The International Storytelling School, part of the Sharjah Heritage Institute, recently held the “World Storytelling Day” event to celebrate the art of storytelling as a cultural heritage that fosters connection among peoples and facilitates communication across generations. The event, which took place in the heart of Sharjah, highlighted the significance of storytelling as a traditional tool that preserves collective memory and strengthens cultural identity.
Notable attendees included Dr. Abdulaziz Muslim, the head of the institute, Marwa Al-Aqroubi, the president of the UAE Board on Books for Young People, and Amira Boukadra, a writer and co-founder of Gaff Publications, who is also the chair of the UAE Publishers Association. The event drew a large crowd of heritage enthusiasts and began with a presentation by the character “Storyteller,” who illustrated the importance of storytelling in oral tradition and the role of the Sharjah Heritage Institute in documenting this art for future generations.
The audience enjoyed a brief theatrical performance by talented children participating in the “Gems of Storytelling” program. They skillfully demonstrated the significance of stories in promoting social values and connecting the past with the present through an interactive display that conveyed vibrant cultural messages.
Dr. Abdulaziz Muslim emphasized that storytelling is not merely a cultural pastime or a fleeting narrative; it is the memory of nations and a repository of wisdom, a timeless link that documents experiences and transmits values and knowledge across generations.
He stated, “At the Sharjah Heritage Institute, we are dedicated to organizing this event to underscore that storytelling is not a static heritage, but a living entity that continues to evolve and influence. It remains a fundamental element in the cultural landscape. Our celebration of World Storytelling Day reflects our unwavering commitment to preserving oral heritage and presenting it innovatively while maintaining its authenticity.”
Esraa Al-Mulla, director of the International Storytelling School, highlighted the value of storytelling as an educational and cultural tool that enhances human communication. She remarked, “At the International Storytelling School, we believe that stories are one of the most powerful means of transmitting heritage, wisdom, and human values. They have the ability to stimulate imagination, enhance critical thinking, and create an interactive environment that fosters dialogue and understanding between cultures.