Civil War author at Concord Library

The Cabarrus County Public Library in downtown Concord is having a special program on Saturday, May 8, 2 -3:30 p.m. featuring Author Tim Auten on his recently published book, "The Battle of Wyse Fork: N.C.'s Neglected Civil War Engagement."

This was the second largest battle ever fought in the Tar Heel State and the last mass capture of Federal troops in the war.

While offering a media presentation on this three-day battle, Auten highlights the local troops of Cabarrus County who fought at this location. This one-hour program will be held in the auditorium on the second floor of the library and is co-sponsored by Concord Friends of the Library. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.

The author will also have copies of his books for sale. With the Civil War Sesquicentennial, which begins next year, organizers say this is a good event to enrich your knowledge of North Carolina's place in civil war history.

Admission to the talk is free. The library is at 27Union St. N. For more information, call 704-920-2050.

Storytelling Festival

The Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast will host the 4th Annual Storytelling Festival of Carolina on April 23-25. The event features performances and workshops by six professional storytellers. The festival will take place on the grounds of the historic John Blue House in Laurinburg. Festival admission passes range from $15 to $35.

Jan Schmidt, executive director of the center, explains that authentic storytelling is a performance genre and an artistic medium crafted by speech, imagery, stage presence and an integral relationship with audience members. "Our featured performers are absolutely the best when it comes to the talent, craft, and skill involved with storytelling," says Schmidt.

Schmidt adds that some folks might be surprised to hear that this year's storytellers have performed all around the world in a variety of settings and venues, including Walt Disney World and the Disney Institute, the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institution, and on National Public Radio.

Headliners are Andy Offutt Irwin, Mitch Capel, Kim Weitkamp, Doug Elliott and Gwen Rainer, with special guest Carmen Agra Deedy.

Deedy is a frequent guest at storytelling festivals across the country. Her accolades include national and international awards for children's literature as well as honors from Publishers Weekly, National Public Radio and Parents' Choice for her collection of short stories for adults, "Growing Up Cuban in Decatur, Georgia."Also included are autograph sessions, workshops, open stage time for amateur storytellers, a children's play center and food vendors.

Weekend, day and family ticket packages are available at the gate and for advance purchase at a discount. For more information and a schedule of events contact the Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast at 131 S. Main St., Laurinburg, at (910) 291-0929, and online at www.sfoc.info.