Culture Night line-up for Offaly
Culture Night 2024 promises to be "one night for all" as venues and public spaces across Offaly open their doors for a programme of free cultural events.
This island-wide celebration of arts, heritage, and culture will take place this Friday, September 20, offering a diverse range of activities for the entire community.
The fourteenth year of Culture Night Offaly features a packed programme of events, showcasing the eclectic cultural spirit of the county. There will be a wide selection of cultural activities to enjoy in various towns, including Banagher, Birr, Clara, Clonmacnoise, Edenderry, Kilcormac, Shinrone, and Tullamore.
The event has become an eagerly anticipated annual celebration, with artists, community groups, and venues coming together to create an exciting evening of creativity.
This year is no exception with five professional artists having been commissioned by Offaly County Council Arts Office to present their work, spanning visual arts, music, storytelling, and film, in four different locations.
In Birr, Irish Traveller heritage and lives will be celebrated, including performances by artist Thomas McCarthy and his ensemble, alongside Paddy Keenan of The Bothy Band and renowned local Birr musician, Michael Buckley.
This variety night will showcase songs and stories from Creative Ireland workshops that explore the rich tapestry of Irish Traveller culture. Cloughmoyle Hall in Shinrone will host an intimate Teach Ceoil event, evoking the charm of an old Irish "rambling house" with live music and storytelling.
Music will take centre stage this year, with performances from Clara Musical Society and Eden Chorale, while an eccentric French composer surrounded by machines from the past will be taking 'A Trip to the Moon' in Esker Arts.
Offaly Down Syndrome Association will launch the music video for their Christmas single with some help from Ballycumber’s own Simon Casey - Christmas jumper attire is encouraged!
For any night owls, John Lee’s Bar & Venue will have two DJs playing a range of music genres late into the night.
Literature lovers in Tullamore are in for a treat with two special events celebrating the written word. The evening will feature an exciting book launch, introducing a new work by author Eóin Dooley, offering attendees a chance to be among the first to explore fresh literary talent from the region.
Additionally, a thought-provoking discussion with author Patricia Gibney will take place in the library, providing insight into her creative process, inspirations, and the themes explored in her work. These events promise to be engaging and enriching for both avid readers and aspiring writers alike.
Culture Night 2024 promises something for all ages, making it an ideal night out for the entire family. All events are free to attend, although some venues require advance booking. The full event brochure is available for download on www.offaly.ie/culture-night-offaly
Culture Night is presented by the Department of Culture, Heritage, and the Gaeltacht in partnership with the Creative Ireland Programme and Offaly County Council.