ETSU’s Martin Center for the Arts will come alive on March 5 at 7 p.m. as Elizabeth Ellis, a legendary storyteller with deep Appalachian roots, takes the stage for the inaugural Master Storyteller event. Ellis, a Tennessee native and Kentucky-raised artist, has captivated audiences for over five decades with her powerful narratives that explore identity, imagination and the bonds of community.
Since the 1970s, Ellis has transformed storytelling from a craft into a calling. Her performances, rich with themes of human connection, have graced festivals nationwide, including the iconic National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough — just a short drive from ETSU. Dr. C. Wesley Buerkle, professor and chair of Communication Studies and Storytelling, praises Ellis as a beacon of the art form. “Elizabeth Ellis embodies the transformative power of storytelling. Her work connects audiences to the heart of the human experience, reminding us that stories are not just entertainment—they are a means of understanding, empathy, and change,” said Buerkle.
Ellis’s Appalachian heritage infuses her storytelling with authenticity and warmth, making her a fitting voice for ETSU’s arts community. The event, hosted by the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, where storytelling is an affiliate program, underscores the university’s commitment to fostering creative expression. ETSU annually hosts dozens of concerts, exhibitions and performances, cementing its role as a cultural hub in the region.
Ellis’s accolades are as compelling as her tales. Designated an American Masterpiece Touring Artist by the National Endowment for the Arts, she has received both the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Circle of Excellence Award from the National Storytelling Network. Her 35-year career has enchanted over half a million children and inspired professionals across fields, from public defenders to child advocates, through keynotes woven with story-driven wisdom.
An accomplished author, Ellis’s works include the award-winning guide “From Plot to Narrative” and “Every Day a Holiday,” a collection of personal stories. She co-authored the groundbreaking “Inviting the Wolf In: Thinking About Difficult Stories,” a resource for tackling complex narratives.
Beyond the stage, Ellis is a mentor, having coached storytellers nationwide for 40 years. She’s also a mother, grandmother and devoted dog owner to her companion, Woof. Her blend of personal warmth and professional mastery makes her a relatable figure for students and community members alike.
Don’t miss this chance to witness a master at work. The inaugural Master Storyteller event promises an evening of laughter, reflection and connection — a testament to the enduring power of oral tradition. Admission details are available on the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts website. Let Elizabeth Ellis remind us all why stories matter, one tale at a time.
“Stories are the threads that weave us together,” Ellis often says. Come add your thread to the tapestry on March 5.
This event is free for ETSU students with a valid ID. Community tickets are also available. Visit www.etsu.edu/martincenter for more information.
