The Breman Launches Jewish Storytelling Festival
The inaugural festival will be held Nov. 16-17 at The Breman.
Sasha Heller is the Web Editor and Copy Editor for the Atlanta Jewish Times
Everyone gather ‘round and perk up those ears.
The Atlanta Jewish Storytelling Festival, organized by The Breman, is set for Nov. 16-17 and will feature a series of guest authors and special events.
The festival will celebrate the art of Jewish storytelling and include discussions about the art form’s historical significance with the goal of fostering cultural awareness within the Jewish community and beyond.
“It’s only natural that The Breman build on our longstanding tradition of gathering and showcasing community stories, and create a live, in-person festival to celebrate storytelling,” said festival organizer and storyteller Audrey Galex. “This festival is a celebration of the art and craft of our shared heritage, as well as our diversity, symbolically, celebrated under one roof. The Breman has long wanted to host a storytelling [program], and it was, in part, the poignancy of the stories told as part of the ‘History with Chutzpah’ exhibit that provided the spark that lit the fire for moving forward with a festival.”
So why Jewish storytelling? What is the cultural significance?
“It’s been said that the shortest distance between two people is a story — stories build and deepen connections, and help people understand each other,” Galex said. “Jewish culture is rich with stories – whether midrash — stories that expand on and interpret Biblical text— or our personal, family, and community stories of celebration, sacrifice, and resiliency. Our stories give us a sense of identity and belonging. They connect us with the past and are gifts to the future. Plus, names, dates, history, and Jewish values and moral teachings are easier to digest and remember in story form.”
Galex continued about preserving the art of Jewish storytelling and its impact on the Jewish community.
“Our stories celebrate the varied perspectives and experiences within the Jewish community. They spark imagination, inspire and challenge us, and connect with our emotions. Bringing the community together to celebrate our shared storytelling tradition offers a memorable way to promote unity, while celebrating the diversity of the Jewish experience.”
Tickets to the Atlanta Jewish Storytelling Festival cost $12 to $54. For more information, visit https://thebreman.org/events/atlanta-jewish-storytelling-festival/
Atlanta Jewish Storytelling Festival
November 16-17, 2024
Starting Saturday Night:
Enjoy a captivating evening with Noa Baum, an internationally acclaimed storyteller. Known for her humorous and heartfelt performances, Baum shares Jewish folktales and personal stories that reflect Jewish history and values. Starting Saturday night and continuing through Sunday, this festival is for anyone and everyone who loves a good story, a bit of humor, and learning something new.
NOV 16 | SATURDAY NIGHT
6:00 – 7:00 pm
VIP Reception
The festival begins with a VIP reception where we’ll gather to meet, share stories, and enjoy light bites and beverages. It’s the perfect way to kick off a weekend of captivating tales and memorable moments.
7:00 – 8:00 pm
A Taste of the Garden of Eden
Personal and traditional stories connect in unexpected ways. With delightful drama and daring, internationally acclaimed and award-winning storyteller, Noa Baum, shares gems from her rich Jewish Israeli heritage and trove of family stories. Appropriate for ages 13+.
8:00 – 8:30 pm
Book Signing
Noa’s books will be available for purchase on both Saturday and Sunday.
“How the Birds Became Friends” – A delightful take on this Burmese folktale about the power of kindness
“A Land Twice Promised” – this compelling memoir demonstrates the transformative power of art and challenges each reader to take the first step toward peace.
NOV 17 | SUNDAY
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
How the Birds Became Friends – Children’s Storytime
Award-winning storyteller Noa Baum performs an adaptation of this Burmese folktale, “How the Birds Became Friends.” Rooted in her Jewish heritage and focusing on timeless universal values, Noa engages her audience in an interactive conversation about the choices we make to bring more healing and peace into the world. Followed by snacks and craft time. Appropriate for ages 3–8 with an adult. FREE – Registration required
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Story Schmooze
Get a taste for storytelling! Share stories, memories, and anecdotes in a casual and creative setting. Led by storyteller Audrey Galex. Appropriate for adults, teens and tweens
1:00 – 3:00 pm
Hidden Treasures: Your Story is a Gift – Storytelling Workshop
Discover how a memory can be shaped into a story and become a gift worth passing on. We all have a story to tell. Storytelling is central to the heart of the Jewish storytelling tradition and at the heart of human experience, nourishing the deepest roots of heart and mind. Noa guides participants in a fun and interactive process to identify and discover how a memory can be shaped into a story. All are welcome. No experience needed. Appropriate for adults and teens 16+. Workshop limited to 40 participants.
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Olio – An Assortment of Jewish Stories
Local Jewish storytellers deliver heartwarming and humorous tales to make you oooh, aaah, and oy vey in one afternoon. Appropriate for adults and teens
3:00 – 4:00 pm
Storytelling at the Breman: Discover New Stories
Explore the Breman Museum’s four galleries and uncover stories that span generations and cultures. This self-guided experience encourages you to delve into history, art, and culture at your own pace. Each gallery offers the chance to discover new narratives, connections, and perspectives, making this a perfect opportunity to engage with history in a personal and meaningful way.
Enjoy the freedom to explore and let the stories unfold as you immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of heritage and storytelling.
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Story Cabaret
Holy Moly: Rabbinic Riffs, Legendary Laughs and Torah Tales with a Twist.
Nothing is sacred when local rabbis recount absurd moments from on and off the pulpit. Appropriate for adults and teens
5:00 – 6:00pm
Spark! An Open Mic Event
Come just to listen OR take a chance to take the stage and share your 5-minute personal story of “Chutzpah” – guts, courage or perseverance. Appropriate for adults and teens
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