Basket: £0.00
Basket: £0.00
(Fri 11-Sun 27 Sep) Anne Dignan is a multidisciplinary artist who is visually impaired. This exhibition explores a body of her photographic prints, alongside interactive, accessible versions for audiences to enjoy: through touch and audio descriptions. This series of works is supported by and in collaboration with Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 18 Sep: 7:30pm) Award-winning Gaelic singer and musician Maggie MacInnes performs contemporary arrangements of songs from a previously unreleased archive recorded by her mother and great traditional singer from the island of Barra, Flora MacNeil MBE. The archive of around 180 songs was recorded in the 1950s and 60s by an Australian folklorist, the late Dr James Kalokerinos, and includes many rare gems alongside some of the many traditional songs which Flora helped to popularise. With the assistance of Creative Scotland, Maggie has put together contemporary arrangements of some of these songs in a show which pays tribute to Flora and to other tradition-bearers who passed on the songs to her as she was growing up. Accompanying Maggie will be some of Scotland’s finest musicians including Wendy Weatherby (cello); Dan Brown (keyboards); Alex Palmer (percussion), Ailis Sutherland (pipes, whistle and flute) and Maggie’s son, Calum Park (guitar, fiddle and backing vocals). The show was first performed at Glasgow's Celtic Connections Festival in January 2026 to great acclaim. Since then Maggie has released an album of the songs from the show, Uisegan Bharraigh (Barra Skylarks), and recently toured in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 19 Sep: 9:30am) This workshop with Dijana Zorić will upskill professional storytellers in the effective communication of their skills and services to current and potential clients, whether cultural, tourist or private sector, in domestic or international markets. Participants will receive practical guidelines on how to develop business proposals, pricing models and other creative and operational formats essential for successful, sustainable and transparent professional practice. The aim of the workshop is to support storytellers in the market-oriented professionalisation of their services and in building long-term, strong and loyal relationships with clients and audiences. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Dijana Zorić is a storyteller, storytelling mentor, licensed tourist guide and heritage interpreter. A member of FEST and Interpret Europe, and the founder and director of Croatia’s first storytelling centre, StoryLab, and the first Croatian Storytelling Academy (programmes accredited by NSN). She specialises in business storytelling, storytelling in tourism and storytelling as a performing art. As a mentor, creator and interpreter of storytelling content, she collaborates with Croatian and European business companies, tourism boards, and educational and cultural institutions, for which she designs educational programmes and training courses. She is initiator and director of STORYing, the first international storytelling festival in Croatia.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Sat 19 Sep: 10:30am) Join multi-instrumentalist and producer Tom Oakes for a practical workshop on recording and releasing your music, from initial concept to final release. This workshop will guide you through each stage of the process, highlighting where you can save money, where it pays to invest, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Tom will share insightful and helpful tips, and examples of what works (and what doesn’t), helping you navigate your own recording project with greater confidence and clarity. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland. ~~~~~ 2019 Scots Trad Awards ‘Musician of the Year’ nominee Tom Oakes is one of the UK’s top flautists and multi-instrumentalists, as well as a sound designer, composer, producer, educator and label owner. Tom is known widely for his work with Shetland fiddler Ross Couper, genre-bending pan-Finnish act The Auvo Quartet, Scottish power trio OBT, and a new project with Scottish multi-instrumentalist Ali Hutton and award-winning London-Irish fiddler Matt Tighe, as well as his increasing profile as a solo performer. His album Water Street (2022) received global airplay and was long-listed for the 2022 MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, while his solo show The Hearth premiered at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe and was shortlisted for ‘Best New Work’ at the 2023 awards.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 19 Sep: 7:30pm) The LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year Competition is back for 2026, showcasing some of the most exciting emerging talent on the LGBTQ+ comedy scene. Expect a fantastic evening of stand-up comedy as a new generation of LGBTQ+ comedians take to the stage, competing for a coveted place in the next round of the UK's leading LGBTQ+ comedy competition. From first-time performers to rising stars, you'll see a diverse line-up of fresh voices, original perspectives and big laughs. More than just a comedy show, this is your chance to help shape the future of LGBTQ+ comedy. Audience members play a vital role in the competition, voting alongside the judges to decide which acts progress to the next stage. Since launching in 2019, LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year has helped discover and showcase some of the brightest new talents in UK comedy, with past finalists and winners going on to perform at major festivals, headline shows and appear on television and radio. Whether you're a dedicated comedy fan, looking for a great night out, or keen to support LGBTQ+ artists, this is the perfect opportunity to catch tomorrow's comedy stars before they hit the big time. Watch, laugh and vote for your favourites on the search for the next LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year. Presented by Comedy Bloomers. LINEUP MCSam LakeHEADLINEREva Peroni ACTSLuke Stewart - 'Every line headbutts the audience with a cheeky staccato assuredness' (British Comedy Guide)Caroline Gustafsson - Just a weird lil guy.Dean T. Beirne - 'So likable and funny, a future star.' (Larry Dean, SNL UK)Jack Simmonds - Working-class comedian from Manchester. Mums love him, dads want him.Louise Creechan - So smart, yet so stupid: booksmart but dyslexic.Marina Smith - Offbeat stand-up comedian with an alternative sensibility.Matthew Hayhow - 'Fearless, sharp and utterly hilarious.' (One4Review)Phoebe LaReine - Internationally ignored, locally tolerated, this queen is here to overshare.Pheebs Stephenson - 'Great energy… likeable and quirky.' (The Stand Comedy Club)Saoirse O'Hooligan - '...exploring the most curious comedy corners.' (British Comedy Guide)Scout Robertson - A wee cow trapped in a big guy's body.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 20 Sep: 10:30am) - PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL EARLY 2027 Storytellers are invited to the Scottish Storytelling Forum's Development Day 2026 at SSC for a full day of workshops, networking, presentations and discussion.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Tues 17 Mar, 5 May, 16 Jun, 22 Sep & 17 Nov: 2pm) Join friends from the Scots Music Group for an afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories, held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. All welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 25 Sep: 7:30pm) Follow the sound of the fiddle and step into a world of enchanted tunes, fairy dances, mysterious musicians and melodies that cannot be resisted. Join guest storyteller David Francis to journey through wild revels and otherworldly rhythms in an evening of tales where music has the power to beguile, transform and carry us between worlds. Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 26 Sep: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! This Lughnasadh, we welcome you under the full moon with a wonderful lineup of storytellers featuring Mio Shudo and Shona Cowie with Claire McNicol and Linda Williamson. Celebrate the turn of the year into longer and darker nights! The Harvest Moon of Lughnasadh features international, living legends together with multicultural lunar tales from Ireland, Scotland and Japan. Occurring nearest the Autumn Equinox with its unusually bright, prolonged light, this full Moon would allow for communal harvesting and was traditionally called the Singing Moon. Under this special moon, stories and songs will be woven through with deep harmony and joy, a blessing for abundant and fruitful harvests. Let your heart lead and connect with the moonlight of love, memory and tradition. Honouring harvest festivals across the world, please join us for Japanese green tea or Scottish autumn herbal tea in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court following the theatre performance! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Sun 27 Sep: 12pm) Celebrate harvest time creatively, learning the seasonal craft of straw work with expert Elaine Lindsay from Something Corny. Discover this endangered tradition during this drop-in, hands-on afternoon and leave with your own hand-made corn dollies. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). A straw worker for over 40 years, Elaine Lindsay breathes life into this heritage practice she used to hear about from her grandfather, a farm labourer around her native Inverurie. She is an expert hand at crafting traditional corn dollies as well as her own contemporary designs, believing that while we must remember where the craft came from, it is so important to push the craft forward if it is to continue into the future. Elaine joined the Guild of Straw Craftsmen in 1989 and achieved a Craftsman Award with them in 1999. She is a founding member of the Scottish Straw Workers as well as a member of the National Association of Wheat Weavers and the California Straw Arts Guild in the US.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fortnightly on Mondays: 7pm) Join us for fist-thumping, pint-drinking, side-tickling, award-winning poetry! Loud Poets invite poets to share their work at their regular open mic, now taking place at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court. All styles of poetry are welcome and with a different feature performer every time, this event offers a supportive, creative environment for all. Doors will open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start with two short intervals, wrapping up around 9.30pm. Loud Poets will be managing sign-ups. To sign up to perform, please fill out the sign-up form for the date on which you'd like to perform. This form will close one week before the event, after which they will email you to let you know if you have a guaranteed performance spot. Two spots are always left open to be filled by random draw from poets who sign up on the door. Slots are five minutes and poets are welcome to perform as many or few poems as you would like within that time. You are welcome to go under the five minutes, but please do not go over out of respect to your fellow performers. A message from Loud Poets about this event:"At our open mic and all of our events, we endeavour to create a safe, welcoming space for all to attend and share their work. We ask performers to be respectful of the diversity of our experiences. We do not tolerate any forms of discrimination and harassment. Don't punch down. Performers and attendees who violate this policy will be asked to leave." The Loud Poets Open Mic is organised by I Am Loud CIC, through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding. It is produced and hosted by Mark Gallie.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 3 Oct-Sun 1 Nov) Storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham presents an immersive exhibition of prints and illustrations that reinterpret traditional folklore, revealing the magic hidden within familiar landscapes. Encounter worlds inhabited by selkies, unseen beings, and folklore-inspired characters, all shaped by the land and sea of Scotland’s eastern coast, with original artwork taken from Morvern’s new book Seasonal Folktales. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sun 4 Oct: 10:30am & Sun 8 Nov: 2pm) Our lives are stitched with stories. Each of us imagines a story in our own unique way. None more so than children. This project by storyteller Beth Cross provides a quiet informal space for stitching into life children's drawings of stories imprinted on a quilt. Come for the chat and stories, add some stitches, no experience or prior skill required. The quilt currently being worked bears drawings that children of Tiree drew from a session of sea stories. The illustrated quilts provide a place for further children to sit for story sessions adding their own contributions to this living ever evolving record of how stories thread through our lives. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 4 Oct: 11am) RESCHEDULED FROM JUNE 2026 Jyne award-winnin nor’east folk sangster Ellie Beaton fur a blithesome reenge throu tradeitional Aiberdeenshire ballants fae the Greig-Duncan Folk Sang Collection. Uisin sic routhie resoorces, fowk takkin pairt wull fin oot mair aboot the airt o gaitherin folk sangs, alang wi the distinct ornamentation an style o thon pairt o the kintra. Pit on bi the Tradeitional Music Forum o Scotland. Join North-East folk singer Ellie Beaton for an engaging exploration of traditional Aberdeenshire ballads from the Greig–Duncan Folk Song Collection. Through these rich resources, participants will delve into the art of folk song collecting, while exploring the distinctive ornamentation and style of the region. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland. ~~~~~ Ellie Beaton is a captivating award-winning folk singer hailing from Rothienorman in the North-East of Scotland. With a commanding voice that ripples with warmth and confidence, Ellie effortlessly embodies the timeless spirit of Aberdeenshire’s vibrant singing style whilst blending inspirations from across the globe. Born and raised in Rothienorman, in the heart of Aberdeenshire, she has carved a name for herself as one of the most promising voices in Scotland’s folk scene, being described as “one of the most outstanding voices in Scotland’s folk scene” by the Herald. In February 2025, Ellie was crowned BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year, four years after becoming the youngest ever winner of the MG ALBA Scots Singer of the Year.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sun 4 Oct & Sun 29 Nov: 2pm) Play an instrument and enjoy singing?Keen to get involved with session playing but not sure how?Want to learn songs & tunes and build your confidence in a relaxed environment? Join Rachel Beattie, singer and fiddle player, to learn some new folk tunes and songs. The session will primarily focus on learning by ear and is a great introduction for anyone looking to learn some tunes to join in local folk sessions, to grow their tune book or simply come together with fellow musicians! Please note this session is designed for those who have some experience playing an instrument and are looking to develop their skills and confidence. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a regular session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 9 Oct: 7:30pm) Queer Folks’ Tales celebrates its FIFTH birthday exactly where it started in October 2021, in Scotland’s national theatre for storytelling, with rave reviews and awards under its belt! Queer Folks’ Tales birthday line-up is packed with some of our regular storytellers from our first 5 years. As always, our LGBTQ+ storytellers from around Edinburgh and Scotland share stories of queer lives, past, present and future. Sometimes hilarious, often moving, occasionally shocking, the mix of true and fictional stories is as varied as the range of storytellers we invite. As always, many of the stories told on Queer Folks' Tales evenings will be true stories of LGBTQ+ experience in Scotland today. Hosted as ever by Edinburgh’s Turan Ali, who is joined for the fifth birthday show by poet Janette Ayachi, playwright Jo Clifford, stand-up Madhushika Fernando, boylesque artist Tom Harlow and singer-songwriters Cera Impala and Mike McKenzie. Winner of Somewhere For Us Best of the Queer Fringe Award 2026 'Triumphant' (All Edinburgh Theatre)★★★★★ 'Edinburgh's most vibrant, authentic and exciting storytelling event' (The Wee Review)★★★★★ 'Utterly fabulous' (TheQR.co.uk)★★★★★ (BroadwayBaby.com)MUST SEE 'Legendary' (Fringe Review) ~~~~~ Cera Impala is prolific, spell-casting singer-songwriter with a whiskey-honeyed voice and intimately crafted, transporting songs. This powerhouse multi-instrumentalist has toured internationally with her handpicked band, The New Prohibition. A double album is due soon. Janette Ayachi is a celebrated Scottish-Algerian poet with many publications and awards to her name. Her poetry, prose & essays have been published internationally & translated into many languages. Jo Clifford is a Scottish national treasure, a playwright, performer, proud father, grandmother, queer church elder and saint with 114 plays to her credit including the internationally performed The Gospel According to Jesus Queen of Heaven. Madhushika Fernando identifies as a Sri Lankan/Italian stand-up, psychotherapist, illustrator and life model. She was selected for the BBC New Comedy Awards 2024 and is a regular on the Scottish comedy scene. Mike McKenzie is an award-winning independent indie-pop and folk-Americana singer, songwriter, producer with albums to his name. He won BBC Radio Scotland’s Singer-Songwriter of the Year (2019). His music has aired on BBC Radios 2, 6 Music & Scotland. Tom Harlow is an international and award-winning showboy, chanteur and host based in Glasgow. A regular on the cabaret scene in Scotland, Tom has performed internationally and has been Miss Burlesque Scotland. Turan Ali has been a producer, director and writer of BBC radio dramas and comedies for over 25 years and is a storyteller and stand-up who tours internationally. He is a multiple award-winner as founder/producer/host of Queer Folks’ Tales and for his radio productions. Queer Folks' Tales is supported by Creative Scotland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 Oct: 11am) Travel to lands of myth and legend. Meet magical beasts and birds and bugs. Learn about wondrous creatures of our own world. Together, we’ll rediscover ways to enjoy and protect nature’s magic. Part interactive storytelling performance, part craft workshop, all fun! Inspired by the storyteller's experience with the Jane Goodall Institute and Marine Conservation Society, Animal Magic invites young explorers and their grown-ups to (re)connect with the birds and beasts around us, retelling a classic Irish fairy tale to explore and celebrate the wonders of the natural world. Might their realness make these creatures all the more magical? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 10 Oct: 3pm) Step into a story carved into Scotland’s landscape and carried through centuries of memory. The Last People on Earth invites you on a powerful journey back almost 2,000 years, to a defining moment in Scotland’s history: the battle of Mons Graupius. A new show by celebrated Scottish storyteller Andy Cannon, who with his trademark warmth and wit breathes life into this ancient encounter between the Caledonians and the unstoppable force of the Roman Empire. The Last People on Earth blends storytelling, original music and the latest archaeological insights to unearth glimpses of truth buried deep in time. What really happened on that distant day? How did this moment shape the story of a nation? Whose voices have endured — and whose have been lost? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 Oct: 6pm) An interactive online introduction to live storytelling and the associated skills. Professional storyteller Franziska Droll leads this participatory session for anyone curious about discovering and developing their own storytelling talent. Let out your inner storyteller and learn to craft your skills! For new and aspiring storytellers, this session will take place live online. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Franziska Droll grew up in the Black Forest, Germany, and later made Scotland her home after falling in love with its stories and people. She has been a storyteller her whole life, but training with the Scottish Storytelling Forum allowed her to turn this passion into a professional craft. Franziska’s stories connect people through humour, warmth, and imagination—each performance unique, engaging, and full of heart – creating bridges between cultures and generations.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Sun 11 Oct: 11am) Join storyteller Ailie Finlay and artist Catherine Lindow from My Kind of Book for sensory stories of birds and animals. Hear tales of happenings in the burrows and bird-boxes, dens and byres of Scotland at night. Join in with the stories, actions and props with lots of things to squish and shake! Then enjoy a relaxed sensory art session inspired by the stories where you'll be making all kinds of dens for your birds and beasties. Fun for everyone but particularly suitable for children with additional needs and their families and friends. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 13, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Oct: 10:30am) Can you craft a story? Professional storytellers Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Ailsa Dixon invite you to fun-filled sessions learning a different iconic Aesop fable every day. Explore stories through games and movement and learn the skills you need to develop your own storycraft. A great introduction to the art of live storytelling for aspiring young tellers aged 7-10 years; pick your favourite story and book for one session or start to really build your repertoire with multiple sessions. Tue 13: The Crow and the PitcherWed 14: The Ant and the GrasshopperThu 15: The Birds, the Beasts and the Bat ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 13 & Wed 14 Oct: 1:30pm) Why are the Ravens gathering? And what is the secret of Ada's past? Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Seven Ravens tells the story of a girl thrust into a dream world of quests, feathers and a glass mountain. Join Ada on a tiny world adventure over an extraordinary hand-felted landscape as she uncovers the secret of the ravens. Director, storyteller, performer and puppeteer Freda O'Byrne uses an eclectic mix of genres to explore the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her Suitcase Stories take audiences into a magical tiny world entirely within a suitcase, reaching out and engaging their imaginations through storytelling and puppetry. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Feathers & Fur: A Fabled Fandango is a tail-wagging, wing-flapping celebration of some of history’s most extraordinary animal heroes. Join storytellers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright for a lively mix of traditional storytelling, song, humour and audience participation as they uncover the remarkable true tales of courageous dogs and heroic pigeons. Meet Laika, the space-travelling dog who reached for the stars, Winkie the pigeon whose actions helped save lives during wartime, and other feathered and furry legends whose bravery, loyalty and determination have often gone unnoticed. Along the way, discover why pigeons may be far cleverer than their reputation suggests, and whether dogs really deserve the title of “man’s best friend”. You are invited to sing along, join in a playful Quiz of Courage, and compete for the chance to earn prestigious honours in the Golden Poop Scoop Awards in a heartwarming, quirky and entertaining adventure celebrating the animals who have worked, served and sometimes saved us without ever asking for the credit. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 11am) Meet cheeky monkeys up to mischief on the Royal Mile, elephants on parade at the Castle and determined dogs whose loyalty made them famous. These fascinating tales, inspired by Edinburgh’s rich past, bring to life some of the city’s most unusual and beloved animal characters. Along the way, children and adults alike will be invited to sing, clap, chant, and join in the storytelling as the adventures unfold. Perfect for families, this interactive show combines history, folklore, storytelling and song in a celebration of Edinburgh’s famous furry friends. Come along, join the fun and discover the animal antics hidden within the streets and stories of Scotland’s capital city! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Fri 16 Oct: 3pm) Don't miss this exclusive two-hour masterclass with internationally acclaimed poet Joelle Taylor! Scotland's premier spoken word night Loud Poets is delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed poet Joelle Taylor to Scotland for their October touring showcases. As part of her tour, Joelle is offering a masterclass in Edinburgh on the theme of worldbuilding. This will be an intimate masterclass limited to 20 participants, so book quickly! Ever wondered where a poem could go when it leaves the page? Join T. S. Eliot Prize-winning poet, author, and playwright Joelle Taylor to explore what new shapes poems can take on, whether they expand into novels, transform into film, or find their final shape in theatre. With writing exercises throughout, participants will experiment with worldbuilding, employing different forms to consider which elements make each distinct, and which most fire their imagination. Suitable for everyone willing to play and take risks. Joelle Taylor is a queer, working class author of six plays, a novel, and four collections of poetry. Her collection C+NTO & Othered Poems won the 2021 T.S. Eliot Prize and the 2022 Polari Book Prize for LGBT authors, and is currently being adapted for the stage. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and the host and co-curator of Out-Spoken, the UK’s premier poetry and music club, currently resident at the Southbank Centre. Her latest collection is Maryville, which spans fifty years in an underground lesbian bar.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 17 Oct) Celebrate international Intangible Cultural Heritage Day with an open-doors day of family fun at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Explore our shared living heritage through story, crafts, dance, music and song with a line-up of come and try workshops and drop-in activity for all ages. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 18 Oct: 2pm) From gifting bears and bearing gifts to Kings, join our young hero Beloved and his Bear on an epic journey and explore our relationship to our feral forefathers. Drawing on Icelandic saga and Scandinavian folktales join storyteller Jan Bee Brown and musician Toby Hawks for some grrreat tales. Family-friendly and dementia-inclusive. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Wed 21 Oct: 6pm) Atop a far-off mountain, birds gather to perch on the fate-shaping hands of an old mountain man – stories stirring in the murmuration, waiting to glide into the human world. In this Harebell Tellers production, traditional storytellers Ailsa Dixon and Ffion Phillips follow the flight paths of bird mythology across ancient Britain; oceans, forests, in and out of this world and that. Weaving together Welsh and Scots language, music and story into a meditative hour of storytelling magic. BSL interpretation by Megan McArthur. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 21 Oct: 8pm) Our Open Hearth sessions gather together storytellers and musicians for a relaxed evening of stories and music in the Netherbow Theatre. As the darkness closes in and minds glow with pictures in the symbolic fire, this is the perfect way to end your day! Featuring Evrim Ölçer Özünel, Ruth Kirkpatrick, Ian Stephen and musician Ceylan Hay (Bell Lungs). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 22 Oct: 10:30am) Often we can become so familiar with the world of the story we are working with, that we forget the layers, the richness and the magic. Choosing to see your story with different eyes can help you find the depth that is hidden in plain sight. Suitable for all levels of storytellers, but please bring a story you know to work with. Led by Shonaleigh. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Thu 22 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This gathering is hosted by Dawne McFarlane, who guides a conversation on storytelling inspired by her book Fairytales, Families and Forests (co-authored with Georgiana Keable). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 22 Oct: 2pm) Join artist Gayle Chong Kwan on an interactive creative restorying session to explore themes in The Great Instauration (2026) her installation in the Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland that explored science as a culturally embedded process shaped by social history, power, and omission. Chong Kwan will share the storytelling at the heart of her practice and recent work, on a journey through research, art, collections and archives. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 22 Oct: 5pm) Join Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi for a journey through traditional Italian myths, legends and stories closely related to the land and nature. Follow the hoofprints of the horses in the Tuscan countryside and the trails of the snakes in the fresh grass of the north, where animals and imaginary beasts populate the daily lives and dreams of people. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 22 Oct: 6:45pm) Traditional Scottish storytelling filled with the spirit of the Fire Horse. Tony Bonning recounts his epic adventure travelling Scotland with his horse, Chief, collecting Kelpie tales along the way, whilst Allison Galbraith shares European and Scottish horse legends and the true story of a local fiery Clydesdale. Join two horse enthusiasts as they take you trekking through time and the mysteries of horse lore. BSL Interpretation by Sarah Forrester. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 22 Oct: 8pm) Join friends from the North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC), who host an open circle of shared songs, stories and camaraderie in the cosy setting of the Waverley Bar. Led by Brian Ó hEadhra, Director of the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland and NASC. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Waverley Bar
(Thu 22 Oct: 8:30pm) By facing the beast, you find out who you really are; only in darkness can you find the strength to open your wings. An interweaving of traditional stories from Shonaleigh’s Drut’syla tradition with Anatolian tales shared by storytellers from Türkiye, Nazlı Çevik Azazi and Roza Erdem. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 10am) *This event is currently sold out. Please check back as more tickets may be released closer to the date.* As the National Theatre of Scotland and the Scottish Storytelling Centre both mark their twentieth anniversaries, this special event brings together artists, academics, cultural leaders, public figures and audiences to explore the relationship between theatre, storytelling, literature and democratic life in Scotland. The event opens with a panel discussion featuring followed by a special in-conversation event with Nicola Sturgeon and Joyce McMillan. Session 1: Lightning Panel and Audience Discussion A panel of invited guests will spark the discussion with 5-minute reflections on the NTS’s 20th Anniversary and Scotland’s culture and democracy today, drawing on their experiences across theatre-making, cultural scholarship, playwrighting and community participation. We will hear from Jackie Wylie (Artistic Director and Co-Chief Executive, National Theatre of Scotland), Steve Byrne (Chief Executive, TRACS Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland), Hannah Lavery (Poet, Playwright and Performer) and Dr Stephanie Lehner (Senior Lecturer, Queen's University Belfast, specialising in culture, conflict and reconciliation). The session will be chaired by Dr Paula Sledzinska (Visiting Research Fellow at IASH). Session 2: Nicola Sturgeon in Conversation with Joyce McMillan Bringing together insights from political leadership, cultural advocacy and critical commentary, this conversation between Nicola Sturgeon and Joyce McMillan will reflect on some of Scotland’s most influential dramatic and literary works, and the ways in which they have shaped Scotland’s civic imagination. It offers a rare opportunity to hear Scotland’s longest-serving First Minister and one of the country’s most respected cultural critics reflect together on the power of dramatic and literary culture to influence national consciousness, foster dialogue and democratic resilience, and contribute to the making of contemporary Scotland. ~~~~~ The public programme forms part of the wider National Theatre of Scotland at 20: Culture, Democracy, and the Stateless Nation Unconference. The event, as well as the planned follow-up parliamentary session, are supported by the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network, Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH), University of Edinburgh, Research Institute of Irish and Scottish Studies (RIISS), University of Aberdeen, LLSETI Research Laboratory at Université Savoie Mont Blanc (Chambéry, France), Stories, Place, and Northern Communities Research Centre (SPeiR), Robert Gordon University, the Scottish Storytelling Centre and the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. ~~~~~ Those interested in participating in the full event including afternoon roundtable discussions are warmly invited to contact the organisers: Dr Paula Sledzinska (p.sledzinska@abdn.ac.uk) and Dr Lauren Brancaz-McCartan (lauren.brancaz-mccartan@univ-smb.fr) by 1st September.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 2pm) Underground in a grassy knoll, three spinsters spin both flax and stories. Storytellers Freya McCall, Sháneen McGurnaghan and Nina Willms incorporate folk tales, songs and historically-inspired stories of women weaving themselves agency alongside the spiders and supernatural sisters who spin fate. Followed by a short discussion. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Fri 23 Oct: 5pm) Step into the wildwood where jewel-like birds flit through gold branches and shadowy beasts observe from the gloaming. A liminal place of transformation, concealment and deep ancestral memories, the forest represents freedom and the untamed spirit. But tread carefully for, at certain times, the veil shimmers to gossamer thin. Presented by storyteller Jess Smith, musician Natasha Burns and dancer Katherine Blyth, with visuals from Aly Robinson. BSL Interpretation by Megan McArthur. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 6:30pm) David Hughes weaves together the Celtic myth of Mad Sweeney and the story of Colin Macleod and the Pollok Free State. These are stories of community and resistance, of transformation and belonging, masculinity and madness, championing those that fight for a radical love of the world. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 8:30pm) The story of a boy, born into difficulties, who would become an artist and scientist of unending fame and influence. Considered strange by many in his small Tuscan village, he must embark on a long physical and spiritual journey to set himself free from prejudice. A poetic and intense story- musical performance about the early years of Leonardo Da Vinci and the endless possibilities of every human when they manage to break free from a predetermined destiny. Created and performed by Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi with original live music from Mario Costanzi. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 24 Oct: 10:30am) A unique opportunity for storytellers and interpreters who wish to make their stories more engaging and accessible for audiences who speak a different language. Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi share their developed method and experience with live story translation in different languages, gathered from 20 years of international experience at festivals around the world. This method can be applied to any language (including sign language) and can provide effective artistic translation for any story performance. Please note, participants should be able to communicate in at least one other language besides English. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sat 24 Oct: 11am) If you could have your own wings to take you anywhere, what would they be like? Join Turkish storyteller, children's author and educator Nazife Burcu Takıl for a joyful, highly interactive family storytelling experience inspired by the colours, songs and traditions that connect us across cultures. Together, you'll create your own magical wings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure through the Tunnel of Rhymes, under the Song Tree and across the shimmering Lake of Colours. Along the way, help shape the story through movement, music, imagination and play, becoming the wind, the rain, the snow and even the changing seasons. Blending English-language storytelling with Turkish words, songs and playful participation, Wings of Colour celebrates kindness, belonging, friendship and the joy of discovering that every colour, every voice and every culture has something wonderful to share. Because when we fly together, our differences become our greatest strength. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct: 2pm) Come together in the Storytelling Centre’s George Mackay Brown Library for an open story circle. Bring a story to share, or just enjoy the flow of what happens. All welcome! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Sat 24 Oct: 3pm) Live traditional Shetland fiddle music, dance an sangs, original short films, traditional craft wark an da spoken wird’ll be ösed bi Shaetlan Scots Scriever Claire White an Robbie Leask ta tell a nuanced story o island life fae da ninth century tae da present day, aa i’da newly-offeeshil Shaetlan language! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct: 5pm) Spend an hour in the company of our guest storytellers from Türkiye, for a session of magical and mythical animal tales from Anatolia. Combining gentle humour, folk wisdom and respect for all creatures, these stories are shared with us for all to enjoy. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 24 Oct: 6:30pm) A centuries-long line of female story keepers lovingly passed thousands of intricately interconnected story cycles through generations, from grandmother to granddaughter, in the Yiddish oral tradition of the Drut’syla. In this special event, Shonaleigh shares fabulous wisdom and wonder tales from her first-ever written collection of some of her Bubbe’s tales, featuring strong and inspiring characters throughout. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 24 Oct: 8:30pm) Join Daiva Ivanauskaitė-Brown on a soaring journey into Lithuania. Blending folklore, family legacy, and history, this performance reveals the untold story of book-smugglers risking everything for their native tongue. Enhanced by UNESCO- honoured ancient polyphonic harmonies from Edinburgh’s Sutartinės singers, human voice and birdsong beautifully blur in an unforgettable celebration of resilience. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 10:30am) A cosy presentation of ancient story, music and instruments, where Riikka Palonen will share stories and folklore from the woodland pastures and cow sheds of Finland, along with the presentation of her own bone craft and the lore behind it. There will also be a rare chance to practice the Nordic cow call “kulning” with Satu Lankinen. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 25 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! Hosted by Donald Smith who guides a conversation inspired by his new book Rewilding Scotland’s Epics (Luath Press), which contains new versions of three of Scotland’s mythological cycles, which reach far into our past but are alive in our landscape and culture today. Why should we tap these older layers and how should they be approached in contemporary performance? ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sun 25 Oct: 12:30pm & 2pm) Rewilding Scotland’s Epics restores the natural power and connection of our oldest storytelling cycles through live contemporary retellings. The Columba Cycle moves between Ireland and Scotland, Erin and Alba, connecting sea and land, exile and discovery, in spiritual and emotional pathways. Part One begins with Columba or Colmcille’s wondrous birth through tragic conflict to exile, and the voyage to Iona and Scotland. Inspiration and struggle combine. Part Two goes with Columba’s restless journeys from Iona including through the Great Glen, to Skye, and one unexpected return to Ireland. Then comes the final voyage into mystery and light. With Marion Kenny, Donald Smith and Heather Yule. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 4:30pm) In the time of creation, when God the Father designed people, Mother Earth also wanted to create something in her own image. So she composed a Cow. Stories about cows, women and resilience from the forests of Finland and the shielings of Scotland, performed by Finnish born storyteller Riikka Palonen, accompanied by Satu Lankinen who brings traditional herding songs and ancient instruments directly from Finland. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 6:30pm) Birds have a healthy disregard for borders, passports and visas. Like stories, they can travel where humans can’t so easily go. Join Muslim storyteller Jumana Moon and storyteller-musician Dawud Duncan, as they unlock the wisdom held in Farid al-Din Attar’s classical Farsi masterpiece, The Conference of the Birds, blending it with traditional Scottish music and masterful storytelling. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 8pm) A powerful exploration of how stepdance, Scotland’s percussive dance, was lost… and how its revival became woven into a lifelong friendship. Experience a compelling journey across centuries of tradition told through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in an immersive performance which draws you in to the heart of our heritage. Deiseil means 'ready' in Scottish Gaelic: be ready for a mesmerising reflection on how issues of culture, identity and connection still resonate through society today. Groundbreaking work from award-winning director Gerry Mulgrew, dancer Alison Carlyle and musician Amy Geddes. For this performance Amy and Alison will be joined by musicians Mairi Campbell, Fin Moore and Sarah Hoy. A force of nature and soul, Mairi’s voice has stirred hearts across the globe. Mairi Campbell is a Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame inductee, with numerous national and international awards to her name. Deeply personal, politically resonant, and artistically fearless, Mairi’s work reaches into cultural memory and lived experiences. Find out more at mairicampbell.scot. Fin Moore plays the Highland pipes, Border pipes and Scottish Small Pipes and is also a very successful pipemaker. Fin also has a reputation as a teacher of pipes, and runs exciting music retreats through Far North Retreats. He has played solo and with bands including, InB, Seudan, Dannsa, Slainte Mhath and Back of the Moon. Sarah Hoy was born into a musical family in Edinburgh, learning fiddle from her father Derek Hoy, and later with Mairi Campbell. Sarah enjoys playing with Bella McNab’s Dance Band, her favourite place to be is playing for dancing! Sarah is now a primary teacher in the Gaelic Medium primary school in Edinburgh and enjoys teaching fiddle each week through Portobello Fun Fiddle. ‘This is the most joyful show I’ve seen so far this Fringe.’ ★★★★★ (Scotsman)★★★★★ (AllEdinburghTheatre.com) ~~~~~ The Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. All across Scotland we invite you to discover stories that illuminate the place of birds and beasts in our traditions, folklore, myths and futures. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, festival partners in Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond will bring these tales to life through performances, conversations and music. The 2026 Festival welcomes special guest storytellers from Italy and Türkiye, as well as Canada, England, and Ireland, sharing traditions and stories passed down through generations. Join us for unforgettable tales, inspiring music and moments that bring us closer to nature. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Mon 26 Oct: 2pm) Join Bulgarian storyteller Nana Tomova as she shares mesmerising tales stretching back to ancient Thracian times, from a land rich with myth and magic. Hear how the first bear came to be; how a horned mother cow tends to a grieving daughter and how a duck waves her wings to help those in need. Spend an hour with one of Bulgaria’s leading storytellers as she celebrates the launch of her book Bulgarian Folk Tales (The History Press). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Mon 26 Oct: 5pm) Water moves through all things; rivers run overland to the sea, rain rises into the clouds and oceans are highways. In this artistically crafted piece, Peter Chand and Kirsten Milliken seamlessly blend stories, songs and folklore, from their respective Indian and Scottish traditions about lake nymphs, enchanted waves, hidden realms and the waters connecting us all. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 26 Oct: 6:30pm) Gather roon the fire for an evening of stories and sangs inspired by the legacy of Traveller tradition-bearer Stanley Robertson. Through traditional tales, songs learned directly from Stanley, and new musical responses, Sheena Blackhall, Jackie Ross and Arwen Scott celebrate birds, beasts, memory, heritage and Scotland’s living storytelling traditions. BSL Interpretation by Sarah Forrester. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 26 Oct: 8:30pm) The ancient Greek myth Psyche (spirit, breath, soul) and Eros (god of desirous love) is so full of wisdom it has been called a new map of love. With every moment of despair, help comes from the natural world; the humble ant, the mighty eagle, the great shepherd god Pan. With storyteller Dawne McFarlane and musicians Maryem Tollar and Sophia Grigoriadis. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 27 Oct: 10:30am) The ancient Greek myth Psyche and Eros is full of timeless wisdom that is relevant now. This interactive workshop invites participants into the story with serious playfulness. Dawne McFarlane will lead gentle movement, telling and drawing exercises that you can continue creating with, whilst musicians Maryem Tollar and Sophia Grigoriadis invite us to expand our imagination beyond words. Explore moments of ancient wisdom and how they resonate with you now.. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 27 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This story and craft gathering is hosted by Beth Cross, who will share stories and experiences from her wonderful Sea Story Quilting project. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 27 Oct: 5pm) Join storyteller and BSL Storytelling Coordinator Tania Allan with BSL Storytelling Apprentices for stories of Birds and Beasts performed live in British Sign Language. Immerse yourself in the visual language and watch as their stories come to life. An opportunity to find out more about the BSL apprentices and their storytelling journeys. With English interpretation from Sula Brookes. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 27 Oct: 6:30pm) Dive into an atmospheric forest-scape exploring shared folklore between the Black Forest and Scottish Highlands. Through evocative music, storytelling, and audience interaction, this multidisciplinary performance from Franziska Droll and Mollie Davis conjures mythical white stags, cryptic birds, and morphing shape-shifters, questioning what happens to our legends when the wild goes silent. With BSL interpretation from Megan McArthur. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 27 Oct: 8:30pm) Our Open Hearth sessions gather together storytellers and musicians for a relaxed evening of stories and music in the Netherbow Theatre. As the darkness closes in and minds glow with pictures in the symbolic fire, this is the perfect way to end your day! Featuring Bea Ferguson, Tom Muir, Sinéad O’Brien and musician Maryem Tollar. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 28 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This gathering is hosted by Orcadian storyteller Tom Muir, who will discuss the supernatural hogboons that dwell in the mounds of Orkney and Norway. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Wed 28 Oct: 2pm) Puppet State Theatre Company’s The Man Who Planted Trees ran from 2006 to 2022 touring worldwide, clocking up over 1,800 performances telling the story of Elzéard Bouffier and his famously loquacious dog, Dog. Now, to mark the show’s 20th anniversary, Richard Medrington and Rick Conte return to their favourite venue, alongside Puppet State’s Elspeth Murray. Expect reminiscences, audience questions, favourite bits, and touring stories. Pssst - he’s still in the basket! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Wed 28 Oct: 5pm, 6:45pm & 8:30pm) Rewilding Scotland’s Epics restores the natural power and connection of our oldest storytelling cycles through live contemporary retellings. The Ossian Cycle brings Fionn, Gráinne, Diarmuid, Ossian, Niamh and many others to passionate life, in a space between magic and mayhem, mystery and full-blooded emotion. In Part One, deer, salmon and hounds transform to weave the guiding patterns of the cycle in the lives of the Fianna fellowship. In Part Two, the quest for the cup of healing, and the pull of the sea, take the Ossian cycle into new dimensions of beauty and danger. In Part Three, the wooing of Gráinne and the Boar of Ben Gulban dramatically break Fianna forever, but Niamh pits her island of the ever-young against the tragic pull of earth and home. With Gráinne Holland, David Hughes, Martin MacIntyre, Sinéad O’Brien and Donald Smith. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 29 Oct: 10:30am) Join Lauren Bianchi for an experiential storytelling session full of games, songs and stories to take away with you and build your practice and repertoire. This session is suitable for storytellers and creatives working with children and adults and will delve into the rich storytelling heritage of Scotland and beyond to find the birds and beasts to build your stories and sessions around. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Thu 29 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This story and dance gathering is hosted by Fergus McNicol, who will get our tail feathers moving! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 29 Oct: 2pm) Led by BSL Storytelling Coordinator Tania Allan, this event welcomes Deaf History Scotland to share insights into its archive and the Seed Corn project, which uses tangible historical objects to inspire Deaf people to share their memories and experiences through storytelling. This in turn helps to preserve and celebrate Scotland’s Deaf history, heritage and culture. With English interpretation from Sula Brookes. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 29 Oct: 5pm) Tradition accrues and is transformed through relational and referential encounters, both anticipated and unanticipated, between uncertain and precarious human and more-than- human lives. Amid displacement, migration, and the loss of languages and species, Dr. Tiber Falzett (Head of Irish Folklore in the School of Irish, Celtic Studies and Folklore, University College Dublin) asks what these ways of knowing carry, and what is lost when the voices that carried them fall silent. Presented in memory of Scottish scholar Alan Bruford in partnership with the University of Edinburgh’s Department of Celtic and Scottish Studies. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 29 Oct: 7pm) Bologna’s Fraternal Compagnia APS presents the myth of Dedalus and Icarus, reinterpreted in Dario Fo and Franca Rame’s distinctive ironic style as a timeless tale of rebellion and a satire of power. Gabriel Bird’s jester-like theatrical performance explores the conflict between generations, the limitations of human nature, and the desire for freedom and escape through ingenuity. Presented in special recognition of the centenary of Nobel Prize winner Dario Fo. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 29 Oct: 8:30pm) In the far North, on the isle of North Ronaldsay, seaweed- eating feral sheep roam the coastline, hemmed between groond and watter by a 13-kilometer dry stane dyke. Storyteller Ailsa Dixon draws out tales from old tape recorders – historic, personal and folkloric – that have built this sheep dyke, shaped by countless hooves, hands and storms over centuries. With live fiddle music from Kirsty Harrison. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 30 Oct: 10:30am) A special opportunity to learn some of the history and practice of Commedia dell’Arte with Bologna’s famous Fraternal Compagnia APS. Originating in Padua in 1545, Commedia dell’Arte is the Italian theatrical tradition which utilises body expression, improvisation, mask work, physical awareness and theatrical storytelling skills to create a relationship between performers and spectators. Explore the roots of Italian theatre and folk storytelling and discover techniques to help develop a relationship with your audience in this ancient, but fully relevant, artform. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Fri 30 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This gathering is hosted by Dr Robert Fell from Art27 Scotland in partnership with community-led organisation Rajpot, who share their cultural rights-based work with Nacken (Scottish Gypsy Traveller) storytellers and artists from across Scotland. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Fri 30 Oct: 2pm) Join Màiri Britton on a virtual visiting tour of Nova Scotian Gaelic tradition-bearers. For eight years, Màiri and colleagues have worked on the Cainnt is Ceathramhan/Language in Lyrics project, creating an index of 7,000 Gaelic songs and re- cataloguing and transcribing the remarkable Cape Breton Gaelic Folklore Collection. Through performance and guided listening, Màiri will share some of her favourite songs and stories from the collections. Followed by a song-circle led by Brian Ó hEadhra from the North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Fri 30 Oct: 5pm) Follow the journey of our heroine, who dreams three times of a magic island filled with treasure, so journeys there only to hear stories of nature’s struggles from an eagle, a salmon and a deer. Cara Silversmith explores biodiversity loss and its impact on our mental health, trying to find connection in a disconnected and fragile world. With live music from Ceit Langhorne. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 30 Oct: 6:45pm) Eadar Naomh Brìghde agus am brìdean, agus an eala mar shamhla air birlinn MhicNèill, tha eòin air a bhith aig cridhe traidiseanan beul-aithris na Gàidhlig bho chionn fhada. Bidh Nuair bha Gàidhlig aig na h-Eòin a’ fighe òrain thraidiseanta is ùra ri chèile le ceilearadh nan eun is ceòl. Air a stiùireadh le Màiri Nic ’IlleMhaoil còmhla ri Alana NicAonghais (pìob), Pàdruig Moireasdan (bogsa), Shona Mhoireasdan (fidheall) agus Gillebrìde Mac ’IlleMhaoil (seinn). From St Brigid and the oystercatcher to the swan as a symbol for MacNeil’s galley, birds have long been central to Gaelic folklore traditions. Nuair a Bha Gàidhlig aig na h-Eòin weaves traditional and original songs with bird calls and music. Led by Màiri MacMillan with Alana MacInnes (pipes), Pàdruig Morrison (accordion), Shona Morrison (fiddle) and Gillebrìde MacMillan (voice). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 30 Oct: 7:30pm) A Bird and Beast themed festival Samhuinn special of Edinburgh’s long-running storytelling night. Join us for a open session of stories, led by host Beverley Bryant. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Waverley Bar
(Fri 30 Oct: 8:30pm) Brazilian artists Giulia Drummond and Mario Caribé present a ritualistic performance of music and stories of the Orishas, Yoruba deities who personify the forces of nature and timeless human archetypes. The cult of the Orishas was brought to Brazil by the enslaved Yoruba people and it endured all the oppression and violence of slavery. These spiritual traditions are filled with joy and music: chanting, drumming, dancing. It’s the music that conducts each stage of a ritual. And so this performance is designed with a ritualistic structure, following a traditional xirê - sequence in which the Orishas are saluted, sung and danced in the Gira. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am) Join storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham against the backdrop of her Folkloria! exhibition for a wonderful morning of stories, crafting and mask-making to celebrate Samhuinn. Come in the Halloween spirit and be prepared to get crafty before parading your new masks around the Storytelling Centre and out into Edinburgh’s Old Town. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am) A playful, sensory, movement- based workshop co-led by storyteller Inés Álvarez Villa and Deaf BSL storyteller Tania Allan. Drawing on Inés’s embodied storytelling practice and teaching, and her six editions at the Edinburgh Horror Festival, alongside Tania’s visual storytelling techniques and the tradition of ghost storytelling within Deaf culture, the workshop explores how suspense and dread are built through silence, gesture, and atmosphere as much as through words. Using props, vibration and sensory experiences, Deaf and hearing participants alike will explore how embodied storytelling builds confidence, creativity and connection while bringing spooky tales to life. BSL and English interpretation will be provided throughout. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sat 31 Oct: 1pm) An open conversation and social space, to explore the networks and ideas that connect us. Led by the Scottish Storytelling Forum, this is a chance to reflect together on this year’s festival and harness energy for future ideas, projects and stories. BSL interpretation by Emmy Kauling. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 4pm) Welcome to the world of Commedia dell’Arte and the great characters of Italian theatrical tradition, including Pantalone, Il Dottore, the Captains and the Lovers. Through improvisation, pantomime, and the use of traditional masks, this performance from Bologna’s Fraternal Compagnia APS explores universal themes of love, power, poverty, and human nature, breaking down any barrier between performers and the audience. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 31 Oct: 6pm) A re-imagining of the Battle of the Birds by storyteller Owen Pilgrim brings out a darker side of the story, drawing on the original tale and inspired by elements from esoteric Scottish folklore and history and woven with Traveller stories of the Devil and his trickery. Featuring a unique live soundtrack by sound artist Gordon Cameron. BSL Interpretation by Sarah Forrester. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 31 Oct: 8pm) Our Open Hearth sessions gather together storytellers and musicians for a relaxed evening of stories and music in the Netherbow Theatre. As the darkness closes in and minds glow with pictures in the symbolic fire, this is the perfect way to end your day! Featuring Harp and Carp (Daniel Serridge and Neil Wood), Morvern Graham and Marjolein Robertson. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 2 Nov: 6.30pm) Join us to celebrate Fair Saturday 2026 at their Launch Party! Featuring live performances, time to mingle and chat and lots of opportunities to get involved. Catch The Salty Scrimshaws, featuring Scotland's Shanty Queen Joss Cameron and first Mate Amy Dudley, a vibrant duo who weave captivating maritime tales and melodies that celebrate the essence of Scotland's coastal waters. With their unique blend of rich harmonies and traditional storytelling, The Salty Scrimshaws transport their listeners to the windswept shores and bustling ports of Scotland and make every performance a memorable experience. Enjoy a storytelling performance from Niall Moorjani, a Scottish-Indian writer and storyteller based in Edinburgh. They write for both children and adults, but at the core of all their work are themes of hope, joy and kindness. They have performed at festivals all over the world including Edinburgh Fringe, Scottish International Storytelling Festival, Kathakar International Storytelling Festival (Delhi), Brighton Fringe Festival and many more… Haggis, neeps and tatties and soft drinks will be provided, with the Haggis Box Café also open for bar service. We hope you will join us! Fair Saturday Edinburgh is kindly supported by the City of Edinburgh Council.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tu 3-Fri 6 Nov: 7:30pm) How much would you pay for a white painting? Would it matter who the painter was? Would it be “art”? Serge has just bought a very expensive painting. It’s about five feet by four, all white with white diagonal lines. To his friend Marc, the painting is a joke. To Serge, this merely proves that Marc is an intellectual who cannot understand art. Their friend Yvan tries and fails to placate both sides as he gets pulled into the stand-off. Lines are drawn, and what began as a disagreement over a piece of art soon escalates into something that could destroy both their friendship and the painting. Christopher Hampton’s translation of Yasmina Reza’s stage play had its British premiere at Wyndham's Theatre, London in 1996. It won Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Comedy, and New York Drama Critics' Circle and Tony Awards for Best Play. 'Anyone looking for a play that is funny, sophisticated, stylish, stimulating and moving should go to Art.' (Independent)'A remarkably wise, witty and intelligent comedy. Art has touched a universal nerve.' (Times)
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 4 Nov: 6:30pm) One of Scotland’s oldest forms of traditional craft, highlands thatching is also one of the most critically endangered with only a handful of practitioners remaining. Join us online with Master Thatcher and Drystone Dyker Brian Wilson and his former apprentice Troy Holt to gain insight into the world of this precarious craft and the efforts to preserve it. Accompanying this conversation will be Ali Davey, Project Manager for Traditional Skills and Materials at Historic Environment Scotland (HES). With limited pathways to acquiring building conversation skills like thatching, HES supports paid training opportunities, including Troy’s 18-month Craft Fellowship with Brian. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). TRACS and HES are members of the ICH Scotland Partnership.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Fri 6 Nov-Sun 6 Dec) This exhibition by painter Alexander Moffat marks the centenary of Hugh MacDiarmid’s visionary poem A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle. First published in 1926, 2026 marks the centenary of the poem, an epic work written in MacDiarmid’s synthetic Scots that would prove a landmark in the story of modern Scottish literature. Alexander Moffat’s paintings range from 1978 when he made drawings of the poet in his home at Brownsbank Cottage near Biggar and continue into the present with paintings of MacDiarmid and his close colleagues from the Borders, William Johnstone and Francis George Scott. The three ‘Border Guards’ launched the Scottish Renaissance of the early 1920s and beyond. F G Scott was not only MacDiarmid’s schoolteacher in Langholm, he was the originator of the idea of a drunk man looking at a thistle and assisted with the editing and final structure of the poem. Born in Dunfermline, Alexander Moffat studied at Edinburgh College of Art from 1960 to 64. Alongside his friend John Bellany, Moffat emerged as one of the Scottish Realists, so-called because of their social awareness and rejection of the decorative principles that defined much Scottish art during the first half of the 20th century. Moffat was particularly close to the poet Hugh MacDiarmid and his literary circle. From 1979 Moffat taught at Glasgow School of Art where he encouraged a new generation of Scottish figurative painters including Peter Howson, Ken Currie and Steven Campbell.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 8 Nov: 10:30am) Working in the traditional arts can be exceptionally rewarding, but it also comes with pressures that aren't always easy to talk about: financial uncertainty, irregular work, time away from home, the blurred line between identity and output, and an industry that often expects you to keep going regardless. This workshop with Jen Anderson is a space to step back and look at those realities honestly. We'll consider some of the wellbeing challenges specific to working as a traditional artist, share experiences, and explore practical approaches to looking after yourself and each other within the sector. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland. Part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2026. ~~~~~ Jen Anderson is the founder of The Bothy Society, a music company working within traditional and folk music in Scotland, and a live booking agent for Apex Music. For over 20 years in the industry, she has worked as a tour manager, promoter, A&R, label manager, and head of business affairs, in roles at Live Nation, Universal Music, Back Yard Music, Machine Management, and Sound Travels Live. Alongside her industry work, Jen is a Senior Lecturer and Module Leader at pointblank music school, where she has taught for 14 years. She is a trained MHFA Mental Health First Aider and a Help Musicians Mentor, and chairs The BIT Collective, a Scottish charity working towards gender equity in traditional and folk music. She also sits on the boards of the Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland).
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Tue 10 Nov: 7pm) What is a producer? How do they choose the stories they work with? How can storytellers get involved, or develop their own producing skills? Find the answers to these and many more burning questions at this interactive session with Naomi. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Naomi Wilds is the founder and lead producer of storytelling production company Adverse Camber Productions. Join her online and find out more about the work they do.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Sat 14 Nov: 11am) An exploration into new ways of practice-led approaches to folklore scholarship with artist Lucy Wright, whose work sits at the intersection of sculpture, performance, and research. In this skills session suitable for both artists and researchers with an interest in folklore and traditional practices, gain insight into the creative methodologies behind Wright’s projects that often emerge from years of study into under-recognised and female-led traditions, situated where folklore, feminism and social practice meet. The morning will conclude with an informal folklore walk, looking for aspects of folklife happening right on our doorsteps. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). Lucy Wright is a ‘hedge morris dancer’, author of the Folk is a Feminist Issue manifesta, and originator of ‘Dusking’, a 100% invented tradition and annual participatory project for anyone who has ever wanted to dance the sun down! Lucy’s work explores and reframes folk as a critical agent for contemporary resistance, speaking to the culture we create for ourselves and its radical potential. Through ongoing interventions in and with existing folk practices, and the playful invention of incisive new ones, her work encourages viewers to reimagine what kind of traditions we need to create today, for living together on a divided planet.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
Sat 13 June 2026 (2pm), Fri 20 Nov 2026 (7:30pm) Drawing on his family’s Holocaust history, his own experience of disability, and Rudolf Steiner’s Philosophy of Freedom, Iddo Oberski weaves a deeply personal journey with his onstage (puppet) counterpart, Svjetlana, a dialogue that constantly surprises and reveals new layers of understanding. In Balancing in Freedom, Iddo fuses storytelling, movement, puppetry, visual art, music, spoken word, magic, and philosophy into a living artwork that shifts between intimacy and spectacle, exploring what it means to be human, and our ongoing search for freedom, connection, and meaning. Just as you think you know where it’s heading, the performance transforms again, surprising, thought-provoking, and always engaging. Following a sold-out, standing-ovation premiere at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Balancing in Freedom returns to the stage in 2026. Moving, insightful, and unlike any other show, it invites every audience member to take away something unique and personal. After each performance, audiences are invited to take part in a 30-minute facilitated discussion. Written and performed by Iddo Oberski, co-direction and creative mentorship by Mark Kydd. BSL interpreted Fri 20 Nov 7:30pm, interpretation by Rachel Amey. 'Exquisite beyond words.''Your presentation was a most profound and deeply moving one. You managed to combine heart-serious content with art, humour and entertainment.' 'I was struck by your powerful story and the way you told it.' Funded by Creative Scotland. Sponsored by the Authentic Artist Collective and the Salisbury Centre.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 21 Nov: 10:30am) A hands-on, practical introduction to live storytelling and the associated skills. Storyteller Alice Fernbank leads this participatory session for anyone curious about discovering and developing their own storytelling talent. Let out your inner storyteller and learn to craft your skills. For new and aspiring storytellers. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Alice Fernbank has been an active part of the Scottish storytelling community for over a decade, appearing in school events, theatres, and festivals including SISF and Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Her work has taken her abroad to festivals in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and most recently to Palabras al Vuelo Festival on Lanzerote. She regularly leads story walks around Edinburgh, sharing the legends and histories of the city with travellers from across the globe. Nurturing others in the art of storytelling is a passion of Alice’s and she has acted as mentor and story coach to many emerging storytellers. Listening closely and responding with energising feedback to reveal a storyteller’s unique, authentic expression is key to Alice’s approach.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Tue 24 Nov: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sun 29 Nov: 11am) Join crafter and storyteller Beth Cross where tales from her Story Quilts will come alive. Choose the story you want to hear, be it dragons, brave adventurers, sea monsters or a cheeky monkey, then draw your own story images for the next generation of story quilt magic! ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 6 Dec: 12pm) Get in the festive spirit with this beginner-friendly, drop-in basket weaving workshop. Spend an afternoon with professional basketmaker Anna Corbett learning the basic weaving skills and make your own small decorations to take home or give as gifts, just in time for the holidays. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). After many years of organic gardening, Anna Corbett brings her love of plants and respect for the natural world to her current practice of string making and basketry. She works almost entirely with plants local to where she lives in Northumberland, using cultivated and wild plant fibres and organic matter. Anna is a member of the Basketmakers’ Association, Scottish Basketmakers’ Circle and the Northumbria Basketry Group.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 9 Dec: 7pm) Nights are growing long and dark. Cold nips the air. It’s time to braid our evergreen circle - time to join the Burgh Blatherers for their Winter Warmer. Members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club present a heartfelt season finale to their year of storytelling ceilidhs and fan the embers of the year into flame of warming cheer and conviviality. Sit back and enjoy!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is our podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in recent festivals. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So join us for Another Story... Available wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us by liking and subscribing so you don’t miss an episode! Listen Here
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
(Sun 8 Nov: 12pm - 3pm) - Please note this event has been cancelled, we will hope to reschedule in the near future Musicians Claire Gullan and Kirstie McLanaghan return to host another fantastic TAM Session, the collaborative project that combines two of their passions - playing trad music and arts & crafting. The TAM Sessions is an open and informal trad session, but with the lovely additional invitation to bring your sewing, knitting, crochet, or any other crafting project that you enjoy. Being able to play an instrument is not a pre-requisite and we welcome non-musicians to enjoy the tunes while they craft. In the same vein, please come along for a tune even if you don’t craft. Everyone is welcome! The driving factor behind this project is joy. A joyful experience has a direct, positive impact on our mental health. Community building through creative arts also creates a real sense of belonging and connectedness. Proficiency is not important, just come along and enjoy! ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
(Fri 11-Sun 27 Sep) Anne Dignan is a multidisciplinary artist who is visually impaired. This exhibition explores a body of her photographic prints, alongside interactive, accessible versions for audiences to enjoy: through touch and audio descriptions. This series of works is supported by and in collaboration with Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 18 Sep: 7:30pm) Award-winning Gaelic singer and musician Maggie MacInnes performs contemporary arrangements of songs from a previously unreleased archive recorded by her mother and great traditional singer from the island of Barra, Flora MacNeil MBE. The archive of around 180 songs was recorded in the 1950s and 60s by an Australian folklorist, the late Dr James Kalokerinos, and includes many rare gems alongside some of the many traditional songs which Flora helped to popularise. With the assistance of Creative Scotland, Maggie has put together contemporary arrangements of some of these songs in a show which pays tribute to Flora and to other tradition-bearers who passed on the songs to her as she was growing up. Accompanying Maggie will be some of Scotland’s finest musicians including Wendy Weatherby (cello); Dan Brown (keyboards); Alex Palmer (percussion), Ailis Sutherland (pipes, whistle and flute) and Maggie’s son, Calum Park (guitar, fiddle and backing vocals). The show was first performed at Glasgow's Celtic Connections Festival in January 2026 to great acclaim. Since then Maggie has released an album of the songs from the show, Uisegan Bharraigh (Barra Skylarks), and recently toured in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 19 Sep: 9:30am) This workshop with Dijana Zorić will upskill professional storytellers in the effective communication of their skills and services to current and potential clients, whether cultural, tourist or private sector, in domestic or international markets. Participants will receive practical guidelines on how to develop business proposals, pricing models and other creative and operational formats essential for successful, sustainable and transparent professional practice. The aim of the workshop is to support storytellers in the market-oriented professionalisation of their services and in building long-term, strong and loyal relationships with clients and audiences. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Dijana Zorić is a storyteller, storytelling mentor, licensed tourist guide and heritage interpreter. A member of FEST and Interpret Europe, and the founder and director of Croatia’s first storytelling centre, StoryLab, and the first Croatian Storytelling Academy (programmes accredited by NSN). She specialises in business storytelling, storytelling in tourism and storytelling as a performing art. As a mentor, creator and interpreter of storytelling content, she collaborates with Croatian and European business companies, tourism boards, and educational and cultural institutions, for which she designs educational programmes and training courses. She is initiator and director of STORYing, the first international storytelling festival in Croatia.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Sat 19 Sep: 10:30am) Join multi-instrumentalist and producer Tom Oakes for a practical workshop on recording and releasing your music, from initial concept to final release. This workshop will guide you through each stage of the process, highlighting where you can save money, where it pays to invest, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Tom will share insightful and helpful tips, and examples of what works (and what doesn’t), helping you navigate your own recording project with greater confidence and clarity. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland. ~~~~~ 2019 Scots Trad Awards ‘Musician of the Year’ nominee Tom Oakes is one of the UK’s top flautists and multi-instrumentalists, as well as a sound designer, composer, producer, educator and label owner. Tom is known widely for his work with Shetland fiddler Ross Couper, genre-bending pan-Finnish act The Auvo Quartet, Scottish power trio OBT, and a new project with Scottish multi-instrumentalist Ali Hutton and award-winning London-Irish fiddler Matt Tighe, as well as his increasing profile as a solo performer. His album Water Street (2022) received global airplay and was long-listed for the 2022 MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, while his solo show The Hearth premiered at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe and was shortlisted for ‘Best New Work’ at the 2023 awards.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 19 Sep: 7:30pm) The LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year Competition is back for 2026, showcasing some of the most exciting emerging talent on the LGBTQ+ comedy scene. Expect a fantastic evening of stand-up comedy as a new generation of LGBTQ+ comedians take to the stage, competing for a coveted place in the next round of the UK's leading LGBTQ+ comedy competition. From first-time performers to rising stars, you'll see a diverse line-up of fresh voices, original perspectives and big laughs. More than just a comedy show, this is your chance to help shape the future of LGBTQ+ comedy. Audience members play a vital role in the competition, voting alongside the judges to decide which acts progress to the next stage. Since launching in 2019, LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year has helped discover and showcase some of the brightest new talents in UK comedy, with past finalists and winners going on to perform at major festivals, headline shows and appear on television and radio. Whether you're a dedicated comedy fan, looking for a great night out, or keen to support LGBTQ+ artists, this is the perfect opportunity to catch tomorrow's comedy stars before they hit the big time. Watch, laugh and vote for your favourites on the search for the next LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year. Presented by Comedy Bloomers. LINEUP MCSam LakeHEADLINEREva Peroni ACTSLuke Stewart - 'Every line headbutts the audience with a cheeky staccato assuredness' (British Comedy Guide)Caroline Gustafsson - Just a weird lil guy.Dean T. Beirne - 'So likable and funny, a future star.' (Larry Dean, SNL UK)Jack Simmonds - Working-class comedian from Manchester. Mums love him, dads want him.Louise Creechan - So smart, yet so stupid: booksmart but dyslexic.Marina Smith - Offbeat stand-up comedian with an alternative sensibility.Matthew Hayhow - 'Fearless, sharp and utterly hilarious.' (One4Review)Phoebe LaReine - Internationally ignored, locally tolerated, this queen is here to overshare.Pheebs Stephenson - 'Great energy… likeable and quirky.' (The Stand Comedy Club)Saoirse O'Hooligan - '...exploring the most curious comedy corners.' (British Comedy Guide)Scout Robertson - A wee cow trapped in a big guy's body.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 20 Sep: 10:30am) - PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL EARLY 2027 Storytellers are invited to the Scottish Storytelling Forum's Development Day 2026 at SSC for a full day of workshops, networking, presentations and discussion.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Tues 17 Mar, 5 May, 16 Jun, 22 Sep & 17 Nov: 2pm) Join friends from the Scots Music Group for an afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories, held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. All welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 25 Sep: 7:30pm) Follow the sound of the fiddle and step into a world of enchanted tunes, fairy dances, mysterious musicians and melodies that cannot be resisted. Join guest storyteller David Francis to journey through wild revels and otherworldly rhythms in an evening of tales where music has the power to beguile, transform and carry us between worlds. Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 26 Sep: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! This Lughnasadh, we welcome you under the full moon with a wonderful lineup of storytellers featuring Mio Shudo and Shona Cowie with Claire McNicol and Linda Williamson. Celebrate the turn of the year into longer and darker nights! The Harvest Moon of Lughnasadh features international, living legends together with multicultural lunar tales from Ireland, Scotland and Japan. Occurring nearest the Autumn Equinox with its unusually bright, prolonged light, this full Moon would allow for communal harvesting and was traditionally called the Singing Moon. Under this special moon, stories and songs will be woven through with deep harmony and joy, a blessing for abundant and fruitful harvests. Let your heart lead and connect with the moonlight of love, memory and tradition. Honouring harvest festivals across the world, please join us for Japanese green tea or Scottish autumn herbal tea in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court following the theatre performance! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Sun 27 Sep: 12pm) Celebrate harvest time creatively, learning the seasonal craft of straw work with expert Elaine Lindsay from Something Corny. Discover this endangered tradition during this drop-in, hands-on afternoon and leave with your own hand-made corn dollies. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). A straw worker for over 40 years, Elaine Lindsay breathes life into this heritage practice she used to hear about from her grandfather, a farm labourer around her native Inverurie. She is an expert hand at crafting traditional corn dollies as well as her own contemporary designs, believing that while we must remember where the craft came from, it is so important to push the craft forward if it is to continue into the future. Elaine joined the Guild of Straw Craftsmen in 1989 and achieved a Craftsman Award with them in 1999. She is a founding member of the Scottish Straw Workers as well as a member of the National Association of Wheat Weavers and the California Straw Arts Guild in the US.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fortnightly on Mondays: 7pm) Join us for fist-thumping, pint-drinking, side-tickling, award-winning poetry! Loud Poets invite poets to share their work at their regular open mic, now taking place at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court. All styles of poetry are welcome and with a different feature performer every time, this event offers a supportive, creative environment for all. Doors will open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start with two short intervals, wrapping up around 9.30pm. Loud Poets will be managing sign-ups. To sign up to perform, please fill out the sign-up form for the date on which you'd like to perform. This form will close one week before the event, after which they will email you to let you know if you have a guaranteed performance spot. Two spots are always left open to be filled by random draw from poets who sign up on the door. Slots are five minutes and poets are welcome to perform as many or few poems as you would like within that time. You are welcome to go under the five minutes, but please do not go over out of respect to your fellow performers. A message from Loud Poets about this event:"At our open mic and all of our events, we endeavour to create a safe, welcoming space for all to attend and share their work. We ask performers to be respectful of the diversity of our experiences. We do not tolerate any forms of discrimination and harassment. Don't punch down. Performers and attendees who violate this policy will be asked to leave." The Loud Poets Open Mic is organised by I Am Loud CIC, through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding. It is produced and hosted by Mark Gallie.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 3 Oct-Sun 1 Nov) Storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham presents an immersive exhibition of prints and illustrations that reinterpret traditional folklore, revealing the magic hidden within familiar landscapes. Encounter worlds inhabited by selkies, unseen beings, and folklore-inspired characters, all shaped by the land and sea of Scotland’s eastern coast, with original artwork taken from Morvern’s new book Seasonal Folktales. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sun 4 Oct: 10:30am & Sun 8 Nov: 2pm) Our lives are stitched with stories. Each of us imagines a story in our own unique way. None more so than children. This project by storyteller Beth Cross provides a quiet informal space for stitching into life children's drawings of stories imprinted on a quilt. Come for the chat and stories, add some stitches, no experience or prior skill required. The quilt currently being worked bears drawings that children of Tiree drew from a session of sea stories. The illustrated quilts provide a place for further children to sit for story sessions adding their own contributions to this living ever evolving record of how stories thread through our lives. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 4 Oct: 11am) RESCHEDULED FROM JUNE 2026 Jyne award-winnin nor’east folk sangster Ellie Beaton fur a blithesome reenge throu tradeitional Aiberdeenshire ballants fae the Greig-Duncan Folk Sang Collection. Uisin sic routhie resoorces, fowk takkin pairt wull fin oot mair aboot the airt o gaitherin folk sangs, alang wi the distinct ornamentation an style o thon pairt o the kintra. Pit on bi the Tradeitional Music Forum o Scotland. Join North-East folk singer Ellie Beaton for an engaging exploration of traditional Aberdeenshire ballads from the Greig–Duncan Folk Song Collection. Through these rich resources, participants will delve into the art of folk song collecting, while exploring the distinctive ornamentation and style of the region. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland. ~~~~~ Ellie Beaton is a captivating award-winning folk singer hailing from Rothienorman in the North-East of Scotland. With a commanding voice that ripples with warmth and confidence, Ellie effortlessly embodies the timeless spirit of Aberdeenshire’s vibrant singing style whilst blending inspirations from across the globe. Born and raised in Rothienorman, in the heart of Aberdeenshire, she has carved a name for herself as one of the most promising voices in Scotland’s folk scene, being described as “one of the most outstanding voices in Scotland’s folk scene” by the Herald. In February 2025, Ellie was crowned BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year, four years after becoming the youngest ever winner of the MG ALBA Scots Singer of the Year.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sun 4 Oct & Sun 29 Nov: 2pm) Play an instrument and enjoy singing?Keen to get involved with session playing but not sure how?Want to learn songs & tunes and build your confidence in a relaxed environment? Join Rachel Beattie, singer and fiddle player, to learn some new folk tunes and songs. The session will primarily focus on learning by ear and is a great introduction for anyone looking to learn some tunes to join in local folk sessions, to grow their tune book or simply come together with fellow musicians! Please note this session is designed for those who have some experience playing an instrument and are looking to develop their skills and confidence. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a regular session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 9 Oct: 7:30pm) Queer Folks’ Tales celebrates its FIFTH birthday exactly where it started in October 2021, in Scotland’s national theatre for storytelling, with rave reviews and awards under its belt! Queer Folks’ Tales birthday line-up is packed with some of our regular storytellers from our first 5 years. As always, our LGBTQ+ storytellers from around Edinburgh and Scotland share stories of queer lives, past, present and future. Sometimes hilarious, often moving, occasionally shocking, the mix of true and fictional stories is as varied as the range of storytellers we invite. As always, many of the stories told on Queer Folks' Tales evenings will be true stories of LGBTQ+ experience in Scotland today. Hosted as ever by Edinburgh’s Turan Ali, who is joined for the fifth birthday show by poet Janette Ayachi, playwright Jo Clifford, stand-up Madhushika Fernando, boylesque artist Tom Harlow and singer-songwriters Cera Impala and Mike McKenzie. Winner of Somewhere For Us Best of the Queer Fringe Award 2026 'Triumphant' (All Edinburgh Theatre)★★★★★ 'Edinburgh's most vibrant, authentic and exciting storytelling event' (The Wee Review)★★★★★ 'Utterly fabulous' (TheQR.co.uk)★★★★★ (BroadwayBaby.com)MUST SEE 'Legendary' (Fringe Review) ~~~~~ Cera Impala is prolific, spell-casting singer-songwriter with a whiskey-honeyed voice and intimately crafted, transporting songs. This powerhouse multi-instrumentalist has toured internationally with her handpicked band, The New Prohibition. A double album is due soon. Janette Ayachi is a celebrated Scottish-Algerian poet with many publications and awards to her name. Her poetry, prose & essays have been published internationally & translated into many languages. Jo Clifford is a Scottish national treasure, a playwright, performer, proud father, grandmother, queer church elder and saint with 114 plays to her credit including the internationally performed The Gospel According to Jesus Queen of Heaven. Madhushika Fernando identifies as a Sri Lankan/Italian stand-up, psychotherapist, illustrator and life model. She was selected for the BBC New Comedy Awards 2024 and is a regular on the Scottish comedy scene. Mike McKenzie is an award-winning independent indie-pop and folk-Americana singer, songwriter, producer with albums to his name. He won BBC Radio Scotland’s Singer-Songwriter of the Year (2019). His music has aired on BBC Radios 2, 6 Music & Scotland. Tom Harlow is an international and award-winning showboy, chanteur and host based in Glasgow. A regular on the cabaret scene in Scotland, Tom has performed internationally and has been Miss Burlesque Scotland. Turan Ali has been a producer, director and writer of BBC radio dramas and comedies for over 25 years and is a storyteller and stand-up who tours internationally. He is a multiple award-winner as founder/producer/host of Queer Folks’ Tales and for his radio productions. Queer Folks' Tales is supported by Creative Scotland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 Oct: 11am) Travel to lands of myth and legend. Meet magical beasts and birds and bugs. Learn about wondrous creatures of our own world. Together, we’ll rediscover ways to enjoy and protect nature’s magic. Part interactive storytelling performance, part craft workshop, all fun! Inspired by the storyteller's experience with the Jane Goodall Institute and Marine Conservation Society, Animal Magic invites young explorers and their grown-ups to (re)connect with the birds and beasts around us, retelling a classic Irish fairy tale to explore and celebrate the wonders of the natural world. Might their realness make these creatures all the more magical? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 10 Oct: 3pm) Step into a story carved into Scotland’s landscape and carried through centuries of memory. The Last People on Earth invites you on a powerful journey back almost 2,000 years, to a defining moment in Scotland’s history: the battle of Mons Graupius. A new show by celebrated Scottish storyteller Andy Cannon, who with his trademark warmth and wit breathes life into this ancient encounter between the Caledonians and the unstoppable force of the Roman Empire. The Last People on Earth blends storytelling, original music and the latest archaeological insights to unearth glimpses of truth buried deep in time. What really happened on that distant day? How did this moment shape the story of a nation? Whose voices have endured — and whose have been lost? ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 Oct: 6pm) An interactive online introduction to live storytelling and the associated skills. Professional storyteller Franziska Droll leads this participatory session for anyone curious about discovering and developing their own storytelling talent. Let out your inner storyteller and learn to craft your skills! For new and aspiring storytellers, this session will take place live online. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Franziska Droll grew up in the Black Forest, Germany, and later made Scotland her home after falling in love with its stories and people. She has been a storyteller her whole life, but training with the Scottish Storytelling Forum allowed her to turn this passion into a professional craft. Franziska’s stories connect people through humour, warmth, and imagination—each performance unique, engaging, and full of heart – creating bridges between cultures and generations.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Sun 11 Oct: 11am) Join storyteller Ailie Finlay and artist Catherine Lindow from My Kind of Book for sensory stories of birds and animals. Hear tales of happenings in the burrows and bird-boxes, dens and byres of Scotland at night. Join in with the stories, actions and props with lots of things to squish and shake! Then enjoy a relaxed sensory art session inspired by the stories where you'll be making all kinds of dens for your birds and beasties. Fun for everyone but particularly suitable for children with additional needs and their families and friends. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 13, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Oct: 10:30am) Can you craft a story? Professional storytellers Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Ailsa Dixon invite you to fun-filled sessions learning a different iconic Aesop fable every day. Explore stories through games and movement and learn the skills you need to develop your own storycraft. A great introduction to the art of live storytelling for aspiring young tellers aged 7-10 years; pick your favourite story and book for one session or start to really build your repertoire with multiple sessions. Tue 13: The Crow and the PitcherWed 14: The Ant and the GrasshopperThu 15: The Birds, the Beasts and the Bat ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 13 & Wed 14 Oct: 1:30pm) Why are the Ravens gathering? And what is the secret of Ada's past? Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Seven Ravens tells the story of a girl thrust into a dream world of quests, feathers and a glass mountain. Join Ada on a tiny world adventure over an extraordinary hand-felted landscape as she uncovers the secret of the ravens. Director, storyteller, performer and puppeteer Freda O'Byrne uses an eclectic mix of genres to explore the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her Suitcase Stories take audiences into a magical tiny world entirely within a suitcase, reaching out and engaging their imaginations through storytelling and puppetry. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Feathers & Fur: A Fabled Fandango is a tail-wagging, wing-flapping celebration of some of history’s most extraordinary animal heroes. Join storytellers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright for a lively mix of traditional storytelling, song, humour and audience participation as they uncover the remarkable true tales of courageous dogs and heroic pigeons. Meet Laika, the space-travelling dog who reached for the stars, Winkie the pigeon whose actions helped save lives during wartime, and other feathered and furry legends whose bravery, loyalty and determination have often gone unnoticed. Along the way, discover why pigeons may be far cleverer than their reputation suggests, and whether dogs really deserve the title of “man’s best friend”. You are invited to sing along, join in a playful Quiz of Courage, and compete for the chance to earn prestigious honours in the Golden Poop Scoop Awards in a heartwarming, quirky and entertaining adventure celebrating the animals who have worked, served and sometimes saved us without ever asking for the credit. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 11am) Meet cheeky monkeys up to mischief on the Royal Mile, elephants on parade at the Castle and determined dogs whose loyalty made them famous. These fascinating tales, inspired by Edinburgh’s rich past, bring to life some of the city’s most unusual and beloved animal characters. Along the way, children and adults alike will be invited to sing, clap, chant, and join in the storytelling as the adventures unfold. Perfect for families, this interactive show combines history, folklore, storytelling and song in a celebration of Edinburgh’s famous furry friends. Come along, join the fun and discover the animal antics hidden within the streets and stories of Scotland’s capital city! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Fri 16 Oct: 3pm) Don't miss this exclusive two-hour masterclass with internationally acclaimed poet Joelle Taylor! Scotland's premier spoken word night Loud Poets is delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed poet Joelle Taylor to Scotland for their October touring showcases. As part of her tour, Joelle is offering a masterclass in Edinburgh on the theme of worldbuilding. This will be an intimate masterclass limited to 20 participants, so book quickly! Ever wondered where a poem could go when it leaves the page? Join T. S. Eliot Prize-winning poet, author, and playwright Joelle Taylor to explore what new shapes poems can take on, whether they expand into novels, transform into film, or find their final shape in theatre. With writing exercises throughout, participants will experiment with worldbuilding, employing different forms to consider which elements make each distinct, and which most fire their imagination. Suitable for everyone willing to play and take risks. Joelle Taylor is a queer, working class author of six plays, a novel, and four collections of poetry. Her collection C+NTO & Othered Poems won the 2021 T.S. Eliot Prize and the 2022 Polari Book Prize for LGBT authors, and is currently being adapted for the stage. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and the host and co-curator of Out-Spoken, the UK’s premier poetry and music club, currently resident at the Southbank Centre. Her latest collection is Maryville, which spans fifty years in an underground lesbian bar.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 17 Oct) Celebrate international Intangible Cultural Heritage Day with an open-doors day of family fun at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Explore our shared living heritage through story, crafts, dance, music and song with a line-up of come and try workshops and drop-in activity for all ages. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 18 Oct: 2pm) From gifting bears and bearing gifts to Kings, join our young hero Beloved and his Bear on an epic journey and explore our relationship to our feral forefathers. Drawing on Icelandic saga and Scandinavian folktales join storyteller Jan Bee Brown and musician Toby Hawks for some grrreat tales. Family-friendly and dementia-inclusive. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Wed 21 Oct: 6pm) Atop a far-off mountain, birds gather to perch on the fate-shaping hands of an old mountain man – stories stirring in the murmuration, waiting to glide into the human world. In this Harebell Tellers production, traditional storytellers Ailsa Dixon and Ffion Phillips follow the flight paths of bird mythology across ancient Britain; oceans, forests, in and out of this world and that. Weaving together Welsh and Scots language, music and story into a meditative hour of storytelling magic. BSL interpretation by Megan McArthur. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 21 Oct: 8pm) Our Open Hearth sessions gather together storytellers and musicians for a relaxed evening of stories and music in the Netherbow Theatre. As the darkness closes in and minds glow with pictures in the symbolic fire, this is the perfect way to end your day! Featuring Evrim Ölçer Özünel, Ruth Kirkpatrick, Ian Stephen and musician Ceylan Hay (Bell Lungs). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 22 Oct: 10:30am) Often we can become so familiar with the world of the story we are working with, that we forget the layers, the richness and the magic. Choosing to see your story with different eyes can help you find the depth that is hidden in plain sight. Suitable for all levels of storytellers, but please bring a story you know to work with. Led by Shonaleigh. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Thu 22 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This gathering is hosted by Dawne McFarlane, who guides a conversation on storytelling inspired by her book Fairytales, Families and Forests (co-authored with Georgiana Keable). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 22 Oct: 2pm) Join artist Gayle Chong Kwan on an interactive creative restorying session to explore themes in The Great Instauration (2026) her installation in the Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland that explored science as a culturally embedded process shaped by social history, power, and omission. Chong Kwan will share the storytelling at the heart of her practice and recent work, on a journey through research, art, collections and archives. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 22 Oct: 5pm) Join Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi for a journey through traditional Italian myths, legends and stories closely related to the land and nature. Follow the hoofprints of the horses in the Tuscan countryside and the trails of the snakes in the fresh grass of the north, where animals and imaginary beasts populate the daily lives and dreams of people. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 22 Oct: 6:45pm) Traditional Scottish storytelling filled with the spirit of the Fire Horse. Tony Bonning recounts his epic adventure travelling Scotland with his horse, Chief, collecting Kelpie tales along the way, whilst Allison Galbraith shares European and Scottish horse legends and the true story of a local fiery Clydesdale. Join two horse enthusiasts as they take you trekking through time and the mysteries of horse lore. BSL Interpretation by Sarah Forrester. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 22 Oct: 8pm) Join friends from the North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC), who host an open circle of shared songs, stories and camaraderie in the cosy setting of the Waverley Bar. Led by Brian Ó hEadhra, Director of the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland and NASC. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Waverley Bar
(Thu 22 Oct: 8:30pm) By facing the beast, you find out who you really are; only in darkness can you find the strength to open your wings. An interweaving of traditional stories from Shonaleigh’s Drut’syla tradition with Anatolian tales shared by storytellers from Türkiye, Nazlı Çevik Azazi and Roza Erdem. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 10am) *This event is currently sold out. Please check back as more tickets may be released closer to the date.* As the National Theatre of Scotland and the Scottish Storytelling Centre both mark their twentieth anniversaries, this special event brings together artists, academics, cultural leaders, public figures and audiences to explore the relationship between theatre, storytelling, literature and democratic life in Scotland. The event opens with a panel discussion featuring followed by a special in-conversation event with Nicola Sturgeon and Joyce McMillan. Session 1: Lightning Panel and Audience Discussion A panel of invited guests will spark the discussion with 5-minute reflections on the NTS’s 20th Anniversary and Scotland’s culture and democracy today, drawing on their experiences across theatre-making, cultural scholarship, playwrighting and community participation. We will hear from Jackie Wylie (Artistic Director and Co-Chief Executive, National Theatre of Scotland), Steve Byrne (Chief Executive, TRACS Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland), Hannah Lavery (Poet, Playwright and Performer) and Dr Stephanie Lehner (Senior Lecturer, Queen's University Belfast, specialising in culture, conflict and reconciliation). The session will be chaired by Dr Paula Sledzinska (Visiting Research Fellow at IASH). Session 2: Nicola Sturgeon in Conversation with Joyce McMillan Bringing together insights from political leadership, cultural advocacy and critical commentary, this conversation between Nicola Sturgeon and Joyce McMillan will reflect on some of Scotland’s most influential dramatic and literary works, and the ways in which they have shaped Scotland’s civic imagination. It offers a rare opportunity to hear Scotland’s longest-serving First Minister and one of the country’s most respected cultural critics reflect together on the power of dramatic and literary culture to influence national consciousness, foster dialogue and democratic resilience, and contribute to the making of contemporary Scotland. ~~~~~ The public programme forms part of the wider National Theatre of Scotland at 20: Culture, Democracy, and the Stateless Nation Unconference. The event, as well as the planned follow-up parliamentary session, are supported by the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network, Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH), University of Edinburgh, Research Institute of Irish and Scottish Studies (RIISS), University of Aberdeen, LLSETI Research Laboratory at Université Savoie Mont Blanc (Chambéry, France), Stories, Place, and Northern Communities Research Centre (SPeiR), Robert Gordon University, the Scottish Storytelling Centre and the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. ~~~~~ Those interested in participating in the full event including afternoon roundtable discussions are warmly invited to contact the organisers: Dr Paula Sledzinska (p.sledzinska@abdn.ac.uk) and Dr Lauren Brancaz-McCartan (lauren.brancaz-mccartan@univ-smb.fr) by 1st September.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 2pm) Underground in a grassy knoll, three spinsters spin both flax and stories. Storytellers Freya McCall, Sháneen McGurnaghan and Nina Willms incorporate folk tales, songs and historically-inspired stories of women weaving themselves agency alongside the spiders and supernatural sisters who spin fate. Followed by a short discussion. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Fri 23 Oct: 5pm) Step into the wildwood where jewel-like birds flit through gold branches and shadowy beasts observe from the gloaming. A liminal place of transformation, concealment and deep ancestral memories, the forest represents freedom and the untamed spirit. But tread carefully for, at certain times, the veil shimmers to gossamer thin. Presented by storyteller Jess Smith, musician Natasha Burns and dancer Katherine Blyth, with visuals from Aly Robinson. BSL Interpretation by Megan McArthur. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 6:30pm) David Hughes weaves together the Celtic myth of Mad Sweeney and the story of Colin Macleod and the Pollok Free State. These are stories of community and resistance, of transformation and belonging, masculinity and madness, championing those that fight for a radical love of the world. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 23 Oct: 8:30pm) The story of a boy, born into difficulties, who would become an artist and scientist of unending fame and influence. Considered strange by many in his small Tuscan village, he must embark on a long physical and spiritual journey to set himself free from prejudice. A poetic and intense story- musical performance about the early years of Leonardo Da Vinci and the endless possibilities of every human when they manage to break free from a predetermined destiny. Created and performed by Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi with original live music from Mario Costanzi. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 24 Oct: 10:30am) A unique opportunity for storytellers and interpreters who wish to make their stories more engaging and accessible for audiences who speak a different language. Paola Balbi and Davide Bardi share their developed method and experience with live story translation in different languages, gathered from 20 years of international experience at festivals around the world. This method can be applied to any language (including sign language) and can provide effective artistic translation for any story performance. Please note, participants should be able to communicate in at least one other language besides English. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sat 24 Oct: 11am) If you could have your own wings to take you anywhere, what would they be like? Join Turkish storyteller, children's author and educator Nazife Burcu Takıl for a joyful, highly interactive family storytelling experience inspired by the colours, songs and traditions that connect us across cultures. Together, you'll create your own magical wings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure through the Tunnel of Rhymes, under the Song Tree and across the shimmering Lake of Colours. Along the way, help shape the story through movement, music, imagination and play, becoming the wind, the rain, the snow and even the changing seasons. Blending English-language storytelling with Turkish words, songs and playful participation, Wings of Colour celebrates kindness, belonging, friendship and the joy of discovering that every colour, every voice and every culture has something wonderful to share. Because when we fly together, our differences become our greatest strength. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct: 2pm) Come together in the Storytelling Centre’s George Mackay Brown Library for an open story circle. Bring a story to share, or just enjoy the flow of what happens. All welcome! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Sat 24 Oct: 3pm) Live traditional Shetland fiddle music, dance an sangs, original short films, traditional craft wark an da spoken wird’ll be ösed bi Shaetlan Scots Scriever Claire White an Robbie Leask ta tell a nuanced story o island life fae da ninth century tae da present day, aa i’da newly-offeeshil Shaetlan language! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct: 5pm) Spend an hour in the company of our guest storytellers from Türkiye, for a session of magical and mythical animal tales from Anatolia. Combining gentle humour, folk wisdom and respect for all creatures, these stories are shared with us for all to enjoy. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 24 Oct: 6:30pm) A centuries-long line of female story keepers lovingly passed thousands of intricately interconnected story cycles through generations, from grandmother to granddaughter, in the Yiddish oral tradition of the Drut’syla. In this special event, Shonaleigh shares fabulous wisdom and wonder tales from her first-ever written collection of some of her Bubbe’s tales, featuring strong and inspiring characters throughout. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 24 Oct: 8:30pm) Join Daiva Ivanauskaitė-Brown on a soaring journey into Lithuania. Blending folklore, family legacy, and history, this performance reveals the untold story of book-smugglers risking everything for their native tongue. Enhanced by UNESCO- honoured ancient polyphonic harmonies from Edinburgh’s Sutartinės singers, human voice and birdsong beautifully blur in an unforgettable celebration of resilience. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 10:30am) A cosy presentation of ancient story, music and instruments, where Riikka Palonen will share stories and folklore from the woodland pastures and cow sheds of Finland, along with the presentation of her own bone craft and the lore behind it. There will also be a rare chance to practice the Nordic cow call “kulning” with Satu Lankinen. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 25 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! Hosted by Donald Smith who guides a conversation inspired by his new book Rewilding Scotland’s Epics (Luath Press), which contains new versions of three of Scotland’s mythological cycles, which reach far into our past but are alive in our landscape and culture today. Why should we tap these older layers and how should they be approached in contemporary performance? ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sun 25 Oct: 12:30pm & 2pm) Rewilding Scotland’s Epics restores the natural power and connection of our oldest storytelling cycles through live contemporary retellings. The Columba Cycle moves between Ireland and Scotland, Erin and Alba, connecting sea and land, exile and discovery, in spiritual and emotional pathways. Part One begins with Columba or Colmcille’s wondrous birth through tragic conflict to exile, and the voyage to Iona and Scotland. Inspiration and struggle combine. Part Two goes with Columba’s restless journeys from Iona including through the Great Glen, to Skye, and one unexpected return to Ireland. Then comes the final voyage into mystery and light. With Marion Kenny, Donald Smith and Heather Yule. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 4:30pm) In the time of creation, when God the Father designed people, Mother Earth also wanted to create something in her own image. So she composed a Cow. Stories about cows, women and resilience from the forests of Finland and the shielings of Scotland, performed by Finnish born storyteller Riikka Palonen, accompanied by Satu Lankinen who brings traditional herding songs and ancient instruments directly from Finland. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 6:30pm) Birds have a healthy disregard for borders, passports and visas. Like stories, they can travel where humans can’t so easily go. Join Muslim storyteller Jumana Moon and storyteller-musician Dawud Duncan, as they unlock the wisdom held in Farid al-Din Attar’s classical Farsi masterpiece, The Conference of the Birds, blending it with traditional Scottish music and masterful storytelling. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 25 Oct: 8pm) A powerful exploration of how stepdance, Scotland’s percussive dance, was lost… and how its revival became woven into a lifelong friendship. Experience a compelling journey across centuries of tradition told through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in an immersive performance which draws you in to the heart of our heritage. Deiseil means 'ready' in Scottish Gaelic: be ready for a mesmerising reflection on how issues of culture, identity and connection still resonate through society today. Groundbreaking work from award-winning director Gerry Mulgrew, dancer Alison Carlyle and musician Amy Geddes. For this performance Amy and Alison will be joined by musicians Mairi Campbell, Fin Moore and Sarah Hoy. A force of nature and soul, Mairi’s voice has stirred hearts across the globe. Mairi Campbell is a Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame inductee, with numerous national and international awards to her name. Deeply personal, politically resonant, and artistically fearless, Mairi’s work reaches into cultural memory and lived experiences. Find out more at mairicampbell.scot. Fin Moore plays the Highland pipes, Border pipes and Scottish Small Pipes and is also a very successful pipemaker. Fin also has a reputation as a teacher of pipes, and runs exciting music retreats through Far North Retreats. He has played solo and with bands including, InB, Seudan, Dannsa, Slainte Mhath and Back of the Moon. Sarah Hoy was born into a musical family in Edinburgh, learning fiddle from her father Derek Hoy, and later with Mairi Campbell. Sarah enjoys playing with Bella McNab’s Dance Band, her favourite place to be is playing for dancing! Sarah is now a primary teacher in the Gaelic Medium primary school in Edinburgh and enjoys teaching fiddle each week through Portobello Fun Fiddle. ‘This is the most joyful show I’ve seen so far this Fringe.’ ★★★★★ (Scotsman)★★★★★ (AllEdinburghTheatre.com) ~~~~~ The Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. All across Scotland we invite you to discover stories that illuminate the place of birds and beasts in our traditions, folklore, myths and futures. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, festival partners in Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond will bring these tales to life through performances, conversations and music. The 2026 Festival welcomes special guest storytellers from Italy and Türkiye, as well as Canada, England, and Ireland, sharing traditions and stories passed down through generations. Join us for unforgettable tales, inspiring music and moments that bring us closer to nature. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight. Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Mon 26 Oct: 2pm) Join Bulgarian storyteller Nana Tomova as she shares mesmerising tales stretching back to ancient Thracian times, from a land rich with myth and magic. Hear how the first bear came to be; how a horned mother cow tends to a grieving daughter and how a duck waves her wings to help those in need. Spend an hour with one of Bulgaria’s leading storytellers as she celebrates the launch of her book Bulgarian Folk Tales (The History Press). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Mon 26 Oct: 5pm) Water moves through all things; rivers run overland to the sea, rain rises into the clouds and oceans are highways. In this artistically crafted piece, Peter Chand and Kirsten Milliken seamlessly blend stories, songs and folklore, from their respective Indian and Scottish traditions about lake nymphs, enchanted waves, hidden realms and the waters connecting us all. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 26 Oct: 6:30pm) Gather roon the fire for an evening of stories and sangs inspired by the legacy of Traveller tradition-bearer Stanley Robertson. Through traditional tales, songs learned directly from Stanley, and new musical responses, Sheena Blackhall, Jackie Ross and Arwen Scott celebrate birds, beasts, memory, heritage and Scotland’s living storytelling traditions. BSL Interpretation by Sarah Forrester. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 26 Oct: 8:30pm) The ancient Greek myth Psyche (spirit, breath, soul) and Eros (god of desirous love) is so full of wisdom it has been called a new map of love. With every moment of despair, help comes from the natural world; the humble ant, the mighty eagle, the great shepherd god Pan. With storyteller Dawne McFarlane and musicians Maryem Tollar and Sophia Grigoriadis. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 27 Oct: 10:30am) The ancient Greek myth Psyche and Eros is full of timeless wisdom that is relevant now. This interactive workshop invites participants into the story with serious playfulness. Dawne McFarlane will lead gentle movement, telling and drawing exercises that you can continue creating with, whilst musicians Maryem Tollar and Sophia Grigoriadis invite us to expand our imagination beyond words. Explore moments of ancient wisdom and how they resonate with you now.. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 27 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This story and craft gathering is hosted by Beth Cross, who will share stories and experiences from her wonderful Sea Story Quilting project. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 27 Oct: 5pm) Join storyteller and BSL Storytelling Coordinator Tania Allan with BSL Storytelling Apprentices for stories of Birds and Beasts performed live in British Sign Language. Immerse yourself in the visual language and watch as their stories come to life. An opportunity to find out more about the BSL apprentices and their storytelling journeys. With English interpretation from Sula Brookes. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 27 Oct: 6:30pm) Dive into an atmospheric forest-scape exploring shared folklore between the Black Forest and Scottish Highlands. Through evocative music, storytelling, and audience interaction, this multidisciplinary performance from Franziska Droll and Mollie Davis conjures mythical white stags, cryptic birds, and morphing shape-shifters, questioning what happens to our legends when the wild goes silent. With BSL interpretation from Megan McArthur. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 27 Oct: 8:30pm) Our Open Hearth sessions gather together storytellers and musicians for a relaxed evening of stories and music in the Netherbow Theatre. As the darkness closes in and minds glow with pictures in the symbolic fire, this is the perfect way to end your day! Featuring Bea Ferguson, Tom Muir, Sinéad O’Brien and musician Maryem Tollar. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 28 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This gathering is hosted by Orcadian storyteller Tom Muir, who will discuss the supernatural hogboons that dwell in the mounds of Orkney and Norway. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Wed 28 Oct: 2pm) Puppet State Theatre Company’s The Man Who Planted Trees ran from 2006 to 2022 touring worldwide, clocking up over 1,800 performances telling the story of Elzéard Bouffier and his famously loquacious dog, Dog. Now, to mark the show’s 20th anniversary, Richard Medrington and Rick Conte return to their favourite venue, alongside Puppet State’s Elspeth Murray. Expect reminiscences, audience questions, favourite bits, and touring stories. Pssst - he’s still in the basket! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Wed 28 Oct: 5pm, 6:45pm & 8:30pm) Rewilding Scotland’s Epics restores the natural power and connection of our oldest storytelling cycles through live contemporary retellings. The Ossian Cycle brings Fionn, Gráinne, Diarmuid, Ossian, Niamh and many others to passionate life, in a space between magic and mayhem, mystery and full-blooded emotion. In Part One, deer, salmon and hounds transform to weave the guiding patterns of the cycle in the lives of the Fianna fellowship. In Part Two, the quest for the cup of healing, and the pull of the sea, take the Ossian cycle into new dimensions of beauty and danger. In Part Three, the wooing of Gráinne and the Boar of Ben Gulban dramatically break Fianna forever, but Niamh pits her island of the ever-young against the tragic pull of earth and home. With Gráinne Holland, David Hughes, Martin MacIntyre, Sinéad O’Brien and Donald Smith. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 29 Oct: 10:30am) Join Lauren Bianchi for an experiential storytelling session full of games, songs and stories to take away with you and build your practice and repertoire. This session is suitable for storytellers and creatives working with children and adults and will delve into the rich storytelling heritage of Scotland and beyond to find the birds and beasts to build your stories and sessions around. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Thu 29 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This story and dance gathering is hosted by Fergus McNicol, who will get our tail feathers moving! ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 29 Oct: 2pm) Led by BSL Storytelling Coordinator Tania Allan, this event welcomes Deaf History Scotland to share insights into its archive and the Seed Corn project, which uses tangible historical objects to inspire Deaf people to share their memories and experiences through storytelling. This in turn helps to preserve and celebrate Scotland’s Deaf history, heritage and culture. With English interpretation from Sula Brookes. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Thu 29 Oct: 5pm) Tradition accrues and is transformed through relational and referential encounters, both anticipated and unanticipated, between uncertain and precarious human and more-than- human lives. Amid displacement, migration, and the loss of languages and species, Dr. Tiber Falzett (Head of Irish Folklore in the School of Irish, Celtic Studies and Folklore, University College Dublin) asks what these ways of knowing carry, and what is lost when the voices that carried them fall silent. Presented in memory of Scottish scholar Alan Bruford in partnership with the University of Edinburgh’s Department of Celtic and Scottish Studies. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 29 Oct: 7pm) Bologna’s Fraternal Compagnia APS presents the myth of Dedalus and Icarus, reinterpreted in Dario Fo and Franca Rame’s distinctive ironic style as a timeless tale of rebellion and a satire of power. Gabriel Bird’s jester-like theatrical performance explores the conflict between generations, the limitations of human nature, and the desire for freedom and escape through ingenuity. Presented in special recognition of the centenary of Nobel Prize winner Dario Fo. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Thu 29 Oct: 8:30pm) In the far North, on the isle of North Ronaldsay, seaweed- eating feral sheep roam the coastline, hemmed between groond and watter by a 13-kilometer dry stane dyke. Storyteller Ailsa Dixon draws out tales from old tape recorders – historic, personal and folkloric – that have built this sheep dyke, shaped by countless hooves, hands and storms over centuries. With live fiddle music from Kirsty Harrison. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 30 Oct: 10:30am) A special opportunity to learn some of the history and practice of Commedia dell’Arte with Bologna’s famous Fraternal Compagnia APS. Originating in Padua in 1545, Commedia dell’Arte is the Italian theatrical tradition which utilises body expression, improvisation, mask work, physical awareness and theatrical storytelling skills to create a relationship between performers and spectators. Explore the roots of Italian theatre and folk storytelling and discover techniques to help develop a relationship with your audience in this ancient, but fully relevant, artform. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Fri 30 Oct: 11am) Start your festival day in the Storytelling Court with a relaxed morning session of story sharing and networking. Join old friends and new ones, to shake off the dust together! This gathering is hosted by Dr Robert Fell from Art27 Scotland in partnership with community-led organisation Rajpot, who share their cultural rights-based work with Nacken (Scottish Gypsy Traveller) storytellers and artists from across Scotland. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Fri 30 Oct: 2pm) Join Màiri Britton on a virtual visiting tour of Nova Scotian Gaelic tradition-bearers. For eight years, Màiri and colleagues have worked on the Cainnt is Ceathramhan/Language in Lyrics project, creating an index of 7,000 Gaelic songs and re- cataloguing and transcribing the remarkable Cape Breton Gaelic Folklore Collection. Through performance and guided listening, Màiri will share some of her favourite songs and stories from the collections. Followed by a song-circle led by Brian Ó hEadhra from the North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Fri 30 Oct: 5pm) Follow the journey of our heroine, who dreams three times of a magic island filled with treasure, so journeys there only to hear stories of nature’s struggles from an eagle, a salmon and a deer. Cara Silversmith explores biodiversity loss and its impact on our mental health, trying to find connection in a disconnected and fragile world. With live music from Ceit Langhorne. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 30 Oct: 6:45pm) Eadar Naomh Brìghde agus am brìdean, agus an eala mar shamhla air birlinn MhicNèill, tha eòin air a bhith aig cridhe traidiseanan beul-aithris na Gàidhlig bho chionn fhada. Bidh Nuair bha Gàidhlig aig na h-Eòin a’ fighe òrain thraidiseanta is ùra ri chèile le ceilearadh nan eun is ceòl. Air a stiùireadh le Màiri Nic ’IlleMhaoil còmhla ri Alana NicAonghais (pìob), Pàdruig Moireasdan (bogsa), Shona Mhoireasdan (fidheall) agus Gillebrìde Mac ’IlleMhaoil (seinn). From St Brigid and the oystercatcher to the swan as a symbol for MacNeil’s galley, birds have long been central to Gaelic folklore traditions. Nuair a Bha Gàidhlig aig na h-Eòin weaves traditional and original songs with bird calls and music. Led by Màiri MacMillan with Alana MacInnes (pipes), Pàdruig Morrison (accordion), Shona Morrison (fiddle) and Gillebrìde MacMillan (voice). ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 30 Oct: 7:30pm) A Bird and Beast themed festival Samhuinn special of Edinburgh’s long-running storytelling night. Join us for a open session of stories, led by host Beverley Bryant. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Waverley Bar
(Fri 30 Oct: 8:30pm) Brazilian artists Giulia Drummond and Mario Caribé present a ritualistic performance of music and stories of the Orishas, Yoruba deities who personify the forces of nature and timeless human archetypes. The cult of the Orishas was brought to Brazil by the enslaved Yoruba people and it endured all the oppression and violence of slavery. These spiritual traditions are filled with joy and music: chanting, drumming, dancing. It’s the music that conducts each stage of a ritual. And so this performance is designed with a ritualistic structure, following a traditional xirê - sequence in which the Orishas are saluted, sung and danced in the Gira. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am) Join storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham against the backdrop of her Folkloria! exhibition for a wonderful morning of stories, crafting and mask-making to celebrate Samhuinn. Come in the Halloween spirit and be prepared to get crafty before parading your new masks around the Storytelling Centre and out into Edinburgh’s Old Town. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am) A playful, sensory, movement- based workshop co-led by storyteller Inés Álvarez Villa and Deaf BSL storyteller Tania Allan. Drawing on Inés’s embodied storytelling practice and teaching, and her six editions at the Edinburgh Horror Festival, alongside Tania’s visual storytelling techniques and the tradition of ghost storytelling within Deaf culture, the workshop explores how suspense and dread are built through silence, gesture, and atmosphere as much as through words. Using props, vibration and sensory experiences, Deaf and hearing participants alike will explore how embodied storytelling builds confidence, creativity and connection while bringing spooky tales to life. BSL and English interpretation will be provided throughout. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sat 31 Oct: 1pm) An open conversation and social space, to explore the networks and ideas that connect us. Led by the Scottish Storytelling Forum, this is a chance to reflect together on this year’s festival and harness energy for future ideas, projects and stories. BSL interpretation by Emmy Kauling. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 4pm) Welcome to the world of Commedia dell’Arte and the great characters of Italian theatrical tradition, including Pantalone, Il Dottore, the Captains and the Lovers. Through improvisation, pantomime, and the use of traditional masks, this performance from Bologna’s Fraternal Compagnia APS explores universal themes of love, power, poverty, and human nature, breaking down any barrier between performers and the audience. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 31 Oct: 6pm) A re-imagining of the Battle of the Birds by storyteller Owen Pilgrim brings out a darker side of the story, drawing on the original tale and inspired by elements from esoteric Scottish folklore and history and woven with Traveller stories of the Devil and his trickery. Featuring a unique live soundtrack by sound artist Gordon Cameron. BSL Interpretation by Sarah Forrester. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 31 Oct: 8pm) Our Open Hearth sessions gather together storytellers and musicians for a relaxed evening of stories and music in the Netherbow Theatre. As the darkness closes in and minds glow with pictures in the symbolic fire, this is the perfect way to end your day! Featuring Harp and Carp (Daniel Serridge and Neil Wood), Morvern Graham and Marjolein Robertson. ~~~~~ This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ Purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass and make the most of the Festival programme! Buy A Pass
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 2 Nov: 6.30pm) Join us to celebrate Fair Saturday 2026 at their Launch Party! Featuring live performances, time to mingle and chat and lots of opportunities to get involved. Catch The Salty Scrimshaws, featuring Scotland's Shanty Queen Joss Cameron and first Mate Amy Dudley, a vibrant duo who weave captivating maritime tales and melodies that celebrate the essence of Scotland's coastal waters. With their unique blend of rich harmonies and traditional storytelling, The Salty Scrimshaws transport their listeners to the windswept shores and bustling ports of Scotland and make every performance a memorable experience. Enjoy a storytelling performance from Niall Moorjani, a Scottish-Indian writer and storyteller based in Edinburgh. They write for both children and adults, but at the core of all their work are themes of hope, joy and kindness. They have performed at festivals all over the world including Edinburgh Fringe, Scottish International Storytelling Festival, Kathakar International Storytelling Festival (Delhi), Brighton Fringe Festival and many more… Haggis, neeps and tatties and soft drinks will be provided, with the Haggis Box Café also open for bar service. We hope you will join us! Fair Saturday Edinburgh is kindly supported by the City of Edinburgh Council.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tu 3-Fri 6 Nov: 7:30pm) How much would you pay for a white painting? Would it matter who the painter was? Would it be “art”? Serge has just bought a very expensive painting. It’s about five feet by four, all white with white diagonal lines. To his friend Marc, the painting is a joke. To Serge, this merely proves that Marc is an intellectual who cannot understand art. Their friend Yvan tries and fails to placate both sides as he gets pulled into the stand-off. Lines are drawn, and what began as a disagreement over a piece of art soon escalates into something that could destroy both their friendship and the painting. Christopher Hampton’s translation of Yasmina Reza’s stage play had its British premiere at Wyndham's Theatre, London in 1996. It won Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Comedy, and New York Drama Critics' Circle and Tony Awards for Best Play. 'Anyone looking for a play that is funny, sophisticated, stylish, stimulating and moving should go to Art.' (Independent)'A remarkably wise, witty and intelligent comedy. Art has touched a universal nerve.' (Times)
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 4 Nov: 6:30pm) One of Scotland’s oldest forms of traditional craft, highlands thatching is also one of the most critically endangered with only a handful of practitioners remaining. Join us online with Master Thatcher and Drystone Dyker Brian Wilson and his former apprentice Troy Holt to gain insight into the world of this precarious craft and the efforts to preserve it. Accompanying this conversation will be Ali Davey, Project Manager for Traditional Skills and Materials at Historic Environment Scotland (HES). With limited pathways to acquiring building conversation skills like thatching, HES supports paid training opportunities, including Troy’s 18-month Craft Fellowship with Brian. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). TRACS and HES are members of the ICH Scotland Partnership.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Fri 6 Nov-Sun 6 Dec) This exhibition by painter Alexander Moffat marks the centenary of Hugh MacDiarmid’s visionary poem A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle. First published in 1926, 2026 marks the centenary of the poem, an epic work written in MacDiarmid’s synthetic Scots that would prove a landmark in the story of modern Scottish literature. Alexander Moffat’s paintings range from 1978 when he made drawings of the poet in his home at Brownsbank Cottage near Biggar and continue into the present with paintings of MacDiarmid and his close colleagues from the Borders, William Johnstone and Francis George Scott. The three ‘Border Guards’ launched the Scottish Renaissance of the early 1920s and beyond. F G Scott was not only MacDiarmid’s schoolteacher in Langholm, he was the originator of the idea of a drunk man looking at a thistle and assisted with the editing and final structure of the poem. Born in Dunfermline, Alexander Moffat studied at Edinburgh College of Art from 1960 to 64. Alongside his friend John Bellany, Moffat emerged as one of the Scottish Realists, so-called because of their social awareness and rejection of the decorative principles that defined much Scottish art during the first half of the 20th century. Moffat was particularly close to the poet Hugh MacDiarmid and his literary circle. From 1979 Moffat taught at Glasgow School of Art where he encouraged a new generation of Scottish figurative painters including Peter Howson, Ken Currie and Steven Campbell.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 8 Nov: 10:30am) Working in the traditional arts can be exceptionally rewarding, but it also comes with pressures that aren't always easy to talk about: financial uncertainty, irregular work, time away from home, the blurred line between identity and output, and an industry that often expects you to keep going regardless. This workshop with Jen Anderson is a space to step back and look at those realities honestly. We'll consider some of the wellbeing challenges specific to working as a traditional artist, share experiences, and explore practical approaches to looking after yourself and each other within the sector. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland. Part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2026. ~~~~~ Jen Anderson is the founder of The Bothy Society, a music company working within traditional and folk music in Scotland, and a live booking agent for Apex Music. For over 20 years in the industry, she has worked as a tour manager, promoter, A&R, label manager, and head of business affairs, in roles at Live Nation, Universal Music, Back Yard Music, Machine Management, and Sound Travels Live. Alongside her industry work, Jen is a Senior Lecturer and Module Leader at pointblank music school, where she has taught for 14 years. She is a trained MHFA Mental Health First Aider and a Help Musicians Mentor, and chairs The BIT Collective, a Scottish charity working towards gender equity in traditional and folk music. She also sits on the boards of the Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland).
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Tue 10 Nov: 7pm) What is a producer? How do they choose the stories they work with? How can storytellers get involved, or develop their own producing skills? Find the answers to these and many more burning questions at this interactive session with Naomi. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Naomi Wilds is the founder and lead producer of storytelling production company Adverse Camber Productions. Join her online and find out more about the work they do.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Online
(Sat 14 Nov: 11am) An exploration into new ways of practice-led approaches to folklore scholarship with artist Lucy Wright, whose work sits at the intersection of sculpture, performance, and research. In this skills session suitable for both artists and researchers with an interest in folklore and traditional practices, gain insight into the creative methodologies behind Wright’s projects that often emerge from years of study into under-recognised and female-led traditions, situated where folklore, feminism and social practice meet. The morning will conclude with an informal folklore walk, looking for aspects of folklife happening right on our doorsteps. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). Lucy Wright is a ‘hedge morris dancer’, author of the Folk is a Feminist Issue manifesta, and originator of ‘Dusking’, a 100% invented tradition and annual participatory project for anyone who has ever wanted to dance the sun down! Lucy’s work explores and reframes folk as a critical agent for contemporary resistance, speaking to the culture we create for ourselves and its radical potential. Through ongoing interventions in and with existing folk practices, and the playful invention of incisive new ones, her work encourages viewers to reimagine what kind of traditions we need to create today, for living together on a divided planet.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
Sat 13 June 2026 (2pm), Fri 20 Nov 2026 (7:30pm) Drawing on his family’s Holocaust history, his own experience of disability, and Rudolf Steiner’s Philosophy of Freedom, Iddo Oberski weaves a deeply personal journey with his onstage (puppet) counterpart, Svjetlana, a dialogue that constantly surprises and reveals new layers of understanding. In Balancing in Freedom, Iddo fuses storytelling, movement, puppetry, visual art, music, spoken word, magic, and philosophy into a living artwork that shifts between intimacy and spectacle, exploring what it means to be human, and our ongoing search for freedom, connection, and meaning. Just as you think you know where it’s heading, the performance transforms again, surprising, thought-provoking, and always engaging. Following a sold-out, standing-ovation premiere at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Balancing in Freedom returns to the stage in 2026. Moving, insightful, and unlike any other show, it invites every audience member to take away something unique and personal. After each performance, audiences are invited to take part in a 30-minute facilitated discussion. Written and performed by Iddo Oberski, co-direction and creative mentorship by Mark Kydd. BSL interpreted Fri 20 Nov 7:30pm, interpretation by Rachel Amey. 'Exquisite beyond words.''Your presentation was a most profound and deeply moving one. You managed to combine heart-serious content with art, humour and entertainment.' 'I was struck by your powerful story and the way you told it.' Funded by Creative Scotland. Sponsored by the Authentic Artist Collective and the Salisbury Centre.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 21 Nov: 10:30am) A hands-on, practical introduction to live storytelling and the associated skills. Storyteller Alice Fernbank leads this participatory session for anyone curious about discovering and developing their own storytelling talent. Let out your inner storyteller and learn to craft your skills. For new and aspiring storytellers. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. Alice Fernbank has been an active part of the Scottish storytelling community for over a decade, appearing in school events, theatres, and festivals including SISF and Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Her work has taken her abroad to festivals in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and most recently to Palabras al Vuelo Festival on Lanzerote. She regularly leads story walks around Edinburgh, sharing the legends and histories of the city with travellers from across the globe. Nurturing others in the art of storytelling is a passion of Alice’s and she has acted as mentor and story coach to many emerging storytellers. Listening closely and responding with energising feedback to reveal a storyteller’s unique, authentic expression is key to Alice’s approach.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Tue 24 Nov: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sun 29 Nov: 11am) Join crafter and storyteller Beth Cross where tales from her Story Quilts will come alive. Choose the story you want to hear, be it dragons, brave adventurers, sea monsters or a cheeky monkey, then draw your own story images for the next generation of story quilt magic! ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 6 Dec: 12pm) Get in the festive spirit with this beginner-friendly, drop-in basket weaving workshop. Spend an afternoon with professional basketmaker Anna Corbett learning the basic weaving skills and make your own small decorations to take home or give as gifts, just in time for the holidays. Presented by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). After many years of organic gardening, Anna Corbett brings her love of plants and respect for the natural world to her current practice of string making and basketry. She works almost entirely with plants local to where she lives in Northumberland, using cultivated and wild plant fibres and organic matter. Anna is a member of the Basketmakers’ Association, Scottish Basketmakers’ Circle and the Northumbria Basketry Group.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 9 Dec: 7pm) Nights are growing long and dark. Cold nips the air. It’s time to braid our evergreen circle - time to join the Burgh Blatherers for their Winter Warmer. Members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club present a heartfelt season finale to their year of storytelling ceilidhs and fan the embers of the year into flame of warming cheer and conviviality. Sit back and enjoy!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is our podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in recent festivals. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So join us for Another Story... Available wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us by liking and subscribing so you don’t miss an episode! Listen Here
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
(Sun 8 Nov: 12pm - 3pm) - Please note this event has been cancelled, we will hope to reschedule in the near future Musicians Claire Gullan and Kirstie McLanaghan return to host another fantastic TAM Session, the collaborative project that combines two of their passions - playing trad music and arts & crafting. The TAM Sessions is an open and informal trad session, but with the lovely additional invitation to bring your sewing, knitting, crochet, or any other crafting project that you enjoy. Being able to play an instrument is not a pre-requisite and we welcome non-musicians to enjoy the tunes while they craft. In the same vein, please come along for a tune even if you don’t craft. Everyone is welcome! The driving factor behind this project is joy. A joyful experience has a direct, positive impact on our mental health. Community building through creative arts also creates a real sense of belonging and connectedness. Proficiency is not important, just come along and enjoy! ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
2026 All rights reserved. Powered by
