Nestled in the heart of the Western Rhodope Mountains, I find myself at the “Storyteller of the Future” retreat in Dolen, Bulgaria.
It’s a place where the air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the possibilities for personal growth are boundless. This retreat is not just about storytelling—it’s a deep dive into techniques from diverse perspectives, including the innovative realms of gaming and game design, both digital and in person.
As I immerse myself in these rich discussions and learning experiences, I can’t help but reflect on my journey. From the bustling stages of Chicago to the tranquil paths of the Camino de Santiago, and now to this serene mountain setting, my life has been a tapestry of stories. Each thread is woven through my acting career, my job as a flight attendant, and my passion project, the story pilgrim.
Surrounded by the majestic Rhodope Mountains, the retreat is a sanctuary for introspection and growth. It’s a place where time slows down, allowing us to truly absorb the lessons being shared. The intersection of gaming and storytelling has been particularly intriguing, revealing new ways to engage audiences and create immersive experiences. These techniques are more than just tools; they are pathways to deeper connections and more impactful narratives.
Yet, amid this beauty and inspiration, a familiar doubt lingers. I’ve been here before—at drama school, during my master’s program, in countless workshops—feeling the rush of new knowledge, only to worry later if I can truly integrate it into my daily life. It’s a pattern that many of us creatives face: the fear that our learnings will fade, becoming mere memories rather than transformative tools.
The haunting question remains: Will I be able to implement these insights once I leave this idyllic setting? This anxiety is not new. It surfaced after graduating from The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, and again after earning my Master’s in Text and Performance. Despite these milestones, there’s always a nagging concern about whether I’m fully utilizing the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired.
But this time, I want it to be different. Here in Dolen, surrounded by nature’s grandeur and the shared wisdom of fellow storytellers, I’m setting an intention to carry these lessons forward. Whether it’s through the dynamic storytelling techniques of gaming or the profound personal reflections inspired by these mountains, I am committed to embedding these insights into my craft and life.
The Western Rhodope Mountains have not just provided a stunning backdrop for this retreat; they’ve become a symbol of my commitment to growth. As I look out over the rugged peaks and valleys, I’m reminded that the path of a storyteller is not always straightforward. But with each step, each story, and each moment of reflection, I’m carving out a journey that is uniquely my own.
So here’s to carrying the spirit of Dolen with me, infusing my art, my podcast, and my life with the rich, multifaceted stories that make us who we are. The lessons learned here are not just fleeting moments of inspiration but are seeds planted deep within, ready to grow and flourish in every aspect of my creative journey.
