Courtesy of Orpheum Theatre Group
Storyfest 2026
The Orpheum Theatre Group has announced the return of Storyfest – a free storytelling event showcasing the voices of Memphians. Storyfest features live performances, engagement activities, and community reflections, and will be a one-day event at Halloran Centre on March 4. Tickets are free and registration is encouraged to receive a free parking pass and event reminders.
This year’s festival showcases the voices of young Memphians. Students at Middle College High School have collaborated with the Orpheum Theatre Group to create original theatrical performances sharing their stories in their own words.
“We are proud to continue this partnership with Middle College High School in its fifth year," says Taylor St. John, director of Education & Engagement at Orpheum Theatre. "Storyfest exists to provide a platform for stories that we, as a community, might not otherwise hear. These real stories — told by young people themselves — provide a pulse for what's on the minds and hearts of the young people in our city. This year’s participants are telling stories about risks — the risks that can get you into trouble, but also the risks that make you vulnerable, allow you to connect, and make life meaningful. It takes courage in our culture to step out and show people who you are."
All performances will be interpreted in sign language by BridgesWEST. Some material contains mature themes.
“It has been fun getting to be a part of From Where I Stand because it helps people get to know my story, and you know about me which a lot of times people don't really care about," says Morgan, 2026 Storyfest participant. "So it's fun. It's important to tell my story because people get to hear the real you and what you're really about and things that you like to do.”
Performance Descriptions:
(Created in partnership with Middle College High School)
My Memories, My Risks
What does it mean to take a risk and step out of your comfort zone? Students share real stories about how they navigate through risks taken and lessons learned.
Risk. Rise. Reach. Reward.
Where does every story begin? At the edge. And what awaits at the edge? The unknown. Hear stories about moments where taking a leap and entering unfamiliar terrain revealed became important stops on the road to becoming who they are.
To learn more about Storyfest and to reserve admission, visit orpheum-memphis.com/events/storyfest-2026.