Appalachian Storytelling Workshops & Programs

From one-room schoolhouses to festival stages, I bring the rich traditions of Eastern Kentucky to life through tales passed down through generations of my English, Irish, and Cherokee ancestors. You can read more below about what I offer. I'd love to help you craft the perfect package for your group or event!


 

Performances

Immerse yourself in authentic Appalachian storytelling, delivered in my natural mountain dialect. Drawing from a rich heritage of oral traditions, I bring to life everything from ancient folk tales to personal stories of growing up in Eastern Kentucky. My performances transport audiences to a world where haints lurk in shadows and Jack's clever wit saves the day.

Traditional Storytelling

Sessions can include:

  • Folk tales passed down through generations
  • Ghost "haint" tales that chill and thrill
  • Personal stories of mountain life
  • Interactive audience engagement

Festival & Event Shows 

These shows blend dynamic mountain tales with wisdom and humor, creating unforgettable experiences for cultural celebrations, community gatherings, and special events. Each performance is tailored to your venue and audience.

Special Programs

For museums, libraries, or anyone wishing for a themed performance, I offer special programs that dive deep into specific aspects of Appalachian heritage. These can be crafted as single sessions or series, focusing on themes like women's stories, historical events, or cultural traditions.

Bawdy Stories (Adults Only) 

For this juicy gem, I present an evening of unfiltered mountain humor and spicy tales that showcase the earthy wit of Appalachian culture. These after-hours performances feature natural comedic timing and stories that might make you blush—and that will definitely make you laugh.

Workshops & Educational Programming

My educational programs combine traditional storytelling with hands-on learning experiences. Each workshop is carefully designed to meet curriculum standards while engaging students' creativity and cultural awareness.

Writing Workshops 

These sessions guide students of all ages in crafting their own stories. Topics can include:

  • Creating original stories modeled after Jack Tales
  • Character development and plot structure
  • Oral skills and picture book creation 
  • Step-by-step story development process