Sharjah: The 15th annual International Narrator Forum will kick off at the Cultural Palace in Sharjah on Sunday to celebrate the importance of investing in storytellers and their efforts in preserving Arab heritage and culture.
The five-day event, which will be held under the patronage of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, includes programmes designed for children as well as adults.
The forum includes symposia on ancient Arab storytelling, the Books and Book Covers exhibition, and a narration workshop in English and Arabic titled ‘Writing with Pictures’.
The forum will also feature a roundtable discussion highlighting experiences in the art of storytelling and a new exhibit titled ‘Story Street’ besides a host of other activities and programmes.
“This cultural project focuses on the importance of investing in storytellers, the living human treasures, and highlighting their significance through the continuous efforts of the Sharjah Heritage Institute by promoting such activities in various fields,” said Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, President of the Sharjah Heritage Institute.
Al Musallam said that the most important objective of the forum was protecting elements of living heritage which is in line with Unesco’s goals. The forum will also focus on the importance of the memories, experiences, and creativity of narrators, while also promoting the sustainability of the relationship between societies and folk literature.
A new addition to this year’s forum, the ‘Story Street’ exhibit, is expected to draw a large audience.
Storytellers from the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, the Philippines, Mexico, and France will be on hand to share stories with attendees.
Events will be held at a number of different venues, including the Headquarters of the Sharjah Heritage Institute, Al Majaz Waterfront, the Central Market, the Mega Mall Commercial Centre, and the Arab Cultural Club.
