‘Kentucky Project’ tells America’s story through songs, stories

Whidbey Island Center for the Arts is taking on a new role.

WICA wants to cultivate civic engagement through “The Kentucky Project,” a series of songs and stories about American history.

Theater leaders hope “The Kentucky Project” encourages audience members to take a thoughtful look at the nation’s cultural heritage and, as a result, to the social and political struggles the nation continues to face.

“The Kentucky Project’s” next production is “Play Party: Songs and Stories of Appalachia.”

Storyteller Jill Johnson spins yarns. Her guests Steve Showell and Bruce Rowland and the Shape Note Singers will invite the audience to participate in some “old-timey” fun accompanied by fiddle and banjo.

Songs include “Skip to My Lou,” “BINGO” and “Pop Goes the Weasel.”

“Jack tales,” stories originally from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, were passed down orally in the Appalachians.

“Play Party” starts at 8 tonight at WICA, 565 Camano Ave., Langley.

Tickets range from $12 to $15. Call 360-221-8268, 800-638-7631 or go to www.WICAonline.com.

“The Kentucky Project” will continue at WICA with “The Kentucky Cycle.”

This epic follows three families in eastern Kentucky from 1775 to 1975.

“The Kentucky Cycle” runs from April 9 to 24. Tickets start at $12.

Theresa Goffredo: 425-339-3424; goffredo@heraldnet.com.

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