Inspired by the Scottish ceilidh tradition and its sense of togetherness, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival (SISF) offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the extraordinary tales, music and characters that bring both our traditional and contemporary culture to life.
Since its establishment in 1989, SISF has continued to evolve and grow, with record numbers now attending an array of performances, workshops, talks and children’s events from its home in the Scottish Storytelling Centre – the only purpose built home for storytelling in the UK.
This year, to mark its 35th year, which coincides with 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, SISF will welcome storytellers from the Storytelling Arena in Berlin to share stories and films from their divided and reunified city.
Other international guests set to perform this year include Jeeva Raghunath who will be sharing stories from the folk lands of India, and Irish guest storyteller and broadcaster Nuala Hayes who founded the Dublin Storytelling Festival.
Unmissable Gaelic highlights include the premiere of Cath Gailbheach nan Eòin The Desperate Battle of the Birds told by Scottish storyteller James MacDonald Reid, while experimental folk duo Burd Ellen will premiere their new multi-media performance Òran Mhòir.
Other events include The Dream of Al-Andalus, told by Sef Townsend and Inés
Álvarez Villa accompanied by flamenco guitarist Danielo Olivera and Moroccan musician Omar Afif.
Children’s activities includeface painting, crafts, storytelling and songs. The premiere of a new sensory version of the traditional tale The Bouncy Billy Goats Gruff is suited to children with additional needs. Into the Woods: In the Footsteps of Thomas the Rhymer is a retelling of an ancient border ballad, while A Jaunt Round Auld Reekie will feature stories, music, comedy and puppetry.
Tickets to family events cost £5.00 per ticket. For those planning on attending multiple events, the Festival Supporter Pass offers discounted tickets to many live and online events, as well as a discount at the SISF’s bookshop and the Haggis Box Café.
View the full programme and book tickets on the Scottish International Storytelling Festival.
