October 12, 2025 | 2 pm @ McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington School
The Jonesborough Storytellers Guild announces that it will be joining hundreds of celebrations worldwide for Tellabration! 2025, a storytelling concert that promises to enchant and inspire. This year’s event takes place Oct.12 from 2-4 p.m. at the McKinney Center, Jonesborough, Tennesseee.
Tellabration!is a global storytelling event trademarked by the National Storytelling Network, which brings together storytellers and story lovers from all walks of life. The Jonesborough Storytellers Guild, renowned for its long-standing tradition of storytelling excellence, is excited to contribute to this international celebration.
Tellabration!2025 isan afternoon brimming with engaging storytelling, lively community connectionsand exciting door prizes. Attendees are treated to performances by three of the most captivating storytellers in the region and the Appalachian Moon Youth Tellers, each bringing their unique style and stories to the stage.
Sherry Lovettis a storyteller with a passion for connecting people through the timeless art of storytelling. With over 20 years of experience in performing and teaching, Lovettdraws inspiration from her Scot-Irish roots and her rich North Carolina heritage, which spans from the rugged mountains to the coastal shores. She believes that stories have the power to inspire, upliftand unite, and her mission is to bring those experiences to life, whether through an old ballad, an adventurous tale of King Arthur, or a hearty laugh over the antics of Jack. No matter where your storytelling journey takes you, Lovett will guide you with warmth, wisdom, and a deep love for the art of storytelling.
Catherine Yael Serotais a Southern Appalachian native who weaves history, personal narrativeand Jack Tales together in a delightful presentation. Listeners say, "She paints pictures with her words." The author of "An Appalachian Life: A Storyteller's Perspective," she is currently writing "The Three Continents" to be released in 2027. A former mental health therapist, Serota is enjoying retirement writing, telling stories regionally, gardening, cookingand traveling with her husband Wallace Shealy.
Samuel Smithwas born and raised in Mountain City, Tennessee. He began his storytelling journey three years ago. His favorite stories to tell are stories about the Appalachian Region and its people.
Dr. Delanna Reeddevoted 25 years to teaching storytelling at East Tennessee State University. First captivated by the magic of storytelling while in college, Delanna continued to tell stories throughout her teaching career. She delights audiences with folktales, personal storiesand oral history stories, often incorporating music into her performance. Her favorite stories expand our understanding of humanity, bring laughterand touch upon the sacred.
Wallace Shealy, EmceeThe Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast by jury declared Shealy – the Bold-Faced Liar Champion. With a twinkle in his eye, Shealy said, “of course I embellished the truth slightly.” The Mountain Xpress said in their opinion “Shealy exaggerates more than slightly.” The Tribune revealed that this upstanding local had been caught lying. It doesn’t matter if he is recalling a tale from his childhood, telling a story based on the Good Book or spinning a yarn you will be delighted listening to him stretch the truth all out of proportion.
The Jonesborough Storytellers Guild has been sharing live storytelling in downtown Jonesborough for over 30 years and is the longest-running storytelling guild in the United States. JSG is also the only guild in the nation that offers a weekly public performance venue, making it a vital part of the storytelling community.
Come join the celebration of Tellabration!with the Jonesborough Storytellers Guild! Tickets are on sale now, priced at $15 for general admission, $12 for seniors and students, with free entry for children under 12.
For tickets or more information, visitjonesborough.com/tickets.
Category: Storytelling