Step into a magical world where music, myth and memory are intertwined
Join celebrated storytellers and musicians Ruth Kirkpatrick and Colin Urwin for The People of the Sea, a spellbinding performance inspired by David Thomson's classic 1954 collection of coastal folklore. Through storytelling, song and music, they bring to life the haunting tales of seals, selkies and the mysterious beings said to inhabit the shores of Scotland and Ireland.
Acclaimed by audiences at the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, The People of the Sea blends traditional folklore with contemporary music to explore themes of love, loss and our enduring relationship with the natural world. It is a celebration of ancient beliefs, coastal communities and the timeless power of stories to connect us across generations.
Above all, this is a moving, memorable and uplifting evening for anyone who loves laughter, song and stories well told.
Colin Urwin
Described as a modern-day Seanchaí, Colin Urwin is a folk singer, songwriter, storyteller and recording artist from the Glens of Antrim. His beautifully crafted stories draw deeply from local legend and folklore, while his repertoire also includes traditional Irish and Scottish tales. Colin has performed at festivals and cultural events across Ireland and internationally, captivating audiences with his warmth, humour and masterful storytelling.
As Storyteller in Residence at The Courthouse Bushmills, Colin continues to celebrate and share the rich storytelling traditions of these islands.
Ruth Kirkpatrick
Born in the North East of Scotland, Ruth Kirkpatrick is widely recognised as a tradition bearer who learned from some of Scotland's most renowned storytellers, including Sheila Stewart, Duncan Williamson, Stanley Robertson and David Campbell. Her repertoire encompasses traditional stories and songs, as well as material gathered from local Traveller communities.
Known for creating a warm and authentic connection with audiences, Ruth brings a distinctive blend of respect for tradition, wit and vibrant performance. Her storytelling has delighted audiences at festivals around the world, from Iceland and Belgium to India, Singapore and Ireland.
Why You Should Attend
Experience two internationally respected storytellers sharing the stage.
Discover the captivating folklore of selkies, seals and the sea.
Enjoy an enchanting blend of storytelling, song and music.
Explore themes of heritage, nature, love and belonging through traditional tales.
Connect with the rich storytelling traditions of Scotland and Ireland.
Whether you're a lifelong lover of folklore or simply looking for an inspiring cultural evening, The People of the Sea promises to transport you to a world where the boundary between land and water, myth and memory, is wonderfully blurred.