The Morehead News
July 27, 2012 — Relax in the beautiful setting of Cave Run Lake when the 14th Annual Cave Run Storytelling Festival returns, Sept. 28-29, in Morehead. Seven of the nation’s finest storytellers will share their tales of adventure, culture and tradition for this annual family-friendly event.
Let these talented artists take you away to other times and places through the intrigue and art of storytelling. Comfortable, general seating is provided at this lakeside seeting and stories are told in large tents at the Twin Knobs Recreation Area of the lake, centrally located in the heart of the scenic Daniel Boone National Forest, eight miles west of Morehead.
Along with a dedicated group of community volunteers, the Morehead Tourism Commission, Daniel Boone National Forest and Morehead State Public Radio, which have partnered for the festival’s success.
“Everyone has a story to share and the Cave Run Storytelling Festival offers something for every member of the family,” said Carolyn Franzini, festival coordinator.
This year’s event will feature:
Len Cabral – is returning to the Cave Run Storytelling Festival stage by popular demand. Cabrel gathers his stories by blending personal stories with traditional folk tales. A featured storyteller at the National Storytelling Festival and the Smithsonian Institution, he also has travelled throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.
Gay Ducey – is a descendant of generations of Southern women who treasured spunk, independence and a sassy mouth. Ducey enjoys telling stories of culture and tradition from the Southern Appalachians. She has performed at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and teaches storytelling at the University of California at Berkeley.
Kala Jojo – is a storyteller, vocalist, musician and weaver of tales for all ages, young and old. He is a master of the craft of storytelling in blending stories and songs. Jojo’s stories can be sensitive and thought-provoking, while giving new perspectives to cultural diversity, healing and conflict resolution.
Kevin Kling – prides himself for having a “small command of the English language, so he tries to make every word a hero.” Known as a humorist, author and storyteller, Kling also has been a regular contributor on NPR’s All Things Considered. Audiences will enjoy hearing about his family and childhood stories, everyday observations and universal human experiences.
Bil Lepp – has won numerous awards as a storyteller, author, recording artist and a self-described “incomplete novelist.” Lepp’s stories are delivered with such ease of clarity that they are clearly not factual, but you’ll want to believe they are true. He is a popular storyteller at festivals and schools around the country and a favorite of many who enjoy a good laugh.
Rafe Martin – enjoys observing people, animals and his surroundings, then blending those keen observations into stories he shares with his audiences. Martin is an author of more than 20 books that have been translated into many different languages. Through his fascinating stories, he shares an empowering vision of language, writing, creativity and imagination.
Clare Murphy – comes from Ireland with a physical storytelling style that adds energy and dynamics to her fascinating stories. Murphy engages her listeners and challenges them to go with her on a journey where only stories can go. She has performed at the National Storytelling Festival, as well as throughout the United States, United Kingdom and Newfoundland.
Camping also is available and within walking distance of the festival. Food vendors, picnic tables and public restrooms are located on the festival grounds.
Stories begin at 9:45 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Evening performances begin at 7 p.m. both nights. A special night of ghost stories will be held on Saturday featuring haunting tales by storyteller Mary Hamilton of Frankfort.
In addition, Morehead State Public Radio (WMKY, 90.3 FM) invites festival attendees to “tell your tale” at The Storymobile. Have your stories recorded and preserved for others to enjoy. Participants will receive a complimentary CD of their story and a keepsake photo.
Weekend tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students ages 6-18. A family rate (six members) is $75. Daily passes are available for $20 for adults and $10 for students. Family rate is $50 per day. Evening tickets are available at $7 for adults and $5 for students. Children ages 5 and under are admitted free. Discounted prices are also available for tickets purchased before Sept. 12.
Festival sponsors include the Cave Run Storytelling Festival Committee, Morehead Tourism Commission, Daniel Boone National Forest and Morehead State Public Radio.
Tickets may be purchased from the Morehead Tourism Commission located at the Morehead Conference Center, 111 E. First Street, Morehead, KY 40351, or call 606-780-4342 or toll free at 1-800-654-1944. Festival tickets may also be purchased at the gate of the Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Additional information is available a www.caverunstoryfest.org.
