Storytelling is one of humanity’s oldest pastimes—it’s a trademark of every known civilization. Recent developments and innovations in technology has changed the way that we tell and consume stories. Artists, writers and designers have fundamentally changed the definition and limits of a book, turned videos into immersive virtual reality experiences and brought to life worlds that were once thought to be impossible to portray onscreen.

The future of storytelling is exciting, and the way in which audiences consume and interact with stories is set to change drastically in the next decade. Below, we’ve compiled four Chicago Ideas Talks by industry leaders who are pushing the medium forward.

Great Storytelling Borrows from the World Around Us

Don Hahn has worked on several of Disney’s classic films, including “The Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast.” He breaks down the keys to storytelling, and how every great storyteller constantly borrows from their surrounding environments.

Changing the Definition of a Book

Eli Horowitz is the Co-Creator of “The Silent History,” a digital novel; “The Clock Without a Face,” a treasure-hunt mystery and “Everything You Know Is Pong,” an illustrated cultural history of table tennis.

Expanding the ‘Star Wars’ Universe Through Storytelling

Diana Williams is a member of the LucasFilm Story Group, the team charged with developing narrative cohesion and connectivity within the “Star Wars” universe. Discover how she uses storytelling and technology to expand the way that stories are told in the saga.

Empowering Voices Through Cutting Edge Storytelling

From virtual reality to mobile live streaming, RYOT is changing the way that news stories are told. The company’s COO Gabriel Lifton-Zoline breaks down how they’re doing that.