Now in its 22nd season, the International Storytelling Center’s renowned Storytelling Live performance series features 20 nationally known storytellers in live concerts at 2 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, from May through October. Special events are also offered throughout the season, including evening shows, virtual concerts, and holiday programs.

kick off the storytelling live season with Bil lepp

Can’t wait for the season to start? Kick off the season on May 1 with storyteller Bil Lepp. He will have two shows at the International Storytelling Center at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Bil is a nationally touring storyteller, humorist, comedian, and bearer of other synonyms that mean “funny”. Though he is a five-time champion of the West Virginia Liars Contest, his work often contains morsels of truth, presenting universal themes in clever ways. 

Storytellers

We are excited to welcome 20 tellers from across the world to share their stories. From folktales to personal narratives, cowboy poetry to historical tales, this season showcases a wide variety of artists and styles.

matinee Concerts

Join us any afternoon, Tuesday through Saturday, at 2 p.m. With 20 different tellers from across the country, there is always something new to hear! 

Evening Concerts

Join us on select weeks during the Storytelling Live season for exceptional evening performances. Each show is something new! Not suitable for children under 10.

holiday shows

Join us this December for various holiday shows. Come see Tim Lowry in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, The Holiday Trio, or the duo of Josh Goforth and Michael Reno Harrell.

watch online

Can’t make it to Jonesborough? Watch Storytelling Live online! Viewing access for the entire household starts on Friday at 2 pm ET and will continue until the following Monday at midnight ET.

workshops

Learn something new or brush up on a skill with a workshop hosted by a world-renowned storyteller!  Workshops are hosted at the International Storytelling Center throughout the season.

Thank you to our friends of storytelling live

Terry & Sandy Countermine

Ann Wooten

Dan Mahoney 

William M. Anderson

Fran Waterbury

Barbara McBride Smith 

Joy & John Bolt

Catherine Yael Serota

Marilyn Stempeck

Bil Lepp 

Donald & Trish Davis