CQAF 2025

Hold Yer Tongue is an engaging hybrid of poetry and storytelling. O’Neill is an award winning writer and performer who has won two  Fringe firsts at the Edinburgh Festival. He won Best actor Off Broadway for his portrayal of Nathan Cassidy in his one man play Absolution which also won The New York critics award for best play.

He has published three volumes of poetry, written plays for the stage and screen. His novel TOM JOAD AND ME was published in June 2024. ‘A carnivalesque, rockabilly narrative with a profoundly moving conclusion.’ said Patrick McCabe

He adapted the Shawshank Redemption for the stage and it is currently on a UK tour of Britain and North America.

‘O’Neill’s poems and stories are both poignant and hilarious. The highlight of the festival.’ – Culture Northern Ireland. 

‘O’Neill’s poems are like an emotional ambush’ – Toronto Sun 

‘I was simultaneously completely helpless with laughter and moved to tears.’ – The Scotsman