Photo by Joseph Saunders

Each year at Sharing the Fire—Northeast Storytelling’s annual conference, the Board of Directors presents the award to a living storyteller (or organization) in recognition of their extraordinary commitment and efforts to promote a broader understanding of the art of storytelling and the support of storytellers in the development of their art.  It serves, as Brother Blue has said, “to honor those who give their lives to storytelling to change the world.”

To be considered for this award, candidates must demonstrate dedication in creating and nurturing a strong storytelling community—be it by individual mentoring, guild, or event venues, serving on the governing board, or by fostering a greater public awareness of storytelling and its applications in all areas of society.

This year, NEST will present two awards, one for an individual, and one for an organization or group.