Owen Staton’s talent for telling tales took root in the historic village of Cwmavon near Port Talbot, in the heart of South Wales – an environment steeped in narrative.

“I was very lucky to have been born and bred in this old mining village nestled in the mountains,” he shares with Celtic Life International via email, recounting his journey within the magical world of myth. “It was, and remains, an area full of story and soul.”

Attending Welsh School in nearby Pontrhydyfen, Staton first learned stories of local legends, setting the stage for his life’s work. “While at school I heard tales about Richard Burton and Anthony Hopkins, so it really was a great place to spend my early years.”

Now, at 52, he resides in the Vale of Neath, a place imbued with its own more ancient myths. “It is said that Gwyn Ap Nudd flies through the valley in a chariot pulled by the Cwn Annwyn, but I have yet to see them.”

Staton’s fascination with storytelling began serendipitously. “I was booked to play a Roman Soldier at Swansea Museum and would talk about life in Roman Britain.”

To fill the time, he began narrating stories that resonated with audiences, an exercise that led him to craft his own tales and delve into ancient Welsh ghost stories. Initially, storytelling became a welcome respite that balanced his role as a police officer.

Over time, the allure of Welsh myths and legends drove Staton to bring his passion for storytelling to a broader audience. “Some people are just not yet aware of the wonders that they have right on their own doorstep.”

He admits that his role as a storyteller can sometimes be misunderstood.

“People are unaware of what I do when booking.” Questions like, “What are you reading from?” or “What costume are you going to wear?” are common. Once audiences experience one of his performances, however, their perceptions shift. “They tend to be quite surprised once they realize how immersive it can be.”

Witnessing the impact that his stories have on audiences is a large part of why Staton keeps telling them.

“I have had people moved to tears by some of the old tales. It stirs something deep in their souls…”

The opportunity to engage with audiences holds a special significance – in particular, he recalls a stand-out show at the Edinburgh Fringe. “Great crowds from all over the world came to see the show, and the chance to bring these stories home to the places where they actually happened is always special.”

In 2021, Staton launched his “Time Between Times” podcast, further expanding his reach and making it easier for listeners to both enjoy his storytelling in the comfort of their own homes and benefit from the meditative elements incorporated into the storytelling to promote well-being.

“The podcast has garnered a diverse listenership, with fans from Brazil, Germany, Australia, and beyond. It is an incredible demographic, and I am amazed and humbled by its success.”

He notes that storytelling among younger people is stronger than ever these days – something he attributes to an increased interest in traditional narratives. “I believe that we are in an age of discovery where people are drawn to stories and the old ways in which they were told.”

Fortunately, South Wales has no shortage of inspiration for Staton to draw upon. “The mountains and the sea, the valleys and the rivers – everywhere you look, there is wonder and magic.”

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions and overload, the dedication to preserving and sharing oral traditions serves as a poignant reminder of the passion for storytelling and the power of the past to compel audiences worldwide.

To that end, Staton notes that he has no plans to cease storytelling any time soon and continues to expand his offerings. “The podcast seems to be going from strength to strength, and I am planning a number of shows this year. I will continue bringing these old tales to new audiences for as long as I can.”

welshstoryteller.com
@owen.stanton