Works of African orature, owing to their innately participatory nature, cannot be properly documented via films or books. This limitation arises from the fact that narrative in legacy media, and in general written cultures, is typified by a linear progression of plot. Oral storytelling, on the other hand, tends to be more iterative. It combines song, chant, banter, mimicry and more, merged with costume, dance, and gesture. These are brought to life through social interactions with an audience in a multimedia extravaganza.

In a rapidly changing world, emerging technologies can help us preserve the traditions of oral storytelling in Africa as well as the timeless tales told across many different communities. These new methods of retelling old tales provide us an opportunity to share, celebrate, and experience this intimate relationship between a storyteller and their audience.