Acclaimed Storytellers to Engage 13,000 Students at Big South Fork Festival

Over 13,000 students from more than 30 schools will experience a unique cultural initiative next week as a group of accomplished storytellers visits the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. This educational program aims to inspire creativity and foster a sense of community heritage ahead of the upcoming Haunting in the Hills Storytelling Festival.

The storytellers, including notable figures such as Karin Amano, Norm Brecke, Tamara Green, and Anne Rutherford, will engage students with a blend of traditional tales and innovative storytelling techniques. Each artist will share narratives that highlight the art of storytelling, emphasizing its importance in preserving cultural heritage.

In addition to storytelling, the Big South Fork National Park will enhance the experience by offering traditional arts and crafts activities. Craft classes will be available during the visits, reinforcing the deep connection between storytelling and the history of human communication. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of storytelling’s role as a vital educational tool that entertains while imparting moral values.

According to a release from the National Park Service, storytelling has its roots in oral traditions, often accompanied by physical expressions that engage audiences across diverse cultures. This upcoming festival not only aims to celebrate the art form but also to bridge connections among community members, carrying the excitement from the classroom into the festival setting.

The Haunting in the Hills festival is scheduled for September 20, 2023, at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center. This event will culminate a week of school visits by the storytellers, culminating in a community celebration. The festival promises to highlight how storytelling transcends time and geographical boundaries, uniting people through shared narratives and experiences.

As the festival approaches, the community eagerly anticipates the stories that will be shared, fostering an appreciation for the enduring art of storytelling and its significance in connecting generations.