An evening of Tales From Across the Pond with Libraries NI and Derry Public Library, USA

On Thursday 18 January, we will come together through the technological marvel that is the internet for the second instalment of Tales from Across the Pond. Join Stuart from Derry Central Library and Erin from Derry Public Library in New Hampshire, USA, and for an enchanting evening filled with folklore, tall tales, and traditional music. Prepare to be captivated by the superlative storytellers from the east to the west.

This event will take place via Zoom on Thursday 18 January at 6:30pm GMT. We are thrilled to present the talented Armstrong Storytellers Liz Weir, Madeline McCully, and Ciaran Mulholland from this side of the pond and Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki, Anne Jennison and TJ Cullinane from the other side of the pond. They will regale us with stories that are steeped in tradition, culture, and folklore, each reflecting the unique background and heritage of the storyteller.

Stuart Temple, Libraries NI District Officer for Derry and Strabane District spoke of the event:

“We are delighted to welcome back Tales from Across the Pond for its second instalment and are looking forward to the fascinating stories that will be shared by the talented storytellers, each hailing from their own unique local areas. With their wealth of experience, these storytellers are sure to put on a remarkably entertaining evening.

“To add a touch of musical magic, we have the pleasure of hosting Ciaran Mulholland, a skilled fiddle player, and Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki, an American fiddler who will grace us with their musical talents creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.”

Meet the Storytellers:

Liz Weir, a renowned storyteller and writer from Northern Ireland, was the first winner of the International Story Bridge Award from the National Storytelling Network in the USA. Liz has shared captivating stories with audiences of all ages across five continents, leaving a lasting impression wherever she goes.

Madeline McCully is a talented storyteller, artist, and writer, who lives in Derry. She has written many captivating books, such as "Derry Folk Tales," "Haunted Derry," and "Haunted Donegal." Madeline's love for Irish folklore shines in her storytelling sessions, where she accompanies her tales with the beautiful sounds of the autoharp.

Ciaran Mulholland is a talented musician and singer-songwriter from County Antrim. He's been playing the fiddle since he was 11 years old and is a valued member of the band Ceolta. Ciaran loves performing at storytelling sessions and has teamed up with Liz Weir to create a captivating blend of music and storytelling called 'All for a Dead Man's Penny.'

Anne Jennison is a traditional Native American storyteller and historian of European and Abenaki heritage. With a Master Degrees in both Storytelling and History, Anne also brings a wealth of cultural and historical knowledge to enrich her retelling of timeless Northeast Woodlands Native American stories.

Bringing fresh energy to traditional Celtic music, Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki is an award-winning New Hampshire-based fiddler/singer who has been performing professionally for over two decades.

TJ Cullinane is the author of Forward, Steady, Stay Cool!: Derry's Civil War Soldiers and Sailors. He is currently employed in the aero-space industry in Massachusetts.

Everyone is welcome to join these great storytellers during this free online event, simply register your interest to attend here.