Come along and enjoy the interactive PROJECT SPACE in the First Floor Gallery, designed specifically for children by Orla Goodwin. There are free art activities for all to enjoy that connect to the exhibition ‘Holdfast’ by Ann Ensor, which is showing in the Ground Floor Gallery. You are invited to engage with the themes and ideas presented in ‘Holdfast’ in a creative, fun way. Explore the space with your child in your own time over the course of the exhibition or come along on a day when one of our artists will be on hand for some creative guidance (see times and dates below for guided engagement). You can draw, read, watch and make, as you learn more about the wonders of kelp and the important role we all play in keeping our kelp forests healthy.

TIMES AND DATES:

Holdfast PROJECT SPACE in Draíocht’s First Floor Gallery opens from 10AM- 4PM MON-FRI over the course of the exhibition. The space has been designed for self-lead creativity for children aged 5-10 years, but older and younger children are also welcome to explore. We ask that children are supervised at all times in the space. Please leave the space as you would like to find it.

Open for self-lead engagement, daily during the exhibition, Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, THU 12 DEC 2019-SAT 29 FEB 2020.

Open for guided engagement by Draíocht's Artist's Team: 
January:
SAT 04 (1PM-2PM & 2.30PM-7PM) SUN 05 (12.30PM-5PM),
SAT 11 (1PM-2PM & 2.30PM-7PM), SUN 12 (12.30PM -5PM),
SAT 18 (1PM-2PM & 2.30PM-7PM), SUN 19 (12.30PM-3PM),
SAT 25 (11AM-3PM).
February:
SAT 01 (11AM-3PM), SAT 08 (11AM-3PM),
SAT 15 (11AM-3PM), SAT 22 (11AM-3PM).


Further enquires: paula@draiocht.ie

Draíocht, in collaboration with Fingal County Council Arts Office, is delighted to announce a new commission from Ann Ensor for the 12th edition of Amharc Fhine Gall.

Holdfast is an immersive installation which explores the aesthetic properties and the environmental significance of kelp seaweed. Kelp has been around for millions of years and is hugely important in reducing and sinking carbon from the atmosphere to the sea floor bed. Kelp acts as a wave barrier and helps prevent coastal erosion. It shelters and feeds hundreds of marine entities in its holdfasts and fronds. Kelp is now coming under threat from excessive storm damage, pollution and mechanical cutting. This new commission continues to explore the aesthetic properties and the environmental significance of this natural material.

Ann Ensor is a visual artist based in Dublin 15 whose work combines sculpture, drawing, sound and text to explore environmental issues central to her practice. Ensor has just completed a residency at The Ballinglen Arts Foundation, North Mayo. Recent exhibitions include Matter Has No Density, Pallas Studios (2018); Heavy Weather at The Complex (2018); RHA Summer Show (2018); and Kfest, Kerry (2018). In 2017 she was a finalist in the RDS Visual Arts Awards Exhibition, curated by Nick Miller. Ensor holds an MFA Degree in painting (2017) from NCAD where she originally graduated in 2015 with a BA (1st Hons) in Fine Art/Sculpture.

Holdfast is accompanied by an interactive project space designed by Orla Goodwin for children in Draíocht’s First Floor Gallery, a public engagement programme facilitated by Draíocht’s Artist Team and an artist's book, designed by Siobhan Griffin, Alphabet Soup.This is Draíocht’s first formal exhibition addressing climate change.

Amharc Fhine Gall (Fingal Gaze) is an annual exhibition commissioned by Fingal County Council’s Arts Office and presented at Draíocht. Amharc Fhine Gall supports ambitious new artworks from artists at all stages of their career seeking to expand their practice through exploring new ideas, different media or variations in scale so as to take their work in new directions. The exhibition was initiated in 2004 by Fingal County Council Arts Office to celebrate the wealth of artistic talent in the county.  

Draiocht's Galleries are open Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm. Admission is Free.

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Visit Draíocht’s exhibition ‘Holdfast’ and its accompanying PROJECT SPACE. These tours will encourage pupils to examine and voice their opinion about the artist and their work as well as exploring the rest of the building including our two theatre spaces, backstage and dressing rooms. Please get in touch with paula@draiocht.ie. Tours will take 50 mins, are free and subject to availability, max 30 pupils with accompanying teacher.

The exhibition ‘Holdfast’ by artist Ann Ensor provides an excellent opportunity for your students to engage with a local gallery, a local Dublin 15 artist and current public environmental concerns.

The exhibition explores the destruction of Ireland's kelp forest and the environmental impact of those actions. Facilitated by artist Bridget Flannery, this tour gives students the opportunity to ask questions and explore Draíocht’s exhibition, focusing on how we layout, install, display and light work, which can feed directly in to this section of the Leaving Certificate Art exam paper, which often includes a question on visiting an exhibition or a gallery space. Students will also have an opportunity to make notes, sketches and diagrams.

Contact Paula on t: 01-8098029 / e: paula@draiocht.ie  to arrange a time and date for your sketch tour that will help students answer possible questions around gallery installation and exhibitions. All materials will be provided. Please give at least 2 weeks notice. Max 30 students per class with accompanying teacher. Limited number of tours available, early booking advised.

Come and pick up Draíocht’s new Children’s Gallery Guide (free from Draíocht’s Creative Corner during opening hours) to help you and your family explore our exhibitions and building at your own pace and in your own time. Our Box Office staff will assist you with paper, clipboards, colouring pencils and a cushion! Look around the building, talk about the artwork, draw with the viewfinder, play a game of I Spy in the gallery!

This gallery guide was designed and created with generous support from Creative Fingal’s Cruinniú na nÓg 2019 programme, an initiative of Creative Ireland, in collaboration with Kotryna Kotoviciute from TU Dublin Blanchardstown’s, Creative Digital Media Degree course. Draíocht’s Creative Corner was designed by Artist Andrew Carson.

This programme aims to provide a range of high quality arts experiences for primary school pupils and teachers in their own classroom, working with Draíocht’s professional artists. Your school can choose from the range of specially selected and purposefully created school workshops below. This Season, pupils will have the opportunity to perform, print and sing. Workshops are tailored to your class’s age and abilities.

Drama In Your Classroom
Age Range: Adaptable To All Age Ranges
Duration: Junior/Senior Inf: 4 Class Groups get 45 min Workshop Each / 1st Class Upwards: 2 Class Groups get 1.5hr Workshop Each
Artist: Eimear Morrissey
Using a theme of your choice as a starting point, Eimear Morrissey introduces pupils to the wonderful world of theatre through imaginative fun collective group games. The workshop will explore different ways of engaging the imagination, of thinking creatively, seeing, listening, new ways of communicating and expression, as well as building confidence. Pupils will work together towards a common goal of creating a short improvised performance piece, giving them the opportunity to experience the creation of something from nothing!

Print In Your Classroom
Age Range: 3rd-6th Class
Duration: 2 Class Groups get 2 hr Workshop Each
Artist: Deirdre O’Reilly
Deirdre will introduce your pupils to a number of different print making techniques, before they work together to plan, create and produce a series of limited edition original prints. Print making allows pupils to explore the endless possibilities of shape and colour, line and pattern and offers opportunities to create individual and collaborative works of art. All materials will be provided. A must-do cross curricular creative workshop for your class.

Music And Singing In Your Classroom
Age Range: Adaptable To All Age Ranges
Duration: 3 Class Groups get 60 min Workshop Each
Artist: Dónal Kearney
This music and singing workshop introduces pupils to the potential of making music with their own voice. The workshop focuses on building listening skills, encouraging creative play, and creating music using the voice and the instruments available in each school. Based on years of research in music education and practical choral training, Donal and his team at Fingal Academy of Music believe in the power and benefits of music engagement.

WORKSHOP NOTES & BOOKINGS:
Workshops can take place from 13 January - 27 March 2020 on a date of your choosing. Closing date for Bookings is Friday 31 January 2020 through Draíocht’s Box Office tel: 01-8852622.
The programme is offered on a first come first served basis and is restricted to schools within the Dublin 15 area. Each day is subsidised by Draíocht and costs the school €120 including all materials. Schools are welcome to make multiple bookings, subject to artist availability, but due to budgetary constraints, the above subsidised workshop rate is limited to two days per school. For further details please contact Paula on 01-809 8029 or email paula@draiocht.ie

Starting in January, Create Dance's dancers and facilitators are collaborating with Lámh Signs Ireland to create a new special piece of choreography for public show later in 2020. Create Dance is a core part of Draíocht’s programming, a fun, innovative dance project, where the dancers love to dance and move- and also have an intellectual disability. Dancers and facilitators Mark Rogers, Antje O’Toole and Conor Donolan work together with participants and their parents to explore all types of dance and free movement.

If you have a child aged between 5-17 years with a love of dance, please get in touch with paula@draiocht.ie / 01-8098029. During term time workshops for Juniors are on 12.15pm-1.15pm (places available) and Seniors 1.30pm-2.30pm. Pre booking for this workshop is essential.

Supported by Draíocht and Fingal Arts Office, Dublin Youth Dance Company dance artists will engage with a number of Dublin 15 secondary schools in a 10 week contemporary dance project. The project seeks to introduce contemporary dance to young people in Dublin 15.

The project will culminate in an exciting week-long residency in Draíocht’s dance studio, facilitated by DYDC dance artists, with a selection of students who wish to continue to explore dance. The residency group will work towards the creation of a new dance piece to form part of the Irish Youth Dance Festival showcase on Sunday 28th June 2020 in Draíocht.

If you are a transition year coordinator from any Dublin 15 based school and are interested in your transition year students taking part, please contact paula@draiocht.ie / ph: 01 8098029.

* IYDF Open Call for Dancers

Rose (Maeve Higgins) is a sweet, lonely driving instructor with supernatural abilities called ‘The Talents’ that allow her to communicate with spirits. She has a love/hate relationship with her gifts and ignores the community’s requests to investigate bizarre ghostly happenings in the town. However, when attractive widower Martin (Barry Ward), haunted by his nagging ex-wife contacts her for help, she has to at least consider the job! Meanwhile, across town, aging rock star Christian (Will Forte) has a sinister plan for success. This hilarious must-see comedy is filled with twists, turns, hilarity, exorcisms and haunted wheelie bins.

CERT: 15A Language: English Dur: 94 mins
In association with Access Cinema

Join Baz (50 Ways to Kill your Mammy, Wingman) for his brand new show, where he talks about growing up in Dublin as a half Egyptian/half Irish boy in a council estate in Dublin and being raised by his single mother Nancy, who then found fame in her 70s! Baz will touch on his success and its benefits and losses ... and of course raising six children of his own.

Baz Ashmawy is an Emmy and IFTA Award Winning Radio and TV Broadcaster. Most recently, Baz’s show ‘Wingman’ aired to phenomenal praise on RTÉ One. The show saw Baz guide many different characters from all walks of life on a journey towards making their dreams a reality. In November 2015, 50 Ways to Kill Your Mammy won the Best Non-Scripted Entertainment award at the 2015 International Emmy Awards. The show is based on Baz inserting his mother Nancy into various dare-devil situations and documenting her typical Irish mammy reactions to the situations.
 

Power Drama School are delighted to be returning to Draíocht for the second time and proudly present their new production 'Pure Imagination'. Join us on a magical journey in this upbeat show full of drama, comedy, charm & entertainment featuring songs from a variety of Musicals. Starring a fabulous cast of 84 children, 'Pure Imagination' is a feel good show suitable for all the family.

10.15AM-11AM & 11.30AM-12.15PM (45 MINS)

Play music in a free and open environment with musician Eamon Sweeney. Have fun and embrace a variety of musical experiences using different instruments, songs exploring sound, colour and texture - using gongs, chimes, bells, ocean drums and simple percussion instruments.

WORKSHOP NOTES
This series of individual monthly workshops is intended to allow you and your child to explore different art mediums in an open and undirected way. There will be mess but there will also be fun! Cost: €5 per child per workshop (accompanying adult is free). Box Office on 01-8852622. These workshops are designed for children aged 2-4 years. Please respect age limits as each workshop has been designed especially for this age range. All children must be accompanied by an adult and all adults must be accompanied by a child. Where indicated please DRESS FOR MESS and bring a change of clothes. These sessions are only suitable for one parent/guardian and accompanying child (without siblings).

'All For Me Grog' is the Galway based show that has played to full houses and standing ovations on its first Irish and UK tours. The show brings you the songs and story of Irelands most successful folk band, The Dubliners. 
Presented by The Liberties, who are deeply honoured to become the bearers of the torch which has been borne with such power and dignity over the past decades by The Dubliners. The original line-up of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, Ciaran Burke and John Sheehan is brought to life with the exact same instrumentation, songs and close as you will get vocals, bringing to the stage a show in sound and appearance of uncanny accuracy of the internationally renowned Dubliners. 

The Black Velvet Band, McAlpines Fusiliers, The Spanish Lady, The Irish Rover, The Auld Triangle, The Parting Glass and of course, the song that made The Dubliners international stars - Seven Drunken Nights - plus all their other hits, will have you clapping your hands, stomping your feet and joining in the chorus of the well known and much-loved songs at this uplifting and exciting two hour show. 

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‘Padraig Potts’ Guide to Walking’ is a story full of nostalgia, innocence, Olympic standard sex and holy water salad dressing. Funny and tender, this latest show by Seamus O Rourke, follows the life of Padraig Potts McKeirnan, who has a habit of just eating whatever is on his plate… metaphorically that is… from growing up near the tiny rural village of Drumnamee, County Leitrim in the 70’s and 80’s to falling in love with Silvia Lang, a perfect protestant girl… to marrying Mary Tague, the priests housekeeper, who he never really liked… to getting rid of Mary Tague and her mother, who he claims invented vinegar… and eventually to the realisation that the world isn’t as big as he first thought.

Bursting with the vivacious wit that is the trademark of Seamus O’Rourke’s masterful play-writing, this show will tear at your heart and cripple you with laughter. Both playwright and actor Seamus not only gives us one hell of a script, he also executes a perfect delivery with superb timing, bringing to life through sweat, spittle and purest passion every exquisitely crafted and painfully familiar character to influence the journey of our antihero Padraig Potts. This is the tale of a generation lost between the old world ruled by religion and the new world ruled by hearts. Our unsung hero quietly shapes the world whilst accepting all that comes his way. However this is a crossover time. Could there be hope for Padraig yet?

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Join the star of BBC2’s The Mash Report as she smashes stereotypes around sex, sexuality and relationships. As seen and heard on Roast Battle, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, The Stand Up Sketch Show, Jon Richardson: Ultimate Worrier and The Guilty Feminist Podcast.

Some adult content. Age 15+

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TUE 10-FRI 13 MAR 7.30PM / ​SAT 14 MAR 2PM & 7.30PM

Honk! is a musical adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson story, The Ugly Duckling. The musical is set in the countryside and features Ugly – a cygnet who is mistaken as an ugly duckling upon falling into his mother's nest and is rejected by everyone but Ida (his mother); a sly tomcat who only befriends him out of starvation, and several other barnyard characters. Join the award wining St. Mochta's troop as they take to the stage with this delightful, funny and heartwarming musical.

What happens when a touring stand-up comedian can no longer stand up? After a near career-ending knee injury, O'Brien is too young for pilates and too unbalanced for yoga. This award-winning performer brings you his hilarious new hour of stand-up where self-destruction and self-discovery meet! ‘Reformer’ completely sold out its month-long run of shows at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Galway International Arts Festival, as well as a European and US tour and now he’s back touring the show nationwide and beyond! 

Following in the footsteps of Tommy Tiernan and Dylan Moran, Danny was handpicked this year to perform as part of the iconic ‘Best of the Edinburgh Fest’ show touring Australia. He has also featured on The Comedy Channel and is a regular on Irish TV and Radio. He has supported Today FM’s Dermot & Dave on three live tours and last year was asked to open for American comedian Bill Burr in front of over 7,000 people in Dublin.

Adult Content, Age 15+

Twitter & Instagram @dobcomedy 
dannyobriencomedy.com

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Enjoy a wonderful Evening of Dance with the Marian Lennon School of Ballet. The young energetic dancers will demonstrate their skills in Classical ballet, Modern and Contemporary dance. There will be something for everyone to enjoy as the young dancers of all ages perform a rich and varied repertoire from Alice in Wonderland, the Musicals and a display of Classical Dance pieces. Don‘t miss this exciting show that will have you dancing in your seats!

Two-time Oscar-winner Tom Hanks portrays Mister Rogers, in a timely story of kindness triumphing over cynicism, based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Tom Junod.
After a jaded magazine writer (Emmy winner Matthew Rhys) is assigned a profile of Fred Rogers, he overcomes his scepticism, learning about empathy, kindness, and decency from America's most beloved neighbour and children’s television host.

CERT: PG  Language: English    Dur: 108 mins
In association with Access Cinema

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New Impressions
Neil Dunne, Margot Galvin, Fiona Kelly, Aoife Scott
Ground Floor Gallery
&
Works from the Graphic Studio
Members from Fingal
First Floor Gallery

MAKing Art: PRINTing is the third in a series of exhibitions aimed at children and young people, which explores a particular visual art discipline, its materials, processes and varied manifestations. Printmaking is the focus of this third exhibition. It celebrates different techniques, styles and approaches to the use of print, to the act of printmaking and to the print as a finished artwork.

It includes two exhibitions: New Impressions (Ground Floor Gallery) explores how traditional printmaking techniques have been re-imagined and re-worked and invites us to consider: what makes a print a print? Common conceptions of printmaking are expanded, from two-dimensional to three-dimensional, from mass-produced to unique, from paper to mixed and digital media. The exhibition features artists whose work, though rooted in or referencing print, expands the boundaries of that medium. New Impressions includes artists Neil Dunne, Margot Galvin, Fiona Kelly and Aoife Scott.

Works from the Graphic Studio (First Floor Gallery) is an exhibition which marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Graphic Studio and features members from Fingal who work across a range of process including etching, woodcut/lino, screen print and lithography. Artists include: Susan Early, Mary Grey, Julie Ann Haines, Michelle Hetherington, Ernada Husic, Siobhan Hyde, Des Kenny, Michael Killen, Jenny Lane, Pamela Leonard, Ned McLoughlin, Sorcha O'Farrell and Una Sealy. The exhibition will also feature work by master printmakers, Niamh Flanagan and Robert Russell.

MAKing Art PRINTing will be accompanied by a programme of engagement for children and young people facilitated by participating artists and Draíocht’s Artist team.

Draiocht's Galleries are open Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm. Admission is Free.

Image: Aoife Scott, Three Bottles.



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THU 26 – SAT 28 MAR 11AM, 12 NOON, 1PM
Draíocht Studio €5 per baby (accompanying adult free) / Age 0-12 months / Dur 20 mins

I AM BABA is a theatre adventure for babies created by internationally renowned theatre director Anna Newell and composer David Goodall. Their shows for early years have been seen on five continents, off-Broadway and in every single Sure Start in Belfast.
I AM BABA is a magical adventure of song, lights and textures for babies aged 0-12 months. It’s a show about identity, agency and personhood. For babies. I AM BABA is full of gorgeous live harmony singing and playful objects – jellyfish-like scarves dance and tiny lights fly in this intimate immersive performance which happens inside a specially designed tent that holds just 6 babies – each with their one adult guest.

I AM BABA was the International Early Childhood Arts Commission funded by the 4 Dublin Local Authorities in 2017 through Arts Council Ireland’s Invitation to Collaboration Fund. This national tour was funded by the Arts Council. 
www.annanewell.co.uk

​Booking by phone 01-8852622.​

Sean is languishing in a nursing home when in storms Patricia, with her zest for life, bringing her own chaos to challenge his quiet world. A funny, combative and charming friendship blossoms as they work out their past and contemplate their future. Halcyon Days is a delightful play about friendship, family & love and is a funny, charming and touching night at the theatre.

Starring Bryan Murray (Fair City, Irish RM and Bread) and Una Crawford (Fair City). Directed by Joe Devlin (In Search of Mr B by Brian McAvera and The Kiss by Jimmy Murphy). Deirdre Kinahan is one of Ireland's leading playwrights with recent hits such as Rathmines Road, The Unmanageable Sisters and the internationally renowned Moment.

MORE ... Playwright Deirdre Kinahan talks about the play

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Fresh from sell-out shows at the Dublin and Edinburgh Fringe, and with over 5 millions views online, cult-comedian Tony Cantwell is taking to the road for his first-ever Irish tour. Join the comedian for a new night of standup, sketches, and songs all based on his meme-soaked social media page.

Age 15+. May contain strong language & adult content.

Now seen by over 300,000 fans live and watched by millions on social media, Europe's No.1 multi award winning Country music show "The Legends of American Country" returns for another fantastic night of toe tapping Country classics. The 2020 tour will showcase highly acclaimed tributes to Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Don Williams, Patsy Cline and Kenny Rogers and new tributes to icons Hank Williams, Charley Pride, Glen Campbell, Tammy Wynette and Jim Reeves with countless other well-known hit songs in this must see musical extravaganza. The show features 4 fantastic singers who are all backed by a superb live band and coupled with authentic stage set and state of the art sound and lighting that will transport you all the way hand clapping and toe tapping to Nashville and back in one night. One thing’s for sure if its Country music you like, then this is the only show in town!

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Come along and be our guest as Coolmine Musical Society brings some razzle-dazzle to your season. We will give you the greatest show and come what may we’ll add some sparkle to your night out.

Director: Gladys Coyle
Musical Director& Chorus Master: John Dawson
Choreographer: Louise Hudson

Three thousand years ago, the greatest sailors in the world voyaged across the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, for a millennium, their voyages stopped, and no one knows why ... Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana is about an adventurous teenager who, with help from demigod Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson) sails out on a daring mission to prove herself a master wayfinder and save her people.

Enjoy our Sensory Screening with lowered volume, lights on a low level, small audience size, comfy beanbags and the ability to make noise and move around freely during the screening if you wish.

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1968: Having fallen on hard times, and desperate to re-establish herself, Judy Garland (an Oscar-winning Renée Zellweger) accepts a residency in London to perform a five-week, sold-out series of concerts. Separated from her children, who are back in Los Angeles where her ex-husband is fighting her for custody, and heavily dependant on drugs and alcohol, she reflects on her life, specifically her childhood, irreparably damaged by studio chief Louis B Mayer. Yet every night she still manages to dust herself off, welcome her fans and become “Judy Garland”, the star they all know and love.

CERT: 12A   Language: English   Dur: 118 mins
In association with Access Cinema

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This sparkling new play tells of the rollercoaster life of a forgotten Irish celebrity and invites a modern audience to reassess her legacy as a freelance artist at a time in Ireland when most women were expected to be fulltime housewives.

Broadcaster, writer, cookery expert and agony aunt Maura Laverty was a household name in Ireland for three decades. She had her own ESB-sponsored radio show on RTE for thirty years, where she dispensed advice on relationships and cooking. She also toured the country giving cooking demonstrations and encouraging housewives to use electricity for cooking and other labour-saving devices. In the ‘60s her iconic cookbook ‘Full And Plenty’ with its unique blend of recipes and stories was to be found in nearly every home in Ireland. She also wrote novels and short stories. Her work was often controversial and her novels were banned by the censors for their sexual frankness. In the 1950s she wrote three plays that saved The Gate Theatre from financial ruin. She wrote Ireland’s first ever television soap opera for RTE, Tolka Row.

Maura Laverty died in tragic circumstance in 1966 and her body was not discovered for nearly a week. In the play, Maura will be spirited back from the dead to appear in front of a live and online contemporary audience on the surreal This Was Your Life show, where interviewer Rip Riley will get her to talk about her life and work and cook some recipes from her books. He will also get her to reveal secrets and stories from her tumultuous past and to confront the price she paid for her success. How will a live audience and an online community of tweeters, bloggers and texters evaluate her life and legacy?

Starring Malachy Mc Kenna (as Rip Riley) and Bairbre Ní Chaoimh (as Maura Laverty).
Directed by Joan Sheehy. Dur: 75 mins (no interval)

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Let’s dance. It’s time for the kids to throw some shapes and bust out their best moves as DJ Donal Dineen hits the decks for a special musical rollercoaster ride. Expect dance tunes from every era and every corner of the globe. So if you’re ready to get into the groove, lace up your dancing shoes and grab those glowsticks. Kids just wanna have fun!  

* Age 0-9 yrs - under 1s go free, but if you’re dancing you need a ticket!

Commissioned and premiered by TRACKS: an initiative of Cork Midsummer Festival, Dublin Fringe Festival and Baboró International Arts Festival for Children.

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Meteor & Tatler Award winner Luan Parle has had numerous hits & accolades including Meteor Award for Best Irish Female. Her top 10 hit single 'Ghost' spent three months in the Irish Charts and was the most played Irish single of that year. Parle signed her first record deal at just 12 years of age before later signing with Sony Music & Elton John's management company Twenty First Artists.  Luan has written and recorded with some of the world’s most successful songwriters & producers including Grammy award winning Bill Bottrell (Sheryl Crow, Michael Jackson, Prince, Travelling Wilburys, Elton John) & Billy Steinberg (Madonna, Roy Orbison, Cyndi Lauper, The Pretenders, Whitney Houston, The Bangles, Celine Dion).

Luan will be playing songs from her new album 'Never Say Goodbye', (released February 2020). The album features 10 original tracks including two co-writes with Dire Straits guitarist Hal Lindes. This will be the fourth album release from the Wicklow born songstress. She will be accompanied by renowned guitarist Clive Barnes. 
www.luanparle.com

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To star opposite Daniel Day-Lewis in “In the Name of the Father”, headline with Tom Jones and Van Morrison at The Marlay Park Festival, have his songs recorded by scores of artists including Sinead O’Connor, Charlie McCoy, Damien Dempsey, Finbar Furey, tour at home and internationally for 50 years; it can clearly be seen that Don Baker’s career in the entertainment industry has been amazing.

But it is in his love of The Blues, of the harmonica and of performing live that Don really shines. Bono’s favourite harmonica player is first and foremost a true entertainer.

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The Laughter Lounge opened its doors in Dublin in December 1997 and quickly established itself as Ireland's premier comedy venue. Over the years, 4,000 comedians have performed in 3,000 live shows to an audience of over 1 million. They've been in the comedy business a long, long, LONG time and for 21 years only delivered their premier brand of comedy to the good folks of Dublin town. But, they want to make the whole of Ireland laugh so guess what? They're going on tour! Come see the Laughter Lounge’s most requested acts - Eric Lalor, John Colleary and Gar Murran for one craic’in night out!
Smell that? That’s the sweet scent of Comedy in the air … and we can’t wait!

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The continuing story of the Crawley family, wealthy owners of a large estate in the English countryside in the early 20th century.
The television series Downton Abbey followed the lives of the Crawley family and the servants who worked for them at the turn of the 20th century in an Edwardian English country house. Over its 6 seasons, the series garnered 3 Golden Globe Awards, 15 Primetime Emmy Awards, 69 Emmy nominations in total, making Downton Abbey the most nominated non-US television show in the history of the Emmys - even earning a Special BAFTA award and a Guinness World Record for the highest critically rated TV show along the way.

Starring: Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Tuppence Middleton, Hugh Bonneville. Dir: Michael Engler

CERT: PG   Language: English   Dur: 122 mins
In association with Access Cinema

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GOING ON SALE SHORTLY

Ireland’s leading national arts and health event, Arts + Health: Check Up Check In is open to arts practitioners, healthcare professionals and anyone interested in learning more about this exciting field. Featuring a keynote address by Dr Jenny Elliott, Artistic Director of Arts Care (Belfast), plus presentations and workshops by some of the most innovative and creative practitioners working in arts and health in Ireland today, this is the ‘go to’ event to share ideas, exchange practice and be inspired.

Check Up Check In 2020 is organised by www.artsandhealth.ie, Waterford Healing Arts Trust (WHAT) and Create, the national development agency for collaborative arts, with local partners Draíocht and Fingal County Council Arts Office, and is funded by the Arts Council and the HSE.

Tickets on sale shortly from: www.artsandhealth.ie

Let us take you back to 1980: you had your Rubic’s Cube for Christmas, Mount Saint Helen’s erupts, The Undertones are demonising their Perfect Cousin and… Eagles and Fleetwood Mac served-up two of the best live double-albums of all time.

Widely regarded as one of the best live tribute acts in the country, The Illegals are back at in 2020 with their ever-popular classic-rock revival show replicating the sound of the world’s two greatest rock bands. Led by Niamh Kavanagh, she of the mesmerizing voice and mischievous spirit, The Illegals will take you on a journey for three hours of soulful harmonies, exciting riffs, blistering guitars and unforgettable songs. The best of two legendary bands in one night – and a little more besides…

Songs like  “Hotel California”,  “Go Your Own Way”, “Life In The Fast Lane”, “Don’t Stop”, “Take It Easy”, “Say That You Love Me”, “Love Will Keep Us Alive”, “The Chain” and “New Kid In Town”.
If you missed out last year, book your ticket early through the box office for the 2020 gig. You won’t be disappointed.

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J and C Promotions is proud to present ‘Gentle on My Mind, The Glen Campbell Story’, starring master guitarist and well known country music personality, Ciarán Rosney. Joining Ciarán is his 5 piece band, featuring such well known musicians as Billy Burgoyne (ex-Daniel O'Donnell) and fiddle player extraordinaire Denise Boyle.

With state of the art video projection and lighting, the show will take you on a truly amazing journey with some of Glen Campbells best known hits, from 'Rhinestone Cowboy' to 'Wichita Lineman' and unique to this show will be Ciarán's unrivalled interpretation of Glen's guitar playing abilities.

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Multi-award-winning Irish vocalist Red Hurley is one of Ireland's most enduring entertainers whose career has spanned several decades to the present day. Affectionately referred to as “The Voice” amongst his peers, Red has the gift of singing all genres of Music. Several decades of adapting to the many varieties of entertainment and entertaining thousands of people around the World has made Red the consummate concert artist.

Red sets off on his “The Music of my Life” concert tour for 2020, accompanied by his chosen musicians and guests travelling around Ireland to perform at his favourite intimate theatres.

Outspoken journalist Kevin Myers, wrote in the Irish Independent, “Red’s intuitive sense of the beautiful is one reason why he is such a wonderful singer. He will find the key element of any song – a single note or phrase – and elevate that into an unexpected little musical jewel.”

Red’s ‘The Music of my Life’ concert tour promises to be an evening of pure enjoyment.

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A lesson in laughter and life ‘The Windy Lady’ invites you to share the contents of her mind, her shopping bag and her biscuit tin.
Original, anarchic and very funny ‘The Windy Lady’ dances at the crossroads where Stand Up and Theatre meet in this very special show – where you’ll be welcomed into her madcap world of hairnets, turkeys, the healing power of a cuppa and Vladimir Putin. Witty, warm and delightfully irreverent, Pom Boyd’s The Windy Lady is a subversively witty and charming celebration of animals, old-womanhood and ordinary life.

Presented in partnership with Age & Opportunity as part of the nationwide Bealtaine festival – celebrating the arts and creativity as we age.
‘The Windy Lady’ is an original character created by Pom Boyd. This production was commissioned by Axis Ballymun. This tour is presented in partnership with Age & Opportunity as part of the nationwide Bealtaine festival – celebrating the arts and creativity as we age, and was funded by the Arts Council and Age & Opportunity. Additional support by The Irish Theatre Institute. Axis is core funded by Dublin City Council.

Written and performed by Pom Boyd
Creative Director Mark O’ Brien
Production Design by Suzie Cummins
Produced by Niamh Ní Chonchubhair

Early Bird €14 (Book before 07 April 2020)

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Me, Mollser puts the character of Mollser from Sean O’Casey’s The Plough and the Stars, centre stage. This compelling, funny and poignant performance is designed specifically for young audiences.
The play introduces children to a strong-willed and passionate young woman coping with consumption against the backdrop of the 1913 Lock-Out and the Easter Rising.

Mollser is a proud Dubliner struggling to thrive in the overcrowded tenements but having lost none of her curiosity and idealism.

Director: Sarah FitzGibbon

Online resources are available that link with 5th and 6th class History, English and SPHE curricula.

TEACHERS: Sign up for our teacher Ezines HERE to be sure you’re sent out up to date news and offers.

Illustrator Victor and his wife Marianne seem to have nothing in common anymore. He detests the modern technologies that she can’t seem to live without. When Antoine offers Victor a re-enactment service that allows customers to live in any era of their choice, Victor chooses to go back to the rainy day in 1975, when he first met Marianne…

Cast: Daniel Auteuil, Guillaume Canet, Fanny Ardant, Doria Tillier. Director: Nicolas Bedos

CERT: 15A  / Language: French (English Subtitles) / Dur: 115 mins
In association with Access Cinema

Early Bird: €5 (Book before 7th April 2020)

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This season Coolmine Drama Circle is back with 'Abigail's Party' by Mike Leigh. The New York Times called it  "the most uncomfortable comedy in New York right now", adding "humour and unpleasantness are intertwined, and that leads to laughs - many, many laughs - that are part gleeful and part appalled."

Set in 1970s UK Suburbia, this play tells the story of a drinks party at Beverly's house which allows her and her husband Laurence to get to know new neighbours Angela and Tony with a visit from Susan, whose daughter Abigail is throwing a party a few doors down. Marital problems, hatred and desire all make an appearance, along with cheese & pineapple cocktail sticks, a few olives and copious drinks.

Since its foundation in 1972 and from small beginnings in the library of Coolmine Community School, Coolmine Drama Circle has been entertaining audiences both young and old. Since then the group has presented no less than 66 productions locally, nationally and in the UK. 

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Inspired by Eugene Ionesco, the French essay writer Pascal Bruckner created a frothy sitcom, an experience that each one of us would go through at some stage.
A customer (Maia Morgenstern) enters a coffee shop, however she does not know what to order. She hopes that the waiter (Rodica Mandache) will solve her dilemma. The waiter, a very good seller, leads her customer into a nervous breakdown. God (Chris Simion - Mercurian) meets with both of them, gives them a life lesson and sends them the bill. 
'What Would You Like?' can be found in our daily life, our dilemmas, our fears, our resemblances. We are the choices we make. What makes the difference? It’s our courage to change, as often as possible, our subjective perspective and the humour to see ourselves from the outside.

CU CE VA SERVESC? este prima piesa de teatru scrisa de celebrul eseist si romancier francez Pascal Bruckner pentru Grivita 53 - Primul teatru construit impreuna.
O distributie de exceptie:  Maia Morgenstern (clientul),  Rodica Mandache (chelnerul) si Chris Simion - Mercurian (la debut, in rolul lui Dumnezeu).
Avandu-l ca sursa de inspiratie pe dramaturgul Eugene Ionesco, Pascal Bruckner a creat o spumoasa comedie de situatie - in cheie  absurda - o experienta prin care, la un moment dat. va trece fiecare dintre noi. O clienta intra intr-o cafenea, nu stie ce sa comande si spera ca rezolvarea acestei dileme sa vina din partea chelnaritei. Chelnarita, o foarte buna vanzatoare, reuseste sa-si bage clienta in pragul depresiei. Dumnezeu se intalneste cu amandoua, le serveste cea mai simpla lectie de viata si le face nota de plata.  Piesa se regăsește în viața noastră de zi cu zi, în dilemele noastre, în fricile noastre, în asemănările noastre. Suntem suma alegerilor pe care le facem. Ne diferențiază curajul de a schimba cât mai des perspectiva subiectivă și umorul de a ne vedea din afara noastră.

Comprising of just under 60 members, FYO nurtures the orchestral playing of musicians ranging from 8 to 18 years of age. The four musical staff members, including new senior conductor and tutor, work together tirelessly to bring out the best in each and every player. FYO fosters a love for orchestral playing, cultivating musical talent and musical appreciation in an atmosphere of enjoyment and teamwork. Spanning a huge repertoire of music, from concertos to pop songs, FYO adopts a non-competitive and motivational approach to all its activities.
www.fingalorchestra.ie

Kidkast Castleknock are delighted to be showcasing their year's work in Draíocht this year. Come see their fantastic students, ranging in age from 3-14 years, demonstrate their dancing, singing and acting skills. It's guaranteed to be a fun night of entertainment with something for everyone. Under the direction of Eunice McMenamin.

The only Beatles tribute act endorsed by Sir George Martin, the Classic Beatles make a welcome return to Draíocht with ‘Let it Be – 50 Years On’.
‘Let It Be’ was the twelfth and final studio album from the world’s greatest band. It was released on 8 May 1970, almost a month after the group's break-up, in tandem with the motion picture of the same name. The Classic Beatles will perform the album from start to finish, followed by a collection of the fab fours greatest hits.
A Classic Beatles show brings all the joys of Beatledom to a whole new generation and allows first-generation fans to relive the music that changed our lives forever. As well as many costume changes, the band also partake in the witty banter for which The Beatles were equally famous. Early booking advised.

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Sat 16th May 8PM / Sun 17th May 6PM

The Norma Breen Hurley Theatre School presents an energetic and fast-moving evening of song and dance, showcasing the children's talents with well-known celebrity guests.
Produced and Directed by Norma Breen Hurley.

On her 60th birthday, Cathy should be celebrating but it rapidly goes downhill. This is an empowering story of a woman who decides to take back control.
‘In the shop they didn’t see me. They saw a warm cardigan and sensible shoes woman. An insignificant woman.’
The Experience of Being is a funny, absorbing and moving one-woman play about dwindling power, how to challenge it and why ageism makes growing older far harder than it needs to be.
Written and performed by Carol Moore. Directed by Patrick J. O’Reilly.
Dur: 60 mins

Early Bird €14 (Book before 07 April 2020)
 

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GOING ON SALE SHORTLY

Join the amazingly talented performers from Starkids Stage school for a fantastic jaw-dropping show to remember, as they take you on a journey through some of your favourite musicals including Mary Poppins, The Lion King, Aladdin and Alice in Wonderland. This show is not to be missed and one for all the family. www.starkids.ie

Zak, a 22-year-old wrestling enthusiast with Down Syndrome, lives in a retirement home because the state has nowhere else for him. After numerous failed attempts, he finally breaks out and heads cross-country to find his favourite wrestler, The Salt Water Redneck. Stowing away in the boat of a troubled outlaw named Tyler, Zak manages to convince Tyler to help him get to a wrestling school run by his hero. The two set off on an adventure through the stunning North Carolina Outer Banks. Along the way they hunt, fish, drink and share their secrets. But hot on their heels is nursing home volunteer Eleanor, sent to bring Zak home. This modern-day Huckleberry Finn type drama is a pure, feel-good adventure.

Winner - Audience Award, SXSW Film Festival 2019
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Dakota Johnson, Zack Gottsagen.  Directors: Tyler Nilson, Michael Schwartz

CERT: 12A  Language: English  Dur: 97 mins
In association with Access Cinema.

Early Bird: €5 (Book before 7th April 2020)

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10-11 JUNE / AGES 0-4 YEARS

A host of wonderful artists and art forms awaits you to see, hear and experience new adventures during our Toddler Take Over Adventure 2020! Draíocht’s Toddler Take Over, now in its 6th Year, celebrates the limitless imagination of the very young child and the magic that happens when it is combined with the world of artists and the arts. With a combination of book-in and free drop-in events, children are invited to explore all the creativity that awaits them. Draíocht transforms into a big space for adventure through story, visual arts, music and dance for the very young.

Ensure you get an email reminder, by emailing marketing@draiocht.ie with Toddler Takeover in the subject field.

PUTTING THE ZING BACK INTO SWING. 
If you are of the age who remembers the nostalgic years of the thirties, forties, fifties, and sixties, the great songs of Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, The Rat Pack, Nat King Cole, The great big band and swing hits of the sixties, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and many more, then you have to experience the man they are calling the new King of Swing.

Tom Cole Jr. has forged out a very nice niche for himself on the cabaret scene in Dublin with his unique style of swing, combined with his distinctive vocal tones. Tom Jr. endeavours to keep alive the timeless evergreen songs from the golden age of swing and The Great American songbook. He surrounds himself with the very best of top seasoned musicians who embellish his unique performing style and infectious stage presence. 

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GOING ON SALE SHORTLY

GROOVE is a chilled out theatre adventure for children and young people with complex needs, created by a team of award-winning artists. It is an immersive experience which happens inside a purpose-built portable performance space, with audience members in their own special seating, chilling out to this 60’s/70’s inspired adventure full of live singing, tactile experience and gorgeous hypnotic projections. 

Each show is limited to 4 young people with complex needs, plus one adult guest each.
2PM (1-8 yrs), 3PM (9-13 yrs), 4PM (14-18 yrs)
Dur: 20 mins show + 20 mins play

Funded by the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon and presented in association with The Civic, Tallaght. 
This show is available to tour in Dublin 15 on 25 and 26 June 2020. Emer emer@draiocht.ie for more info.

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In a world where women are expected to have the patience of Mother Teresa, the arse of Jennifer Lopez, the social media profile of Kim Kardashian and the BMI of Elle McPherson, the pressure is relentless. Dirtbirds, the comedy duo and internet sensation, present their hilarious new show ‘No Filters’ which takes a close look at the barrage of bullshit we are subjected to on a daily basis and reminds us that despite what we’re told, there is NO SUCH THING AS PERFECT ... (except maybe Jamie Dornan’s arse in Fifty Shades Darker.)

So.. if you need answers to questions like:
How do I have confidence when I feel lower than a snake’s arse?
How do I learn to love my muffin top?
When the kids wreck my head how do I stop myself from selling them on Done Deal?

… then this is definitely the show for you. (Perfect women not allowed in)

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The inspirational story of friendship, love, and support on the home front. A group of women come together as their partners serve in Afghanistan. Together they form the very first military wives choir, helping each other through some of life’s most difficult moments and also becoming a media sensation and global movement in the process. Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty) directs Oscar Nominee and BAFTA Winner Kristin Scott Thomas (Darkest Hour) and BAFTA Nominee Sharon Horgan (Catastrophe) in this feel good crowd-pleaser.

CERT: 12A  Language: English  Dur: 112 mins
In association with Access Cinema

Early Bird: €5 (Book before 7th April 2020)

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Join the energetic young stars of Stagezone Theatre School with a show for all the family,  packed with great songs and dance routines. This year, students will perform ‘Save our Planet’, ‘Rockstars’, ‘The Grunge’, ‘Hairspray’, ‘Glee’, ‘The Addams Family’ together with hip hop, contemporary and tap routines. Stagezone is based in Draíocht with classes for boys and girls from 5 years of age to young adults.
www.stagezone.ie

In a world where women are expected to have the patience of Mother Teresa, the arse of Jennifer Lopez, the social media profile of Kim Kardashian and the BMI of Elle McPherson, the pressure is relentless. Dirtbirds, the comedy duo and internet sensation, present their hilarious new show ‘No Filters’ which takes a close look at the barrage of bullshit we are subjected to on a daily basis and reminds us that despite what we’re told, there is NO SUCH THING AS PERFECT ... (except maybe Jamie Dornan’s arse in Fifty Shades Darker.)

So.. if you need answers to questions like:
How do I have confidence when I feel lower than a snake’s arse?
How do I learn to love my muffin top?
When the kids wreck my head how do I stop myself from selling them on Done Deal?
… then this is definitely the show for you. (Perfect women not allowed in)

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The 4 Of Us shot to fame with their debut album 'Songs for the Tempted', which featured the massive hits 'Mary' and 'Drag My Bad Name Down'. The follow up 'Man Alive' made Q Magazine's Top 50 albums and included the UK Top 30 single 'She Hits Me'. Notching up an enviable catalogue of timeless songs and six Top 20 Irish charting albums, their music has also been featured extensively on American, British and Irish TV soundtracks.

Interspersed by Brendan Murphy's often hilarious stories and musings on the band's three decades in music, the set list features all the old hits, such as Mary, Drag My Bad Name Down and Sunlight, as well as tracks from their recent critically acclaimed album, Sugar Island.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the full band in action for this special acoustic night in Draíocht.

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Join Ireland’s foremost storyteller as he takes to the roads, dispensing his unique take on ordinary and extraordinary life in Ireland today. Hear him speak with openness, honesty and great wit on how he continues to attempt to tame the unruly mind. Hilarious yet poignant, homespun yet profound, down-to-earth yet prone to amazing flights of fancy, there's nothing quite like an evening with Michael Harding. 

Back by popular demand, following his previous sold out nights in Draíocht, with 'Hanging with the Elephant', 'Talking to Strangers' and 'On Tuesdays I'm a Buddhist'.
Early Booking Advised.

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Legends of Irish music & song The Fureys, renowned for their hit songs ‘I will love you’, ‘When you were sweet 16’, ‘The Green Fields of France’, ‘The Old Man’, ‘Red Rose Café’, ‘From Clare to Here’, ‘Her Father Didn’t Like Me Anyway’, ‘Leaving Nancy’, ‘Steal Away’ etc return for their 13th concert in Draíocht. The Fureys have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 42 years, audiences that have included former Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Former Irish President Mary McAleese and the late Pope John Paul, while Tony Blair has publicly stated his favourite peace song of all time is The Fureys 'The Green Fields of France' and President Michael D Higgins attended their last concert in the National Concert Hall.

The Fureys are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination. Their folk based music has received standing ovations in some of the biggest concert halls of the world and they credit their musical ability to their parents, Ted and Nora, who were well-known musicians themselves. They encouraged their sons to play music from a very early age and there was live traditional music in their house almost nightly. Their emotive songs stir many emotions ... tears and laughter, sadness and joy. A Fureys concert is always a night to remember!

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Alchemy is a new show from comedian Gearóid Farrelly in which he is pretty certain he will be able to solve all of the world's problems. To start with Science needs more laughs, we need more superstar comebacks and Conor McGregor should just stop talking.
 
Gearóid has appeared at comedy festivals all over the world, touring with the likes of Joan Rivers, Patton Oswalt and Sarah Millican. He recently appeared on the BBC Radio 4 panel show “An Elephant in the Room” and can be heard on his podcast “Fascinated” where he tracks down his childhood heroes! 

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I am often asked “where do you get your material from?” The truth is really that I try to see the funny in everything. My mother died in March 2019 and of course it was sad, and grief can be tough sometimes, but I saw a lot of funny in that too. Since death comes to us all and grief is something most of us will experience, I thought there must be plenty of people who would like that funny to be shared. Also, I did a show about my Dad being sick back in 2010 and I couldn’t face my mother in the afterlife because I know her first question would be “your Father got a show, how come I didn’t get one?”
I think it’s tougher to lose your mum. My Dad was best supporting actor. My mother was the actress in a leading role. You are never ready when the star of the show dies. So this is a show about My mother. It’s a show about motherhood and sacrifice, anxiety and grief, the mistakes you make as a mother and a son and the hard road to forgiveness and finally it’s about loss, grief and the chaos that surrounds it.
Where do I get my material from?
Life and death!

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