7 countries to feature in International Storytelling Festival

SHARJAH, 22th February, 2018 (WAM) -- The second edition of the Sharjah International Storytelling Festival has kicked-off on Thursday at Noor Island, under the theme 'Roots and Roads'. This year's line-up of activities includes an interactive mix of tradition, mystery, magic, music and dance. The festival represents a rare opportunity to re-connect the contemporary audience with the oral tradition and the rich heritage of traditional stories. From this idea comes the theme "Roots and Roads" for 2018 where ancient stories represent the roots of people, their culture and identity, but at the same time showing how stories have always travelled across the world, thus encouraging cultural exchange and understanding. Traditional stories from the oral tradition of seven countries will be told in both Arabic and English during the festival by ten professional storytellers, accompanied by live music, and sometimes blended with dance and visual art. The programme will touch a variety of topics to suit all ages, including ancient tales, myths, legends, wisdom, science, humour, travel and much more, highlighting the beauty of the oral tradition. The International Storytelling Festival will run until 23rd February.