Everybody has a story to tell, but it’s a rare gift to be able to spin those stories into song. The best of the best make it look easy, taking their most personal experiences and making you feel them as your own. Tonight, we will hear from some incredible storytellers, sharing their deepest insights and baring their souls as they sing their stories of love and life, happiness, heartache, and home. Whether they’ve written a song that feels so familiar you want to sing along—even though you’ve never heard it before, or they’re singing an old song like it’s the first time it’s ever been sung, these folks are masters at their craft. Singing in English and French, these modern-day bards will bring the past to life, perhaps put some things in perspective, and maybe even bring a tear to your eye. No matter what, you will be touched by tonight’s performances. So get ready to sit back and relax as these singers and songwriters from across the country share some of their favourites. We’re sure you’ll hear some of your favourites, too. Cape Breton Music Hall of Fame songwriter Buddy MacDonald hosts Bards & Ballads, featuring frequent festival performers David Francey, James Keelaghan, and Sylvia LeLièvre with Marcel LeFort, and Celtic Colours newcomers Connie Kaldor and Valdy.