Global narratives unbound for youths
26th Int’l Storytelling Festival kicks off in Yazd
The 26th International Storytelling Festival began on February 15 in Yazd, welcoming local and international storytellers at the city’s central hall.
This event, which runs until February 18, features 98 storytellers from various provinces and several foreign countries, sharing their tales with children, teenagers, and families, IRNA reported.
During the opening ceremony, Yazd Governor General Mohammad Reza Babaei praised the establishment of the Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults.
He recalled the venue’s development from a children’s library to its current role as a nurturing hub for young minds.
Babaei remarked, “I remember when this place was a children’s library. Now, it fosters creativity and growth.”
The provincial official also reflected on the impacts of the institute on his own family. “My child, now a surgeon, was a member of this institution during school. He learned many arts here, becoming an accomplished calligrapher. These achievements are part of his development through the institute.”
Babaei stressed the significance of storytelling, describing it as “a great blessing.”
He noted that storytelling has been integral to human history, adding, “From the dawn of time, people have lived through stories. Even today, no one can escape their influence. Stories encapsulate complexities and hardships in a simple, relatable manner.”
In closing, he expressed gratitude for the festival, highlighting its role in introducing storytelling to young audiences. He thanked all those involved in organizing this cultural event.
Plus, winners of the festival’s online categories, including environmental, podcast, and 90-second storytelling parts, were announced.