Storytelling festival

Most of us love a good story. Whether it's reading a good book, scanning a newspaper, watching a movie or simply reading on our smartphones, tablets or other devices, reading or listening to a good story is entertaining.

This weekend storytelling takes center stage with the fifth annual Cape Girardeau Storytelling Festival. Starting Friday and continuing through Sunday, local and nationally recognized storytellers will entertain crowds in downtown Cape Girardeau.

A tent will host one group of performers at the old bridge overlook park and another will be set up on Main Street by the Red House Interpretive Center. Shuttles will be available to transport attendees from one station to the other.

Maybe you'd like to try storytelling. The New Voices Swapping Ground will be the venue for amateurs on Saturday. Though two sessions will be held, those who sign up in advance will get the first opportunity to perform.

The Raising Readers Van will also be a venue for amateurs to record their stories this weekend. WSIU Public Broadcasting will record these storytellers from 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday. Participants will receive a free audio CD of their story, and the recording will also be featured at WSIU.org.

One-day advance tickets are $10 for children 6 to 18 years, students and faculty and $20 for adults. Weekend passes and family passes are also available. More information on the festival can be found at www.capestorytelling.com or by calling 335-1631.

Consider attending the festival this weekend.