Classic American Tales Offering Literary-Themed Events

Classic American Tales (CAT) has revealed its May event schedule with literary themes across New Jersey. Members of the public can enjoy a blend of storytelling and musical performances that celebrate American literary figures and moments.

According to a New Jersey Stage report, Gayle Stahlhuth, CAT's artistic director, will present two storytelling events in the barn at Rea's Farm, located at 400 Stevens St. in West Cape May. On Sunday, May 10, selections will include the first chapters of Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, hosted at a special Mother's Day brunch in the barn. Seatings are at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1 p.m. Reservations may be made online. 

The cost for meals is $50 for adults and $25 for children. Approximately 15- to 20-minute readings will bring May, Jo, Beth, Amy, and Marmee to life at 10:30 a.m., noon, and 1:30 p.m.

On May 22, Stahlhuth will present Twain Tales at Rea's Farm. Admission is free for guests visiting the farm between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Guests will be invited to purchase dinner, enjoy a bottle of wine from Cape May Winery, and visit the vendors' booths. 

During dinner, attendees can enjoy two humorous short stories by Twain: "The Notorious Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" at 6:15 p.m. and "Eve's Diary" at 7:30 p.m.

Derrick McQueen returns to Cape May to perform Paul Robeson through His Words and Music on Thursday, May 28, at 6 p.m. at The Cape May Public Library, 720 Franklin St. Admission is free. Still, reservations are appreciated and can be made online. Written by Stahlhuth, the work features two dozen songs sung by New Jersey native Paul Robeson, with a narrative that describes his life as an actor, singer, activist, and humanitarian.

Historic Peachfield, 180 Burrs Road in Westampton, will sponsor a performance of Margaret's Diary During a Revolution on Sunday, May 3, at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $16.05 and available for purchase online. For information, call 609-267-6996.