Michael Reno Harrell
Michael Reno Harrell is an award winning songwriter, as well as a veteran storyteller and entertainer, and he’s from the South…the Southern Appalachian Mountains to hone it a bit finer. One could compare Michael’s performances to his granddaddy’s pocket knife, well warn and familiar feeling, but razor sharp and with a point.
Michael’s recordings top the Americana Music Association charts year after year. His songs have been described as “Appalachian grit and wit” but, as his writing shows, Michael’s awareness is much broader than the bounds of his boyhood home or even the Southern Experience. The songs he writes reflect an insight into people’s experiences that catch the ear like an old friend’s voice.
Michael’s natural knack for storytelling has earned him praise from not only the music community but from the storytelling world as well, having been invited to perform at the National Storytelling Festival.

What the critics are saying  about Michael  -  

"Michael Reno Harrell is one of those natural born Southern musicians and storytellers who is filled with wit, charm and surprises. Whether the story is in song or narrative, Michael will draw you in and entertain you, all the while making you feel right at home." 
David Holt - Four time Grammy winner and nationally acclaimed musician/storyteller

 “Michael Reno Harrell writes like a jeweler might work on a watch; every piece has its place, every part is for a purpose, and the result is everything moves”
Country Music Today

Mitch Capel; Gran'daddy Junebug
Mitch Capel is a storyteller, recording artist, poet, actor and author who has brings stories to life and delights audiences throughout the United States with his warmth, wit and compelling style.
He is considered "the national interpreter" of poet laureate Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-1906) and it is his voice you hear as "Paul Dunbar" at the Wright/Dunbar Interpretation Center in Dayton , Ohio .
Mitch developed a character, "Gran'daddy Junebug" to deliver the words because he felt a young man wouldn't be as convincing.  The character is a tribute to his own grandfathers.  “Gran’daddy Junebug” has been described as “a national treasure”, “a transformer of lives”,  and “a word magician”.  He coined the term "sto'etry" to describe his stories recited poetically.
Mitch has been featured twice at The National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough , Tenn. , annually at the traveling National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference since 1988 and the Signifyin' & Testifyin' Storytelling Festival held in Minnesota . 
"Gran'daddy Junebug" leaves his audiences with the ancient wisdom and cultural knowledge of cooperation, collective responsibility, the importance of community, shared goals, empathy and always striving for excellence.

What people are saying about Mitch  -  

Mitch Capel, affectionately known as "Gran'daddy Junebug," brings Paul Laurence Dunbar to life and audiences to laughter and tears. I would rather experience his presentations than eat when I am hungry!
Mary Carter Smith
Co-Founder National Association of Black Storytellers

With competence and mastery, Mitch Capel connects the audience with Paul Laurence Dunbar by utilizing a demanding and commanding artistry...thus he evidences Dunbar !
Laverne Kenon Sci
Historic Site Manager
The Paul Laurence Dunbar State Memorial