If you enjoy a good story, then come to Spiva Center for the Arts Saturday afternoon, November 19, from 3–5 p.m.

Storytelling is perhaps one of the earliest forms of folk art, and members of JASPER, the local storytelling guild, are keeping the traditional alive in the Joplin area.

The event at Spiva is part of Tellabration! an annual celebration in storytelling held around the world on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Tellabration! fulfills a dream of J.G. Pinkerton of Stamford, Connecticut, who envisioned having a night each year when storytellers in every community gathered with family and friends to share a tale or two. Pinkerton believed that storytelling reminds us of our common humanity and draws us closer together in peace and friendship. The first storytelling evening organized in 1988 has grown into an international event.

The JASPER guild’s Tellabration! at Spiva presents local storytellers, including youth tellers from Carl Junction elementary, middle, and high schools who will tell stories for all ages. The first hour is better suited for young listeners. The second hour will feature longer stories intended for older youth and adults. The event is free of charge and open to the public.

Spiva Center for the Arts is located at Third and Wall in downtown Joplin. The Gift Shop and galleries are open to the public Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday 1–5 p.m. Admission is by voluntary contribution.

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts
222 W. 3rd Street
Joplin, Mo 64801
Tel: 417-623-0183
Fax: 417-623-3805
www.spivaarts.org