Carrying the Song: An Evening with Sheila Kay Adams
As part of the 2026 American Folklore Society program, join acclaimed Appalachian ballad singer, storyteller, author, and recipient of the 2026 US Artist Fellowship and National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship, Sheila Kay Adams, for an intimate presentation celebrating the launch of her new documentary book and archive — Carrying the Song.
More than a traditional book signing, these gatherings weave together stories, songs, and conversation drawn from Sheila’s remarkable life in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Each event may include traditional ballads passed down through generations, personal memories of the people and places that shaped her, readings from Carrying the Song, audience questions, and a book signing.
Part concert, part oral history, and part literary event, Carrying the Song offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Appalachia’s greatest living tradition bearers sharing the music, stories, and cultural heritage that have defined her life’s work.
Books will be available for purchase and signing following the program.