NEWPORT — The Newport Art Museum is hosting families for an evening of stories with drag kings, queens and friends.

Part of the Art After Dark series, the "Free to Bee" night on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. includes "Storytime with Drag Kings, Queens, and Friends," featuring Avant Gardens exhibiting artist Caleb Cole (aka Claude Kitten) and performers Poise’n Envy (Miss Gay Worcester 2018) and Alli ShortforAllister, who will share award-winning children’s books and stories focused on diversity and LGBTQIA+ themes. "Storytime with Drag Kings, Queens, and Friends" seeks to help children develop empathy, learn about gender diversity and difference, and encourage self-expression and tolerance, according to a release form the museum. Story times are scheduled for 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The evening will also highlight Newport Art Museum current exhibition Avant Gardens.

"An enchanting garden is a feast for the senses – showy greenery, glorious flowers, intricate vines, bountiful fruit, delicate mosses, elegant grasses, and majestic trees – stunning, vibrant, and healthy thanks to its diversity. Cross-pollination ensures this abundance continues to evolve and thrive. Newport Art Museum is honoring Mother Nature’s potent lesson at a festive, family-friendly, garden-themed celebration of diversity, inclusion, and self-acceptance, and a world where people are Free to Bee," according to the museum's release.

In addition to the story time, craft projects will be ongoing all evening.

Admission to Art After Dark is free for museum members, and a suggested $10 donation for non-members. Festive dress is encouraged and the museum states the event is appropriate for families with children ages 6+. Cash bar and light refreshments will be available. The Art After Dark program is supported by BankNewport, Matouk and Narragansett Brewery as well as donations to the Museum's Annual Fund. The museum is located at 76 Bellevue Ave.