Storytellers recall "Crossroads" on July 10 in Santa Monica

The turning points of our lives can happen unexpectedly almost anywhere. On Sunday evening, July 10, SHINE storytellers will share true stories of their “Crossroads.”

The stories are set in places as varied as a “dream room” surrounded by mystical books and crystals, a rock star’s home in Germany, a high-intensity fitness class, and a Miami airport for a chance meeting with Mother Teresa. They involve everything from choosing whether to be a dancer, painter or trapeze star – to deciding whether to be a man, woman, or both!

SHINE is a popular storytelling event that highlights storytellers coming together once a month on Sunday evenings to share inspiring true stories. The event is known for its powerful and entertaining stories, relaxed community atmosphere, and live music.

SHINE will be hosted this month by Andrea Schell, a dynamic monologist and solo performer. Her newest show, Sexy Maus, premiered at the Hollywood Fringe Festival in June. Her solo show From Seven Layers to a Bikini Top in Less Than Five Hours was produced by Santa Monica Rep at the Miles Playhouse in 2014 and went on to performances in the United Solo Festival in New York City, Bali, North Carolina, and the Capital Fringe Festival in Washington, DC. Andrea has told stories locally at The Moth, WriteClub, BUSted, Tattle Tales, ReBoot, and SHINE. www.andreaschell.com/

Live music will be performed by Cynthia Brando, a singer/songwriter who performs regularly as a solo artist and duo with her unique brand of "vintage-vibed folk rock." She has been described as “one of the most fascinating and amazing singers you’ll ever experience. To see her perform is simply captivating” (Buddy Sampson, LA’s Scoop). Cynthia has received an honorable mention in Songdoor’s International Songwriting Contest for three years, and has many songs played on popular online music stations. www.cynthiabrando.com

Storytellers for SHINE are chosen from some of the nation’s top award-winning storytellers, writers, and performers. New storytellers of all ages and walks of life also take the stage. Six storytellers are booked in advance, and one is chosen from the audience in a random drawing.