The art of storytelling, widely recognized around the world and gaining an ever-growing audience in Lithuania, has found its place at the Vilnius University (VU) Cultural Center. Every month, throughout the academic year, storytelling enthusiasts and listeners gather for the much-loved event — Storytelling Nights. Each session offers a unique array of stories on various themes and occasions, ensuring that attendees leave feeling surprised, inspired, and often, having made new friends or found like-minded individuals!
The events are led by professional storyteller Milda Varnauskaitė, who has extensive experience from her time at "Mezrab" culture centre – one of the largest storytelling centers in Europe. Now, Milda travels across Lithuania and the world, while also building a storytelling community at Vilnius University.
Curious and want to know more about storytelling?
Check out these examples:
- Jan Blake
- Sahand Sahebdivani
- Peter Chand
I WANT TO TELL A STORY
We established the Sal(i)on five years ago with the desire to create a cozy space in Vilnius where people could come together and share their stories. Our goal was to let Lithuania’s centuries-old, suppressed stories finally rise to the surface—through your voices, dear saloniers! We believe that by sharing stories, we not only free ourselves but also deepen our understanding of ourselves and others, build empathy, and, most importantly, have fun.
This year, we want to hear even more of your stories, and we encourage you to find the courage to share them aloud. That’s why:
- Before every Sal(i)on, we’ll host one-hour speed consultations where you can receive advice on your story and gain the confidence to tell it. If you want to share a story but feel nervous, we’re here to help you find your courage. Join us an hour before each Sal(i)on at 6 PM.
- Do you want advice on your story? Have an idea but don’t know how to tell it? Send a (voice) message via IG: @istorijusalionas or @storytellermilda – we’ll help you refine it.
Have any questions? Write to us:
MEETING LOCATION
Storytelling Nights usually take place at VU Mažosios Aulos Café ("Morgas") near St. John's Church, Universiteto St. 3 (entrance through VU’s Grand Courtyard).
Come join us in the world of stories!
STORYTELLING SEASONS
2025 – 2026 M. SEASON
2025 AUTUMN/WINTER DATES AND THEMES
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September 9, 19:00: SHAMELESS
Stories about the things we’re not ashamed to share, even if others think we should be. Maybe something happened this summer? Come and tell it at the new season of the Storytelling Nights.
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October 7, 19:00: GOOGLE IT!
Stories about the strangest things we’ve ever googled — and how it all turned out.
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November 11, 19:00: TABOO
Stories about prohibitions and breaking free from them.
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December 9, 19:00: MIRACLE
Unbelievable, real-life stories that feel like pure magic.
2024 – 2025 M. SEASON
2025 WINTER/SPRING DATES AND THEMES
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February 4, 19:00: TAKING OFF THE MASKS
Stories about the masks we wear, the personas we create, and the moments when we reveal our true selves.
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March 12, 19:00: NEIGHBORS
Stories about those who live “beyond the fence” and how they shape our lives.
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April 2, 19:00: THROUGH HARDSHIPS TO THE STARS
On the occasion of Vilnius University's anniversary, share your stories about studies, exams, semesters, dorm life, and everything that reminds you of VU.
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May 6, 19:00: MISTAKES
Stories about the mistakes we regret, the ones we managed to fix, and those that changed our lives forever.
2024 AUTUMN/WINTER DATES AND THEMES
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September 10, 19:00: SHOW AND TELL! – Stories of Objects
Bring an object that holds a special story, and share its tale with everyone gathered.
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October 8, 19:00: SECOND CHANCE
Have you ever been given a second chance? To live, to love, or maybe just to make things right? Stories about new beginnings, given opportunities, and second chances.
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November 12, 19:00: THE BOOGEYMAN
Real and fictional horror stories about ghosts, witches, summoned spirits, and other monsters!
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December 10, 19:00: SANTA CLAUS AND OTHER LIES I WAS TOLD AS A CHILD
Stories about the things we believed in as children that later turned out to be made up. Seeds sprouting in your stomach, hooks spinning in your eyes when you lie, or witches that kidnap children... Tell stories about what you believed and what happened when the magic ended.
2023 – 2024 M. SEASON
2024 WINTER/SPRING DATES AND THEMES
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February 6, 19:00: THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS
Shared stories about pride, greed, envy, and other sins, along with their redemption.
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March 5, 19:00: FREEDOM
Personal stories about moments when we felt the freest in life, historical narratives about March 11th, and family stories about what it means to be free.
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April 9, 19:00: BITTER ROOTS, SWEET FRUITS
In celebration of Vilnius University's anniversary, attendees shared stories about studies, exams, student dorms, and everything that reminded you of VU.
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May 7, 19:00: THE BIGGEST FISH IN LIFE
Stories about success, adventure, and the greatest "catches" in life.
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