Authentically You

Authentically You, featuring Lulu Buck and Drag Queen Shirley Delta.

Join us for a memorable Storyhour where kids and families can experience stories told with heart, humor, and the kind of joy that comes from showing up as your full self. Lulu and Shirley bring their own lived experiences, cultural pride, and creative magic to the room, offering stories that celebrate belonging, representation, and the courage to be who you are. It’s a space for community, curiosity, and connection and a reminder that every child’s story deserves to shine.

📅 Thursday, March 26th
🕔 5:00pm–6:00pm Storytime

🕔 6:00pm-7:15pm VIP Add-On "Paint the Sky" Experience

🎟 Storytime: Free (Sliding Scale Donation – Give What You Can)

🎟VIP Paint the Sky: $20 (supplies and art event included in ticket)
🍪 Light snacks provided

Join us for an uplifting evening of stories, art, and community — all in support of P.L.A.Y. Education, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit creating environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive — just as they are.

Kick off the evening with a joyful and affirming Storyhour featuring two readings by:

Shirley Delta
A big city girl with small-town dreams, Shirley Delta has graced stages from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts to libraries and PRIDE events across Colorado. Known for her heart, humor, and theatrical flair, she brings stories to life in unforgettable ways.

Lulu Buck
First-generation Mexican-American author of the award-winning children’s book Sue’s Sky, Lulu shares a powerful message of acceptance, belonging, and creating safe spaces for all children. Her interactive reading invites families into a story that celebrates identity and inclusion.

Come for the books.
Come for the joy.
Come for the celebration of being authentically you.

🕕 6:15pm–7:00pm
🎟 $20 per participant

After Storyhour, stay for a special guided art experience: Paint Your Sky.

Led in an interactive, artful session, participants will create their own “identity sky” — a symbolic expression of the rich tapestry of identities within our community. You’ll leave with your very own painted sky and a meaningful reminder of the evening.

Let’s come together to paint a brighter, more inclusive future.

P.L.A.Y. Education focuses on whole child health and learning, inclusivity and representation, and affirming youth voices. Their work is rooted in social justice — addressing and combating systemic barriers that impact vulnerable youth and marginalized communities.

Every dollar raised supports literacy programs in Erie schools and the wider community — helping ensure that children see their cultures, identities, and lived experiences reflected in the stories they read.

Tax EIN: 92-1286707

While this event is free (with a suggested sliding-scale donation), we encourage reserving a ticket in advance as capacity is limited. This helps us:

• Plan for capacity
• Ensure a safe and welcoming space for performers and guests
• Better prepare materials for the VIP activity

You will have a chance during your ticket reservation to give an optional donation.

Reserve your spot, bring a friend, and join us for an evening of stories, art, and community care.

Come for the community.
Come for the books.
Come for the art.
Come to support a mission that centers children exactly as they are.

Also check out other Arts events in Erie, Nonprofit events in Erie, Entertainment events in Erie.