SKALDing Hot Storytelling Festival

Once upon a time there was a festival celebrating the art of storytelling. Now, in its tenth year, the annual SKALD Storytelling Festival returns to the Department of Cultural Affairs to spin yarns that would make Homer blush. Actually, SKALD refers to an ancient Scandinavian poet, bard, or storyteller, so this storytelling fest is set to make Grendel blush, we supposed.

The week-long celebration for adults and kids is comprised of workshops and competitions and culminates with the SKALD TEN hosted by Steve Edwards of WBEZ Radio on Saturday June 27th. Presented by WNEP theatre, the competitions are open to professional raconteurs and average Joes alike. The KidSKALD features ten student storytellers vying for prizes and bragging rights, while the Maelstrom combines Chicago’s rich improve history with the art of storytelling.

As any Ira Glass groupie can attest, the art of oral storytelling is fast becoming a lost tradition. You don’t have to be a troglodyte to put away the Xbox live and come hear some spellbinding tales...and live happily ever after.

SKALD 10 Storytelling Festival, Now through June 27, 2009, Workshops Free, Performances $10 - $20.

SKALD TEN with host Steve Edwards of WBEZ Radio, Saturday, June 27, 7:30 p.m., Studio Theater, 66 E. Randolph St., Chicago, $20.