How can storytellers convey personal messages and deal with social challenges through performative and artistic strategies?
The Cassandra Project explores this question by empowering young storytellers (ages 18–30) to develop their voices as socially engaged performers. Across Europe, participants combine personal narratives with community research, artistic experimentation, and mentorship to create performances that speak to issues of shared concern.
By working at the intersection of storytelling, performance, and social engagement, Cassandra supports storytellers in transforming lived experience into compelling stage work: stories that resonate emotionally, spark dialogue, and contribute to positive social change. At the same time, the project strengthens storytelling organisations, enabling them to work internationally, reach new audiences, and confidently platform art as a force for the public good.
What is socially engaged storytelling?
To us, socially engaged storytelling means sharing narratives that resonate with you personally while addressing issues of global significance. It's about telling stories that raise awareness of social challenges, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire positive change.
Personal voice
Stories rooted in lived experience
Social awareness
Addressing challenges that matter
Collective impact
Sparking dialogue and change
Partners
The Cassandra consortium is formed by FEST as lead partner and five Storytelling Festival Organisers from Norway, Sweden, Poland, the Netherlands and Belgium.
