Founding members of the former Enniscorthy Drama Group, which closed recently after ten years, are heavily involved in the formation of what they hope will become a yearly staple in the community’s social calendar.
Maria Nolan, prolific local author, said that the closure of the group is a direct pipeline to the new festival, as the committee members are delighted with the various groups that have branched off from the drama group and have fostered new talent across different artistic disciplines.
They are particularly delighted with securing award-winning author Claire Keegan for a talk, especially since Cillian Murphy was seen filming for the film adaptation of her book Small Things Like These in New Ross earlier this year.
“We are delighted to get Claire for the festival. Because we have funding left over, the tickets should only cost ten euro – you won’t get better value in getting an award-winning author on your doorstep!” she said.
Check out the schedule of events below:
Friday September 20:
Screening of Film Forbidden Bonds in Enniscorthy Caste, 8.30 p.m: The new film written by Maria Nolan and filmed by Wexford Film Workshop and Enniscorthy Re-Enactors will be screened in Enniscorthy Castle for the first time. The film follows the young headstrong Lady Maud de Prendergast in the castle in 1240, and her love story with the son of a blacksmith. It will be a clash between her Irish blood and her Norman lineage and illustrates the lack of choice given to young girls at that time in history.
Saturday September 21:
Book Launch of The Shadow of the Pike in the Presentation Arts Centre, 11 a.m.: Enniscorthy writer Maria Nolan will launch her new book and chat to people over coffee, tea and scones.
Afternoon Tea with Claire Keegan with host Caroline Busher in Enniscorthy Castle, 2-4 p.m.: Award-winning author of short stories ‘Antarctica,’ and novellas ‘Small Things Like These’ and ‘So Late in the Day’ Claire Keegan will speak with local author Caroline Busher about her life, her work, and of course the film adaptation of her book featuring Irish Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy.
Beyond Borders Art Exhibition at Creative Grounds, 10-5 p.m.: As Saturday 21 marks the International Day of Peace, Creative Grounds would like to invite you to a showcase of art from refugees and people living in Ireland that came here from war-affected countries.
Interactive Adult Drama Workshop in The Athenaeum, 12-5 p.m.: Award-winning actor and proud co-owner of The Currid School of Performing Arts Chris Currid will be hosting an immersive drama workshop. Christ works as a drama teacher and director with schools, drama groups, and musical societies all over the country, and is also one of the leading vocal coaches in the South East. This interactive workshop will provide a myriad of creative and fun ways to learn acting and theatre skills whilst making friends in an open and welcoming environment. All levels welcome including beginners and newcomers.
Open Mic Night at Creative Grounds, 7 p.m.: Join Creative Grounds for an electrifying evening of spoken word. Whether you are a seasoned poet, a passionate storyteller, someone with a message to share, or a poetry lover, the Open Mic Night is the perfect platform for you.
Sunday September 22:
Angel and the Dead Hearts concert in the Bailey: The new blues band featuring Paula Marks, Alan Corcoran, James Dobbs and Mick McDonagh are making waves after their very successful launch at the Rock’n’Roll Festival back in May. The second band of the night is Tiny Crimes featuring Richard King, Des Mc Hugh, and Graham Lloyd.
Dermot Byrne performance in Creative Grounds, 3 p.m: When it comes to Delta Blues, mixed with Johnny Cash, Dermot Byrne is second to none. He will be putting on a stellar performance in Creative Grounds on the final day.
For further information and to reserve tickets, please visit the Enniscorthy Arts and Culture Festival page on Facebook.