Storyteller, Cristina Temprano founded the ‘Palabras al Vuelo’ festival in 2013, creating a platform for sharing the enjoyment and fascination of listening to and telling stories
Having developed her skills in radio and theatre, Cristina Temprano embarked on her storytelling career after moving to Lanzarote in 2001. In 2013, she founded the ‘Palabras al Vuelo Storytelling Festival, which is celebrating its twelfth edition this year from October 17th to 27th.
Cristina Temprano traces her passion for storytelling back to her childhood and her fascination with legends and myths, which were her way of travelling to distant lands. ‘I began narrating instinctively,’ she explains, ‘learning the craft through practice. While acting techniques can provide valuable tools, storytelling is a distinct art form. Unlike actors, narrators don’t simply perform; they craft unique versions. By infusing stories with personal perspectives, narrators create their own distinctive styles.
‘What I love about storytelling,’ she enthuses, ‘is the power and fascination of words, of telling each other stories. Although storytelling specifically for children has only been common for about a century, the art of storytelling is as old as time. Before, there was no separation by age; children were just little adults. Through sharing stories, we reconnect, we talk and listen to each other, and we form friendships.
We reclaim humanity. How beautiful!’ she laughs.
Temprano emphasises the magical connection forged between storyteller and listener. ‘It’s as if you were telling the story to each audience member individually. No one talks to anyone else; no one looks at their phone. The experience leaves an enduring impression. It’s unforgettable.’
Temprano reveals a dual approach to her storytelling with a repertoire that includes both discovered and original stories. While she primarily draws inspiration from existing tales, she also enjoys the creative freedom of inventing her own stories. The name of her festival, ‘Palabras al Vuelo,’ came to her spontaneously. ‘I don’t remember racking my brain over it.
I was more focused on selecting narrators, stories, and venues, which is the truly rewarding part of organizing an event like this.’