As darkness falls on Amsterdam this November, the 18th Amsterdam Storytelling Festival (Nov 6–9, 2025) invites audiences to “warm up our hearts with stories”. Billed as an international festival, it brings “storytellers, musicians and troubadours from across the globe”. This year’s theme is “The Fool”, a symbol of new beginnings and boundless possibility. In practice, that means a mix of playful mischief and depth: dozens of artists will share soul-stirring tales through music, theatre and clowning. Expect amazing days (Thu. Nov 6 through Sun. Nov 9) at Podium Mozaïek in Amsterdam-West, plus an extra opening-night clown show on Nov 5.

This festival stands out as one of Europe’s most imaginative narrative arts events. All of Podium Mozaïek is transformed into a cozy storytelling salon, between acts, you can linger on oriental rugs over tea, discuss ideas, or join hands-on workshops and talks. The vibe is warm and inclusive: past programs have emphasized music woven through each performance, and this edition promises even more cross-genre creativity. In short, the festival’s “international storytelling” reputation means it truly offers “some of the best contemporary spoken word artists… from across the globe”. A highlight among Amsterdam’s November cultural events.

A still from Dr. Brown’s acclaimed silent comedy Befrdfgth. British clown Dr. Brown (Philip Burgers) headlines the festival with two wordless shows. His Wed. Nov 5 opening act Befrdfgth is described as “absurd, surreal, and totally ridiculous”, and he returns on Nov 8 with Dr. Brown Beturns, a surreal comic tribute to caring for a loved one. These physically hilarious performances (one review calls Dr. Brown a “darkly comic masterpiece”), guarantees big laughs for families and all who love visual theatre.

Becoming Absurd by Rory de Groot is a raw, funny, and deeply personal story about his rise and fall as a young footballer. Through humor and reflection, he explores ambition, identity, and the struggle to define yourself beyond what you do.

Return to the stage in a raw, humorous story about losing her voice under pressure and finding it again through storytelling. A moving reflection on perfectionism, burnout, and rediscovering joy.

Join master storyteller Ashley Ramsden for a three-part journey into the witty world of Nasruddin, the legendary Middle Eastern trickster.
On Nov 6, he also leads “The Trickster” workshop (13:00–16:00, €55) — an immersive session on creativity, chaos, and playfulness.
Founder of the UK’s School of Storytelling, Ramsden brings decades of global storytelling mastery to Amsterdam.

The Original by Sîpan Sezgin Tekin is an immersive exploration of identity, language, and madness, inspired by Antonin Artaud. Blending personal stories with poetic resistance, Tekin examines how we perform ourselves to others and what defines who we are. A bold, multilingual reflection on expression, justice, and selfhood.

Home Sweet Home by Başak Layic is a sharp, funny, and heartfelt one-woman show about Amsterdam’s housing crisis. Through courtroom antics, music, and personal storytelling, Layic turns the struggle for a home into a comedic, tender, and relatable experience. A mix of satire, poetry, and social commentary that captures the absurdities of modern city life.

Your 15 Minutes of Fame by Lee White is an interactive improv show where audience members step on stage and become the stars. Guided by White, participants create funny, touching, and surprising scenes, celebrating risk-taking and creativity. With over 30 years of international experience, White’s charm and quick wit make this a magical, unforgettable performance.

• Dates & Location: Nov 5–9 (Wed–Sun) at Podium Mozaïek (Bos en Lommerweg 191, 1055 DT Amsterdam)

The festival’s extra opening-night show on Wed Nov 5 featuring Dr. Brown. Most performances run in the early evening, with some afternoon workshops and talks as well.

• Tickets: Individual shows are generally €10–€18 (children’s shows or talks are cheaper), and full-day passes are available (Saturday and Sunday passes are often around €40).

Tickets often sell out fast, so it’s best to book early through the official festival website. Day passes offer great value if you’re catching multiple shows. All mainstage performances and workshops are in English, making the festival welcoming and accessible for international visitors.

• Getting There: Podium Mozaïek is in Amsterdam-West

Easily reachable by tram or bus, the venue runs continuous evening programs, come for one show or stay all night in the lively foyer salon. Several top performances will also tour other Dutch cities like The Hague, Rotterdam, and Nijmegen in November and December.

The Amsterdam Storytelling Festival is where words come alive, where artists, musicians, and performers transform personal tales and world myths into unforgettable experiences.

With Outhere you can explore the best of Amsterdam’s performing arts scene and beyond. Discover storytellers, theatre makers, and international artists who inspire reflection and creativity. Follow their journeys, save upcoming events, and never miss a chance to experience culture in real life.

Whether you’re an Amsterdam local or a traveler seeking authentic cultural experiences, this festival invites you to reconnect with the human art of storytelling. Visit the official Amsterdam Storytelling Festival website to check the full lineup and book your tickets, then explore the Outhere guide to uncover more performing arts events that move, challenge, and inspire.