The journey from being a full-time diplomat to a storyteller hasn’t been an easy one for Chuck Menahem Kanafi. He had worked as the Ambassador of the State of Israel and has served in Africa, Asia and Europe before venturing into the world of stories. He is no stranger to the art form because he used to pursue it as a hobby.
After retiring from diplomatic service, Chuck pursued an advanced academic degree in applied storytelling. He says that he is easily inspired by the people he meets and the things around him. He weaves his experiences into stories and always attempts to create something unique and extraordinary. In the city for a storytelling event organised by Bangalore Storytelling Society, Chuck took time off to chat with Nina C George about what keeps him going.
How did you get into storytelling?
I worked in the foreign service before I turned a full-time storyteller. The two worlds are very different. It’s been three years since I ventured into storytelling and it’s been an amazing journey so far. On second thoughts, being a diplomat and a storyteller are two sides of the same coin.
How has your experience been so far?
As a storyteller, you are constantly learning how to juggle words and weave it together to present something beautiful that people can take home. I’ve noticed here that both children and adults love listening to stories but there aren’t enough avenues where people can listen to and exchange stories.
On sharing stories in India...
The human brain is wired for storytelling and stories are an integral part of the Indian culture. It’s just that people choose different mediums to tell stories. I see stories all around me that is waiting to be tapped and told.
What medium in storytelling is most popular?
I use all kinds of mediums to tell a story and I don’t necessarily read from a book. I use my voice, expressions and gestures to convey something. Only the audience can tell whether the narration is powerful and captivating enough. Only a storyteller can present something in the most gripping way possible.
The best part about being a storyteller?
The best part about being a storyteller is when people have understood what you are attempting to tell. And it’s encouraging when people have captured the essence of what you want to convey. My best experiences have been in India as people here really enjoy listening to stories and reciprocate well.
Thoughts on Bengaluru...
Bengaluru has an audience for everything. The city has spaces dedicated for art, music and dance. It is a lively city.