We turn to the truth this week, celebrating the art of live storytelling in Belfast.

The journalist Paul Doran and poet Pádraig Ó Tuama launched Tenx9 as a small monthly gathering, in the front room of the Black Box, in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.

The event has now expanded to 15 cities, and festivals, around the world, and selected stories have featured in the BBC Radio Ulster series, Tell Tales, which is presented by Kathy Clugston.

Kathy introduces her favourite story, which recalls a young couple’s memorable night in a Parisian bistro. The other tales from the Tenx9 archives cover friendship and fear during The Troubles, a work appraisal that led to award-winning acceptance, a secret pregnancy, and a young band’s compelling live debut.

Paul and Pádraig also share a few storytelling tips and reflect upon the power of stories to promote healing and understanding.

Made for Radio 4 Extra. Show less