Story of my life

Lie back, close your eyes and drift off to sleep as I tell you a story. This age-old tradition many of us adored as a child is making its way to Nevada City this weekend in the form of the 26th annual Sierra Storytelling Festival. Hosting this year’s event is Milbre Burch, who is no stranger to storytelling. Winner of the Circle of Excellence Award from the National Storytelling Network, Burch has performed in 22 states and 12 international cities. The talents of those showcased at this event do not stop at their ability to tell a story. While Doug Elliott and Awele Makeba use song and music to bring their stories to life, Farrell Cunningham brings Native Americans onstage and speaks in the ancient language of Maidu.

Making its debut this year at the festival is the Story Slam. This is an opportunity to battle other amateur storytellers for prizes and bragging rights. True stories are the criteria; your imagination is the limit.

Sierra Storytelling Festival happens July 22-24, at the North Columbia Schoolhouse Cultural Center, 17894 Tyler Foote Road in Nevada City. Weekend tickets are $11-$80. For more information, visit www.sierrastorytellingfestival.org.