Cantastorie: A Storytelling Workshop

Discover the richness of stories—both the ones we’ve lived and the ones we’ve heard—in this introductory, hands‑on storytelling workshop. Guided by Toronto-based storyteller Mariella Bertelli, participants will explore the narratives that shape who we are.
Together, we’ll practice sharing anecdotes, ditties, proverbs, memories, poems, and more. Along the way, we’ll delve into the power of narrative, the role of language, and the ways memory informs the stories we choose to tell. We’ll also discuss where to find stories—in our families, our communities, and our everyday lives—and how to carry forward the ancient art of storytelling in meaningful, accessible ways.
This intimate workshop is interactive and participatory, welcoming anyone curious about discovering or deepening their voice as a storyteller.

Bio
Mariella Bertelli

Mariella Bertelli is a Toronto-based bilingual storyteller who performs in English and Italian. She tours across Canada and internationally, presenting a wide repertoire that ranges from extended literary narratives to short tales for audiences of all ages.
Mariella believes in the transformative power of storytelling and its ability to connect us to one another and to the past. She is recognized for introducing Italian literary works to Canadian audiences, including selections from Boccaccio’s “Decameron,” Basile’s “Pentameron,” Ariosto’s “Orlando Furioso,” and traditional Italian fairy tales. She also shares personal family sagas tracing immigration across four continents. Since 2007, she has collaborated with the Italian storytelling group Raccontamiunastoria and performs regularly in Italy. Mariella is also known for creating and directing ensemble storytelling productions.

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