Marrakech sets record with historic storytelling marathon

Wednesday 29 January 2025 - 12:22

By: Dakir Madiha

Marrakech sets record with historic storytelling marathon

In an extraordinary celebration of culture and creativity, Marrakech has achieved a Guinness World Record for the longest storytelling session, lasting an impressive 80 hours and 35 minutes. This remarkable event, which took place during the Marrakech International Storytelling Festival from January 19 to 26, brought together over 100 storytellers from various countries, all gathered in the iconic Jemaa el-Fna square, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The festival's theme, "Bahja," which translates to "joy" in Arabic, encapsulated the spirit of Marrakech—highlighting happiness, hospitality, and the art of living in the moment. "It reflects everything Marrakech stands for," noted Mike Wood, the festival's president, in an interview with Morocco World News. He described Jemaa el-Fna as “the heart of storytelling,” where tradition intertwines with each narrative shared.

The festivities commenced with a vibrant parade winding through the bustling old medina, leading to Jemaa el-Fna. The air was filled with the infectious rhythms of Gnawa and Issawa musicians, creating an immersive atmosphere that set the stage for the storytelling marathon.

British Ambassador to Morocco, Simon Martin, expressed his admiration for the event, stating, “This event grows in energy every year. It’s wonderful to see Moroccan and international storytellers coming together, sharing their craft, and learning from each other.” He also highlighted the festival's outreach, noting that workshops have reached over 5,000 students, teaching them the invaluable skill of storytelling and preserving this cherished tradition.

Beyond aiming for a record, the marathon served as a platform for cultural exchange, allowing participants to share their diverse stories and traditions, thereby deepening their appreciation for the art of storytelling. By the festival's conclusion, Marrakech had not only etched its name in the record books but also reinforced its status as a city where art and tradition unite to foster community and connection.