Storytelling and Arts Center of the Southeast, Inc.

In the summer of 2006, several concerned folks interested in economic development gathered to discuss what they might do to improve the economic outlook of Scotland County, while at the same time enrich the community's quality of life. These folks were interested in the arts and believed storytelling was the perfect genre to highlight the rich diverse folk and cultural heritage of the community. Targeting storytelling would be unique for there were no other major storytelling events in the region. These folks began planning the first Storytelling Festival of Carolina for May 2007.

Engaging the best national storytellers and most talented regional tellers; raising funds from individuals, businesses, foundations and government; marketing across several states; and recruiting a cadre of dedicated volunteers proved to be a recipe for success. With the first event under our belt, we decided to incorporate and provide the community with more programs to try to have a greater impact on the local economy. With an economic development grant from the NC Rural Center and a generous landlord, SACS was able to hire part time staff and lease a large facility in downtown Laurinburg.

The calendar of events grew and the name changed ...adding an ‘and' between Storytelling Arts, expanded the SACS mission to include all performance and visual arts programming. Gallery exhibits, music events, and soon dance along with storytelling, are all now integral to the vision of our work. SACS is here with the whispers, prays and confidence of the community.

Mission

The Storytelling and Arts Center of the Southeast, Inc. (SACS) preserves and enriches performing and visual arts for children and adults of all ages through education, performances, research, workshops, professional development, and writing. As a catalyst for community and economic development in Scotland County, the Storytelling and Arts Center of the Southeast stimulates sustainable tourism, grows business, creates and maintains jobs, and promotes Scotland County as a tourist retirement destination by advancing artistic excellence and cultural activities.

Explore Related Categories