The Gimistory Storytelling Festival returns next month, bringing storytelling, music and Caymanian folklore to communities in Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac.
Running from 1 to 6 November, the free six-day festival begins in Cayman Brac before travelling to central George Town, East End and West Bay, then concludes with the popular Duppy Story Night at Pedro St James.
This year’s theme is ‘Island of Dreams’ and international guests include performers from the Royal Irish Academy of Music and Jamaican storyteller Dr Amina Blackwood-Meeks.
They will join local storytellers Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette, Camille Angel, Giselle Webb, Hylton Grace, Josefa Martinez, Lesley Ann Bernard and Priscilla Pouchie.
Musical entertainment will feature Beneil Miller and drummer Randy Chollette, while Zosia McGregor, Pam Norton and Mona Lisa Meade return as hosts.
Traditional Caymanian food will be available from local vendors, with menus varying by location.
Dishes are expected to include fried fish and fritters, stew conch, Cayman-style beef, cassava cake and heavy cakes.
The annual event is organised by the Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF).
Cassandra Shea, CNCF head of theatres and festivals, said in a press release: “Gimistory reminds us that some of our most treasured traditions begin with something as simple as sharing a story.
“This year’s theme, Island of Dreams, celebrates the imagination, creativity and sense of community that storytelling inspires.
“We look forward to welcoming audiences across the Islands to enjoy this special oral tradition together.”
The festival will also continue its school visits, giving students the opportunity to experience storytelling first-hand as part of efforts to preserve Cayman’s oral traditions and introduce them to younger generations.
The programme opens at the Aston Rutty Centre in Cayman Brac on 1 November, before moving to Cardinall Avenue in George Town on 3 November.
The East End event takes place on 4 November at a venue to be confirmed, followed by West Bay Heritage Park on 5 November. The festival concludes with Duppy Story Night at Pedro St James on 6 November.
All performances begin at 7pm and admission is free.
More information and festival updates are available at artscayman.org or by following CNCF on Facebook and Instagram at @caymanculture
