Over the past few days, we have seen 80th anniversary D-Day commemorations across the country and worldwide. We have witnessed elements of reenactment, used to highlight the many sacrifices that were made and share a glimpse of what life was like at that time. D-Day was a pivotal moment in World War II “The D-Day landings of 6 June 1944 was the largest seaborne invasion in history” (Royal British Legion, 2024) liberating Western Europe and marking the beginning of the end of the Second World War. This year’s D-Day commemorations were even more poignant, as it will likely be the last major anniversary in which original D-Day veterans will participate. Those of you who have watched just some of the activities over the past few days will have heard original stories of D-Day veterans, shared to educate the generations to come, with the words ‘we will remember’ echoed by so many. With this in mind, we are pleased to share this timely piece of work that really pushes the importance of ‘events’ and storytelling to help us commemorate such historic occasions, keeping history alive.
Published in the Event Management Journal, special issue below “Presenting an Authentic Reflection of the Past Through Storytelling and Living History in 1940s Events”, by Zoe Leonard and Dr. Julie Whitfield of Bournemouth University Business School.
Abstract: Live events that replicate the 1940s era celebrate the heritage of a defining moment in history. This research presents the results of a study examining authenticity, storytelling, and living history in the context of 1940s events in the UK. The research demonstrates how storytelling and living history intensify the authentic nature of the event, depicting a true reflection of the past and facilitating a collective memory of the era. Through online semi-structured interviews with event organisers and attendees of 1940s events, the findings confirm that organisers feel a sense of cultural duty to tell an accurate story to the best of their abilities. This is supported through living history as presented by reenactment groups. They provide elements of the three concepts of authenticity: objectivism, constructivism, and existentialism. Reenactors provide historically accurate detail and speak with authority, generating what is perceived to be an authentic level of engagement.
Our thanks to Dr Giulia Rossetti (FHEA) and Brianna Wyatt, PhD, FHEA for accepting our paper into this publication.
#Event academics and #festival practitioners, it is time to immerse yourself in the captivating Special Issue of the Event Management Journal, titled "Festivals and Storytelling: Creating Experiences Through Stories, Places, & Spaces" which is now available.
Edited by Brianna W. and Dr Giulia Rossetti (FHEA), this edition delves into the transformative power of storytelling within festival contexts. Discover how stories not only shape festival experiences but also enrich our cultural landscapes and foster a profound sense of community.
Join us on this enlightening journey, and experience firsthand how storytelling can transform and elevate our collective festival experiences.
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#events
#EventManagementJournal
Link to the special edition Vol 28 No 4: https://bit.ly/3RhMjwG