An hourlong performance by Donna Washington, a storyteller with
more than 36 years of experience, is set to take place on Saturday,
Aug. 1, at CoMMA Performing Arts Center. Washington’s show is part
of CoMMA’s new FamilyStage Series, which is aimed at children,
youth, and families.
FOR THE PAPER
Families are invited to experience an hour of laughter, imagination, and interactive storytelling when CoMMA Performing Arts Center presents “Donna Washington: Fun, Foolery & Folktales” on Saturday, Aug. 1, at 11 a.m.
An internationally acclaimed and award-winning storyteller, author, and artist-educator, Washington has entertained audiences of all ages for more than 36 years with performances that blend humor, folklore, and audience participation. Her engaging storytelling invites listeners on imaginative adventures where they may meet an exasperated turtle, discover why Possum plays dead, visit the North Wind, or learn why the Sun and Moon live in the sky.
“Every story I tell is true … except for the parts I make up,” Washington says.
Known for her expressive performances and dynamic stage presence, Washington has shared stories across the United States and internationally, including appearances in Canada, Peru, Ireland, Argentina, and Hong Kong. Her repertoire spans traditional folktales, humorous fables, and original stories that entertain while also encouraging creativity and a lifelong love of reading and storytelling.
The performance is part of CoMMA’s FamilyStage Series, designed specifically for children, youth, and families. The series provides a welcoming live performance experience where young audience members are encouraged to laugh, respond, and enjoy the show in a relaxed environment.
Tickets are $13 plus tax for all seats.
Whether attending with young children, grandchildren, or simply a love of storytelling, audience members can expect an engaging performance that celebrates the power of stories to connect generations through laughter, imagination, and shared experiences.
For tickets or additional information, call the CoMMA box office at 828-433-7469 or visit commaonline.org.
The Rock School Arts Foundation has announced the details of its annual Open Art Competition.
Preeti Happer’s 10-by-12-inch “Mixed Media Doodle” captured
first prize at the 2025 Rock School Arts Foundation’s Open Art
Competition.
LISA PRICE / THE PAPER
Artists may submit two-dimensional and three-dimensional works that are original and have never been shown in a previous Rock School Open Art Competition. There is a two-entry limit. Artists must be at least 18 years old.
Artwork must be submitted on either Wednesday, July 22, or Thursday, July 23, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Artist fees are $10 per artist for members, $15 per artist for nonmembers.
Several awards are up for grabs: first place ($500), second place ($200), and third place ($100). Winners will be notified before the exhibition opens. The People’s Choice Award ($50) will be voted on by visitors to the galleries during the show’s grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 8.
The show will remain on exhibit through Friday, Aug. 28.
The competition judge is Mark Poteat, who has been a practicing artist for more than 30 years. He has exhibited his work both regionally and nationally, receiving numerous awards for his achievements.
His artistic practice has evolved over time, encompassing industrial subjects, musical instruments, landscapes, and, most recently, the human figure. Deeply influenced by art history, his work draws from the innovations of the Cubists, the early Modernists, and the dramatic compositions of 17th-century Baroque painting.
In addition to his studio practice, Mark has served as the art coordinator and an art instructor at Western Piedmont Community College in Morganton since 2002. He holds a BFA in painting from East Carolina University and an MFA in painting and drawing from East Tennessee State University.
More information about presentation requirements and a downloadable participant application can be found at rockschoolartgalleries.com. RSAF is at 400 Main St. W, Valdese.
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