Why? Isn’t life hectic enough without one more thing to do?

The Importance of Story – What your Festival-To-Be is All About

The Place of Story

Story is the most basic and most effective form of communication. “Stories let teachers teach, ministers speak to the soul, and attorneys make a point. Stories help psychologists and counselors heal, and parents and grandparents pass along tradition. Stories allow authors to capture a following, speakers to reach their audience, and journalists to connect humanity with humanity beyond reporting mere facts.” (Susan Marie Frontczak, www.storysmith.org)

The Act of Storytelling

Storytelling brings out the best in humanity! Sharing stories helps us remember our past, evaluate our behavior, and set a standard for future actions. Ellin Greene, an international ambassador for READ and education and library services for children, explains the importance of storytelling in the following words. “Storytelling brings to the listeners heightened awareness—a sense of wonder, of mystery, of reverence for life. Storytelling is a sharing experience. When we tell, we show our willingness to be vulnerable, to expose our deepest feelings, our values. That kind of nakedness that says we care about what we are relating invites children [and adults] to listen with open minds and hears. Enjoying a story together creates a sense of community.” Susan Marie Frontczak, storyteller and writer, (www.storysmith.org) says, “Storytelling opens avenues for conveying a message, awakening the imagination, and communicating thoughts and feelings that we otherwise have no way to express." “Storytelling is a tool for making us profoundly connected. By itself, it is not enough to change our society. But it can help. Every time we tell a story that reveals our essential self, with respect and love for our listeners, we give us all a whiff of deeper connection. Whenever we draw stories out of people and encourage them to find their voices, we demonstrate our potential for honoring each other’s strengths.” (Doug Lipman, Storyteller and Storytelling Coach, www.storydynamics.com)

>> Benefits for the Community