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Flatwater Tales Storytelling Festival
Storytellers at the Flatwater Tales Storytelling Festival will each tell stories at each of three events, at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m. Saturday, June 7. Through tall tales, cultural stories told with music, or folk and family tales, each teller will entertain, educate, and inspire listeners.
Tickets may be purchased online at https://events.humanitix.com/2025-flatwater-tales-storytelling-festival/tickets or at the Flatwater Tales web site, https://flatwatertales.com, or in person with cash or check at Calamity’s Coffee, 219 Jackson Square, Oak Ridge. Individual tickets for each of the four shows, in which all three storytellers will perform, are $15 for each show, or $45 for a ticket for all four shows for the cost of three.
The storytellers are:
• Bil Lepp, a festival favorite, whose humorous, family-friendly tall tales have been described as “side-splittingly funny.” A five-time champion of the West Virginia Liar’s Contest, his stories often contain bits of truth presenting universal themes in clever and witty ways, according to his web site.
• The Rev. Robert B. Jones Sr., returning by popular request, a multi-instrumentalist blues and American Roots musician, pastor, and storyteller whose message is focused on the belief that our cultural diversity tells a story that should be celebrated.
• Anne Shimojima, a festival newcomer known for her elegant, mesmerizing delivery and stories full of wisdom and truth, according to the International Storytelling Center. A third generation Japanese American, she has gathered folk tales from around the world.
The Flatwater Tales Storytelling Festival, originated in 2018, is led by community volunteers, including volunteers from the three Rotary Clubs in Oak Ridge.
Sponsors of the festival include CNS-Y-12, the presenting sponsor, and Pinnacle Financial Partners, Explore Oak Ridge, and the Breakfast, Noon and Sunset Rotary Clubs in Oak Ridge.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3077768-0
