Celebrate storytelling with Waukegan Public Library!
Join Waukegan Public Library as we celebrate the many ways that different cultures tell stories - through dance, music, and the oral tradition! This year's incarnation of the award-winning Ray Bradbury Storytelling Festival will feature the premier West African dance and drum company Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, the Grammy and Latin Grammy award-winning Sones de México Ensemble, and stories from acclaimed tellers Megan Wells, Jim May, and In the Spirit.
Performers will explore story through its many forms - from folktales to myths to personal narratives and more. The bilingual performance from Sones de México will not only celebrate traditional Mexican son, but bring musical life to a literary tale from Ray Bradbury, "Calling Mexico," as told by Megan Wells. Muntu Dance Theatre will bring an exciting performance to celebrate the cultural heritage of West Africa through dance and drumming. The audience will also experience an enthralling tandem story, with duo In the Spirit telling "The Joshua Tree." Jim May will serve as emcee, with his unique talent for using story to link all of our performers.
The Festival will be held at the historic Genesee Theatre on Friday, October 28, at 7:30pm. This all-ages show will feature stories, bilingual music, and powerful dance from around the world to enchant audience members of all ages. Tickets to the evening performance are $10, and may be purchased at the Genesee Theatre Box Office.
This year's Festival is presented as part of the Waukegan ArtWise Cultural Arts Series, "Celebrating Our Diverse Community," with this event representing a partnership between the Waukegan Arts Council and the Library. Marquee sponsor of the event is the Visual Pak Companies, whose generous donation has made this year's incredible program possible. The Library also gratefully acknowledges support from the Friends of the Waukegan Public Library, Lake County Regional Office of Education, West Insurance Agency, NorStates Bank, Rodriguez Home Inspectors, Library Furniture International, Larsen Florist, and William and Mary Jesenovec.