July 25, 2025 | 6 pm @ Johnson City Public Library
Johnson City Public Library is hosting a free performance by storyteller Bil LeppFriday, July 25 at 6 p.m. in the library’s Jones Meeting Center. This event is made possible through a partnership with the International Storytelling Center.
Lepp is a nationally-renowned and award-winning storyteller, author and recording artist who has appeared at the National Storytelling Festival 19 times. His humorous, family friendly tall tales and stories have earned appreciation from listeners of all ages and walks of life.
Lepp, a native of South Charleston, West Virginia, has won the state’s Liars Contest five times for his ability to spin fantastical yarns. He is the first to admit that his stories may not be completely true; however, they are always honest. All of Lepp’s work contains morsels of truth that shed light on universal themes in clever ways.
Growing up and living in Appalachia influences both the style and content of Lepp’s work. He explained, “While Appalachia didn’t invent the tall-tale, it was perfected here. A lot of front porch and supper table conversations take on a tall-tale element, which certainly creeps into my stories.”
Lepp can find humor in any situation—whether it be a hunting trip, funeral or visit to the dentist—and weave it into an entertaining tale. Lepp’s hope is that his audiences spend their hour with him simply laughing. He said, “I want people to be able to put away their troubles and just have fun for a bit.”
Along with numerous accolades and awards he has collected for storytelling, Lepp is known as the host of the History Channel’s "Man vs. History" series, and as the author of seven books and 21 audio collections.
Learn more about Bil Lepp and his extensive work atleppstorytelling.com. For more information about his performance at the library on July 25, call 423-434-4454.
Visitjcpl.org, call 423-434-4450 or drop by 100 W. Millard St. to use the library. Follow Johnson City Public Library onFacebookandInstagramfor daily updates.
Category: Storytelling