa's professionalism and artistry has provided wonderful opportunities for our children to experience different cultural traditions through stories which never failed to illuminate, educate, and entertain. Her vast repertoire dovetailed seamlessly with our curricular topics and goals."

Paige, Outreach Coordinator, The Key School

"Noa was warm and engaging. She established immediate rapport with the audience, giving clear cues for decorum, but lots of space for appropriate response and participation. Her stories were mesmerizing, her timing impeccable, and her connection with the children genuine. Loved her!"

Nan J., Principal, AlephBet Jewish Day School