Sharjah launches storytelling workshop ahead of forum

September 14, 2025 / 5:57 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) will launch a specialised training workshop on storytelling and dramatic performance tomorrow, Monday, as part of the "Al Rawi for Preparing Storytellers" programme. The workshop is part of the preparatory activities for the 25th Sharjah International Storyteller Forum, which will take place from September 15 to 18 at the Institute's headquarters. The workshop will be presented by author and playwright Talal Mahmoud.

Empowerment and mastery

The workshop aims to enable participants to master the art of storytelling and present it in an effective manner, highlighting the ability to transform personal experiences into creative artistic performances. This initiative is part of the Institute’s commitment to enhancing the presence of storytelling as an essential element of cultural heritage and offering specialized training platforms to develop the talents of youth and enthusiasts in this field.

Workshop programme

The four-day training programme will unfold in stages, combining theory with practical application. On the first day, participants will explore the philosophy of storytelling, its core components, the history and nature of narrative, and how to differentiate between storytelling and conveying information. They will then apply what they’ve learned by crafting short narrative texts.

Day two will focus on performance skills, including the use of gestures and facial expressions, voice modulation, rhythm, and the power of silence. Practical exercises will help participants tap into emotional honesty and convey genuine internal emotion.

Participants will present narrative excerpts

The third day includes an open technical session, where participants present their storytelling excerpts to the trainer and peers. This session offers constructive feedback to improve narrative delivery and character development, as well as differentiate between dramatic and realistic storytelling styles.

The fourth day serves as a performance lab, focusing on refining narrative texts and conducting both individual and group performance exercises. This prepares participants to create cohesive and impactful storytelling performances.

When the story speaks through the features of its owner

The programme concludes with a special session titled "When the Story Speaks Through the Features of Its Owner." Participants will present their final performances, each ranging from two to five minutes. This will be followed by a group evaluation session, with feedback exchanged between trainers and storytellers. The event will be documented through photos and videos, culminating in an awards ceremony that recognizes participation, encourages continued creativity, and inspires the production of future storytelling projects. Ultimately, the initiative aims to broaden interest in storytelling and strengthen its presence in Emirati and Arab cultural landscapes.