Tumanyan International Storytelling Festival

Date: August 25-27, 2023

Armenians are natural-born storytellers. This innate talent for spinning captivating narratives comes alive at the annual Storytelling Festival in Tumanyan, Armenia. This memorable weekend is filled with theatrical performances, poetry and story readings, music, workshops, and contemporary art exhibitions. The festival was first conceived by a group of friends who, in 2022, staged this extravaganza of live performances. The event was a resounding success, attracting hundreds of fans of imaginative and expressive art to a small town in northern Armenia.

The festival is rooted in age-old Armenian traditions. Tales and legends have been carefully handed down through generations, crafting notions of right and wrong and shaping the portrayal of heroes and villains. Armenian oral folklore plays a pivotal role in shaping the national identity and the culture of the Armenian language. This is why events and annual festivals that celebrate the power of words and the art of storytelling are so significant for modern society and for nurturing the younger generation.

Workshops and lectures are conducted in both Armenian and English. Beyond the main schedule of performances and concerts, the 2-3 day festival agenda includes a visit to the Hovhannes Tumanyan Museum, a city tour, a hike through the Debed Canyon, dinner with a riverside view, bonfire gatherings, painting masterclasses, and a host of other activities.

The festival takes place in a location known as "Abastan," an Armenian word meaning "sanctuary." This site serves as a haven for creative spirits, hosting a variety of art-related activities. The Abastan initiative was launched under the auspices of the Tumanyan Foundation, transforming an old sewing factory into a creative hub filled with craft workshops, art studios, and a platform for educational and civic initiatives.

Nestled in the heart of lush green mountains and alongside the rushing Debed River, the Abastan creative space presents a picturesque setting. The Tumanyan Storytelling Festival is a heartwarming gathering that brings together vibrant, imaginative individuals, all eager to share the fruits of their creativity.