clifden arts festival programme 2012

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35th Clifden Arts Festival

visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets 3


contentsVisual Arts Page 5

School Programme Page 13

General Programme Page 17

Map of Venues Page 66

The Arts Week Caravan is a fount of information and will be open on Market Square from Saturday 15th September.

Festival Box Office Tickets can be purchased online at clifdenartsweek.ie or in the Clifden Arts

Festival Box Office (located inside Connemara Properties) on Bridge Street.

Please call 091-442730 or email: [email protected] Week T-shirts available at Love Vintage, Market Street - thanks to Carol Anne Joyce.

Ticket OutletsClifden Arts Festival Box Office 091-442730

Joyce’s Newsagents (Market Square) 095-22611

Clifden Tourist Information Office (Galway Road) 095-21163

Harass us on Facebook ClifdenArtsFestival Stalk us on Twitter ClifdenArtsWeek

35th Clifden Arts Festival 35th Clifden Arts Festival

visual artsimage by Cyril O’Flaithearta

6 visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets



Group ExhibitionPadraic Rainey; Brendan O’Sullivan;

Bernadette Dignam; Rosie McGurran;

Alannah Robins; Rosemary Carr; Sandy

Glynn; Vanda Luddy; Lol Hardiman;

Cathal O’Malley; Margaret Irwin; Brian

Kelly; Yvonne King; Reingard Gahan;

Linda Kennedy; Pat O’Connell; Mary Lee

Farmlane Gallery; The Kenny Gallery;

Lisa O’Donnell, Lorraine Barry; Shelly

McDonnell; Laura Coll; David Kane;

Jay Murphy.

West Coast Leisure Centre, Ballyconneely Road, Clifden

Regina Pryce - New Works Photographic Exhibition Formerly Irish Antiques, Station House Complex

Kate Noonan The Ardagh Hotel, Ballyconneely Road

Sandra O’Connor – The West in WoolMarket Street, Clifden

Dympna Heanue - New WorksOld Computer Shop, Market Street, Clifden

Mark Joyce – GoldExhibition of new worksJoyce’s Craft Shop, Recess.

Kenneth Webb and Friends – A Half CenturyAlcock and Brown Hotel, Market Square

Reingard Gahan - New Works3 Clifden Court, Bridge St. Clifden.

Kathleen Furey - New WorksFoyer Station House TheatreStation House Complex, Clifden.

David Keane - Feral

2b The Grainstore, Bridge Street, Clifden.

Emma O’Sullivan – WinterShort Film Installation

Written and directed by Emma O’Sullivan‘Winter explores the themes of loss of innocence and the agony of trying to revoke the past’.

Love Vintage, Market Street, Clifden

Chris Munnia – One… Two… TreeCullens Bistro. Market Street, Clifden. September 22nd 5pm

IMMA in ConnemaraCAPTIvATING BRIGHTNESS

Paul Henry, Lake and Blue Mountains of

Connemara, c. 1935. Oil on canvas, 40 x 60 cm.

Collection Irish Museum of Modern Art,

Heritage Gift from the McClelland Collection

by Noel and Anne Marie Smyth, 2004.

Celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Clifden Arts Festival Captivating Brightness is an exhibition of work from the Collection of the The Irish Museum of Modern Art. The title Captivating Brightness, taken from the poem Ballynahinch Lake by Seamus Heaney, recognises the strong multi disciplinary approach of the festival. The exhibition brings together work that enters the heart of the West through an exploration of major Irish and international artists all of whom have either responded directly to or have strong links with Connemara. Presenting a selection of historical works by artists such as Jack B. Yeats and Paul Henry alongside contemporary artists such as Richard Long and Dorothy Cross further highlight the enduring ability of the West of Ireland to excite and captivate the imagination of the artist. The exhibition is a collaboration between the Festival and the IMMA National Programme. Exhibitions such as Captivating Brightness reflect IMMA’s commitment to promoting participation

in, and understanding and ownership of the Museums’s Collection through it’s programme of exhibitions and projects in locations outside the confines of the Museum itself. The programme encourages people to view and enjoy ownership of their national collections, as held by IMMA, in their own locality and on their own terms

Old Super Valu Building. (Very special thanks to Kavanagh’s SuperValu and especially Joe Lynch.), Market Street. Opening September 18th at 6pm by Mary Banotti.

Sponsored by Leader. Brochure kindly sponsored

by Bobby and Truly Gilmore

The Art Trail

Shop Window Exhibition of work by artists who reside in, are inspired by and visit the area - map of trail can be found in the What’s On Connemara guide.

Ger Sweeney - New Works

Old Whistlestop Shop, Clifden Station House Complex, Galway Road




Contemporary Group Exhibition – Hyperopia

“If you throw a tumbler full of water into the sea you can not get the same tumbler full of water back out again” - James C. Maxwell

An exhibition of contemporary Galway based visual artists. Louise Manifold, Shelly McDonnell,Tadhg Ó`Cuirrín, Mara Sola, Cecilia Danell, Finbar McHugh, Frances Killcommings and more.Hyperopia selected by Shelly McDonnell.

Vacant Building beside AIB, Galway Road

Linda Kennedy – New WorkUpstairs Downstairs, Main St, Clifden

Nancy Whelan – Here Come The BridesVivianas, Main Street, Clifden.

Barry Ryan – Clifden CaricaturesThe White Dragon, Church Hill, Clifden

Cluid Exhibition – New Work by Cluid ResidentsThe Central Hotel, Main St. Clifden

Rosie McGurran R.U.A.Rosie McGurran Studio and Gallery,Roundstone

Alice Coyle – New Works “My enduring interest in space, light and texture has been applied this time to the man-made world of architecture - this transition in terms of subject matter is barely evident as I focus once again on the detail, not the whole, rendering the work almost abstract.”

Alice Coyle qualified in fine art at IADT in 2000. A founding member of the artist’s cooperative ‘Atlantic Art’ she practiced in Connemara for 5 years before moving into the field of design.

After working for an architect for some years she caught the bug and decided to return to college to study the subject. Alice has just completed third year at the School of Architecture in Cork; CCAE

where she continues to explore different avenues as an artist.Guys Bar, Main St., Clifden

Lorg PrintmakersCredit Union Office, The Square, Clifden.

Yvonne KingJoseph Joyce Auctioneers, Market Square

The Lavelle Art GalleryA collection of works by local, national and international artists.Main Street, Clifden

Frances Quish Ríocht Manaanán - Iorrous Áithneacht / The Kingdom of Manaanán - Iorrous Áithneacht

Frances’ work is in the tradition of painterly representative art. The medium she uses is oil on canvass. The artist strives to capture the panoramic grandeur of mountain, sky and seascapes as well as the intimate detail of the regions’ flora and fauna. Frances incorporates the cultural imprint of humans on the landscape at work and at play.

She evokes the spirit of generations long past in paintings old habitations, field patterns and stone walls that are such a distinctive part of the fabric of a Connemara landscape.

Frances use of the Gaelic place names as the primary titles for much of her work is indicative of the integrity of her artistic engagement with Iorrous Áithneach.

The Library, Market Street, Clifden

Alan ShattockExhibition of ceramics and domesticstoneware.

The Gaillard Gallery, Letternoosh, Westport Road, Clifden.

Mary Donnelly – New Works Mary Donnelly Studied Fine Art at D.I.T Dublin 1982-86 .From 1986 to 1991 she was a member of Templebar Gallery and Studios, Dublin. In 1991 she moved to Connemara where she continues to live. Mary has exhibited exstensively through out her career in Solo and Group exhibitions in Ireland and abroad. Her exhibitions abroad Include (solo) the McClelland Regional Art Gallery, Langwarren, Victoria, Australia 1993. (group) Reimagining Ireland, University of Virginia,USA 2003. (solo) Glucksman Ireland House, NYU, New York, 2005.

(group) Iomha, Finland, Curated by Rauri O’Cuiv and Cliodhna Shaffery, 2006 Mary’s awards include the Oriel Gallery Award for Landscape of Distinction at the Royal Hibernian Acadamy Annual Exhibition, Dublin 2004. National Self Portrait Collection 2005 Limerick University. Tyrone Guthrie Regional Bursary ( Galway Co Council) 2009-12. Tyrone Guthrie – Virginia Centre for the Creative Arts Exchange Fellowship 2009-12, Arts Council of Ireland Travel and Training Award 2009, Individual Artists Bursary, Galway Co Council 2011-12

Irish Art Gallery, Station House Complex




valerie JoyceCHAIRPublic performance

Heightened displacement is a recurring theme in Joyce’s body of work, and no less so in her use of the familiar household chair. Performing on the street, furnishing the out of doors on The Square in Clifden, recalling a sense of injustice, a subtle remembrance of tragic events, evoking the horror of the daily onslaught of media news content we have grown accustomed to.

“Up The Walls” Childrens’ Mural

Artist facilitated mural painting at Clifden Ball Alley, Beach Road, will take place in conjunction with Culture Night. “Culture Night is an initiative co-ordinated by Temple Bar Cultural Trust and supported by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in partnership with Galway County Council”

please visit; galway.ie/culturenightfacebook.com/galwayculturenight culturenight.ie

Friday 21st September 20122pm - 4pm. All Welcome

THE ExHIBITION CENTRE Brookside Hostel, Hulk Steet, Clifden.

Clifden Arts Festival thanks Richard Bartley for his support.

Diana Shephard - New Works

Margaret Irwin - New Works

“How Certain Artists Work”A presentation and demonstration on the creative process used in the medium of printmaking and textiles. What inspires the artist, subject matter and source materials are involved will be discussed. The presentation will be given by a textile artist and fine art printmaker exhibiting at the centre.

Date: Friday September 21sTime: 2pm - 6pmAll welcome. 10yrs +

Teresa Ward - New Works

Connemara Photographic Society – New Works

Bernadette Dignam - New Works

Rosaleen Coneysand Bridget Morleya mixed media exhibitionThe Art Gallery, Letterfrack Village

Please note: Exhibition details correct at time of going to press. Exhibitions and venues may be subject to change.

Martina Navratilova – Readings Within above: A Hug by Martina Navratilova

Martina Navratilova comes from the Czech Republic where she studied Fine Art. She first came to Connemara twelve years ago, and in 2006, inspired by itscommunity and surrounding landscape, she decided to settle in Letterfrack.Martina’s exploration of printmaking is a continuing process, widening her use of techniques and themes, using a combination of drypoint, soft ground, photo etching and chine-collé.

Formerly Irish Art Gallery, Clifden Station House Complex

Kenneth WebbA live demonstration of painting an Irish Landscape by one of Irelands best known artists. An auction of the finished painting will take place immediately after the demonstration. All proceeds will be donated to Cancer Care West.

Alcock and Brown Hotel, Market SquareFriday 21st September 3pm. Entry €10

The Clifden Art GalleryExhibition of paintings by various artists.Main Street, Clifden

The Whitethorn Art Gallery A collection of work by local, national and international artists. Galway Road, Clifden.

Ruairi O’Neill – New WorksStation House Complex, Clifden Station House Hotel, Clifden

Ben Crow Kiln formed Hand crafted glass.Connemara Blue, The Pink House, Market Square, Clifden

Cliona Sheehan and Isabelle Gaborit Looking Out – Seeing InMixed Media.2a The Grainstore, Bridge St., Clifden

Cyril O’Flaherty Immragh – voyage

This years Oilean Project is an artistic exploration of the Inis Keys, an archipelago off the north Mayo coast and delves into the myths, legends and history of its inhabitants.

1 Clifden Court, Bridge St. Clifden.



SchoolS ProgrammeThe school events are of course confined

to our students only. Events will be

taking place in all our local schools.

The event dates are flexible and guests

may appear on days other than those

to which they may have been first

assigned. The committee would like to

thank the teachers of all the schools for

their unfailing help and courtesy over

the Festival week, most especially the

organising committees of said schools.

We hope to showcase the myriad talents

of our own students past, but especially

present, during the week!

A very special thank you to Anne Ueltschi for her tremendous, continued support and sponsorship of the schools’ events and the arts and education programme.




MONDAY 24th

Art workshops for the primary schools with Joanna McGlynn.

Mary Ryan Surlis advises the Senior students.

Guitar workshop begin today under the tutelage of John Durning.

Award-winning accordionist Michael Curran and friends begin. Watch out for Michael playing at various venues throughout the town during the week.

The brilliant Fidget Feet begin their workshops for the weekend’s Grand Parade.

Michael Coady, poet, musician and photographer returns to meet the students.

Antoinette Spillane, longstanding friend of Arts Festival, begins her popular meditation classes.

Basket making with Ciaran Hogan.

Poet-in-residence Tony Curtis returns. As well as conducting workshops, Tony will be visiting local schools and giving readings.

Helen O’Donoghue, Senior Curator, Head of Educational and Community Programmes for IMMA, will give a talk entitled Walk the Walk with landscape artists from IMMA’s collections.

Joanne McGrath visits the local schools. Joanne teaches Middle School English in New York. She loves encouraging students to read, particularly those most reluctant and matches her students with individual texts. We are delighted to welcome her back again.

Talks and workshops with Strings and Things. Members of the group share their expertise with the students. Thanks to Sarah

School Film Festival begins. The emphasis this year is on films directly related to our second level curriculum. Thanks to Carmel.

TUESDAY 25th

Poet, writer, critic and school programme director of the Centre for Irish Studies, NUIG, Louis de Paor reads for the Leaving Certificate students.

Tony Curtis continues his workshops.

John Durning continues his guitar workshops.

The School Film Festival continues. Details internally.

American poet Shaun Griffin reads for the students.

Greg Yule and band entertain the studentsTerry McDonogh conducts workshops. Terry, freelance

poet and dramatist has been writer-in-residence in many European countries, taught English at University of Hamburg and for 16 years was Drama Director at the Intermediate School. His latest book, In the Light of Bridges - Hamburg Fragments has just been published - its theme: an Irish poet takes us on a poetic journey through his adopted city state.

Marie Sheridan commences her acclaimed singing workshop.

Eleanor Feely returns to her theme of making theatre for the students.

Sean O’Laoire and his puppet theatre company entertain the students.

Antoinette Spillane continues her meditation workshops.

Great friend of the Arts Festival Mike Sullivan returns with his acclaimed Humourfit Theatre Company. This year they present Helen’s Story, a teenage girl’s journey through drink and homelessness, worries and street violence.

WEDNESDAY 26th

Archaeologist and writer Michael Gibbons will talk to the students: From Macau to Roundstone - new discoveries in Connemara’s maritime history and archaeology - the Chinese connection.


Hat-making workshop with Mark T.Burke

The Film Festival continues.

Tony Curtis continues with his visits, readings and workshops.

Fidget Feet continue their preparations.

Marie Sheridan with her singing workshop.

Humourfit finish their productions for the students.

John Durning continues with his guitar workshop.

Antoinette Spillane concludes her meditation workshops.

Seanie Vaughan - his exciting debut album Altered Vision was released last year.

Local historian and author Kathleen Villiers-Tuthill meets the Leaving Certificate students.

Drama workshops for primary schools continue with Terry McDonagh.

Crochet workshop with Yvonne McGlynn.

A performance by Tegolin’s Tales. Tegolin Knowland and Sean Coyne visit the local primary school.Brendan Hernon and friends play for the students.

Sail Away - a Musical Extravaganza with the Headford Orchestra.

Celebrating the magic of the sun, the wind and the oceans! Thanks to Mairead

THURSDAY 27th

Songs to have with your tea with Seamus Ruttledge. Seamus’ debut album New Boots, New Shoes has achieved cult status and his second poetry collection was published recently.

Gabriel Fitzmaurice, poet and musician meets the students.

Film showings for the school festival continue.

Knitting workshop with Karin Joyce.

John Durning continues with his guitar students.

Marie Sheridan continues with her singing workshop.

Writer Ann Henning Jocleyn reads for the students.

Crochet workshop with Peggy Mannion.

Megan Vine conducts theatre workshops for the students.

The Slyne Heads, Peter Carey, Adam Conroy and Patrick Newman will play.

Our great French visitors Les Follies return to entertain the students.

Naturalist Dave Hogan gives a talk to the students.

FRIDAY 28th

Theo Dorgan, poet, writer and sailor meets the students.

The Film festival concludes.

John Durning’s graduates perform for the students.

Marie Sheridan’s students show their prowess.

Thriller writer, poet and local resident Pat Mullan meets the students.

Gabriel Fitzmaurice concludes his visit.

Arts Week bids farewell to Antoinette Spillane.

Basket making workshop with Rosalyn Coneys.

Last day of Fidget Feet’s preparations for the Grand Parade.

Jack Lynch, storyteller meets the students.

The Fanzini Brothers visit the schools. Professor Plunger’s debut!

Grand Finale concert with Michael Carey and band.


35th Clifden Arts FestivalCLIFDEN ARTS FESTIVAL acknowledges and thanks the great contribution to the festival of all our local musicians. Some of these musicians include; Eugene Barry, Marie Walsh, John Gerard Walsh, Liz and Yvonne Kane, Michael Roche, Mirella Murray, Fiachra O’Regan, Peter Carey, Peter Carey Jnr, Michael Carey, Liam Aspell, Martin Conroy, Sean Halpenny, Kevin Barry, Michael McNamara (Clifden), Michael McNamara (Roundstone), Colin Hannon, Wesley Pollington, Feichin Mitchell, Adam Conroy, Aidan Curran, Kieran Coyne, Frank Coyne, PJ McInerney, Pat Flaherty, Pat Keaney, Phil Coyne, Gerry Hannon, Simon Kearns, Tom Scullion, David Slevin, Danny Scullion, Tom Mullen, Paddy Newman, Richie Newman, Eamon McLoughlin, Tom Wallace, Liam Aspell, John Durning, Jarlath Hession, Aidan Ward, Paul Mulligan, Pat O’Toole, James Mullen, Michael Connolly, Martin Sullivan, Eileen O’Malley, Seanie Vaughan, Shane Flaherty and Kenneth Coyne – to all of you a big thanks.

Clifden Arts Festival congratulates the Clifden Town Hall Committee on their magnificent restoration work. They are Breda Coneys, Mary Carey, Rosalyn Coneys, Mary Hickey, Maire O’Halloran, Aidan O’Halloran, Mary Kirby, Carmel Lydon, Val Mahon, Declan Mannion, Br. Oswald, Rev. James Ronayne, Eily Vaughan and Pat Walsh. (Thanks to Bridie O’Neill and Ivor Duane).

Clifden Arts Festival acknowledges the support of and wishes success to all our local sports clubs in the coming year.

Clifden Arts Festival acknowledges the support of Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society, thanks to Henry O’Toole.

Guy’s Bar traditional music sessions continues Wednesday to Saturday with Shona Flaherty, John Durning and Lol Hardiman. 7-9pm.

Barry Ryan plays nightly in the Clifden Station House Hotel.

general programme


16 visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets 17




Thursday 20th September

BOOK LAUNCH JOHN WALSH OF DORIE PRESSBook Launch: John Walsh of the Doire Press reads from his recently published collection of short stories Border Lines.

TIME 12NOON vENUE CLIFDEN LIBRARY

WILDE’S WEST OF IRELAND CONNECTIONSPoet Gerry Hanberry speaks about Oscar Wilde and his West of Ireland connections. Gerry will also read from his acclaimed book More Lives Than One: The Remarkable Wilde Family Through The Generations, published in 2011.

TIME 2PM vENUE CLIFDEN LIBRARY ADMISSION: €5

CHARLES DICKEN’S BICENTENARYArts Week celebrates the great genius of Charles Dickens on the Bicentenary of his birth. (1812-2012). Introduced by Des Lally. We welcome past student and actor John Leyne.

TIME 4PM vENUE ALCOCK AND BROWN HOTEL ADMISSION €5

CLIFDEN ARTS FESTIvALOFFICIAL OPENING We have the pleasure of welcoming His Excellency Michael D. Higgins President of Ireland to open the 35th Festival. An evening of music, dance and song with guests including award-winning West Coast Grupa Ceol.

This evening we also launch of the 4th Clifden Anthology.Sponsored by Anne Ueltschi

TIME 8PM vENUE CONNEMARA LEISURE CENTRE

COMEDY NIGHT WITH KARL SPAINArts Week welcomes one of Ireland’s great comedians, Karl Spain. Karl’s individual style of comedy is self-deprecating, fresh and innovative. Karl is probably best known for his TV show Karl Spain Wants a Woman as well as a subsequent series which were great successes. He has performed stand-up all over the world.

Sponsored by J.J.Mitchell

10PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

THE GATHERINGWe welcome the Mannion clan from all over the world. Music with the great musician Conor Moriarty on accordion and Stephen Rooney on guitar.

10PM vENUE MANNIONS’ BAR ADMISSION €10


The Bambir have gathered their childhood appreciation for hard rock and smuggled vinyl, James Joyce and Daoism, Armenian tra-ditional music and poetry, pulsing beats and whirling trances, ancient tales and pagan wails and pumped it into their own unique sound. Since their arrival in Ireland in January, The Bambir have been causing a stir in Dublin and on the festival circuit with their mu-sic, their tribal nature, and their beards.

‘And now for something that defines ‘original.’Chew Your Own Fat music blog, single review of Beezzy.

TIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR

ARMENIAMUSIC The BamBir‘Hailing from Armenia but soon to become official honorary Irishmen, The Bambir have been making a) a wonderfully wild folk-prog racket, and b) tonnes of new friends, since they crash landed on our shores at the start of the year… Genuinely unforgettable live.’

Hilary A. White, (State.ie, Sunday Independent) HeinekenMusic.ie Staff Pick of the Week




Friday 21st September

‘A WALK IN THE BRONzE AGE’ FIELD TRIP TO INISHBOFINGuided field trip to Inisbofin titled ‘A walk in the Bronze Age’ with archaeologist and author Michael Gibbons. Booking is essential, as are walking boots and suitable water-proof clothing (walkers must be nimble). To book please call 095-21379.

TIME 11AM COST €40 (INCLUDES FERRY)vENUE MEETING POINT @ TOWN SQUARE

LECTURE WITH PSYCHOTHERAPIST BENIG MAUGER

Lecture by Benig Mauger, psychotherapist, writer and lecturer. Her work has been published in UK, USA, Germany and Ireland and she is a

regular speaker at many international conferences.

TIME 12 NOON vENUE FOYLE’S HOTEL ADMISSION €5

above: archaeologist Michael Gibbons

GALWAY’S SKYLIGHT POETSReading by Galway’s Skylight Poets introduced by Kevin Higgins. They are a group of poets who meet with poet and facilitator Kevin in Galway Arts Centre.They meet in an attic room with skylight windows hence the name. Participants have won a variety of prizes for their work including the Hennessy and Cuirt New Writing Prize.

TIME 2PM vENUE CLIFDEN LIBRARY

ART AUCTION WITH KENNETH WEBBA great chance for all to see one of Ireland’s best-known artists give an insight into the painting of an Irish landscape. At the end of this unique event Kenneth’s painting will be auctioned and proceeds donated to Cancer Care West.

TIME 3PM vENUE ALCOCK & BROWN HOTEL ADMISSION €10

READING WITH POETS GERARD FANNING AND MICHAEL O’LOUGHLINReading with the poets Gerard Fanning and Michael O’Loughlin. Gerard has published three collections with the Dedalus Press, his latest being Hombre New and Selected, with a preface by Gerald Dawe. Michael, poet, short-story writer and screenwriter has published many books, his latest being In This Life.

TIME 4PM vENUE CLIFDEN LIBRARY ADMISSION €5

POET PAUL DURCANReading with one of Ireland’s greatest poets, Paul Durcan. Paul is renowned as a chronicler of Ireland’s emergence

from the repressive 50s to the contradictions of the present.

Paul’s readings are always memorable events. He has published many collections, his latest being, Praise In Which I Live and Move And Have My Being. (Harvill Secker 2012).

Sponsored by Joan and Joe McBreen

TIME 5:30PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

GRIFFIN’S BAR DOUBLE-BILLTrad Music and Ballads with The Slyne Heads followed by Steven James and The Tramps at 11pm.

TIME 8PM/11PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

FOLK, AMERICANA WITH THE UNWANTED

Music with The Unwanted with Kathy Jordan, Seamie O’Dowd and Rick Epping. Back again by popular acclaim, the Sligo based powerhouse promise a night of great, exciting music and song with their blend of Americana, Celtic and Folk music.

Sponsored by The Quay House, thanks to Paddy and Julia

TIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR ADMISSION €10

TRADITIONAL MUSICTraditional Music session with John Joe Forde and Mike Fahey

TIME 10PM vENUE vAUGHAN’S BAR



The LIvE IN CONCERT

DuBlinerS This year started off so well for The Dubliners. In January they played, and recorded, two special concerts at Dublin’s Christchurch Cathedral attended by President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabine. February saw them travel to Switzerland for more sell out shows and also to Manchester to pick up the BBC Radio 2 Lifetime Achievement Folk Award in recognition of their extraordinary success over the past 50 years. Just two weeks before the band departed for Denmark the one and only Barney McKenna, founding member and banjo player, passed away suddenly at home.

The remaining Dubliners were left with an impossible situation. Should they honor and fulfill all the concerts for the rest of the year or should they call it a day? After much soul searching

the band decided to continue with their 50th Anniversary Tour. They invited one of Barney’s favorite, and one of Ireland’s most respected tenor banjo players, Gerry O’Connor, to join them for their upcoming tours of Denmark & Ireland. Gerry readily agreed to lend a hand. As Barney himself said recently “It’s too late to stop now…”

The audience reaction in Denmark has been incredible. People came in their thousands to sing and dance and pay their respects to Barney and the other members of the band.

The 50th Anniversary show itself is a live concert interspersed with video footage and photographs of the band throughout their 50 year history. It is more than just another show it is a live celebration of one of the greatest bands ever to come out of Ireland.

Sponsored by Terry Sweeney. Special thanks to Brian Hughes.

TIME 8PM vENUE CONNEMARA LEISURE CENTRE ADMISSION €25 BUY TICKETS ONLINE CLIFDENARTSWEEK.IE


americana anD rooTS Jeremy WallaceanD hiS Trio Clifden Arts Festival welcomes back Americana singer-songwriter, Jeremy Wallace and his Trio. Wallace is “Americana with a Bite!”. His work has been described as, “a little folk, a tinge of rock, some country and loaded with gritty blues.” Wallace’s dynamic songs and style bring “a fresh voice and attitude to traditional American music.”

He has been compared to Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Steve Earle, Lyle Lovett and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few. It is his songwriting that places him in the company of the aforementioned. If we’re lucky, once or twice a decade, an artist with such detailed storytelling and dynamic phrasing, comes along.

One of Dylan’s early influences was legendary acoustic musician, Dave Van Ronk. The late Van

Ronk says of Jeremy, “He’s one of the most arresting new talents I’ve ever heard. When I hear him I get the feeling I got the first time I heard Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie.”

“The best art is often dangerous, and Wallace’s art is dangerous in the same way Lou Reed is dangerous. He writes so well, he almost makes you believe his self destructive lifestyle is a romantic deal.”DON WILCOx THE RECORD -TROY , NY.

TIME 10PM vENUE GUY’S BAR ALSO APPEARING ONSUNDAY 23RD vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR (FOYLES HOTEL) ADMISSION €7





Saturday 22nd September

POET JAMES HARPURPoet, broadcaster and facilitator James Harpur conducts his writing workshop. James has published many collections, his latest, Angels and Harvesters, journeys into realms seen and unseen ranging from the landscapes of Ireland to the visionary realms and mysticism. James is an internationally renowned facilitator.

Sponsored by Des and Mary Kavanagh

TIME 10AM vENUE FOYLE’S HOTEL ADMISSION €10

LECTURE WITH DR JOHN FANNING‘The Mandarin, The Musician and The Mage: T.K.Whitaker, Sean O’Riada, Thomas Kinsella and the Lessons of Ireland’s Mid-Twentieth Century Revival’ a lecture by Dr John Fanning. John currently lectures in the Smurfit Business School, is a member of the Arts Council and non-executive Board Member of The Irish Times. He is the author of The Importance of Being Branded: An Irish Perspective (Liffey Press 2006).

Sponsored by Dr. Ciaran and Anne McLoughlin

TIME 11AM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

RECITAL WITH JUDITH MOKMolly Says No! Molly Bloom in her own words—and music, performed by Judith Mok and Dearbhla Collins and written by Michael O’Loughlin. A dramatic recital with music by, among others, Bizet, Mozart, Granados with traditional Irish music and Sephardic folk music.

Sponsored by Peter and Paula Vine

TIME 1PM vENUE CHURCH OF IRELAND ADMISSION €10

CLIFDEN WRITERS’ GROUP — STORIES, POETRY AND MUSICReadings with the Clifden Writers’ Group, our hugely popular annual event.

TIME 2PM vENUE FOYLE’S HOTEL

PUBLIC INTERvIEW WITH GARRY HYNESIn conjunction with Arts on Air, a public interview with internationally acclaimed theatre director Garry Hynes of Druid (below). The interview will be conducted by broadcaster and journalist Jim Carney. Garry founded Druid in 1975 working with them on acclaimed dramas until 1991 when she became Artistic Director of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. She has also worked extensively with many international companies including the Royal Shakespeare Company and with the Kennedy Centre in Washington D.C. She is back with Druid touring their acclaimed Druid Murphy dramas. In January 2011 she was appointed Adjunct Professor of Drama and Theatre Studies at NUI Galway.

Sponsored by Sound and Vision, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

TIME 3PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION FREE

TRAD WITH WEST COAST GRUPA CEOL Clifden Arts Festival’s annual traditional music session with Marie Walsh, members of her multi award-winning West Coast Grupa Ceol and many other musicians and dancers.

TIME 3PM vENUE TOM KING’S BAR

TRAD MUSIC WITH SEAN HALPENNY & THE HERNONSA great afternoon of traditonal Irish music with Sean Halpenny and the mighty Hernon family and friends.

TIME 4:30PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

POETRY READING WITH DENNIS O’DRISCOLL, JULIE O’CALLAGHAN AND JAMES HARPURJames, poet and facilitator conduct-ed his workshop earlier today and this afternoon is joined by poet and critic Dennis and poet Julie. Dennis has published many books including Stepping Stones, his interviews with Seamus Heaney. His latest work is Dear Life (Anvil Press 2012). Julie’s work includes the collections Edible Anecdotes, No Can Do And Tell Me This Is Normal (Bloodaxe).

Sponsored by Mary Downe

TIME 5PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

35th Clifden Arts Festival35th Clifden Arts Festival

a fairieS TailA Fairies Tail is a promenade theatrical circus performance piece set in the mystical Connemara National Park. Don’t miss this amazing outdoor spectacle as part of the Clifden Arts Festival.

Come on this journey with Fidget Feet and find out who or what is hiding out in some of the best-known children’s stories of all time. “This isn’t a once upon a time story, this is a happening right now story. You know fairies are the stuff of imagination right? Well, when children’s imaginations are taken up with computer games and techno thingies, we fairies have really got to wiggle our tails. Or is it tales?”

A story about ‘Buglite’ the only fairy left who hasn’t become a character in a computer game. Will Ninja Big Boot succeed in capturing her? Open your minds and your hearts and join in on this Fidget Feet adventure.

A Fairies Tail is a promenade theatrical circus performance piece. The audience follows the show as it moves about the woods of Connemara. Don’t miss this amazing outdoor mix of theatre and aerial circus, suitable for the entire family.

Fidget Feet last year returned from their sell out show of Fairies Tail at the third largest Arts Festival in world, The National Arts Festival held at Gramhamstown in South Africa where they wowed the audiences with their Irish charm funded by Culture Ireland.

Fairies Tale was created and devised by Fidget Feet in 2006 and it was commissioned by North Tyneside council, Customs House South Sheilds , Creative Partnership in South Tyneside, Blyth Council , Alnwick Gardens and Red Car Cleveland Uk and managed by Sandra Chapman.

BOOKING INFORMATION

A Fairies Tail presented by Fidget Feet and Clifden Arts Festival in association with Connemara National Park in Letterfrack.

PLEASE NOTE: This is an outdoor event. Audiences are advised to dress appropriately footwear and jackets. Performances take place in a forest and are not suitable for prams or those with mobility difficulties

vENUE CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARKDATE SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 22ND TIME 3PMDATE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 23RD TIME 12PM/4PMADMISSION €25 FOR FAMILY TICKET ( 2 ADULTS AND 2 CHILDREN) €10 ADULT AND €5 CHILDTICKETS CAN BE BOOKED ON CLIFDENARTSWEEK.IE

26 visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets 27

“This is a wonderful performance and it is sure to

capture the imagination of children and anyone who is still young at heart. We are

really pleased to have Fidget Feet performing in Blyth”.Helen Moore, Arts Development

Manager, Blyth Valley Arts & Leisure



SPECIAL EvENT WITH BBC’S MONTY HALLConnemara Chamber of Commerce is today honouring Monty Hall (above), BBC TV (Great Irish Escape among others!), marine biologist, travel writer and diver. Monty has been passionate about the oceans and wildlife for as long as he can remember. He has written seven books, presented programmes for the BBC, ITV, National Geographic and the Discovery Channel, is in demand throughout the UK as a public speaker, and yet remains quietly convinced that people only ever tune in to see the dog. The establishment of the Great Escapes business is the realisation of a lifelong dream, based on the principle that the only thing better than personally discovering more about the natural world, is doing it in the company of other people

TIME 6PM vENUE ABBEYGLEN CASTLE HOTEL

TRAD MUSIC WITH THE FEICHIN MITCHELL TRIOTIME 10PM vENUE vAUGHAN’S BAR

LIvE MUSIC WITH TRANSMITTER

From Classic Rock to comtemporary hits, this Portlaoise-based group have been playing the ciruit around Ireland for the past 10 years.

TIME 11PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR


Finghin, one of Ireland’s greatest concert pianists, enjoys a flourishing career that embraces Ireland, Europe, the USA and Asia. He also makes a major contribution to Irish musical life where he is Associate Artist with the RTE National Symphony Orchestra. He is also the Artistic Director of the acclaimed New Ross Piano Festival.

Finghin’s programme this evening is:

Brahms: Two Rhapsodies Op.79.

Schubert: Drei Klavierstucke D.946.

Chopin: Ballade No.4 in F minor Op.52.

Prokofiev: Sonata No.2 in D.minor Op.14.

Sponsored by Helen and Vincent Foley. Many thanks to Ann Fuller and the Dublin International Piano Competition.


claSSicalconcerT WiThfinghin collinS




De Danann in concerTOnce described as ‘the Rolling Stones of Irish Traditional Music’, the legendary group De Danann, return to the festival stage. Founding members Alec Finn and Johnny ‘Ringo’ McDonagh are joined by Eleanor Shanley (Vocals), Mick Conneely (Fiddle / Whistle / Bouzouki), Derek Hickey (Accordion) and Brian McGrath (Banjo / Piano).

The group released their debut album ‘De Danann’ in 1975 and in total, have recorded 14 albums including ‘Anthem’, ‘Star Spangled Molly’ and “ The Mist Covered Mountain” and have achieved chart success, with many of the albums reaching gold and platinum status. Famous for their cross-cultural experiments, they recorded traditional Irish versions of The Beatles ‘Hey Jude’, Handel’s ‘The

Arrival of the Queen of Sheba’ (which they called ‘The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba to Galway’!). They also recorded Jewish Klezmer music with Andy Statman and made an album called ‘Half Set in Harlem’ featuring American Gospel singing.

Their distinctive style and approach to the tradition both musically and vocally have been the cornerstone of Irish Music for over two decades. De Danann have recharged the jacket of batteries and are ready for the road once again and are bound to pick up many a new fan on this journey in addition to those loyal ones who have been dazzled by them in the past. This is a one off chance to catch one the great groups of Traditional Irish Music in an intimate surrounding.

Sponsored by Terry SweeneySponsored by Terry Sweeney TIME 10PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €15 BUY TICKETS ONLINE CLIFDENARTSWEEK.IE


fuSion inSTumenTal Jazz rock WiTh SPecTrum

Spectrum was formed in the late seventies playing an organic blend of instrumental fusion and jazz-rock. This unique ensemble based in Berne, Switzerland was a refreshing far cry from the mainstream.

In the mid 80s, after receiving several awards and performing at international festivals including the world famous Montreux Jazz Festival, life stepped in and the friends and band members parted ways.

This year, the band reunited in a studio near Kinvara in Ireland where one of the original band members lives.

Spectrum today consists of stellar cast of seasoned players who have withstood the test of time and coagulated a summit of life experiences in their self-penned compositions. In addition to three original members, the band acquired three new members including an outstanding female vocalist.Spectrum is a band with a lot of musical chemistry that in essence, makes them a true live band.

Current lineup: Archie Wittwer - Keyboards, Aschi Beyeler - Saxophones & Harmonica, Bruno McBeth - Drums, Paula Wittwer - Vocals, Ronnie Schenk - Guitars, Charles Carr - Bass

TIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR ADMISSION €5



Sunday 23rd September

THE ROMANTICS: FROM WOLF TO CULLIvANThe Romantics: From Wolf to Cullivan. Alannah Robins, soprano, joins Cantoiri Chonamara for a concert of Romantic music and the premiere of a new work by Galway’s Tom Cullivan.

Sponsored by AIB

TIME 12NOON vENUE CHURCH OF IRELAND ADMISSION €10

COFFEE MORNINGCoffee morning in aid of the Mental Health Association.

Sponsored by Pobal

TIME 12:30PM vENUE ELM TREE CENTRE ADMISSION €5

UNDER THE SUN

Once upon a time (about a year ago) an Irish Lassie from Connemara met a Swedish composer, a Dutch busker and a classically schooled Aussie… and the result: KABOOM! Instant nuclear fusion of music involving a cello, guitar, mandolin, harp, voice and a suite of flutes! Like pears with blue cheese. Or olives and wine. You don’t know why, but it tastes good! Introducing Sarah Mechan and ‘Strings and Things’, a motley crew of musicians all working at Teagasc in Johnston Castle.

TIME 2PM vENUE FOYLE’S HOTEL ADMISSION €5

MUSIC WITH TRISKELETriskele began as a duo with founding members Sharon Wheeler and Noeleen Whelan, in 2008. Noeleen on vocals, guitar and Bodhran. Sharon on vocals and is a multi-instrumentalist-guitar, mandolin and accordion. among others. The band includes instrumentalists and vocalists Jennifer Kilinski and Christine WhelanJennifer on vocals, flute and percussion. Christine on bass and vocals.

TIME 3:30PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR


from ScaTTereD SeeD reaDingSanD converSaTion Poetry, prose and conversation with the audience from award-winning Australian writers Andy Kissane, Alex Skovron, Alison Wong and Robyn Rowland, growing out of Irish, Polish-Jewish, Chinese and New Zealand soils, addressing that essential issue of where we belong, where we fit.

Andy Kissane is third-generation Irish-Australian and his people come from (and remain in) Kerry. He has published three books of poetry, Facing the Moon (1993), Every Night They Dance (2000) and Out to Lunch (2009) . His first novel was Under the Same Sun (Sceptre, 2000) and he has a new book of short stories The Swarm (2012).

Alex Skovron was born in Poland, lived briefly in Israel, and emigrated to Australia in 1958, aged nine. Multi-award-winning, he has five collections to date: The Rearrangement (1988), Sleeve Notes (1992), Infinite City (1999), The Man and the Map (2003); and Autographs (2008). He has also published a prose novella, The Poet (2005). A number of his short stories have appeared in print. His New & Selected Poems is due in 2012.

Alison Wong is a third-generation Chinese-New Zealand novelist and poet, now an Australian Resident living in Geelong Australia. Her first novel, As the Earth Turns Silver, was shortlisted for the prestigious 2010 Australian Prime Minister’s Literary Awards and was longlisted for the 2011 International IMPAC Dublin Award. It won the 2009 Janet Frame Award for Fiction and the 2010 New Zealand Post Book Award for Fiction. Her poetry collection Cup, was shortlisted for many awards.

Dr Robyn Rowland AO is third generation Irish-Australian and has been living between Ireland (Connemara) and Australia for 30 years. Widely anthologized, she has published nine books, six of poetry, most recently Seasons Of Doubt & Burning. New & Selected Poems (2010) representing 40 years of publication. Her poetry has recently appeared in Being Human, ed. Neil Astley, (Bloodaxe Books, UK, 2011). Robyn is winner of a number of poetry prizes. She has two CD’s: Off The Tongue and Silver Leaving – Poems & Harp with Irish harpist Lynn Saoirse.

Thanks to Robyn and the Australian Embassy

TIME 2:30PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €5



‘THE SEAS ARE DEEP’ RECORD LAUNCHLynn Saoirse launches her new CD of the beautiful Baroque music of the famous Irish composer for harp, Turlough O’Carolan.

She will be joined by Abby Newton, the well-known cellist who is at home in both classical and traditional music, having performed with the prestigious ensembles Amor Artis Orchestra, the American Symphony and the Cacelian Chamber Ensemble. With special guests from here and abroad!

Derek Bell of the Chieftains said of Lynn, “There is an exquisite delicacy all through her playing.”

Sing Out! magazine said of Abby, “Newton plays with sensitivity and soul, resisting always the temptation to turn traditional tunes into classical-music museum pieces.”


POETRY AND SONG Reading with poets John F. Deane and Paddy Bushe with special guests Johnny Mhairtin Learai and Sean Ryan. John, a great and early friend of Arts week has published many books, his latest being Eye of the Hare (Carcanet).’ In sonnets, narratives and lyrics Eye of the Hare advances towards redemption’. Paddy has published many collections the latest being My Lord Buddha of Carraig Eanna. ‘He possesses the gifts of compassion and humanity and his is a voice to be treasured’- Liam Carson. They are joined tonight by one of the great Sean–Nós singers Johnny Mhairtin Learai and very special guest, the great musician Sean Ryan.

Sponsored by Alan and Mary Hobart

TIME 8PM STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

TRAD MUSIC WITH MICHAEL CURRANMusic with Michael Curran the amazing champion box (accordion) player from County Tyrone. Watch out for Michael at other venues during the Festival.

TIME 10PM vENUE KEOGH’S BALLYCONNEELY

TRAD MUSIC SESSION WITH THE HERNONS AND CONALL FLAHERTYBegins at 8pm followed by Pub Disco with DJ Fiddler @ 11pm.

TIME 8PM/11PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

We Banjo 3The banjo has been likened to Marmite - you either love it or hate it. But when the remarkable We Banjo 3 hits the vellum and virtuosity takes flight, any doubts about this much-maligned instrument are swept aside in a wave of verve and sheer joie-de-vivre. Winners of the Music Network Young Musicwide Award, the trio from Galway combine Irish music with Old-Time American, Ragtime and Bluegrass influences, revealing the banjo’s rich legacy from its roots in African and minstrel music through to the Irish traditional sound pioneered by Barney McKenna. A member of the Brock McGuire band, banjo wizard Enda Scahill has won four All-Ireland titles, guested with the Chieftains, recorded with Ricky Skaggs, and toured with Frankie Gavin and Stockton’s Wing. In We Banjo 3, he has teamed up with Ireland’s hottest young banjo players, brothers Martin and David Howley, with over 10 All-Ireland titles to their names.

‘Exciting, Invigorating and Virtuosic, including Irish, old Time and Bluegrass.’ ‘They are terrific. There isn’t a better way of saying it. Wonderful musicianship of the first order. Best of all they are different.’ BILL MARGESON, IRISH MUSIC WRITER.

Sponsored by Marguerite Courtade





Monday 24th September

READING WITH SIOBHÁN MANNIONSiobhán Mannion writes short stories and radio plays. In 2011, she won the Hennessy Award, and earlier this year her play ‘The Big Picture’ took the World Bronze Medal for Best Writing at the New York Festivals International Radio Awards. Her fiction has been published in Ireland and abroad, and she is one of 28 Irish writers included in ‘Silver Threads of Hope’, a new anthology of stories edited by Sinéad Gleeson and just published by New Island in aid of Console. Siobhán lives

in Dublin where she works as a radio producer in RTÉ. There will also be a musical performance by uillean piper Fiachra O’Regan.


READING WITH RITA ANN HIGGINSClifden Arts Festival is delighted to welcome back poet, playwright, essayist and great friend of Arts Week Rita Ann Higgins. She has published many collections, her latest being Ireland is Changing Mother, chronicling the lives of the Irish dispossessed with her provocative mix of humour and telling social comment. Rita Ann is truly ‘a poetic voice for the voiceless’. She is a member of Aosdana.

Sponsored by SuperValu, thanks to Joe Lynch

TIME 4PM vENUE ALCOCK & BROWN HOTEL ADMISSION €10

TRAD MUSIC WITH MICHAEL CURRANTIME 6:30-8:30PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

TRAD MUSIC WITH LAN SEOLTIME 10PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

THE HERNON BROTHERS & CONALL FLAHERTY TIME 8PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

The legendary singer, songwriter and peace activist makes a very popular return to Clifden. His music moves from traditional Irish to contemporary folk . Tommy’s lyrics evoke images of Ireland and include lyrical, humorous and edgy commentaries on modern society.

Walking the road between two cultures, he dreams of an Ireland without conflict. Indeed, his songs speak to all that Ireland is, from its troubled past to its indomitable spirit and a vision of “a land of dreaming”. And his work around the globe speaks to our common heritage, using music to bridge cultural differences.

Tommy SanDSin concerTIn this way he shares a vision with songwriters instigating social change such as Phil Ochs, Joan Baez, and close friend Pete Seeger.

“You feel you can trust the singer as well as the song. . .” SEAMUS HEANEY

‘Most gifted songwriter...with an ability to write on serious subjects which come across as songs rather than sermons...also well able to be extremely funny in the way he puts words together. . .’ THE IRISH TIMES

Sponsored by John Stanley





DRUIDMURPHY: CONvERSATIONS ON A HOMECOMINGby Tom Murphy, directed by Garry Hynes

Hot on the heels of widespread critical acclaim in London, New York and Galway Arts Festival, Clifden Arts Festival is delighted to welcome the Druid production of DruidMurphy – Plays by Tom Murphy, directed by Garry Hynes.

DruidMurphy is the story of Irish emigration; a story both of those who went and those who were left behind. Crossing oceans and spanning decades, DruidMurphy explores what we mean when we call a place home and is a major celebration of one of Ireland’s most respected living dramatists.

DruidMurphy has already been a sell-out success on tour and is guaranteed to be the theatrical event of the year. Early booking advised.



It’s County Galway in the 1970s and even the humblest of small-town pubs can be a magnet for dreamers. In the 60s, “The White House” pub was that magnet – for the more open-minded, hopeful and radical young people of the town.

Now in his 30s, and over a long drinking session on a winter’s evening, Michael – recently returned from New York after a ten year absence – has a reunion with old friends in that same pub “The White House”. He was the one member among them who got away to live the dream and now he’s back – more or less out of the blue.

Faced with the changes the years have wrought, they begin a process of self-discovery.

DruidMurphy is a co-production with Quinnipiac University Connecticut, NUI Galway, Lincoln Center Festival and Galway Arts Festival.

“attendance should be obligatory… thanks to productions so faultless they’re no effort to sit through” ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

“Murphy is, I suspect, the greatest dramatist writing in English.”✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ THE FINANCIAL TIMES

“As always with this remarkable company, the acting is of a quality to leave you dumbstruck with admiration.” NEW YORK TIMES

CONVERSATIONS CASTBeth CookeGarrett LombardAaron MonaghanMarie MullenRory NolanMarty ReaEileen Walsh

DRUID INFOFor more info visitwww.druid.iephotos: Catherine Ashmore

TIME 8PM vENUE TOWN HALL ADMISSION €22 (CONCESSION €18)DURTION: 1 HOUR 50 MINS – NO INTERvAL. BOOKING IN ADvANCE IS ESSENTIAL



Tuesday 25th September JAzz WITH COLM ‘STRIDE’ O’BRIENOn piano Colm ‘Stride’ O’Brien plays Scott Joplin meets Gershwin and Fats Waller. One of Ireland’s leading exponents of ragtime piano.

Sponsored by Edward R.Downe Jr.Thanks to Paul, Brian and staff


READING WITH POETS LOUIS DE PAOR AND SHAUN GRIFFINReading with poet and director of the Centre for Irish Studies Louis de Paor, special guest poet Shaun Griffin. Louis is a well known poet. He has published many collections including Aimsir Bhreicneach/Freckled Weather and Agus Rud Eile De/And Another Thing. He has also published many academic works. Shaun Griffin is a poet, translator, editor and activist. He is the author of 5 poetry collections which honour the West’s many cultures through resonant meditative imagery and is also editor of Razor Wire, his annual journal produced from his workshops in the Northern Nevada Correctional Center.


GREG YULE AND BANDSponsored By Terry Sweeney. Thanks to Fabrice.

TIME 6:30-8:30PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

SINGING IN THE BOOKIESDes Kavanagh and Pete Mullineux present a return of this very special event with poems about horses and greyhounds.

TIME 7PM vENUE PADDY POWER’S ADMISSION €5

STEvEN JAMES TRIOTIME 8PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

TRAD MUSIC WITH MICHAEL CURRANTIME 10PM vENUE THE CENTRAL

LOWRY’S SESSION GROUP FUNDRAISERTonight the famous Lowry’s Session Group present a cheque for €5000, the proceeds of sales of their Live at Lowry’s CD to the Galway Hospice in memory of the late Paul Joyce.

Many thanks to Eilish and Damian

TIME 10PM vENUE LOWRY’S BAR


Fronted by Paul Brock on accordian and Manus McGuire on fiddle with Garry O’Meara on banjo, mandolin and vocals and Denis Carey on piano the band were named instrumental band of the decade by Irish American News and won the Top of the World award from Songlines. ‘Passion and precision, authenticity and diversity, steeped in tradition, these are the hallmarks of the band’. The multi award-winning band perform Irish, American Old Timey, Bluegrass and French-Canadian music.

The Brock mcguire BanDVoted “Irish Instrumental Band of the Decade” Irish American News

“Virtuosity in Full Flight” Irish Times

“Absolutely Fabulous” Songlines Magazine

Sponsored by Kate and Noel Noonan




DRUIDMURPHY: A WHISTLE IN THE DARKby Tom Murphy, directed by Garry Hynes

DruidMurphy is the story of Irish emigration; a story both of those who went and those who were left behind. Crossing oceans and spanning decades, DruidMurphy explores what we mean when we call a place home and is a major celebration of one of Ireland’s most respected living dramatists.

DruidMurphy has already been a sell-out success on tour and is guaranteed to be the theatrical event of the year. Early booking advised.

It’s 1960 and Michael Carney is an Irish emigrant living in Coventry, England, with his new wife Betty. Michael has integrated well into English society, but


the same can’t be said of his wild brothers, Harry, Iggy and Hugo, who are lodging with him. Tensions boil over after the arrival of his father and youngest brother from home.DruidMurphy is a co-production with Quinnipiac University Connecticut, NUI Galway, Lincoln Center Festival and Galway Arts Festival.

“attendance should be obligatory… thanks to productions so faultless they’re no effort to sit through” ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

“Murphy is, I suspect, the greatest dramatist writing in English.”✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ THE FINANCIAL TIMES

“As always with this remarkable company, the acting is of a quality to leave you dumbstruck with admiration.” NEW YORK TIMES

A WHISTLE IN THE DARK CASTNiall BuggyGavin DreaGarrett LombardAaron MonaghanMichael Glenn MurphyRory NolanMarty ReaEileen Walsh

DRUID INFOFor more info visitwww.druid.iephotos: Catherine Ashmore

TIME 8PM vENUE TOWN HALL ADMISSION €22 (CONCESSION €18)DURTION: 2 HOURS 30 MINS INCLUDING AN INTERvAL OF 15 MINS BOOKING IN ADvANCE IS ESSENTIAL





Wednesday 26th September THE SPIRIT OF THE AGE: WOMEN IN IRISH ARTLecture by Dr Éimear O’Connor HRHA, Research Associate, TRIARC Irish Art Research Centre at TCD. The lecture will investigate the work of women such as Mainie Jellet, Sarah Purser, Elizabeth and Susan Yeats and some of our more contemporary women artists.

TIME NOON vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

MUSIC WITH TRUE NORTHWith nicknames like Lefty, Tumbleweed, Koot, Blind Boy, Dusty, Doc and Calamity, you might be expecting True North to provide music that evokes the cowboy traditions of the American and Canadian West - and you’d be right!! Hailing from the great Pacific Northwest states of Alaska, Washington, and Oregon, True North rides again to entertain the Clifden community with their rousing cowboy, country and western music laced with beautiful ballads and haunting harmonies. Making their 9th appearance at the Arts Week festivities, True North has formed a bond with the community that is apparent in their presentation.

We welcome back Bruce Batten, Toni London, Ben Cockman, Gareth and Janet Tabor, Charli Meacham, and Dennis Walsh.

TIME 2PM vENUE CRIOST LINN

TIME 6:30-8:30PM vENUE E.J. KING’S BAR

DRAMATIC RECITALEmigration Road: A Dramatic Recital for Two Voices, performed by Tegolin Knowland and Sean Coyne. Devised and directed by Eamon Grennan.


MICHAEL CURRANTIME 2PM vENUE ELM TREE CENTRETIME 4PM vENUE WALSH’S BAKERY & COFFEE SHOP

READING WITH POETSTERRY MCDONOGH AND SIMON LEYLAND

Terry McDonogh, freelance poet and dramatist has been writer-in-residence in many European countries, taught English at the University of Hamburg and for 16 years was Drama Director at the Intermediate School. His latest

book, In the Light of Bridges - Hamburg Fragments has just been published. Its theme – an Irish poet takes us on a poetic journey through his adopted city state. Simon Leyland lives locally, has published two collections of poetry, The Language of Exile and Ramblings of an Unkempt Man. His novel will be published shortly.


‘THE QUIET HOUSE’ RECORD LAUNCH

Launch by whistle player Nóirín Uí Shúilleabháin of her new CD ‘The Quiet House’.

“Nóirín Uí Shúilleabháin is

one of the finest exponents of whistle playing in the world of traditional Irish music. Her playing is characterised by its effortless flow, clarity and musicality, which, to the discerning ear, is based on an underlying mastery of technique, command and control of her instrument, the whistle.

So many young musicians start their musical journey by ‘learning the whistle’, an instrument which is potentially one of the most ‘simply complex’ of instruments – Nóirín’s musicianship illustrates the full potential of this most ‘intimate’ of traditional instruments.”

– Siobháin Ní Chonaráin, writing in a recent issue of TREOIR

TIME 5PM vENUE ALCOCK & BROWN HOTEL

CONvERSATION WITH DOROTHY CROSSPatrick T.Murphy, Director Royal Hibernian Academy, talks with Aosdana member Dorothy Cross about her life, her work and her new publication.

Thanks to Patrick and Des.

TIME 5:30PM vENUE BALLYNAHINCH CASTLE HOTEL

THE SLYNE HEADSTIME 8PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

TED HUGHES IN CONNEMARA A presentation by Robert Jocelyn and Ann Henning Jocelyn at Doonreagan, Cashel, where Ted Hughes lived for a while in the 1960s and, in his own words, experienced a breakthrough, not only in his writing but in everything to do with himself. Call 095-31049 for reservations and directions. Booking is essential.

TIME 8PM TICKETS €12 INCL. WINE RECEPTION

MUSIC WITH PLATFORM 3TIME 10PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

REMEMBERING EUGENE KELLYCarmel Dempsey and band.

TIME 10PM vENUE LOWRY’S BAR




Dance

The latest multi-media production +1 Project by artistic trio Hylak, Schirmer & Pryce consists of Magdalena Hylak’s two dance solos Detached and Irretrivebly Lost, both with still and moving images by Regina Pryce; as well as Linda Schirmer’s dance film A State of Being.

Detached This fast paced multi-media dance piece explores the themes of attachment and belonging. Can the connection that is made between spaces and people in our dreams be made to seem more real in this world? Detached was created by dancer and choreographer Magdalena Hylak as a work suited to a non-theatrical space, thus bringing the viewers closer to the performer and allowing them to enter the dancer’s realm. The piece includes both formal and improvisational structures and is propelled forward by a series of industrial music pieces. Videography and photography by Regina Pryce projected throughout

the performance show the work in a different light and adds an extra visual dimension to the performance.Irretrievably Lost Specially commissioned for Clifden Arts Festival 2012, this dance piece follows Detached as a response to its created world, in which reality and dreams often take each other’s places; blending surreal, magical elements with sometimes brutal physicality.

Irretrievably Lost consists of dance, music and video by Regina Pryce, but unlike in Detached, these components never come together. Instead they linger next to one another, trying continuously to find even the smallest connection.

The dance film A State of Being by Linda Schirmer reflects on the strong bond between a mother and her newborn. Especially the first weeks of this unique duo are marked by reclusiveness as the focus is put entirely on this microcosmic relationship.

TIME 6:30PM vENUE THE ANTIQUE SHOP @ STATION HOUSE COMPLEx. ADDITIONAL PERFOMANCES: THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SAME vENUE AND TIME

READING WITH POETS LONGLEY & GRENNAN Michael Longley, one of Ireland’s foremost contemporary poets, is known for the compact beauty of his meditative lyrics, his poetry also marked by sharp observation of the natural world. A Hundred Doors was published in 2011 (Cape). Though his Irish roots are clear in his poetry, Eamon Grennan has also an international sense of literary tradition. He “would have us know-no would have us see, feel, hear, taste, and smell-the world, moment by ordinary moment, lies chock-full with its own clarifications and rewards.” – Robert Wrigley. They will be joined by the dynamic duo Liz and Yvonne Kane.

Sponsored by Tim and Mairead Robinson


MUSIC WITH THE HIPPY SYNDROME

The Hippy Syndrome are Wesley Pollington on bass, vocals, Simon Kearns on drums, and Shane (fuzz) Flaherty on guitar and vocals. Their sound is heavily influenced by the

early blues/rock bands such as Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin and Creedence Clearwater Revival and in later years, the grunge era of the nineties with bands such as Pearl Jam and Blind Melon. Throw in a bit of Nick Cave and Arcade Fire and that’s the sound! All the tunes lived and written in Connemara.

TIME 10PM vENUE TOM KING’S BAR

GREG YULE AND BAND

Music and launch with Greg Yule and band. Greg launches his new CD, Back on my Feet.The band is Greg Yule, Adrian Marshall, Brian Potter, Niel Kennedy, Les Phillips and Jo Yule.

TIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR

JAzz WITH LES FOLLIESThe band is Ian Kelly on banjo, Francis Guero on trombone, Jacques Silvert on clarinet, Jean Dufour on trumpet, Francis Cottin on drums with Bernard Brimeur on double-bass.

Sponsored by French partner of Arts Week in association with Slainte from Lens, France Thanks to Paul, Brian and staff and of course great friend of Arts Week, Didier


visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets 4948 visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets


reaDing WiTh mike ScoTT (The Waterboys) with SPecial gueST STeve WickhamMike will read from his memoir Mike Scott—Adventures Of A Waterboy. The evening will also include a short set of songs played by Mike and Steve Wickham.

Lyrical, driven, singular as his peers Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Van Morrison, Mike Scott is a man made manifest through his music. Scotland’s most celebrated rock ‘n’ roller and singer-songwriter tells his story in Adventures of a Waterboy, laying down a remarkable body of work across thirty-five years and over two continents.

As a teenager Mike Scott fronted his first garage bands, playing original songs and punk covers, and wrote his own rock fanzine before moving to the lights of Edinburgh and London in quest of glory. In the 1980s he formed The Waterboys with musicians selected to interpret the ‘noises in his head’, from the tumbling saxophone of Anthony Thistlethwaite to the fiddle-mastery of Steve Wickham. With the burgeoning success of A Pagan Place and This Is the Sea, The Waterboys

became one of the biggest acts in British music. Before his sensational performance at the 1986 Glastonbury Festival Scott came to Ireland for a week with Steve Wickham, and stayed for six years, taking him deep into the West, folk music, Yeats … and Fisherman’s Blues, one of the great albums of the decade, blending country, blues and gospel with rock ’n’ roll in a freewheeling cycle of reinvention and artistry.

After scaling the heights and living the New York dream, Scott then turned his back on rock stardom to discover his inner resources with the Findhorn community in his native Scotland during the 1990s, emerging from time to time to reassemble his iconic band and to make music. In 1998 he was reunited with his father, unseen since 1970.

Sponsored by Shane O’Grady

photo: Margaret O’Neill

TIME 10PM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €20 TICKETS ONLINE CLIFDENARTSWEEK.IE


PUBLIC

INTERVIEWGarry Hynes

Druid Theatre

Station House Theatre

Sat 22nd 3pm

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Thursday 27th September CELEBRATION OF OLDER PERSONS’ CONTRIBUTION In celebrating this year, the European Year for Active Ageing, we acknowledge older persons’ contribution to arts and culture in the community. Lunch will be followed by music and dance with Peter Carey, Liam Aspell and friends.

Many thanks to Geraldine Kelly, Cathy Keane and Yvonne Kane

TIME 1PM vENUE STATION HOUSE HOTEL

MUSIC: TRUE NORTHTIME 2:30PM vENUE SAINT ANNES

TRADITONAL MUSIC WITH MICHAEL CURRANTIME 3:30PM vENUE STEAM CAFE (THANKS TO ALAN AND CLAIRE) ADDITONAL TIME 6:30-8:30PM vENUE E.J.KING’S

BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA Bram Stoker, Dracula’s Extraordinary Creator: a Centenary Celebration. Reading with Paul Murray, author of the highly acclaimed biography of Stoker, From the Shadow of Dracula.

Sponsored by Pat Molloy


TRAD MUSIC WITHTHE SLYNE HEADSTIME 5PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

READING WITH POETS PHILIP MCDONAGH AND JOE WOODS Philip McDonagh, poet and diplomat, published his first book in 2003, Carroroe in Saxony (Dedalus), later published in expanded form in India as Memoirs of an Indian Diplomat. The Song the Oriole Sang was published in 2010. He is currently Irish Ambassador to Russia. Joe Woods, poet and Director Poetry Ireland is a regular visitor to the Festival and a great friend of Arts Week. His first book, Sailing to Hokkaido was published in 2001. His latest collection Ocean Letters was published by Dedalus Press in 2011.

Sponsored by Poetry Ireland


TRADITIONAL SESSION Irish Trad session with the Hernons.

TIME 7:30PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

TRADITONAL MUSIC WITH LOOSEWith their infectious rhythms and strong stage presence this Irish ‘trad’ band offer an unrivaled entertainment experience.

TIME 10:30PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR


rhyme ranT & rann Rhyme, Rant & Rann celebrates Ireland’s tremendous traditional arts heritage. Fresh and unfussy, the show offers audiences a great evening’s entertainment filled with tall tales, splendid songs and wickedly wise words.

Rhyme, Rant & Rann is performed by Len Graham (traditional singer), Jack Lynch (actor, storyteller) and Theo Dorgan (poet, writer).

In Rhyme, Rant & Rann, audiences can look forward to hearing Theo’s poetry and prose inspired by his love of the sea, alongside hilarious, outrageous yarns from Jack Lynch and moving songs from Len Graham.

For Theo Dorgan, the magnificent marine vistas off the rugged coast of Clifden are sure to bring back very special memories. As a novice sailor, Theo found himself undertaking two

epic ocean voyages (in 2001, from Antigua to Kinsale and again in 2006, from Cape Horn to Cape Town, South Africa). The experiences served as literary inspiration for Theo’s two books about these sailing expeditions, namely “Sailing for Home” and “Time on the Ocean”, both of which received glowing press reviews.

The proximity of Clifden to America (“next stop New York”) will also resonate strongly with both Len Graham and Jack Lynch. As one of Ireland’s finest keepers of folk tunes and ballads, Len’s repertoire mingles sad farewells with joyous homecomings, in his heart-warming performances. Renowned storyteller Jack Lynch weaves his tales with sensitivity and expertise, bringing the audience along on his spell-binding theatrical journeys.

Music tonight will be from Gary Hastings (flute).

Rhyme, Rant and Rann is kindly supported by an Arts Council Touring Award.

Sponsored by Dr. Ronan Kavanagh

TIME 8:30PM vENUE STATION HOUSE HOTEL ADMISSION €10




filmnaTural graceiriSh muSicand marTin hayeS by Art O’BriainFilmed over a two year period Art O’Briain’s up close and personal portrait of master fiddler Martin Hayes, is a musical journey to his home place in East Clare, to the U.S. and to Japan and elsewhere. Martin Hayes is playing a pivotal role in the evolution of Irish music in the 21st century and while he continues to draw on a deep well of tradition his playing manages to convey the music in a uniquely contemporary manner. A beautifully diverse and sensitive range of nature imagery is embodied with the films narrative and Natural Grace was voted best Irish documentary at Galway Film Fleadh 2012.

Sponsored by Michael and Toni Barrett

TIME 10PM vENUE STATION

HOUSE THEATRE

ADMISSION €10

MUSIC FROM IRELAND & QUEBEC WITH FÁSTA Featuring members from Ireland and Québec, Fásta summons up the finest tunes and songs from its Celtic traditions. Remaining true to the styles and repertoires of Québec and Ireland, Fásta bridges the two cultures to create its original sound on uilleann pipes, fiddle, guitar and voice.

It all started when fiddler Sophie Lavoie from Québec met piper Fiachra O’Regan while she was touring in Ireland. Tonight they will be joined with guitarist John McIntyre. Fásta have toured throughout Europe, North America and Australia and are delighted to be playing where it all started in Clifden.

Sophie Lavoie – fiddle, vocals, foot percussion. John McIntyre – guitar. Fiachra O’Regan – uilleann pipes, fiddle, whistle.

THIS SHOW IS ON THURSDAY 27TH TIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S BAR ADMISSION €5

TRAD MUSIC WITH OUT OF THE WESTTHURSDAY 27TH TIME 10PM vENUE LOWRY’S BAR

Friday 28th September FIELD TRIP TO INISHNEE AND CASHELGuided field trip with Michael Gibbons. Booking essential. Walking boots required. Call 095-21379.

TIME 11AM MEETING POINT MARKET SQUARE, CLIFDEN PRICE €20

COUNTRY MUSIC WITH TRUE NORTHTIME 2PM vENUE CLIFDEN DAY CARE CENTRE

TRADITONAL MUSIC WITH MICHAEL CURRANTIME 2PM vENUE FATIMA HOSPITAL

JAzz IN THE AFTERNOON WITH LES FOLLIESTIME 4:30PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

SPECIAL EvENT OF POETRY AND MUSICSpecial event with Tony Curtis, John Sheahan and Michael Coady with guest Gabriel Fitzmaurice.

TIME 4:30PM vENUE ALCOCK & BROWN HOTELADMISSION €5



Anu Pictures presents

a reel arT filmA Film by Donal O’Ceilleachair and Julius Ziz with music by Peadar O’Riada. Funded by the Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaion Dreamtime Revisited, a ‘walkabout in dreamtime Ireland’ inspired by the works of writer, poet and philosopher John Moriarty (1938-2007). Dreamtime, Revisited is a “Walkabout In Dreamtime Ireland” inspired by the works of Irish writer, poet and philosopher, John Moriarty.

“It being Dreamtime then, the land was appropriated more effectively with myths than it was with weapons. Without myths going before them, weapons were useless. It being Dreamtime then, the land and everything in it was dreaming. Well might a person in those days say; there is a Dream that dreams us . . . ” (from Dreamtime - 1996).

The film weaves together contemporary and archive material, with excerpts from some of Moriarty’s key talks, in a labyrinthine invocation of his ‘dream-vision’ of Ireland. Dreamtime Revisited is an observational film mirroring Moriarty’s gaze upon the face of contemporary and historical Ireland. It is an impressionistic film retracing the spiritual and poetic dimensions of Ireland across the folds of its landscape.

Sponsored by Trident Press



an evening

WiTh Bill

Whelan and friends

Renowned composer, producer and arranger Bill Whelan has worked extensively in theatre, film and television. His Grammy winning album of music for Riverdance The Show is certified Platinum in the US, Ireland and Australia.

His orchestral work, The Seville Suite was specially commissioned for Expo ’92. The Spirit Of Mayo, was first performed in 1993 by and 85-piece orchestra in Dublin’s National Concert Hall. As a producer he has worked with U2, Van Morrison, Kate Bush, Richard Harris, The Dubliners, Planxty, Andy Irvine, Patrick Street, Stockton’s Wing, Davy Spillane and Bulgarian/Irish band, East Wind.

His recently completed trilogy of pieces for chamber orchestra: Inishlacken, Carna and Errisbeg are included on his latest CD, “The Connemara Suite”.

The Connemara Suite began some years ago when Bill was first asked to write for the Irish Chamber Orchestra. Inishlacken came first, that then led to Carna and finally Errisbeg. The virtuosity of the musicians and their enthusiasm for music making was a very rewarding experience for Bill as a composer.

It also allowed him to write for traditional musicians within the framework of a chamber orchestra and the ICO who have always had a sense of adventure in their approach to their repertoire.



visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets 5756 visit clifdenartsweek.ie to book tickets

The SaW DocTorS live in concerTSpecial event - the legendary band, fronted by Leo Moran and Davy Carton present concerts that are truly events.

‘If they could bottle the sort of bonhomie that can make an entire concert hall feel better, the Saw Doctors would have the medicine show to end them all!’

Paul Sexton, The Times

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

‘Born into a repressed, catholic, conservative, small-town, agrarian, angst-ridden and showband infested society we’re trying to preserve the positive elements of our background and marry them to the sounds which have culturally invaded our milieu through TV, radio, 45’s, fast food restaurants, 24 hour petrol stations and electric blankets’ Sponsored by John and Triona Sweeney

TIME 8PM vENUE CLIFDEN TOWN HALL ADMISSION €20 TICKETS ONLINE CLIFDENARTSWEEK.IE

DANNY O’MAHONEY AND THE SHANNON vALE CEILI BAND

The award-winning Shannon Vale, based in North Kerry, are a group of musicians currently making waves in musical and set dancing circles across Ireland. The impressive lineup includes Sheila Garry, Geraldine O’Callaghan, Colm Kissane, Joe O’Sullivan, Marianne Browne, Alan Egan, Mike Collins, John Collins, Patsy Broderick and the critically acclaimed accordianist Danny. Tonight the band will be joined by many of our own local musicians (All Ireland champions 2011).

“A musical experience not to be missed”Sponsored by GMT Ireland, thanks to Oliver and David

TIME 10PM vENUE STATION HOUSE HOTEL

MUSIC WITH LIAM ASPELL & RICHIE NEWMANTIME 10PM vENUE LOWRY’S BAR

THE LEGENDARY ROB STRONG AND HIS BANDTIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S

THE SLYNE HEADS FOLLOWED BY LOOSETIME 7:30/10PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

TRAD MUSIC GLóRTIME 10PM vENUE E.J.KING’S

TRUE NORTHTIME 10PM vENUE MANNION’S BAR

TRADITONAL MUSIC WITH MICHAEL CURRANTIME 10PM vENUE THE CENTRAL BAR

JAzz WITH LES FOLLIESTIME 10PM vENUE TOM KING’S BAR

THE EMMET O’MALLEY BANDEmmet O’Malley is a Galway based artist who released his debut EP The Smell Of Bees under the psuedonym Mali Junior in April 2011. After playing with many different line-ups and bands, Emmet embarked on his first solo musical adventure in early 2011. His debut album, Playtime was released in September 2011.




Saturday 29th September

AUDIO-vISUAL LECTURE WITH EOGHAN HARRIS Life Gives You Law, Movies Give You Justice. Why Dirty Harry is a Decent Man, why Bill Murray is a Messer who Should Have Been Lost in Translation, why Women should Learn to Love Westerns. A lecture with film clips and a few laughs by Eoghan Harris. A light hearted but deadly serious lecture on movies and morality by the screenwriter of Sharpe. Eoghan is also of course a journalist with The Sunday Independent.

Sponsored by Tom Mannion

TIME 11AM vENUE STATION HOUSE THEATRE ADMISSION €10

CONCERT WITH SEAN BOYLANBARITONE Sean Boylan is currently studying singing at the Royal Irish Academy of Music with Virginia Kerr. He has been awarded many times for his singing, particularly at the Electric Ireland Feis Ceoil; Junior Vocal Recital, Baritone Solo. He has performed at the National Concert Hall, the

Convention Centre, Dublin, Aras an Uachtarain and Aspen Music Festival, Colorado, USA. Sean is a student of pianist John O´Conor and organist David Adams. This is Sean’s first time at Clifden.

Sean Boylan, baritone, Dearbhla Collins, piano

PROGRAMME: SONGS OF TRAVELNon più andrai - MozartDie Mainacht - BrahmsSonntag - BrahmsAnakreon’s Grab - WolfFussreise - Wolf

Songs of Travel - Vaughan Williams;The VagabondThe Roadside FireYouth and LoveWhither must I wander?

Le colibri - ChaussonSerenade Italienne - Chausson

Beautiful Dreamer - Stephen FosterSome Enchanted Evening - Rodgers & HammersteinOn the Road to Mandalay - Oley Speaks

Sponsored by Cathal and Joan Walsh


Ladies and gentlemen we are proud to present the amazing, exciting and thunderous spectacle that is the Fanzini Experience.

Join us on the streets of Clifden with the legendary Streetwise Theatre Company from Belfast, the hilarious Fanzini Brothers, The Drumshanbo Samba Band in addition to clowns, acrobats, jugglers, buskers, musicians and face painters.

Witness the amazing antics of these devilishely handsome west Kerry Italians as they perform their internationally renowned comedy entertainment act. Prepare to be astonished as the Fanzini Brothers perform their show in front of delighted audiences.

“Talented and hilarious” The Irish Times

STreeT TheaTre fun on The STreeTVoted Best Street Entertainment 2010 by Association of Irish Festival Events (AOIFE)

Sponsored by Martin and Rita Acton

TIME 2PM vENUE MARKET SQUARE




JOHN MORIARTY MEMORIAL LECTUREProvoking Ireland: Reinvigorating the Spirit of a Broken Nation. This year the lecture will be given by John Waters. John is a journalist with the Irish Times and The Mail on Sunday where his columns are a ‘must-read’ for us. Provocative, informed, erudite and passionate, John is also a playwright and songwriter.

His many books include Beyond Consolation and Lapsed Agnostic while his plays include Easter Dues. We are delighted to have him back as a friend of Arts Week.

Sponsored by Chris Shanahan


JAzz IN THE AFTERNOON WITH LES FOLLIESTIME 3PM vENUE FOYLE’S HOTEL.

AFTERNOON MUSIC WITH TRUE NORTHTIME 4PM vENUE E.J.KING’S

THE LEGENDARY ARTANE (BOYS) BANDThe band was formed in 1872 by Br. Alphonsus Hoope and 2 years later played for the future King Edward VII. In 1886 they began their long association with the GAA which, of course, endures to this day. In 1969 they became a community band. They have played for every President and Taoiseach, for 4 US Presidents, and for many members of the Royal family from Queen Victoria to latterly Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

Sponsored by Connemara Chamber of Commerce

TIME 430PM vENUE IN THE TOWN AND ON THE RIG

THE GALWAY BAROQUE SINGERSThis year the group, affectionately called ‘the baroques’, will celebrate 30years of singing and delighting. The group, formed by Audrey Corbett, had its first performance in Galway in December 1983 – Handel’s Messiah— a work repeated many times by the choir since that night! Although the choir delights in the beauty of sacred music, they do not lack the lighter touch! We are sure to enjoy their choice of music tonight.

Sponsored by Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, many thanks to Des and Patrick


The granD ParaDeCommencing this year at the Showgrounds and thence towards Market Square and around the town. LUXe, Fidget Feet and Black Powder Monkey presents Clifden Arts Festival Grand Finale Parade, including 8 local schools and groups. A journey into the world of the imagination - music, dance, fire, magnificent costumes, lanterns. A night to be remembered. Illuminated processional spectacle with Aerial As Fidget Feet fly from a crane 40 meters in the air.Followed by Fireworks Display. Thanks to Shay.

Sponsored by Anne Ueltschi

This year, featured on the Gig-Rig, the unique sound of one of the greatest blues and rock singers Rob Strong and his band.

Sponsored by The Clifden Lotto

Thanks to Clifden Comhaltas for use of rig, especially Paddy Pryce and Malachy Nee.

TIME 7:30PM vENUE BEGINS AT CLIFDEN SHOWGROUNDS





‘THE LACE’ PLAYING CONGOLESE SOUKOUS MUSIC

Thanks to Phil Bergan.

Playing a cocktail of well-known songs from home and their own compositions their concerts usually start with gently swaying traditional Rumba, then turn the heat up and go into overdrive with Soukous dance music and fast interweaving guitars.

Sponsored by Foyle’s Hotel, many thanks to Eddie, Mary, Jason and Stephen.

TIME 10PM vENUE MULLARKEY’S

COUNTRY MUSIC WITH TRUE NORTHTIME 10PM vENUE TOM KING’S BAR

MICHAEL CAREY BANDTIME 10PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR

TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC WITH JOHN GERARD WALSH AND MARTIN CONROYTIME 10PM vENUE LOWRY’S BAR

MUSIC WITH SEANIE vAUGHANVery welcome return for Seanie and Band.


NEW ORLEANS JAzz WITH LES FOLLIESTIME 10PM vENUE STATION HOUSE HOTEL.

Sunday 30th September ONE FOR THE ROAD

With Martin Donohoe (of Cavan Fleadh and RTE Countrywide fame).

Sponsored by Tom King

TIME 12NOON vENUE MULLARKEY’S ADMISSION €10

claSSical BenefiT concerT In aid of Church of Ireland Restoration Fund. Julian Hubbard trained at the Royal College of Music and The National Opera Studio and was generously supported by the Peter Moores Foundation and the Scottish Opera Endowment Fund. He studies privately with Janice Chapman supported in part by the Nicholas Boas Trust.

Julian Hubbard’s opera roles include Fiorello Il Barbiere Di Siviglia for English National Opera,Schaunard La Boheme for Scottish Opera, Huntsman in the new production of Rusalka for Théâtre Royal de La Monnaie, Duke of Nottingham Roberto Devereux for Opera Holland Park, Melisso Alcina for Opera Theatre Company, Aeneas Dido And Aeneas, Ned Keene Peter Grimes for Kent Opera Youth,Hel Helson Paul Bunyan for APU Opera in Cambridge, Guglielmo Cosi Fan

Tutte, Mercutio Romeo Et Juliette for British Youth Opera, Drunken Poet/Hymen Fairy Queen at the Aldeburgh Festival 2005, Mr Gedge Albert Herring at the Britten Weekend at Aldeburgh and in the world premiere of Another America: Fire by Errollyn Wallen at Sadler’s Wells. He sang Dr. Falke Die Fledermaus and Dandinila Cenerentola for Scottish Opera, Guglielmo Cosi Fan Tutte for Garden Opera and Castleward Opera and Juan in Henze’s Das Wundertheater at the Montepulciano Festival.

He also works extensively as a recitalist, including performances at the Wigmore Hall and Snape Maltings. Julian has also performed on BBC Radio 3 “In Tune”.

TIME 1:30PM vENUE CHURCH OF IRELAND

THE HERNONS AND CONALL FLAHERTYFollowed by Fiddler Disco @ 11 pm

TIM 8PM/11PM vENUE GRIFFIN’S BAR

IRISH MUSIC AND BALLADS WITH TOM MULLENTIME 9:30PM vENUE E.J.KING’S BAR


forThcoming concerTSclifDen arTS SocieTy Leader and Bobby Gilmore are sponsors of the IMMA Arts Exhibition brochure. Please note the IMMA Exhibition, Captivating Brightness, will be opened by Mary Banotti on Tuesday 18th September.

MONDAY 15TH OCTOBERDJANGO A LA CREOLE

MONDAY 12TH NOvEMBER SONIC. ART SAxOPHONE QUARTET

MONDAY 5TH NOvEMBER SPecial evenTThe Clifden Arts Society

presents the winner of the 2012 Dublin

International Piano Competition

Nikolay Khozyainov. The programme for this concert is:

Part 1> Beethoven: Sonata op 110> Ravel: Gaspard de la Nuit

Part 2 > Chopin: Barcarolle op 60

> Chopin: Berceuse op 57> Liszt: Sonata B minor

Many thanks to Ann Fuller

For more information on upcoming events please visit

clifdenartsweek.ie


remembering

Betsy Mullen

Eugene Kelly

Mathias Conneely

Mike Diskin

Eithne Hannigan

Denise Dallaire

Maeve Binchy

Barney McKenna




35th Clifden Arts Festival35th Clifden Arts Festival

1. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel2. Alcock & Brown Hotel3. Walsh’s Bakery & Coffee Shop4. Central Bar5. Church of Ireland6. Clifden Community School7. Clifden Library8. Clifden Station House Hotel9. Clifden Support Centre10. Clifden Town Hall11. Criost Linn Centre12. Cullen’s Bistro13. video vault14. E.J. King’s Bar 15. Elm Tree Centre16. Foyle’s Hotel17. Griffin’sBar

18. Guy’s Bar19. J. Conneely’s Bar20. Lowry’s Bar21. Mannion’s Bar22. Market Square23. Mullarkey’s Bar24. St. Joseph’s Church25. Station House Courtyard26. Station House Theatre27. Steam Café28. To Ballynahinch Castle 29. To Keogh’s, Ballyconneely30. West Connemara Lesiure Centre31. Tom King’s Bar32. Upstairs Downstairs33. vaughan’s Bar34. White Dragon Café

i Tourist Information

P Public Parking

U Church

* Post Office

A map and listing to the exhibition venues and the Art Trail will be available in the tourism guide What’s On Connemara during the festival and will be available in the caravan on Market Square.

clifDen ToWn maP - key To venueS


clifden arts festival programme 2012

Documents

market street thanks

bridge street

arts week caravan

festival box office

woolmarket street

irish antiques

school programme page

general programme page