Come to the Center of the Story
The International Storytelling Center

During your experience in Historic Jonesborough, you can capture the spirit of storytelling by visiting the International Storytelling Center. This three-acre campus, located right in the heart of Tennessee’s oldest town, is considered the world’s first facility devoted solely to the tradition and art of storytelling.

The Center boasts of a growing agenda of entertaining and educational storytelling experiences, all conducted in the elegant Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall in the tiny Tennessee town that gave birth to the world’s storytelling renaissance.

Opened in 2002, the Center’s Mary B. Martin Hall, located just a stone’s throw from the site of the world’s first storytelling festival, features a welcome and information lobby, a gift shop, and a cozy theater showcasing the talents of the world’s premier storytellers.

During the first full weekend of October every year, you can also join the crowds for the highly acclaimed National Storytelling Festival — an annual celebration widely recognized the premier storytelling event in the world.

Or you can stop by the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall to hear stories told by internationally renowned storytellers during the popular Storytelling Live! Teller-in-Residence series is a program that offers matinee performances, Tuesday through Saturday, from May through October.

You can also make the International Storytelling Center campus a part of your story by renting the facilities for your special occasion. The spacious rooms, elegant and cozy theater, and well-appointed meeting spaces are complemented by an outdoor courtyard and balconies that overlook the historic district.

For more information, call (423) 913-1276 or (800) 952-8392 or visit www.storytellingcenter.net.

Festival Photos by Fresh Air Photo