Meet our 2026 Storytellers

Bil Lepp is an award-winning storyteller, author, and recording artist.  Bil’s humorous, family-friendly tall tales and stories have earned the appreciation of listeners of all ages and from all walks of life.  Audiences all across the country, from grade schools to corporate execs to Comedy Central’s Hudson stage, have been delighted by Bil’s hilarious tales and delightful insights into everyday life.  

 Sheila brings stories, historic individuals, new ideas, new perspectives and old knowledge to schools, libraries, professional organizations, museums and churches.  A favorite at festivals both nationally and internationally, Sheila has been recognized and honored for her artistry with fellowships and residencies at prestigious venues. Beginning in  2003 Sheila has been distinguished and recognized as an exceptional artist with several fellowships and residencies.

 As a storyteller, Elizabeth Ellis doesn't mince words. Filled with hilarious and poignant honesty, her stories deliver down-home wisdom, southern style. Hers is a voice that finds the heart and the funny bone, riveting audiences of every age wherever she goes.  Elizabeth is a recipient of both the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Circle of Excellence Award from the National Storytelling Network. More than half a million children have been mesmerized by her stories during her thirty-five year career as a teller.  

 Josh Goforth has toured  across the US, Europe, Asia, and Australia with a variety of ensembles, including the ETSU Bluegrass band, the Josh Goforth Trio, the Steep Canyon Rangers, Open Road and Carolina Road. Designated "Master Fiddler" after his 3rd winning title at  Fiddler of the Festival at Fiddler's Grove. Accolades include: the Grand Ole Opry, the Lincoln Center, and Carnegie Hall. In 2009 he was nominated for a Grammy for his album with David Holt entitled "Cutting Loose". 

• 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Join Oak Ridge Historian Ray Smith Ring the Bell & More on this FREE Historic Tour! 
•  11:30 a.m-12:30 p.m. Sheila Arnold brings Old Bess a historical character from 1776 back to life to talk about freedom.
• 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Homegrown Tellers Contest hosted by Bil, Local tellers spin their best yarns, Help pick the winner.
• 3:00 p.m. Featuring Bil Lepp and his hilarious stories from West Virginia, Joined by Elizabeth, Josh, and Sheila.
• 7:00 p.m. Come celebrate America's 250 Birthday, with story and song with the ORCMA Chorus and Tellers