Saudi: Diriyah Storytelling Festival celebrates literature, creativity
text_fieldsThe Diriyah Storytelling Festival, a vibrant event for literature lovers, will begin on January 30. The much-anticipated event promises a rich cultural experience, running until February 8 and will be hosted at three iconic locations in Diriyah: Bujairi Terrace, Bab Samhan Hotel and Al-Dhawihra Farm. These venues will provide distinctive backdrops for a variety of immersive activities.
The festival will host more than 150 speakers, experts and performers in the field of literature. This impressive lineup is complemented by the participation of over 50 publishing houses and specialized libraries, setting the stage for meaningful interactions between visitors and industry experts.
The festival provides opportunities to interact with experts and explore the art of storytelling through exhibitions, storytelling nights and discussion sessions. Attendees will have the chance to engage in workshops covering a wide range of topics, including writing, storytelling, music production, screen design, book cover creation and adapting novels into animated series, films or dramas.
In addition to its intellectual offerings, the festival also aims to create a multisensory experience. Visitors can also enjoy a book fair, reading spaces, book signings, storytelling performances and activities such as role-playing, script adaptations, live cooking and tastings of dishes inspired by famous novels and films.
The festival will cater to young audiences as well. The festival will feature a ‘Little Storyteller’ area designed to nurture children’s skills through engaging workshops and theatrical performances. These activities include storytelling techniques, story creation, illustration, puppet-making and manipulation, encouraging creativity in children.
A highlight of the festival will be its inaugural writers’ retreat. "The festival will also host its inaugural writers’ retreat, an eight-day program bringing together a curated group of established and emerging Saudi novelists in Diriyah. Participants will attend intensive courses led by international experts to develop their skills and share their stories on a global platform.
The festival is part of Diriyah Season’s diverse lineup of events, held under the theme ‘Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity'. The Diriyah Storytelling Festival is expected to draw visitors from across the region, celebrating the timeless art of storytelling while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s literary and cultural prowess.