THE TEAM
Lara O’Brien is the founder of Howth Writing Workshops and Hooks & Reels: Evenings of Story and Song, bringing together creativity and community through storytelling and music.
She is also the author of The Power of the Prompt, part memoir, part guide that explores the transformative power of writing.
Eoghan Ryan is a writer, producer, and founder of Rubberduck Productions.
Eoghan is the author of Two for the Road, a hardhitting and hysterical memoir on addication and recovery
Geraldine holds an MBA from Trinity College Dublin and brings both strategic planning and creative vision to every project..
In Hooks & Reels, Geraldine plays a key behind-the-scenes role — coordinating logistics, managing venues, liaising with performers, and helping ensure that evenings of storytelling and live music run smoothly.
Wendy is a writer and storyteller whose work celebrates everyday moments, humour, and human connection. A longtime member of the Howth Writing Workshops, she brings warmth and authenticity to both her writing and her live readings.
At Hooks & Reels, Wendy helps shape each event with care and creativity — supporting new storytellers and keeping the spirit of community at the heart of every evening.
Our Story
Hooks & Reels is an evening of story and song that brings together community writers, musicians, and audiences in the heart of Howth.
Born out of the Howth Writing Workshops, founded by author Lara O’Brien, the series grew from small gatherings around a kitchen table into live events celebrating the power of storytelling and music.
What began as a handful of writers sharing their words over tea and laughter has become a unique community tradition — a place where creativity, connection, and courage take the stage.
Each Hooks & Reels evening invites audiences to listen, reflect, and celebrate the beauty of real stories told aloud, interwoven with live music from some of Howth’s finest local artists.
We believe in the magic that happens when people come together — when stories and songs ripple through the room and remind us of what we share.
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What We Do
Hooks & Reels hosts regular storytelling and music evenings at The Abbey Tavern, Howth, often as part of local festivals like the Howth Samhain Festival.
Each event features:
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Original, true stories from local writers
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Live performances by musicians and singers
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A warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates creativity and community
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We’re also lucky to have author and documentary maker Dearbhail McDonald kindly MC our larger events — Ireland’s own mistress of ceremonies — bringing her trademark warmth and wit to the stage.
Whether you’re reading your first story, performing a song, or simply coming to listen, Hooks & Reels offers a space where words and music connect us all.
