The Mermaid Arts Centre in Ireland and the International Storytelling School of Marrakech signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the YARN Storytelling Festival held from November 8 to 21 in Bray, south of Dublin, promoting cultural exchange through artist residencies
The MoU is a significant milestone for the YARN Residency project, a partnership between the Mermaid Arts Centre and the World Storytelling Café in Marrakech.
Moroccan Ambassador to Dublin, Lahcen Mahraoui, emphasized the importance of fostering art, culture, and partnerships as bridges between Morocco and Ireland.
Attendees enjoyed a captivating storytelling performance by Moroccan storyteller Zouhair Khaznaoui and Irish storyteller Fiona Dowling. Together, they blended the oral traditions of both countries, enthralling the audience.
According to the festival brochure, the event highlighted the profound connection between Morocco and Ireland, rooted in their shared storytelling heritage, coinciding with Marrakech’s designation as the Islamic World’s Capital of Culture for 2024.
The event brought together diplomats, Irish cultural figures, academics, the Moroccan diaspora, and the Bray community, further strengthening ties between the two nations.