From Stage to Page – Ania Danylo’s Journey in Storytelling
Ania Danylo blends her theatrical expertise with literary creativity to craft captivating children’s books that inspire and entertain.
Ania Danylo’s theatre background enriches her children’s books, blending storytelling, character development, and visual imagination, while her diverse roles enhance her creative process.
Ania Danylo, an acclaimed author with a rich background in theatre, has seamlessly transitioned her storytelling prowess into the realm of children’s literature. With over two decades of experience directing plays such as “The Diary of Anne Frank” and various works by Shakespeare, Danylo has honed her ability to craft compelling narratives. Her theatrical background has significantly influenced her approach to writing children’s books, including her popular title, “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish.”
Danylo’s experience in theatre has equipped her with a deep understanding of storytelling elements such as tension, conflict, and resolution, which are crucial in creating engaging children’s picture books. Her work is also inspired by literary figures like Shel Silverstein and Jack Prelutsky, alongside playwrights like Tennessee Williams and Edward Albee. This diverse range of influences is evident in her ability to develop characters, manage pacing, and evoke emotional resonance in her stories. Initially conceived as a poem intended for a TV animation special, “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish” found its true form as a children’s picture book after a suggestion from one of Danylo’s adult acting students.
Balancing her roles as an educator, director, and writer, Danylo finds that each aspect of her career enriches the others. Her passion for storytelling allows her to seamlessly transition between these roles, drawing on her skills to enhance her work. For instance, when writing a picture book, she often envisions how the story would be staged, much like a director. As an educator, she considers how her stories can inspire and teach young readers. This multifaceted approach allows her to bring a unique perspective to each project.
Danylo’s journey into film and television has presented its own set of challenges and insights. She describes the transition from theatre to screen as a shift from expansion to contraction, where film relies more on visual storytelling and subtle gestures. The fragmented nature of film production, with its focus on individual shots and scenes, contrasts with the immersive experience of theatre. Despite these differences, Danylo has embraced the storytelling potential of both mediums, recognizing the critical role of the editor in shaping a film’s narrative.
As a certified hypnotherapist and experienced acting coach, Danylo incorporates her understanding of the mind and emotions into her teaching and directing. She emphasizes the importance of creating a relaxed and humorous environment where actors feel comfortable taking risks and exploring their creativity. This approach fosters confidence, which she believes is essential for any performer or storyteller.
Collaborating with illustrator Remi Bryant on “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish” was a rewarding experience for Danylo. Bryant not only brought Felix the elephant and his journey to life through her illustrations but also mentored Danylo in the self-publishing process. Despite the challenges of time differences and Danylo’s detailed feedback, the collaboration was a success. The book features 56 full-color illustrations, a testament to their shared vision and dedication.
Danylo’s second children’s book, “Zolemina: The Should Do Could Do Would Do Cat,” reflects her continued passion for storytelling and collaboration. While she aimed to reduce the number of illustrations for cost-effectiveness, the creative process with illustrator David Griffiths was so enjoyable that she couldn’t resist expanding the project. This led to the creation of coloring book versions of both stories, which have been well-received by children and adults alike, highlighting the universal appeal of Danylo’s work.
