CONWAY — Stop by the Conway Sportsman’s Club on Saturday evening and you will be treated to a telling of three classic American short stories, all while supporting Ukrainian relief efforts.
Between 7 and 8:30 p.m., folks are invited to come to the club, located at 245 Elmer Road, and listen to several actors tell American Western stories written by authors Annie Proulx and Bret Harte.
“When was the last time you had a story read to you?” said Sportsman’s Club member and event organizer Mike Haley. “I’ve done short stories before in Conway, and I get tired of looking at the television and seeing what’s going on and feeling so helpless.”
Haley organized the event in an effort to raise money for World Central Kitchen, a charity that has been providing meals to Ukrainians affected by the war with Russia.
The audience will hear “The Mud Below” and “The Blood Bay” by Annie Proulx, as well as “A Yellow Dog,” a tale by Bret Harte about a mangy mongrel in a frontier mining camp that finds its way into a better situation.
This won’t just be someone sitting in a chair reading stories to the audience, however, as Haley is bringing in several actors from around the county to provide voices for each of the characters in the three stories.
“Wherever there’s dialogue, I try to fit the readers to the character,” he said, adding that he’s grateful several actors are “willing and able to add the flavor” to the stories. “We’re a small town and space is limited, but this place is crawling with talent.”
Snacks and soft drinks will be provided, but people can bring their own alcoholic beverages. Attendees will be encouraged to sit at a distance and while masks are not required, they will be on hand for anyone who wishes to wear one. Chairs are available, but attendees are also welcome to bring their own lawn chairs.
While the event is free to attend, donations for World Central Kitchen in the form of cash or checks will be collected at the door. Checks should be made out to World Central Kitchen Inc. attn. Donor Services Team.
Haley said he is hopeful people will show up and enjoy themselves, while also providing relief — even if it’s a small amount — to those in need.
“What’s an hour and half to us to help people who are so desperate? I wish we could send more,” Haley said. “It’s also a thing to bring neighbors together.”
Chris Larabee can be reached at clarabee@recorder.com or 413-930-4081.