Irish storyteller Niall de Búrca
By Susan Branham
Santa Paula News
Published: April 25, 2008
By Susan Branham
Santa Paula Times
Families enjoyed a magical March evening at Blanchard Community Library with Irish storyteller Niall de Búrca. Children and parents alike were delighted at the imaginative presentation of the art and tradition of storytelling. “A thousand welcomes to you,” Niall told the crowd gathered in the children’s area of the Library.
Brian Bemel of Performances To Grow On introduced Niall to the Library. “He’s a very gifted performer,” he said. Niall entertains in schools, and offers great fun for the entire family. He lives in Ireland, where his work is featured on radio, theater, and festivals. “I love telling stories in Ireland,” he said. The world-renowned, award-winning storyteller has performed in Europe, and places as diverse as Argentina and Poland.
His engaging performance in Santa Paula ranged from the origin of the Alps to the ancient wisdom, “I don’t need to fight to feel good.” Wit and wisdom blended into an enchanting mix as the crowd heard stories of the fairies of Ireland and learned that “their music is the best in Ireland.” They learned Irish dancing, and how the dances were gifts from the fairies.
Families enjoyed the magical stories and the way Niall brought his presentation to life with the generous use of body language and facial expression. Everyone is hoping for a return engagement in the future. This delightful program was co-sponsored by the Friends of Blanchard Community Library.
Niall de Búrca will be featured at next year’s Ojai Storytelling Festival, April 30 to May 3, 2009.
