When it comes to explaining storytelling, Alan Hoal has a simple procedure.
The Cary resident tells folks to simply forget everything they might think they know about the craft.
The experience of hearing good storytellers will be much different from any misguided preconceived notions.
Local residents will get the opportunity to judge for themselves as the Second Annual Optimist Music and Storytelling Festival will be held Saturday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Apex United Methodist Church.
The event costs $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 4 to 12 years old. Children less than three years old are admitted for freed.
The North Raleigh Optimist Club is holding the event as a fundraiser for the Optimist Childhood Cancer Campaign.
“Storytelling is very misunderstood,” said Hoal. “When people first hear storytelling they think of somebody reading a book to children. Well, it’s not like that. These are storytellers along the lines of Garrison Keillor or Bill Cosby. It’s an event that the whole family can enjoy.”
The event is being headlined by nationally recognized storyteller Donald Davis.
“He really packs them in,” said Hoal. “He is fantastic. But we also have a lot of other great storytellers and musicians. There will be a great mix of tall tales and personal stories along with great music.”
But the event is more than just entertaining. It is an important fundraiser to help families with young children suffering with cancer.
The Optimist Club donates to The Mile of Hope, which enables 25 cancer patients and their families enjoy a weekend at the beach; East Carolina University’s Rainbow Service Program, which provides patients with various activities in a camp-style setting; the Ronald McDonald House in Chapel Hill; and cancer research through a grant to Johns Hopkins University.
Hoal is the reason the festival is being held in town. A member of the North Raleigh Optimist Club, he is also member of Apex UMC.
“The church allows us to use their space,” said Hoal. “It has been quite a blessing.”
Hoal warns local residents that once they come to the festival they might end up getting hooked.
“Once you experience a good storytelling festival there is nothing else like it,” said Hoal. “People come away mesmerized. They get so drawn into these stories they can’t believe how the hours fly by. It’s going to be a great event.”
For more information visit www.northraleighoptimistclub.org.
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