Peadar Murphy of Belfast, Northern Ireland, was a storyteller whose warmth, humor, and generous spirit reached far beyond his local storytelling community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Peadar became an especially important part of Liz Weir’s virtual storytelling gatherings, helping Liz bring people together when gathering in person was no longer possible. Through those Zoom gatherings and other virtual story circles, Peadar became known to storytellers around the world, many of whom may never have met him in person but came to know his face, voice, humor, and remarkable presence.
Peadar was not simply the person behind the screen. He was a storyteller himself, a regular at the Armstrong Storytelling Trust’s Ballyeamon Barn sessions and storytelling events. Fellow tellers remembered him as a “stalwart,” a “talented teller,” and a cheerful, lively presence. He loved sharing stories of hope and developed a particular passion for the poetry of Paul Laurence Dunbar after attending “You Can Do Dunbar, Add Him To Your Repertoire” workshop taught by Oni Lasana. Although he had tended to avoid poetry, the workshop opened a new door for him. From then on, he found inspiration in Dunbar’s words and especially loved to recite “Keep a Pluggin’ a Way!” and “Circumstances Alter Cases”.
Above all, Peadar’s legacy is one of kindness and connection. Those who knew him through the virtual storytelling world remember the joy he brought during the difficult days of lockdown. One storyteller recalled being in story circles with him; another remembered the “twinkle” in his eye; another called him a “bright beam” during lockdown. And his kindness extended well beyond storytelling: when a German cyclist he had never met became stranded in Northern Ireland, Peadar drove approximately 200 kilometers to help him and welcomed him into his home. For countless storytellers around the world, Peadar’s kindness helped make a difficult time feel less isolated—and his stories, laughter, and generosity continue to connect us.
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You can see more details on Peadar Murphy with the Story Artists Memorial.
Here’s Peadar reciting one of his favorites from Dunbar. More poems and stories are found on his dedicated page.
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Peadar Murphy automatically brightened the “Zoom Room.” When he took the Dunbar workshop, he took a chance and discovered something he truly loved. I enjoyed watching the transformation—from someone already delighted to someone simply bursting with joy. He spoke with such kindness, and his joy was contagious. I will look forward to giving him a big hug after earth time.
Peadar Murphy still has a story. You have a story. We all have stories.
Thanks to Story Crossroads & ASST for sponsoring “You Can Do Dunbar, Add Him To Your Repertoire” where Paedar showed up on zoom and brought to life Paul Laurence Dunbar’s Irish poem, Circumstances Alter Cases. He made it his own and was always present as a founding “player” at the Love Of Dunbar Collective meetings & productions until he fell ill. He also edited our programs and offered passionate critiques of Dunbar’s prose. We miss him & loved him as our “Brother Shamrock” here he is, gone but never forgotten! https://youtu.be/YM2c0aPmE6c?is=D8ddvG3EoE1lXlSA
This is a lovely tribute. Thank you so much.
I met Peadar online and it was always a pleasure to see him in a session. He always had a kind word and often wise comments, that were both encouraging and helpful. I shall miss his enthusiastic and encouraging presence and his Irish accent. He gave me some pronunciations once and everyone that came into contact with him appreciated his gentle loving spirit. R.I.P. Peadar, everyone at FEAST will think of you always with warmth.