This November, older adults across Clare are being invited to take part in FABLES, a series of free in-person storytelling workshops hosted by Burrenbeo Trust.
The relaxed and friendly sessions will give participants the opportunity to learn how folklore and traditions from their local area can be brought to life through storytelling.
No previous storytelling experience or folklore knowledge is needed. The three workshops are designed to start from scratch and will introduce participants to easy-to-use digital online tools for discovering local folklore, practical techniques for developing engaging stories and to a welcoming social setting for sharing with others.
The FABLES project, an Erasmus+ initiative, aims to promote active ageing, digital inclusion, cultural heritage preservation, and lifelong learning among older adults. At the end of the workshop series a selection of the shared stories will be professionally recorded for a podcast which will contribute to a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) research project at the University of Galway.
Burrenbeo Trust Community Engagement Officer Claire Chambers said: “Storytelling is a vital part of Ireland’s cultural heritage, keeping our folklore and traditions alive across generations. Through the FABLES workshops, we want participants to discover more about their local folklore, and to develop the skills and confidence to bring a great story to life.”
FABLES will run for three weeks in November, with one 60-90 minute workshop per week. The workshop location and times will be confirmed after the application process, to accommodate as many participants as possible.
Places on the workshops are limited. Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to register their interest by Friday October 16th. Contact claire@burrenbeo.com or call 091 638096.
