Jonesborough Yarn Exchange

We are a story performance group. Our multi-generational, multicultural cast performs a monthly radio show based on true regional stories, and airs on 89.5

The History of the Yarn Exchange
During 2010, Jonesborough residents and community members shared their stories and memories of Tennessee’s oldest Town. In 2011, they saw those stories come to life on stage in an epic performance by the same community members who shared their stories.
A theater production, crafted using community-submitted stories, debuted in spring 2011 and the production of I Am Home, under the umbrella title of Jonesborough Yarn Exchange, was performed by community members at the McKinney Center at the Booker T. Washington School in Jonesborough as part of the Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts. The play was directed by Richard Owen Geer and written by Jules Corriere of Community Performance International.

This play did more than entertain the community. Community performance is not theater as you know it. These productions have an impact on the community that far reaches into the community after the production’s close. People of different races, backgrounds, abilities, and ages are brought together in such a way that creates a bond among them which facilitates the bridging of cultural differences. These bonds happen with the cast, and also with the hundreds of people who attend the performances and are moved by the stories and actors in the play. In addition, when these stories are shared among individuals through the performances, tolerance and understanding are cultivated and people feel a pride for and are more connected to their community.

After the production, the bonds between the cast members and community were so strong, they did not want to stop working and playing with each other. The Jonesborough Yarn Exchange then looked for ways to continue gathering and telling their regional stories, as well as opportunities for coming together, and growing their vision to include more people. They began performing a monthly, old-time-radio style production at the International Storytelling Center, as well as an annual Christmas Sing-Along production, full of audience participation.

The Yarn Exchange is now part of the Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts at the McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington. Now, in addition to the monthly radio shows, The Yarn Exchange is also performing special Story-based tours in the Town of Jonesborough.
If you would like to become a member of the Jonesborough Yarn Exchange, or would like more information, contact
Jules Corriere
Outreach Program Director
Jonesborough’s Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts
McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington School
423-794-6320 julesc@jonesboroughtn.org