Honoring Jimmy Neil Smith, a look at the life of Br'er Rabbit + more

May 29, 2025

Honoring the Life of ISC Founder Jimmy Neil Smith

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, we honored Jimmy Neil Smith’s remarkable life and legacy with music, storytelling, and heartfelt tributes from friends and storytellers. The celebration of life took place at the Jackson Theatre in Jonesborough, Tennessee, and the entire program is available to watch on YouTube.

ISC is working with the Town of Jonesborough to collect Jimmy Neil stories, which will be archived with both ISC and the Town (and might be used in future projects). If you have a fond memory, funny story, or photo of Jimmy Neil, please share it with us using the link below.

Watch the Celebration of Life

Share your Jimmy Neil Story

A Quick History of Br'er Rabbit

In April, Sheila Arnold stopped by the International Storytelling Center to launch her latest collection of stories, "Br'er Rabbit Tales: Then & Now." We use the occasion to take a look at how she and other storytellers, including Diane Ferlatte and Jackie Torrence, have kept this tradition alive in the 21st century.

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Sheila Kay Adams in Rolling Stone

Sheila Kay Adams, a storyteller and seventh-generation balladeer, has long been known in our community for her haunting a cappella ballads. Her latest music project, A Nest of Singing Birds, was recently featured in Rolling Stone magazine. Check out the piece, and don't forget you can catch Sheila perform live during her residency at the International Storytelling Center in September!

Read the Article

Storytelling with Milbre Burch and Svitlo School

This past February, award-winning storyteller Milbre Burch was invited by Charlotte-based educator Christina Lohry to be a guest speaker in an online storytelling class for Ukrainian teens through Svitlo School. “Svitlo,” meaning “light,” describes itself as “a unique educational sanctuary for Ukrainian children affected by war.” The school offers high-quality academic and social programs in English as well as free summer school placements in the UK and USA. It's a nurturing community where students can build lasting friendships and feel a sense of belonging.

During the session, Milbre shared stories and answered thoughtful, engaging questions from students who spoke passionately about their interest in storytelling. Deeply moved by their resilience and curiosity, she encouraged them to continue exploring the power of story and to stay in touch. These courageous young people are a reminder of the importance of compassion, creativity, and connection.

Milbre will be telling stories in residence at the International Storytelling Center through Saturday, May 31. Tickets are available here.

Become an Arts Advocate

You don't have to spend a lot of time or money to become an advocate for the arts. Here's a simple and direct way to show your love if you're a Tennessee resident: purchase a specialized license plate.

Get Your TN Plate

Not in Tennessee? No worries! Learn how to get an Arts Advocacy license plate in your state!

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Building a Better World Through the Power of Storytelling

ISC is proud to produce world-class storytelling events alongside applied storytelling programming and educational resources. You are an integral part of our movement to build a better world through the power of storytelling. Consider showing some love by making a one-time gift or becoming a regular donor today.

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In association with the Smithsonian Institution.