Before film, books, newspapers, or even writing itself, there was oral story. Phil Okwedy is a storyteller who stands in that ancient tradition. He has been telling stories in schools and libraries, pubs and clubs, theatres and festivals for 10 years. Phil tells tales that are deep and direct, playful and poignant, gleeful and grave. He tells them to entertain. He tells them to stir and awaken feelings of mutual understanding. He tells them because story is how we connect.
Below are some of the organisations Phil has collaborated with, some of the projects he has facilitated, as well as workshops and performances he can provide...
West Wales Action for Mental Health works closely with Phil. All the workshops we have had have been fantastic and everyone really enjoyed them. We have had excellent feedback from all attending. Phil is such an amazing storyteller and trainer. He is an inspiration and a very knowledgeable and experienced storyteller and teacher, and he ensures everyone is included and valued in the sessions, and encourages people in a caring and compassionate way.
Angie Darlington, Director West Wales Action for Mental Health
Developer
In 2023 Phil was ommissioned to create a story based on the Pembrokeshire folktale, Skomer Oddy, that both celebrated the Cleddau river and highlighted the issues it, and all our rivers, now face.
Along with fellow storyteller, Michael Harvey, the story was shared and taught to those working on and with the river so that it might help to raise awareness.
In 2025 Phil & Michael were again commissioned to create a folktale. Tides was the result, a story focussing o on sea and the issues it faces due to climate change.
“It is true that storytelling reveals meaning without committing the error of defining it." Hannah Arendt
2025 commission for a storywalk in Colby Woodland Gardens
