Join storyteller Riikka Palonen accompanied by musician Richard Clarke as part of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026

Of Stars, Bears and the Beginning of Time

An enchanting mythical journey through the celestial origin stories of the Fenno-Baltic tradition, told by Finnish-born storyteller Riikka Palonen and accompanied by folk musician Richard Clarke.

Modern science tells us we were born from star dust – but how did the ancient people in the north know that? Who told them these first stories? What is the origin of iron? Who married the girl from the golden egg? How was the first oak cut down? Elemental stories like these are extremely important as they remind us that we are still equally part of this planet, alongside bears, cranes and wolves.

Suitable for ages 12+.

Venue: Cornerstone St John's - Enter from Lothian Road

Time: 1900 (60mins approx)

This show has a BRING YOUR OWN BOTTLE policy for over 18's only. Plastic cups will be provided.

This event is part of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival (https://www.sisf.org.uk/)

This performance opened the Scottish International Storytelling Festival in 2025, and is back at this years festival for one night only at Cornerstone St John's.

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival is organised by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). We champion Scotland's shared traditions of crafts, dance, music, and storytelling: our Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This years Festival theme is Bird & Beast.

Description supplied by the event organiser.