The vibrant city of Marrakech is once again the backdrop for the Marrakech International Storytelling Festival, now in its third edition. Kicking off on January 22, 2025, this festival is a captivating celebration of the ancient art of storytelling, featuring around 100 storytellers from 30 countries.
Held under the esteemed patronage of King Mohammed VI, the festival aims to embody the sensory, cultural, and spiritual essence of Marrakech, showcasing the city’s rich storytelling heritage and reinforcing its status as a global storytelling capital. It draws cultural tourists and fosters dialogue among diverse communities.
This year's theme, "Season of Stories - Tales of Joy," emphasizes the inclusion of female storytellers and promotes peace through narrative. Festival director Zouhair Khaznaoui highlighted the joyful spirit of the Marrakech people and the vibrant cultural exchanges that define this renowned city.
In a bid to break the Guinness World Record for the longest storytelling session—currently set at 120 hours—the festival features educational workshops for youth and schoolchildren, live performances, and storytelling circles.
Mike Wood, a member of the organizing committee, expressed pride in participating in this globally recognized festival, which promotes values of tolerance and cultural exchange. This year’s program is rich with activities designed to delight storytelling enthusiasts and emphasize the importance of preserving this intangible heritage.
The festival's schedule spans various venues across the historic city, including workshops for children and youth, storytelling circles, and performances by both Moroccan and international storytellers. These events celebrate the diversity of global narratives while underscoring our shared human experience.
Additionally, the festival includes seminars and conferences on topics such as integrating storytelling into mental health practices, the therapeutic role of myths, and the future of storytelling in education. The event will also honor the "Golden Storyteller" of 2025 and celebrate the festival's achievements.
Prior to the main event in Marrakech, preparatory activities took place in the cities of Essaouira and Safi on January 15-16, featuring workshops, seminars, and introductory performances.