Storytelling concert ‘For Adult Ears Only’

• What: “For Adult Ears Only” storytelling concert

• When: 7 to 8:30 p.m.tuesday, July 27

• Where: Online via Zoom

• cost: Free, but donations accepted.

• info: www. motherlodestorytellingguild.com

After two years on “dark mode,” the Mother Lode Storytelling Guild will bring back its premiere professional storytelling event — :For Adult Ears Only,” an evening concert for adults and teens, which will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 27.

Four experienced professional tellers will perform. One big difference is that the 20th “For Adult Ears Only” event will be a Zoom Concert. Attendees can register at www.motherlodestorytellingguild.com. While the concert is free, donations are appreciated, and donors will have an opportunity to receive a set of watercolor prints from one of the storytellers.

“Our last live-audience concert was March 2019,” says guild copresident Dana Gross. “We have a strong line-up of California tellers for our first time back. So, we hope a lot of our long-time supporters will join us.”

The performance will spotlight several stories by Bay

Area storyteller and watercolor artist Ruth Halpern. Halpern's eloquent voice captures listeners and draws them into her world of spellbinding adventures,” stated a news release from the guild. Well-known for her use of improvisational theatre in her programs, she offers a blend of folktales of strong women, Jewish and Middle Eastern lore, literary tales, and personal stories to round out her performances.

Halpern is also an accomplished watercolor artist, focusing on the vibrant colors and textures found in nature's floral designs.

During the evening, the guild will have a drawing for a set of two art prints, offered by the artist. Attendees will receive a drawing ticket for each $10 donation. During the concert, the winner will be announced. The prize will be mailed to the winner shortly after the concert, along with a gift card for framing the art.

Also performing for the “For Adult Ears Only” concert will be three Mother Lode Regional storytellers.

On tap is Cynthia Restivo from Sonora, who will receive a distinguished 2021 National Storytelling Network's ORACLE

Award this week during the National Storytelling Network's Summer Conference. As a storyteller Cynthia is known for her warmth, sensitivity, and uncanny humor.

Tim Mccaffrey, of Twain Harte, and Angela Heiss, of Midpines, will round out the lineup.

The concert will also honor storyteller and folk musician Bill Roberson, who passed away in August 2019 after a long illness.

“Bill brought stories and songs to life and into our hearts in a way that was filled with deep love and respect for his listeners,” said storyteller and guild member B.Z. Smith. “He truly was one of the most gifted storytellers ever! We all miss his impish spark of love and sincere connection.” The concert will open with photos of Bill, accompanied by his music.

To register for the concert and to see images of Ruth Halpern's paintings, go online tomotherlodestorytellingguild.com, then click on “Register Here” to reach “Eventbrite” to attend on Zoom. Donations include tickets for the event's raffle.

Submitted by the Mother Lode Storytelling Guild.