Meet the Storyteller: Gwendolyn J. Napier
Stories are the lifeblood of The Wren's Nest. They're woven into the very fabric of our history and mission. For generations, our museum has proudly hosted a weekly storytelling hour every Saturday. Here, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the timeless tales of Brer Rabbit and other traditional folk stories, just as they were meant to be heard. Our storytellers, gifted performing artists in their own right, each infuse their craft with a distinctive style, enriching the experience for all who attend.
This month, we’re spotlighting storyteller Gwendolyn J. Napier, also known as Miss LuvDrop the Storyteller. With over 30 years of experience working with children, youth, and adults, Gwendolyn knows how to keep audiences engaged through songs, music, movement, and props, making her stories truly unforgettable.
Here are three fun facts about Gwendolyn:
As a retired educator from the Fulton County Board of Education and a native of Atlanta, Gwendolyn has left her mark on countless school-wide and community-based programs. She’s performed at well-known venues like Historic Oakland Cemetery's "Capturing the Spirit of Oakland," Zoo Atlanta Wild Adventures, and the Atlanta Jazz Festival Children Zone, just to name a few.
Inspired by her trip to West Africa, where she immersed herself in Nigerian culture and customs, Gwendolyn shares stories from cultures around the world, enriching the lives of her audiences with each tale.
But storytelling isn't just a hobby for Gwendolyn—it's a calling. She's deeply involved in organizations like the Georgia Storytelling Network, where she served as President in 2023 & 2024, and the National Association of Black Storytellers' Adopt-A-Tellers Program. She's also an ambassador for GEEARS (Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Children) and a valued member of the Wren’s Nest Advisory Committee.
With specializations in drumming, singing, ribbon twirling, and historical portrayals, Gwendolyn brings a unique blend of talents to every performance. Don't miss her storytelling at The Wren's Nest on March 9th, and catch her again on March 17th for our Women's History Month program!
For more information about Gwendolyn and her upcoming events, visit her website: luvdropproductions.com