‘Stories That Heal’ Concert Amplifies Youth Voices in Michigan

Byline: Terrence Fox, Senior Culture Correspondent

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 5:00 PM, the Garden Theater in Frankfort, Michigan, will host the third annual Stories That Heal concert. This free community event showcases original songs and narratives created by students from Frankfort High School and Benzie Central Middle School, focusing on mental health awareness and personal growth.

Empowering Through Storytelling

Beginning in January, students engaged in weekly workshops led by facilitators specializing in songwriting, mental health, and somatic movement. These sessions included storytelling prompts, music composition, and breathwork techniques designed to help youth explore and express their inner experiences.

The creative team guided students in transforming personal stories into performance-ready music, giving them the tools to articulate feelings around anxiety, grief, resilience, and identity. The result is a powerful showcase of original work that reflects the emotional journeys of young people navigating today’s challenges.

“This program gives students a platform to express themselves and connect with others through shared experiences,” noted one of the facilitators.

Community Impact and Support

Beyond the classroom, the initiative includes a public-facing podcast series that dives into the background stories of participants and highlights the importance of community-based mental wellness programs. The podcast has helped broaden awareness of youth mental health issues while offering real-life examples of recovery and self-discovery.

The concert also reflects a broader community effort, incorporating intergenerational storytelling workshops at local venues such as Benzie Shores District Library and Michigan Shores Cooperative. These gatherings offered a space where people of all ages could reflect on life experiences and contribute to the collective healing process.

The culmination of these efforts is the live concert event, where students will perform their songs in front of friends, family, and fellow community members. It’s not just a concert—it’s a movement rooted in empathy, listening, and shared humanity.

Event Details

Date & Time: Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 5:00 PM

Location: The Garden Theater, 301 Main St., Frankfort, MI 49635

Admission: Free and open to the public

Community members are encouraged to attend, not only to support young artists but also to witness the power of storytelling in action. The Stories That Heal concert aims to reduce stigma, build bridges across generations, and celebrate the courage it takes to speak one’s truth.