October 25, 2026 | 7:30 pm @ Barter Theatre
Barter TheatrepresentsOur Roots, a special one-night-only event celebrating the people and stories preserving Black Appalachian history and culture. Curated by Barter’s Black Stories Black Voices initiative and in partnership with Black in Appalachia, the event takes place Sunday, Oct.25, at 7:30 p.m. in Barter’s Smith Theatre.
The evening features a screening ofThe Eastern Kentucky Social Club, a documentary film presented by Black in Appalachia Director William Isom II. Following the screening, Isomjoins BSBV Co-Director James Jiggetts and Black in Appalachia associates Ron Carson and Tina McDaniel for a guided discussion exploring the importance of preserving, sharingand celebrating Black Appalachian stories.
Founded in 2012 as an initiative of East Tennessee PBS in Knoxville, Tennessee, Black in Appalachia was created by C. Lee Smith and William Isom II to document and make accessible the often-overlooked history and experiences of Black communities throughout the Appalachian region. Through documentary filmmaking and historical preservation, the organization works to ensure these stories remain a vital part of the region’s cultural narrative.
Our Rootsis part of Barter Theatre’s ongoing commitment to amplifying Black voices through its Black Stories Black Voices initiative. Dedicated to celebrating the richness and diversity of the Black Appalachian experience, BSBV creates opportunities for storytelling, artistic expression, and community connection through theatrical productions, readings, post-show discussionsand its annualSHINE: Illuminating Black Storiesevent.
Our Rootsis free and open to the public. For more information, visitbartertheatre.comor call (276) 628-3991.
Category: Film