4-day workshop on storytelling begins today in Sharjah

Reinforcing Sharjah’s global standing as a hub of cultural innovation, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage is launching a four-day intensive workshop on storytelling and theatrical performance on Monday.

The initiative, led by acclaimed playwright Talal Mahmoud, is part of the Preliminary Programme of the 25th edition of the Sharjah International Narrator Forum (SINF), held under the theme ‘Tale of the Travellers.” It also paves the way for the eagerly anticipated 25th Sharjah International Storyteller Forum, running till Sept.18.

The workshop aims to equip participants with the skills to master narration, deliver stories with impact, and transform personal experiences into creative artistic performances. It reflects the Institute’s commitment to promoting storytelling as a vital component of intangible cultural heritage while providing specialised platforms that nurture young talents and enthusiasts in this field.

Cultural vision: Commenting on the Preliminary Programme of (SINF) Dr Abdulaziz Almusallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, said: “Storytelling is more than telling tales, it is one of the profound means by which communities remember themselves, pass on values, and forge identity. Through the Preliminary Programme, we seek to empower voices, especially those of youth, to bring their personal stories into the public sphere with confidence, artistry, and authenticity. This workshop, set in Sharjah’s tradition of supporting creativity and heritage, is a bridge between our rich cultural memory and the expression of a new generation. We believe that by training participants not only in theory but in performance, gesture, voice, rhythm, emotional truth, we deepen their connection to storytelling as living heritage. Our hope is that these storytellers become both guardians and innovators: preserving timeless narratives while inspiring fresh ones for our Emirati and Arab cultural landscapes.”

The workshop blends theory with practice over four days. On the first day, participants will explore the philosophy of storytelling, its key elements, and historical roots, before drafting short texts and learning the traits of effective narration. Day two focuses on performance techniques, using gestures, expressions, vocal modulation, rhythm, and dramatic pauses, alongside exercises in emotional authenticity.

On the third day, an open artistic session will allow participants to present short narratives before the trainer and peers, receiving direct feedback to refine character-building skills and distinguish between natural and theatrical narration. The final day will serve as a performance laboratory, enabling participants to review, develop, and present both individual and group narratives in preparation for complete storytelling performances.

The workshop will conclude with a presentation titled “When Stories Reflect Their Tellers,” where participants will showcase their work in short performances lasting two to five minutes. This will be followed by a group evaluation session, with trainers and participants exchanging feedback. The experience will be documented through photos and video clips, culminating in a recognition ceremony to celebrate the storytellers’ achievements and encourage them to pursue future narrative projects.