GREAT WEEKEND READING

A NEW generation of storytellers is behind the remarkable rise of the raconteur in Tasmania and beyond.

The fireside tradition going back thousands of years is alive and kicking this winter at venues around Hobart.

From the packed Storytellers Tent at the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival last month to regular spoken-word slams at local watering holes, it seems we can’t get enough of 21st-century yarning.

MACq 01 Hotel on the Hobart waterfront employs a grandly titled “master storyteller”.

Justin Johnstone’s job is to entertain guests with stories of colourful Tasmanian characters and lead walking tours.

“People like the fact [the history we tell] is not about civic fathers and mothers of the colony,” Mr Johnstone said.

“It’s flawed individuals, everyday people, who have had unique events in their lives.

“They are just as fascinating as kings and conquerors.”

Mr Johnstone was also a judge at last month’s Storytel- lers Cup at the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival, which was won by professional Irish storyteller Clare Murphy, who travels the world telling tales.

“Storytelling is increasing worldwide and for the size and population of Tasmania, we have it in spades,” Mr Johnstone said.

Salamanca Arts Centre chief executive Joe Bugden has seen a similar rise in forum events across the city.

The centre hosts a monthly philosophy-driven meeting to mull over life’s big questions.

“There continues to be a real need for people to get together to talk about big issues,” Mr Bugden said.

Discussing ideas live was a different experience to doing so on social media, he said. Read more in your

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