Following their performances, storytellers take center stage thanking the audience at the “In a Nutshell” event in June. Photo courtesy of Elle Jaye @drumphotos

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – “In a Nutshell,” a live storytelling event that has quickly gained a loyal following in Sacramento, is back on Aug. 29 at the Sofia, 2700 Capitol Ave., bringing compelling, raw and entertaining stories to the stage.

Curated and hosted by comedian Keith Lowell Jensen, writer/storyteller Amy Bee and author Aaron Carnes, the event promises a night of diverse storytelling with a focus on the theme of "Bullies."

The event, which will run from 6 to 9 p.m., features four prominent storytellers: Brian Copeland, Kimberlli Joy, Corey Rosen and Kathleen Taylor. These performers, each with unique backgrounds and experiences, will share personal stories that explore the complex and evocative nature of bullying.

Before the event kicks off, attendees can attend a book signing with Brian Copeland in the lobby. Copeland, a multi-talented storyteller, actor and author, will promote his book “Shadows of Justice.” Afterward, he will sign copies, offering fans an opportunity to engage directly with him.

In an exclusive interview, “In a Nutshell” co-creator Carnes explained how the series came to life.

“Amy and Keith are storytellers themselves and we all share a deep love for writing. We went to a storytelling show in the North Bay in 2024 and were really impressed with it. We started talking about how cool it would be to bring something like that to Sacramento,” said Carnes. “In January 2025, we had our first show and the response was incredible.”

Since then, “In a Nutshell” has grown in popularity, with each monthly event offering a hand-picked lineup of storytellers.

“The goal is never competition,” Carnes said. “Each performer gets 15 minutes and we really curate the lineup. We want diverse stories but all tied together with a theme.”

“In a Nutshell,” a live storytelling event that has quickly gained a loyal following in Sacramento, is back on Aug. 29 at the Sofia. Photo courtesy of Elle Jaye @drumphotos

As the digital world continues to dominate our lives, live storytelling has a unique power to connect us. Carnes reflected on the emotional impact of experiencing a story told in person.

“Storytelling is the oldest form of entertainment,” Carnes said. “It creates a flow of energy between the audience and the storyteller that is really compelling. You’re reacting together. There’s something real about it, something tangible.”

Event co-creator Jensen also highlighted the power of storytelling in fostering human connection.

“Growing up, I’d always hear stories in circles that would happen organically; people want to share their stories,” Jensen said. “Every form of entertainment comes down to telling a story. Without any special effects, no visuals, it’s still so effective, which is why we address our audiences as humans.”

This month's theme, Bullies, suggested by co-creator Bee, is both personal and evoking.

“I think everyone has a bullying story, sometimes even being the bully,” Jensen said. “Bullying is such an important topic right now, and it's one that’s near and dear to a lot of us. This theme is deeply personal and it's something that resonates with so many people.”

The storytellers for this month’s show bring a wealth of experience and distinct voices to the stage.

Copeland is known for his diverse body of work, including his recent book and one-person plays.

"Brian (Copeland) is a fantastic storyteller," Carnes said. “He was in a radio talk in San Francisco. Both Amy (Bee) and I are from the Bay Area, so we are really excited for that.”

Rosen, a major figure in the San Francisco Bay Area's “Moth” storytelling scene, will also take the stage. Rosen, a writer, actor and author of “Your Story, Well Told,” is known for his skill in guiding people through the art of storytelling.

Storytellers take the stage at the “In a Nutshell” event on March 31 at the Sofia Theatre in Sacramento. Photo courtesy of Elle Jaye @drumphotos

Joy, who began telling stories on stage in June 2022, and Taylor, a writer, educator and storyteller, are new performers at the Nutshell and were recommended by previous storytellers.

For the creators of “In a Nutshell,” the ultimate goal is connection.

“It’s supposed to be fun and entertaining but there is a serious tone to it too about experiencing our humanity and everyone else’s humanity together. Hearing peoples’ stories is one of the most human thing people can do,” Carnes said. “We want people to hear the world in a more sympathetic lens. We shouldn’t see each other as allies or enemies. Storytelling won’t fix the world but hopefully it makes us think of our shared humanity.”

Jensen added, “We’re just three friends who love stories. We want people to come have fun and walk away with something they’ll remember. It’s a shared experience that brings people together.”

For those who have never attended a live storytelling event, Carnes offered a simple invitation: “It’s oddly compelling. The first time I went to a storytelling show, I was blown away by how engaged I was. The 15-minute format is just enough to tell a full story but not so long that it becomes too much. You’ll be surprised by how powerful and intimate the experience is.”

While “In a Nutshell” has found a home at The Sofia, the team is planning to expand their reach.

In addition to the main event, “In a Nutshell” also hosts an open mic show at Old Soul at The Alley on the third Thursday of each month. This event allows new storytellers to try their hand at the craft and gain experience.

To learn more about this event, future events and tickets, visit https://www.inanutshellstorytelling.com.