Laughter from Abroad

Irish storyteller entertains Molokai crowds.

The animated Irishman, Niall De Burca, had children of all ages roaring with laughter.

By Jennifer Smith

“There is always a bit of mischief to storytelling,” said Niall De Burca, world-renowned storyteller.

An animated entertainer, De Burca had nearly 175 children of all ages cheering and clapping from the outset of his Molokai Public Library performance last week Tuesday. Telling stories of bullies, unruly children, and a very fortunate dimwitted teenager, he blended the wisdom of old, with contemporary humor.

“Stories are universal,” said the Irish born De Burca, explaining that children in Hawaii enjoy the stories as much as children throughout the world. “It’s really great to see how cultural references can jump from a culture.”

DeBurca will entertain audiences at about 20 public libraries throughout the islands during his first visit to Hawaii. He has traveled the world telling Irish legends, and said “the audiences here are just lovely” it’s great to see people of all ages attending the events.

Niall De Burca’s performance was made possible by the support of the Friends of the Library of Hawaii, and grants from the NFL Charities, UH, the NEA, and the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts.