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Verlena Flournoy Matey-Keke has long enjoyed the work of the Black Storytellers Alliance in Minneapolis. This year marks the 

, which will livestream on April 10, 17 and 25.

The free series of events will include music and storytelling by artists from Minnesota and around the country. Danielle Daniel emcees. Nearly half of the 14 storytellers are from Minnesota.

Matey-Keke loves history, and she appreciates the role that storytelling has long held in passing down Black history and lessons. Having once taken a class with the Black Storytellers, she says she has learned best storytelling brings characters to life.

 calls our attention to a virtual play from the History Theatre that celebrates the Rondo neighborhood in St. Paul. 

, who grew up in Rondo, joined the Navy, and returned home to serve as a police officer for over 25 years. His son, Melvin Carter III, is the mayor of St Paul. The play was written by Brian Grandison in collaboration with the elder Carter. It’s directed by H. Adam Harris.

The first act of “Diesel Heart” originally premiered as a virtual show, and “Diesel Heart — Part 2”  includes several new scenes in Act 2 on Carter’s law enforcement experience. 

. The reading of the show is available for streaming Monday through April 18.

 has performed at one such streamed event in the past, and recommends upcoming shows. This Thursday at 7 p.m. the 

performs, with Santiago on drums, Dale Alexander on piano, Aaron Hedenstrom on sax and Billy Peterson on bass. Their performance will stream live from the 

 plays “bossa nova, samba, and all that wonderful stuff that makes you want to move,” Evingson said. Performances are free, with donations appreciated.

Emily Bright

Author

The 30th Black Storytelling Festival livestreams several events. The History Theatre  makes available online “Diesel Heart — Part 2” about Melvin Carter Jr.’s work as a police officer.  And the Twin Cities Jazz Festival marks a full year of weekly livestreamed local jazz.

The 30th Black Storytelling Festival livestreams several events. The History Theatre  makes available online “Diesel Heart: Part Two” about Melvin Carter Jr.’s work as a policeman.  And the Twin Cities Jazz Festival marks a full year of weekly live-streamed local jazz.

Art Hounds celebrate Black storytelling

Elisha Minter, who goes by Mother Minter, tells a story.

Evan Frost | MPR News

Melvin Carter Jr. joined the St. Paul police force in 1974.

Art Hounds celebrate Black storytelling

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