County story group plan busy time ahead

Apr 4 2008

LANARKSHIRE Storytellers are looking forward to the summer — with plans being made for a whole range of activities involving their members.

This follows the success of their events at Lanark’s Whuppity Scoorie, which included the visit of two of the most important ‘tradition bearers’ in African folktales, Clifford and Françoise Ugochukwu from Nigeria.

Events began yesterday (Wednesday) with their monthly Open Circle session, an informal evening of storytelling for all, which is held upstairs at the Wallace Cave, Lanark.

As well as catching up on storytelling news and events, the group were due to share stories of April Fools Days Dead and Gone, of how some celebrate the day and of tricks from the past that worked and some which didn't.

The group were also discussing participation in storytelling at festivals and special events during the next few months.

These include plans to host a visit by American storyteller Judith Alexander from Seattle, USA, in May and proposals for a special midsummer event linked which will be to other similar events in various parts of Europe.

The group are especially keen to welcome new members along and remind readers that their meetings are open to all.

Everyone who would like to is welcome to tell, maybe to try out telling, or to ‘give voice’ to a new story.

And there is no pressure to tell, so if you just want to come along and listen then you are very welcome too.

If you would like more information about Lanarkshire Storytellers, or to hear more about their activities, contact Colin McAllister on (01555) 851187.