The Egyptian Art of Storytelling
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
This dynamic program revives and reimagines the ancient Egyptian tradition of oral narration, recognizing storytelling as the living memory of a people. Moving from Pharaonic myths and folkloric tales (Hikayat), to Naguib Mahfouz’s novels and contemporary digital narratives, participants will explore how stories shape identity, transmit values, and navigate social change. This is not a passive listening course, but an active workshop where participants learn to become custodians and creators of the Egyptian narrative, using both traditional and modern mediums.
CORE OBJECTIVES:
1• Cultural Transmission: Safeguard and popularize Egypt’s rich repository of folktales, proverbs, myths (e.g., Osiris & Isis).
2· Skill Development in Narrative Arts: Train participants in the core techniques of oral storytelling: voice modulation, pacing, character embodiment, audience engagement, and improvisation.
3· Critical Analysis: Examine stories as historical and social documents that reveal insights into class, gender, spirituality, and resistance across different eras of Egyptian history.
4• Bridging Generations & Formats: Create a dialogue between traditional oral forms and contemporary expressions like podcasting, documentary film, and social media storytelling.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
1• Educators & Community Workers: Seeking engaging tools for teaching history and social values.
2· Parents & Grandparents: Interested in
passing on cultural heritage within the family.
3· Writers, Actors & Media Students:
Looking to root their craft in authentic narrative traditions.
4• Youth Groups: As a means of creative
expression and exploring personal and collective identity.
5• The General Public: Anyone captivated
by the power of a well-told story.
INTENDED OUTCOMES:
1• A New Cohort of Storytellers: Participants gain the confidence and skill to perform stories publicly in various settings.
2· Strengthened Community Bonds: Recordings of participant performances and
collected family stories can become part of a digital archive for SMCOA.
3· Increased Cultural Visibility: Public performances and digital content raise the profile of Egyptian narrative arts within the broader community.
4• Archival Contribution: Public performances and digital content raise the profile
of Egyptian narrative arts within the broader community.