Billy Teare

Teare is a well-known Irish storyteller. Originally from Ballycarry, he now resides in Larne, Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Teare has appeared on stage, TV, the big screen and radio in guises ranging from chicken hypnotist to jester. From his teens he honed his audience skills in a career on the Belfast comedy circuit. In the past thirty years, he has used told stories in hundreds of early years settings, schools, libraries, community groups, council and cultural venues, as well as being a featured artist at many of the major folk and storytelling festivals around the world, including the far reaches of the Yukon. He incorporates songs, music, magic, juggling and other theatrical skills, to enliven a multi cultural feast of original, modern and traditional tales, monologues, rhymes, chants and audience participation.

Unique in using the educational area of critical thinking and recall, his treatment of narrative has proved highly effective for students and teachers alike. He is currently working on a book, containing his 'Tell a Tale Toolkit' techniques. He has also worked collaboratively with various other artists and groups, including BBC Northern Ireland and the Verbal Arts Centre, Derry.

Among his appearances have been: Storyteller in Residence, International Storytelling Centre, Tennessee, 2008, BBC Folk Proms event 2008, return performance at the Yukon International Storytelling Festival (2000, 2001, 2006), Beyond the Border: The Wales International Storytelling Festival (2005), The Toronto International Storytelling Festival, Sidmouth International Folk Festival (1999, 2001, 2003)

In 2013 Billy Teare co wrote a volme of 'Antrim Folk Tales' with Kathleen O'Sullivan: his storytelling partner for over ten years. The book, published by The History Press, Ireland, is due for publication in Jan 2014.