Rowan Public Library Has Two Upcoming Storytelling Programs

Erin Allen
August 26, 2007

Rowan Public Library is gearing up for the school year with two storytelling programs. The first is a perennial September favorite, Stories by the Millstream.

Millstream 2007’s special guest will be Mitch Capel, better known as Gran’Daddy Junebug. Gran’Daddy Junebug is a renowned storyteller who has a unique affinity with children. According to Alvin Poussaint, Associate Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, Gran’Daddy Junebug, “through the quiet morals of his stories, strengthens their self esteem with playful yet positive messages”.

Although Millstream is open only to Rowan County second graders, Gran’Daddy Junebug will also be giving a public performance at the Main library in Salisbury at 7:00 p.m. on September 28. People of all ages are invited to the library’s Stanback Auditorium for this unforgettable evening of tales.

Stories by the Millstream is made possible through the efforts of Friends of the Rowan Public Library, Rowan Parks and Recreation, Rowan Public Library, and the Rowan-Salisbury School System.

October 13 is the date scheduled for the first annual Jackie Torrence Storytelling Festival. As most Rowan County citizens know, Jackie Torrence was a woman of incredible talents. This celebration honors her memory and seeks to continue her warm tradition of sharing stories. The festival will highlight the performance talents of upcoming area youth ages ten to twenty. If you are a young person interested in performing storytelling or stories accompanied by music, call Rowan Public Library at (704) 216-8258 or (704) 216-8234 for more information.

Donna Washington is slated to headline the Jackie Torrence Storytelling Festival. Ms. Washington is a nationally known storyteller, and author of many books and CDs, including A Big, Spooky House, A Pride of African Tales, and The Story of Kwanzaa. Selected books and CDs will be available for purchase at the festival.

The Jackie Torrence Storytelling Festival is scheduled for October 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the grounds of Rowan Public Library, 201 West Fisher Street, Salisbury. Area youth will perform from 10:00 to 12:00. Donna Washington will begin at 12:00. Free popcorn and lemonade will be on hand.