STORIES THAT BIND

Acclaimed storyteller Gcina Mhlophe joins tales with American storyteller Valerie Tutson.

World-acclaimed storyteller, Gcina Mhlophe joins tales with American storyteller, Valerie Tutson in Stories that Bind at the Catalina Theatre on August 22.

Both these women have been travelling around the world sharing their magic and Durban audiences have the opportunity to see the duo live. With an array of tales up their respective sleeves, they have organised two diverse shows: the first – a morning show - for the younger audiences followed by stories from long ago which they have entitled – Historytelling at 17h00.

Tutson who is from Rhode Island, has been telling stories since 1991. She has known Mhlophe since 1986 and it is the first time the two come together to weave their words taking audiences on a magical ride through their fantasy world.

Tutson draws her stories from around the world with an emphasis on African traditions. Her repertoire includes stories and songs she learned in her travels to South Africa, her experiences in West Africa, stories from African American history. In addition, she has gained quite a reputation for her exciting retelling of age-old Bible stories.

Durban’s very own Queen of Stories, Mhlophe boasts, “I so look forward to sharing the stage with my U.S. storytelling friend and showing her off to our Durban audiences. I have had so many wonderful requests to do another show in my hometown. The time has come.”

Mhlophe is chairman of TheatreBiz – the Board that serves the Catalina Theatre.

Show times are 11h00 for the children’s show and 17h00 for the Historytelling adult show. Booking through Thandeka on 031 305 6889. Tickets are also available at the door.

The Catalina Theatre is supported by Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.