Vertelkunst

Vertelkunst, or the art of storytelling, is the craft of creating and presenting narratives through spoken language and performance. It includes traditional oral storytelling, personal stories, myths and legends, and contemporary forms such as spoken‑word and narrative theatre. Core elements are voice, rhythm, imagery, and the interaction between teller and audience.

Historically, vertelkunst arises from oral cultures around the world. Stories travel by repetition and memory, evolving with each retelling. In Europe, medieval and early modern traditions of minstrels, ballads, and sagas influenced later performance forms. In recent decades, professional storytellers have organized festivals, training, and networks to sustain the practice.

Practice and techniques include shaping a narrative arc, using voice and pacing, and engaging listeners through questions, humor, or audience participation. Some performances rely on minimal props or gesture; others use music, sound effects, or visuals. Tales may be adapted to audiences, settings, or cultural contexts, ranging from children's events to literary venues.

Purposes and impact: entertainment, education, cultural preservation, and community building. In education, storytelling supports language development, listening skills, empathy, and imagination. It also serves as a means of transmitting local lore and shared values within communities.

In the Dutch-speaking world, vertelkunst is recognized as both an art form and a field of practice. It is promoted by organizations, festivals, and training programs that connect tellers with audiences and communities. See also: oral tradition, spoken word, narrative performance.