Alicia Mary Retes is a spell binding storyteller.

She has a sense of the audience and delivers a story that catches the attention of young and old. I have seen her perform for the Mill Valley Library, at the annual Big Time event at Point Reyes National Seashore, and at clubs.  She has my highest recommendation for both her style and authenticity.                 

Betty Goerke

Chief Marin, Leaderr, Rebel, and Legend, Author

Adventures of Two Coast Miwok Children, Author

Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, Honorary Member

Professor Emeritus, retired, College of Marin, Kentfield, CA

Beautifully told Miwok stories by Alicia, a master storyteller.

I first met Alicia at the debut of our Southern Sierra Miwuk film "Miwuk" in Mariposa, CA in 2020 and experienced her enthusiastic participation in our Language Preservation class.  Alicia holds true to whatever legend, myth, or story she is recreating and enhances each and every one with her creative talents. She gives each of the personages populating her stories an authentic Native name and a distinct, recognizable voice along with matching mannerisms.

Anthony Neil Cabezut

Southern Sierra Miwuk Citizen and linguist

The unique gift that Alicia brings to storytelling is her absolute engagement of the story with the movement of her physical body, voices and the heart she puts into each character. There were many responses of "oohs" and "aahs," giggles and cheers.

Barbara Zarate, Patawommeck, Blackfoot

Director for Economic Opportunity, Marin Community Foundation

Parent, Indigenous Day at Mark Day School, San Rafael

Her warm and inviting presence made us feel as if we were all part of the “tribe.” Although we were listening to a folktale from centuries ago, Alicia brought an immediacy that made the audience feel as if this incident had recently occurred in our own time.

Margaret Stawowy

Children’s Librarian II, City of San Rafael

Testimonials