Tell Us a Tale

Since 2001, Miami-Dade Public Library has collaborated with other libraries worldwide to host the Art of Storytelling workshops, which help librarians, teachers, and professional storytellers learn new tales and hone their techniques. Each year the conference culminates in a day-long festival of performances and activities to highlight this craft. For the fifth annual International Storytelling Festival, Miami has joined forces with Rio de Janeiro’s public library for stories and presentations that embody Brazilian culture. Today from 11:00 to 4:00 at the Main Library, the whole family can enjoy performances by storyteller Antonio Rocha, capoeira demonstrations, and a food bazaar. Other storytellers on hand include Ashley Bryan, the Coretta Scott King Award-winning author and illustrator of books such as Beautiful Blackbird and Beat the Story-Drum, Pum Pum; the Trinidadian tale-spinner, Joan Osborne; and Cuban-born children’s book author, Carmen Agra Deedy. There is also a West Indian carnival, performances by children and teen storytellers, and appearances by storybook characters.
Sat., May 20, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.