VISUAL ARTS MUSIC & DANCE ISSUE & FILM THEATRE FREE THE WRITTEN WORD A REVIEW OF THE ARTS IN LAOIS, LONGFORD, OFFALY AND WESTMEATH WINTER 2012 18

COVER PIC Laois teens explore life Kilbeggan through a lens gallery set page 8 in stone page 17 Offaly composer Longford girl celebrated for pursues international ballet dream success page 31 page 4 Toy Soldiers, wins at Galway Film Fleadh Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2010 Over two decades of Arts and Culture Celebrated with Presidential Visit ...... Page 3 A Word Laois native to trend the boards of the Gaiety Theatre Midlands Offaly composer celebrated for international success .....Page 4 from the American publisher snaps up Longford writer’s novel andCulture Leaves Literary Festival 2012 celebrates the literary arts in Laois on November 9, 10...... Page 5 Editor Arts Magazine Backstage project sees new Artist in Residence There has been so Irish Iranian collaboration results in documentary much going on around production ...... Page 6 the counties of Laois, Something for every child Mullingar Arts Centre! Westmeath, Offaly Fear Sean Chruacháin...... Page 7 and Longford that County Longford writers honored again we have had to Laois teens explore life through the lens...... Page 8 up the pages from 32 to 36 just to fit Introducing Pete Kennedy everything in. Making ‘Friends’ The Doctor of Poetry ...... Page 9 This edition of the magazine sees an Eurochild launch set for Backstage Theatre after American publisher snap up a Longford overwhelming number of entries from the county .Page 10 writer’s novel, an Offaly director who is 16 DOING A RUNNER! 'Offaly' good to see first tall ship exhibition set sail following up the success of his previous Award-winning poet publishes first collection in over a decade Page 11 film The Moment with the release of All go at the Arthouse and Gallery, Stradbally another short film entitled Runner and a Aisling Children’s Art Festival a big hit with Midlands youth Page 12 brand new gallery opening in Westmeath Adela & the Meanits hit the headlines with 32 county while Laois teens explore life through tour in a month ...... Page 13 a lens. St Peter’s Portlaoise – the perfect venue to showcase the arts LAOIS YOUTH THEATRE presents: Rain Falling Up see schoolchildren In this edition of the magazine it is perform at Captial’s Convention Centre ...... Page 14 impossiblenot to notice the amount of Tullamore Rhymers welcome release of a madman writers and poets throughout the Midlands. Music Generation Laois and Laois School of Music Open Evening In Longford as previously mentioned, 12 ADELA AND THE Opening the Window on 20 years ...... Page 15 author Lorne Patterson managed to get his Doing a runner! Ways of Seeing ...... Page 16 novel snapped up by an American MEANITS HIT THE Minister for Arts visits Offaly publisher and the writers in thecounty were HEADLINES WITH 32 Close harmony – a Cappella Chorus launched in Athlone even honored by the Irish Writers' Centre Longford’s new photography book creates a bang! (IWC). In Edenderry, Dr Philip Brady has COUNTY TOUR IN A New Gallery set in stone ...... Page 17 launched his fifth collection of poetry and MONTH Thomas Frye (1710-1762) on Laois the award winning Pat Boran has Top class entertainment at Dunamaise Arts Centre .Page 18 published his first collectionof poems in Three Years of Creative Engagement at Birr Community School over a decade. This is great news for Hats off to Eileen...... Page 19 aspiring writers and highlights just how From Longford to Carrigstown ...... Page 20/21 much support is available for people who I.F. O.N.L.Y. (International Festival of A Necessarily like putting pen to paper. Lonely You) ...... Page 22 A big highlight for me from around the Theatre of Self: Presence/Presents by Seamus McCormack...... Page 23 counties of Laois, Westmeath and Offaly “Laois Youth Theatre gave me my start” was Culture Night 2012. Again Making Space in Athlone ...... Page 24 Westmeath took part and for the third year Cóilín Rush shares his thoughts about the Artist in Residence held a staggering number of events and programme 2012/13 at Arthouse, Stradbally ...... Page 25 even managed to secure national coverage 24 MAKING SPACE IN Mixed Bag offers something for everyone ..Page 26/27 on RTE’e Six One and Nine O’clock News. ATHLONE Striking a high note - the International Summer Music Similarly locals and visitors alike embraced School in Offaly - Their stories in our place the day and night of free entertainment in Their stories in our place - Rosalind Fanning ...Page 28 Offaly and Laois, with both counties taking 20/21 Athlone Dancer Orla Shine talks about her practise and part for the second year in succession with reveals that dance can be more than a hobby great success. FAIR Watching Through My Fingers ...... Page 29 CITY’S The Midlands showcases a variety of talent during Longford recently held the Aisling LUCY Culture Night Children's Festival - a week long festival Putting best foot forward Longford girl heads to Germany to dedicated to children with many free MALLON pursue ballet dream ...... Page 30/31 activities which was a wonderfully colourful TALKS TO Poetry of self and place ...... Page 32 way for children to actually take part in the Laois Artist Patrick Fitzpatrick shares some thoughts arts and try something new. MIDLANDS as he gets ready for his first solo show...... Page 33 To discover just what a valuable Visual artist Amanda Jane Graham dreams of ARTS AND contribution the Arts make to our society designated gallery space in Longford...... Page 34 CULTURE check out the National Campaign for the Meet the Team ...... Page 35 Arts on www.ncfa.ie MAGAZINE The meaning in things ...... Page 36 A look inside

YOUR LOCAL ARTS OFFICERS

County Offaly County Westmeath County Laois County Longford WHO: Sinead O'Reilly, WHO: Catherine Kelly WHO: Muireann Ní Chonaill WHO: Fergus Kennedy WHERE: Offaly County Council, WHERE: Westmeath County Council WHERE: Laois County Council, WHERE: Longford County Council, Charleville Road, Tullamore County Buildings, Mullingar Portlaoise, Co Laois Great Water St. Longford. CONTACT: Telephone 057 9357400 CONTACT: Telephone 044 9332140 CONTACT: Tel: 057 8674342/44 CONTACT: Tel: 086 8517595 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.offaly.ie/arts www.westmeathcoco.ie/arts www.laois.ie/arts www.longfordcoco.ie/arts_office.html 2 TOY SOLDIERS wins at Galway Film Fleadh The FilmOffaly/Filmbase- funded film Toy Soldiers, which was shot on location in Tullamore last winter, and premiered locally in May has just won Best First Short Drama at the Galway Film Fleadh. This is great news for the cast and crew, which includes writer, Matthew Roche, Director Mike Hayes and producer Ciara Gillan. The cast includes young actors Darragh O’Toole, Robert Donnelly and Mollie McCann alongside Una Kavanagh.

The win also represents two successes out of three for FilmOffaly at the Galway Film Fleadh, with Noreen winning Best Short in 2010. For FilmOffaly, this is internationally, that it is serious about Toy Soldiers will continue to be submitted to film festivals. extremely important and a message to filmmaking, has high standards and is Anyone on Facebook can follow progress on the following pages: the film industry, nationally and more than open for business. FilmOffaly and Toy Soldiers Short Film M

Over two decades of art and culture celebrated with Presidential visit In his first official appointment to Laois, the President of Ireland visited two art venues which jointly celebrated over two decades of art and culture. To kick off his Laois visit President On behalf of the Dunamaise Arts Centre, Higgins visited the Dunamaise Arts Mr Brennan also presented President Centre to celebrate its thirteenth Higgins with a specially commissioned anniversary and Laois School of Music’s gold and silver shaped lapel pin designed (LSM) tenth anniversary. by Portlaoise based goldsmith Helena And his visit was imbued by a common Malone. theme – the importance of the arts. He commended the Dunamaise Arts Special Olympian turns out to Centre and the Laois School of Music welcome President saying that it was important to instil a THE Knockmay community turned out in love of the arts in the nations youth. force to welcome President Michael D “The young musicians behind me, it will Higgins to Treo Nua Family Resource be something that will stand to them for Centre and Suaimhneas Community their lives, enriching not only their lives Childcare during his visit to Laois in June. but the lives of the community,” he said. Public representatives, members of the Seventeen year old LSM pupil Benn local community, including Special Hogan said that music had opened many Olympian Patrick Doyle, turned out to doors for him and he had performed in welcome President Higgins to the centre the National Concert Hall and at Electric on his second of three engagements in Picnic. Chairperson of the centre’s Board Laois. President Higgins officially opened lauded the €1.2 million facility saying: “inspires us to do more”. of Management, Louis Brennan, said to the Family Resource Centre and “This is creating an atmosphere for Stone suppliers McKeon Stone presented the Minister: “Your decision taken in Suaimhneas Community Childcare. people to reinvent themselves and reflect a seat on the occasion of President 1995, then as Minister for Arts & Culture, on oneself. Higgins’ visit. Mason tools are carved on to proceed with the development of the President inspires at “This is a country full of creativity. There the front of the seat, which denotes the arts centre in Portlaoise was a seriously Stradbally Arthouse is nothing small about a country that stone working heritage in Stradbally over important decision for Portlaoise town The final part of President Higgins’ trip to prides music, prides art and prides the years and it is inspired by the famous and our area of influence.” Laois was a tightly packed affair in the culture,” he said. sculpture The Thinker. Stradbally Arthouse and Library. Mr Brennan said that approximately Ratheniska Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann The burgeoning Laois Songwriters Glenbarrow Slieve Blooms, a painting by 250,000 people had gone through the provided a vibrant flourish welcoming Collective also come together at the Stradbally based artist Gemma Guihan, doors since it opened. The visit included President Higgins, while he was also rehearsal space in the centre and was presented to the President. a tour of the building where President treated to a drama performance by Laois members Michael McCauley, Ross Portarlington Youth Theatre also Higgins chatted with art, craft and design Youth Theatre. President Higgins took a O’Meara and Barry Hayes explained their presented a handcrafted book entitled students of Abbeyleix Further Education particular interest in activities at the work to President Higgins. Our President, with Harry Watson (11) Centre (FEC), who were exhibiting there. Arthouse, which opened last year, County Manager Peter Carey said that doing the honours. Fellow theatre He was given a guided tour of their recent chatting with resident and exhibiting Laois County Council was proud of its member Luke Melvin (11) had also works by students Regina McGinley and artists including Karen Hendy, Coilin wide array of arts and recreational created a portrait of President Higgins’ Stacia Kilroy. Rush, Gemma Guihan, Lorraine Walsh facilities in the county. Mr Carey said and presented it to him. M and George Burland. President Higgins President Higgins’ acknowledgement 3 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012 Laois native to tread the boards at the Gaiety Theatre A native of Mountmellick, County Laois, will play the role of Amneris in Verdi’s Aida for Lyric Opera at the Gaiety Theatre in mid November 2012, which follows close on the heels of her debut role of Brangäne in Tristan und Isolde for Wide Open Opera at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre.

Imelda Drumm, currently in her third completing a BBS in 1992. And in 1997 Margaret Burke Sheridan for Best as if Verdi had written it for her.” Fergus year pursuing a Doctorate of Music in she was sponsored by Glyndebourne Female Voice, Thomas Moore, German Sheil wonderfully conducted these Performance with Dr Veronica Dunne at Opera to attend the National Opera Government, Peter Tattan, Leider Prize performances. the RIAM and DUC, was a student at the Studio in London. Her fellow classmate and Percy White Head, Imelda was also Presentation Convent Secondary School that year was another Laois girl, finalist twice in the Veronica Dunne During the last few years Imelda has (now Mountmellick Community School) Soprano Franzita Whelan. international singing competition. also developed a strong teaching record and always had an interest in singing in St Patrick’s College Drumcondra and accompanied her father Jim to the In the intervening years since becoming International Awards include the Esso where she teaches vocal technique and local choir in Mountmellick each week a soloist, Imelda has developed a highly and Richard Lewis/Jean Shanks prepares students for their performance for Sunday mass. successful international career and has Glyndebourne Awards. Recordings examinations. Imelda will commence achieved particularly strong include Hansel Channel 4 Tv, Jenufa instructing the junior Opera Classes in It was Sr Dolores-Marie Murphy and Sr relationships with both Glyndebourne with Sir Charles Makerras, Falstaff S4C the Academy as part of her doctoral Bernard who fostered Imelda’s talent for Opera and Welsh National Opera. She with Bryn Terfel and Mozart’s studies next semester. Relocation back singing at school. And Imelda was was a principle mezzo at Welsh for over Coronation Mass with the Dublin Choral home to Ireland was necessitated by championed at home by her late sister a decade performing over 12 principle Foundation. the growth of her two daughters, Laura Mary Drumm-Lynch and won a roles. The title role of Carmen is one of 11 and Rachel six. Currently the family scholarship to study voice with Ann- her signature roles and she performed More recently as a result of her lives in Bray, County Wicklow. Combining Marie O’Sullivan at the DIT at the mere this to great acclaim at the Royal Albert portrayal of Azucena, in Lyric Opera’s a busy schedule of work performing and age of 14. Hall in London with Raymond Gubbay in 2011 production of Il Trovatore at the studying for her doctorate as well as 2002 and 2005. National Concert Hall, Andrew caring for her two girls keeps Imelda Some years later she progressed to the Johnstone of the Irish Times described busy and she is grateful for the Leinster School and Dr Veronica Dunne. A winner of many competitions at Feis her performance as “Utterly assistance and support from her She graduated with honours from DUC Ceoil, including Contralto Solo and the engrossing…she made the part sound mother Johanna. M

“As I have been studying and working connection in my work between where I Offaly composer celebrated abroad for many years now, in France, am from and how that manifests itself Germany and the US and my music has through sound: I see my work as for international success mainly been performed outside of intrinsically Irish, related to the Ireland, it is so exiting to bring this work complexity and density of the Irish The works of a Shinrone composer will be showcased by the to an Irish audience. I visited the language and accent, to the National Concert Hall as a curious eight geographical and textural landscapes of National Symphony Orchestra next February at the National year old, already obsessed with playing Ireland, to following from veins of writing Concert Hall in what has been described as “a dream come true.” and thinking about music and looked at by Joyce, Beckett, Freil, McGovern, the orchestra with wonder and McPherson, inspired by and aiming A programme of work by Ann Cleare will be played followed by a conversation amazement, listening in awe to the towards their depth of thought, between Ann and Evonne Ferguson, Director of the Contemporary Music Centre. sound that can be created from 90 questioning and detail, albeit through The south Offaly woman describes the opportunity to showcase her work at the musicians on one stage. To have the sound not words. Like the cracked National Concert Hall as a composer’s dream, saying: “The opportunity to curate opportunity to write for this group on mirror as the beginning of Ulysses, it an orchestral concert of my own work, and other music that has inspired it, with this same stage twenty years later is a evokes what it might mean to be Irish: such a prestigious Irish organisation as The National Symphony Orchestra is an dream come true.” what language, communication, absolute honour and privilege. tradition, and identity can mean in the Reflecting on her upbringing in the 21st century.” M Midlands, she said: “There is a strong About Ann Cleare She has received many honours and awards including: The IMRO/Feis Ceoil Ann Cleare graduated with a BMus from Composition Competition (2007), The UCC where she was awarded the Mary West Cork Chamber Music Festival V Harte Memorial Prize in 2005. Three Composer Awards (2008), Bank of years later, she received an MPhil in Ireland Millennium Scholar (2009), a Composition from UCC, where she research grant at The EXPERIMENTAL studied with John Godfrey and Jesse STUDIO Freiburg des SWR, as well as Ronneau, and where she also worked various grants and bursaries from The as a tutor for two years. She is currently Arts Council Ireland. Her piece, I am undertaking a PhD in Composition at Not a Clockmaker Either, was short Harvard University, Boston under the listed for the 2010 Gaudeamus prize. supervision of Chaya Czernowin and Hans Tutschku. Her music has been HORIZONS 2013 free lunchtime concert performed internationally across featuring composer Ann Cleare Tuesday, Europe, New Zealand and America by February 12, 2013, 1.05pm ensembles such as Ensemble SurPlus, National Concert Hall The Crash Ensemble, The Callithumpian Tickets: FREE TICKETED EVENT Consort and The International Booking (no fees) Tel: 01 417 0000 or Contemporary Ensemble. see www.nch.ie For further information visit: www.annclearecomposer.com M 4 American publisher snaps up Longford writer’s novel Briefs By Neil Halligan

Leaves Literary Festival 2012 celebrated the literary arts in Laois on November 9 & 10

The Leaves Festival was a wonderful opportunity to listen to the best of writing emerging from Ireland with the programme including readings, classes in creative writing, book launches, children’s events and music. The festivities commenced on Friday, November 9 with the official launch in Áras an Chontae at 7.30pm. The event also incorporated the launch of exciting new poetry collections by Ann Egan, Kathy D’Arcy, Jamie O’Connell and Pat Boran with James Ryan chairing the readings. Readings Ballymahon artist Lorraine Masters with author Lorne Patterson. by all the authors were interspersed by music from guitarist Conal Rae from Two witch-hunts - one set in Scotland in the 16th century, one in contemporary Scotland and what happens Laois School of Music. Admission when the two collide provides the storyline for a new novel by Lorne Patterson. was free and books were on sale on the night. The festival also included a The Longford-based writer returned to his County Arts office and local library that they were looking for quality horror, Children’s Programme. On Friday Scottish roots for the story, but drew gave Lorne valuable sources of regardless of whether that was sci-fi, November 9, award winning author and inspiration for the storyline from an information. “I have been using resources classic horror, or some of the variations illustrator Niamh Sharkey, Laureate na unusual source. put on by Fergus Kennedy, County like paranormal horror. They were looking nÓg, visited schools in the County to Longford Arts officer and Mary Reynolds, Adrianfor horror Duncan in the widest sense. They create a Monster Doodle and then on Having worked at Longford Women's Link the County Librarian, for a good many thought my piece was perfect for them, to Abbeyleix Library for a reading at (a women's centre in Longford providing years, a decade. That has been of so it was a happy relationship,” said 3.30pm. Children’s author Roisin support for women across a range of enormous importance to me. Lorne. Meaney also paid a visit to some lucky areas) for many years, it was an anti- schools in Laois and gave a reading in feminism speech that created a spark for The interesting cover of the book features Portlaoise Library at 3.30pm. Witches. “They liked my style; an excellent portrait, painted by Admission to the children’s events they were looking for Ballymahon artist Lorraine Masters. were free of charge. “A couple of years I stumbled across a Having read the book, Lorne said that Adult writer’s workshops also took place in the Dunamaise Arts Centre. diatribe by this American religious leader quality horror, Lorraine painted the 'Witch' in the book. Hennessy award winner Niamh Boyce called Pat Robertson,” Lorne explained. regardless of whether held a workshop titled Poems Beget “He came out with statements in which Another book in the offing is the sequel that was sci-fi, classic Poems on November 9 running from he said that 'feminism turns women into to Witch, which is “well under way”, and 10am to 4pm. This workshop was man-hating lesbians who practise horror, or some of the he believes it will be another year before suitable for writers who have begun to witchcraft, and a bunch of other variations like it's close to hitting the shelves, which is write poetry and would like to explore it nonsense. normal for any novel. The process, further. Also for adults, well-known paranormal horror.” from ideas to getting it down on paper writer John MacKenna held a workshop “Initially I thought it was hysterically and print, has been very much a labour entitled, Seasons of the Heart, funny, but then when I got to think about of love. exploring the ways in which we can it – the fact that you've got a religious “They were workshops primarily, but they draw on nature and our own life leader calling a group of women witches have also had readings where you can “It has been a wonderful experience and experiences to create fiction and – it's actually not funny at all. meet up with authors and publishers. It's being accepted for publication at this memoir. The workshop ran from 10am a fairly wide net that they cast,” Lorne time has been incredible. Everything that to 4pm on November 10 in the “That was the start of the book, and the explained. comes with publishing, having a book Dunamaise Arts Centre. The final event catalyst for it. I didn't come up with it launch, a seeing reviews and reader on Saturday evening was an exciting from thin air; it was actually provoked by “I can't speak highly enough of value of feedback has all been tremendous but mix of readings and music featuring that specific diatribe.” the supports that I'm sure they have for me it's a labour of love, but it's not a Christine Dwyer Hickey, Niamh Boyce and Nuala Ní Chonchúir, Chaired by struggled to put together. For a local job. I wouldn't look to it to be a job.” Seamus Hosey with music by harpist A member of the local writers' group in writer, I think it has been priceless.” Claire O’Donnell. This took place in the Ballymahon, Lorne was able to get The hard copy of is available in Grafton Arthouse & Library, Stradbally at 8pm feedback as he was going through his The story itself probably took about a Court Bookshop, Longford or in on November 10. creative process during Witch. “I read out year, all in all to write, and thankfully Longford Library. The book is also bits to them (group) and used the found a willing publisher to bring his work available for download from Amazon For more information on the Arts feedback in actually polishing my work to the public. (where it has received five-star reviews Programme contact: The Arts Office, quite considerably,” said Lorne. from people who have read the book). Laois County Council, Áras an “I found Dark Hall Press, which is an M Chontae, Portlaoise, Co Laois. However, it was the services put on by the American publisher. They liked my style; Tel: 057 8674344/42 Fax: 057 8674382 or email: [email protected]. 5 Irish Iranian collaboration results in documentary production

Portarlington filmmakers Carla and experienced in Iran can be seen and felt Delwyn Mooney have just completed through this creative documentary. My the documentary production The Secret reality and the fiction of the character of Permanency/Raz-e Mandegari an are fused together into the same Irish/Iranian collaboration. They spent experience. six weeks in Esfahan in Iran last summer and three days in Dublin which “When I first arrived in Tehran, I have to included filming at the Chester Beatty admit I felt a slightly apprehensive as did Library. my Portuguese friend and production this film feels like a moving painting the Iranian side by Executive Producer associate Ana Catarina Margarido thanks to the expertise of a vast Seyed Mehdi Seyedainnia, Art Center Secret of Permanency follows the steps Ferreira. I felt more secure that we were qualified team of hard workers and the Chief of Isfahan, and Seyed Mohsen of a western girl (played by Carla travelling together and that my brother vision of our extraordinary director Tabatabaei of Barg Sabz Productions. Mooney) on a spiritual journey to Iran. Delwyn (Producer) was with us. Of Khashayar Mahmoodabadi. The journey begins in the Chester Beatty course we hear of stories of Iran, mainly The collaboration has led to the Library, home to one of the most negative ones but with the assurance of “We hope to publish a book as an development of another co-production significant collections of arts and our director and through time, growing accompaniment for the film as the on- called Some Day, My Death/Marge-man, artefacts and continues onwards to knowledge and understanding of Iran, set photographer Arshia Sobhan Roozi. The story is of a Persian girl who Esfahan. Wandering through the Bazaar not for one moment did we feel unsafe. Sarbandi took many beautiful photos.” aims to revenge her father’s death by the mosques and palaces the journey The feature documentary is written and Mongol soldiers who captured Persia in awakens the echoes of ancient Persian “I felt uneasy not knowing where to directed by Khashayar Mahmoodabadi 1220. The co-production will be between history and civilization. direct my gaze and if we were and edited by Bahman Kiarostami, son Cardel Entertainment and Producer Amir appropriately dressed. This world was of legendary filmmaker Abbas Hossein Sharifi of Afagh Films, Iran and Carla said: “Travelling to Iran was an completely new to us, a new culture, a Kiarostami. will be written by Delwyn Mooney and opportunity of a lifetime. I felt privileged new environment. I have many Khashayar Mahmoodabadi. It is due to and honoured that we were granted fascinating stories about my journey in It is produced on the Irish side by Co- start production in Iran early 2013. permission to access the most majestic Iran but I wish for the audience to wait Producers Carla Mooney and Delwyn M mosques in the world. Much of what I and see this visual feast. Each shot of Mooney of Cardel Entertainment, and on

BACKSTAGE PROJECT SEES NEW ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Following on the success of the 2011 Artist in Residence project with Director Padraic McIntyre of Livin Dred Theatre Company, Longford Arts Office and Backstage Theatre joined forces yet again in July for a new Artist in Residence project with Leitrim Writer Director and Actor Seamus O Rourke.

Seamus was an obvious choice for Over 70 people from Longford, the latest Backstage project. As a Westmeath Cavan, Leitrim, writer he is best known for Victor’s Roscommon and Galway Dung (which toured to sell out answered the call to audition as audiences) and Ride On (touring everyone vied for the opportunity nationwide in Nov/Dec 2012) as to work with this comedy genius. well as Dig and The Trappe Family After three rounds of auditions a which were both short listed for cast of 11 comprising of some of the Warehouse Theatre, (London) the finest amateur actors from International playwriting across Longford, Roscommon and Competition in 2008. Cavan was assembled

There was no doubt that the After two months of intensive opportunity to work this new rehearsals the production, which Director in Residence was a huge took a satirical look at human draw for the many talented actors behaviour, layered with comedy that chose to audition for the and thought provoking parallels 2012 production of Seamus’ own with everyday life, opened on play The Halfway House Hotel. Thursday, July 5 and ran for three nights to full houses. M 6 Briefs Fear Sean Chruacháin (Old Croghan Man)

Curtha, Ar theorainn ríoga Faoi scáth Chnoic Chruacháin.

Ceilte, Trí theacht na Críostaíochta, Trí chíor thuathail na Normannaigh Something for every child ‘s na Plandalaithe. Trí ghéarleaniúint na bPéin Dlíthe; Trí bhuillí chróga ’98, 1916, at the Mullingar Arts Centre ‘S cogadh cróga na Saoirse.

Participation in the performing arts provides children with benefits you might never have considered. Meáchain móna, Aside from the immediate advantages gained by social interaction and working in an ensemble Donn, dubhach, environment, children learn to improve their language and memorising skills, with obvious benefits to Dom bhrú, Dom chlúdach, their general education. Dom chaomhnú.

Children develop their creative skills friends and family – the rewards are confidence which a child experiences Rún m’éachta, through the process, which exposes profound. from participation in the performing arts. ‘S m’éiric’ them to the world of art and culture, Being able to stand up in front of an ‘S diamhaireacht permanently enriching their life One of the more surprising areas in audience and present yourself with pride M’imeacht; experience. Because of the physical which children can benefit from the is a skill towards which many adults Séanta om shliocht: nature of the performing arts, self- performing arts is that of problem- aspire. To acquire and perfect that Breithiúnas na mBreithiúin. discipline and self-motivation are solving. Naturally, things can and do go expertise as a child is an invaluable nurtured, by spending private time wrong from time to time, but accepting asset in life. practising and rehearsing. and overcoming these problems provides Sprid gan saoradh For a child who might suffer from an the children with a sense of pride, For further information contact: Gafa anxious personality, there can be no proving that they were able to succeed in Sean Lynch, Director, Idir an bheatha greater thrill than going out on stage, spite of the challenges. Mullingar Arts Centre, ‘S an síoraíocht. successfully performing an item which [email protected] has been painstakingly rehearsed and Perhaps the most valuable single M M.Ni Chonchúir 01/01/07 receiving the applause and approval of benefit, however, is the enhanced self- What’s available for children

Mullingar Arts Centre Youth Academy for disciplines of Musical Theatre as well as 7pm; Wednesdays, 4pm to 6pm; Fridays crumping and jumping in your own unique the Performing Arts Speech and Drama. Created specifically 3.30pm to 8pm; and Saturdays, 10am to style! Several years ago the Youth Academy for for children between the ages of three and 12pm. Ages: from five up. the Performing Arts was founded in order six, it will perfectly prepare them for the Street Dance classes are being introduced to fulfil the creative aspirations of the Junior Academy. This means that there will Ballet School for the first time in September, on teenagers in the Mullingar area. be a structured programme of performing Ballet classes at the Mullingar Arts Centre Mondays, from 4pm to 6pm. Incorporating the disciplines of Musical arts to nurture the talents of our children are given by Patricia McDermott. The Theatre, Drama, Dance and Samba right the way through from three to 18. syllabus followed is that of the Royal Apollo School of Dance - disco and tap Drumming classes take place on Saturday The Kinder Academy will operate on Academy of Dance and pupils are The revival of the fashion, films and music afternoons from 2.15pm to 5.30pm. Tuesday afternoons from 3pm to 5pm. prepared for examinations which are of the 70s has been accompanied by a Ages 13 – 17. Ages three to six. conducted by the Academy. renewed interest in the disco moves which Grace, elegance and beauty can be seen were so much part of that era. Riverdance Mullingar Arts Centre Academy of Rock each week at the Arts Centre, as children and its various spin-offs – including the Mullingar Arts Centre Junior Academy are schooled in this classic art form. Michael Flatley phenomenon – have also Catering for the children who wish to focus for the Performing Arts Classes take place on Thursdays, sparked new interest in the moves of tap- entirely on contemporary music, the Due to the unprecedented success of the from 3.15pm to 8.45pm. Pre-primary dancing. Apollo School of Dance has Academy of Rock provides tuition in Youth Academy, there was such demand to Grade 8. been founded in response to the demand drums, keyboards, bass guitar and electric that a Junior Academy for the Performing for tuition in these art forms. guitar; classes take place on Mondays, Arts was founded, which incorporates the Street Dance Meghan Stasinowsky will also be tutoring from 4pm to 8.30pm. disciplines of Music, Drama and Dance. Street dance is an art form which has this group. Classes will take place on Classes take place on Saturdays from exploded onto the scene in the last few Mondays from 7pm to 9pm. 10am to 12pm and 12pm to 2pm. Ages Dionysus School of Dance years. It might have been a discipline seven to 12. Dionysus School of Dance will be well- unfamiliar to many, before the advent of For further information about the new known to many for its glittering show Got To Dance and Diversity. This exciting initiatives please ring Sean Lynch on Mullingar Arts Centre Kinder Academy which is presented at the end of each and contemporary dance form is 044 934 7777 or call into the Mullingar for the Performing Arts year. The school operates from the immediately identifiable by its energetic, Arts Centre. Our aspiring performers are getting Mullingar Arts Centre under the direction acrobatic and athletic moves. Meghan younger so from September 2012 we of Siobhán Murphy. Styles covered are a Stasinowsky has an impressive Opening hours are Monday to Friday proudly present the Kinder Academy for fusion of jazz, contemporary, classical, background in dance and tuition, with from 9am to 9.30pm and on Saturdays the Performing Arts featuring tuition in the musical theatre and hip-hop dancing. experience gained in Dublin and Australia, from 9am to 6pm. M Classes as follows: Tuesdays, 5pm to and will have you popping, locking,

7 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012 The IWC, which boasts almost 400 members, is home to one of Ireland’s most highly valued single art collections COUNTY LONGFORD - that of Frank Buckley. Following the discussion, the Longford writers were treated to refreshments. This was followed by a series of WRITERS HONORED readings of self-composed works. By Majella Reid Poems, short-fiction and novel extracts Longford and creative writing are undoubtedly synonymous with each other. The prestigious works of literary were read to great applause. legends Maria Edgeworth, Oliver Goldsmith and Padraic Colum, have greatly influenced many writers throughout At the interval, a musical interlude was the world - and none more so than the prolific writing community now present in the county today. provided by Longford Larks, a duo comprised of Kevin Farrell from Ardagh Such is the calibre of creative writing in Jack Harte, Chairperson of the IWC, “The structure of the local writers’ group and Aisling McCarthy who hails from Longford that the Irish Writers’ Centre agreed. Addressing the large number of is a very good one. Maybe we should set Newtownforbes. Together, the musical (IWC) recently honoured County Longford writers, the former Lanesboro up a closer link between these groups pair sung songs such as Summertime Longford writers in a special evening at resident announced that the IWC would and the IWC, “ he said. and She Moved Through The Fair. their headquarters in Dublin’s Parnell be launching courses and mentoring Square. services online at its website this Mr Kennedy agreed saying, local writers’ Following the event, those gathered summer (www.writerscentre.ie). groups should be looking for ways to stepped out into the late Dublin night air “In a very small county we have over promote their work (to a wider and there one writer summed the night 100 people actively writing for various During a discussion session, the writers audience). up perfectly. He said: “Tonight made me reasons. I am convinced that per head were invited to express their opinion on very proud to be from County Longford.” of population we have more writers than how the relationship between the IWC M any other county,“ said Fergus Kennedy, and rural writers could be improved. Longford Arts Officer, speaking at the Areas discussed included; the gathering of Longford writers. establishment of regional outreach centres, multiple micro-events and the He continued: “Writing is the increased use of IT. predominant art form in County Longford and there is a need for further Another potential key link between the structural supports to assist, in IWC and rural writers was seen to be the particular, emerging writers. This is local writers’ groups. Longford county where an institution such as the IWC has five such groups, the importance of can play a pivotal role.” which could not be overstated, according to Mr Harte.

COVER STORY Laois teens explore life through the lens By Aishling Hennessy, Youth Arts Worker, Youth Work Ireland Laois As far as I am concerned, taking photographs is a means of understanding which cannot be separated from other means of visual expression. It is a way of shouting, of freeing oneself, not of proving or asserting one’s own originality. It is a way of life. - Henri Cartier-Bresson – French Photographer - Father of modern Photojournalism Portarlington, O’Moore’s Place Portlaoise and Kiln Lane Portarlington Youth Work Ireland Laois in Partnership ■ The fundamentals in studio have completed the workshops with with Laois Partnership has been photograph Stradbally and Rathdowney/ Abbeyleix delivering photography workshops ■ The elements involved in taking a to be the next areas to be offered in throughout Laois since April 2012. landscape/portrait photograph these experiential workshops. The Youth Work Ireland Laois is working ■ Exploring the world around them young people participating in the together with Photographer John Lalor creatively through the use of a workshops vary in ages from 10-17 to facilitate the workshops with funding camera. years with maximum of 12 young from Laois Partnership. ■ How to curate a group exhibition. people participating in each workshop. The main aim of the workshops with The young people have also: For more information relating to young people from towns and villages upcoming Photography Workshops in throughout Laois is to allow them to ■ Gained self esteem, personal Stradbally and Rathdowney/Abbeyleix, explore the world around them in a new development and confidence from please contact Joe Thompson, Project and profound way - to allow them see participating in the project Coordinator, Youth Work Ireland, Laois the world in a different light and through an ability to communicate on 086 1756714 or Aishling discover an inner appreciation for their their visual ideas in relation to their Hennessy, Youth Arts Worker, Youth own individual world. theme. Work Ireland Laois on 087 6478677 M ■ Demonstrated an awareness of the As photography is also a universal theory, technical elements and language the workshops teach the processes involved in taking a Some comments made from the young people youth how to speak in a visual language photograph. participating in the workshops include: so they can learn how to make sense of the world that surrounds them. At the end of the workshop series of “Amazing, great experience, excellent” sessions there will be an exhibition to Aisling O’Shea, Lisa Kerry, Zoe Maher, O’Moore’s Place, Portlaoise The workshops use themes that the showcase the learning that took place young people develop themselves to throughout each workshop and the echo their own youth culture. subsequent photographs that were “I definitely would come back and do this again, created through this process in Laois it was brilliant!” Young people have been given the County Council, Aras an Chontae on Chloe Houlihan, O’Moore’s Place, Portlaoise opportunity to learn and gain insight into: Thursday, December 6, 2012. 8 Janine Wilson talks to a Midlands musician making Briefs inroads in Nashville THE DOCTOR OF POETRY Dr Philip Brady from Edenderry has introducing just launched his fifth collection of poetry. Originally from Edgeworthstown in Longford, he has managed to be a prolific writer of poetry while maintaining his career Pete Kennedy as a family doctor. Dr Brady’s poetry is laden with the most searching expressions of our Pete Kennedy is the real deal - a young Hard Rock Café Nashville and Birr Theatre & Arts Centre was delighted feelings, our appreciation and man from Offaly making music that’s Bridgestone Arena (accompanied each to welcome Pete home to Birr for an awareness of existence and how we capturing audiences on both sides of time by Grammy Award-winner Brad Davis unforgettable night of music at the end of see and shape the intricate tapestry the Atlantic. on guitar), The Commodore Grille, September. This was an amazing of our lives. It delves into local Whiskey Bent, That’s Cool, and Puckett’s. opportunity to see and hear Pete before topography and history as well as So how does someone from Birr in County And that was just the music! The visit he set out on the road again. into the humour and emotions of Offaly (and Carrig in County Tipperary) included a photo shoot—wearing clothing local people. It carries throught- make it to Nashville, Tennessee? designed and created by iconic designer- About Pete Kennedy provoking comment on all aspects of “I took an airplane—two actually,” said to-the-stars, Manuel; the CMT Awards; ■ Pete Kennedy appeared at the contemporary living in, the good and Pete, with a straight face. “It all happened interviews with press from around the UK’s biggest country music the not so good. about a year ago, when Lee William of world and an autograph session with festival, Wolvestock, this CMR, Europe’s Country Music radio fans. There was also some time to sign a summer. His poetry takes us gently by the arm station, heard a song of mine. He invited sponsorship deal with Nashville’s Music ■ He was nominated for Best Song and invites us to looks a little closer me to go to Nashville with him and be a City Taxi. The commercial can be seen at and Best Album in the British inside our deeper being. It offers part of the International Showcase, held www.musiccitycab.com Country Music Awards 2012 and inclusive alternative thinking to our the night before the CMA Awards.” That was thrilled to walk away with perception of part events in out loves appearance lead to coverage on Inside What were the highlights? the prize for Album of the Year at wither at a close personal level or on Music Row, a TV show streamed around Drawing a deep breath, Pete exclaimed: this awards ceremony in London the wider stage of our existence. the world. ”Wow, where do I begin?! It’s all been in early September. The collection is an engrossing fantastic. A couple of things really ■ He returned to Nashville to shoot tapestry of reflection, nostalgia, Kennedy recorded his first EP, Nashville knocked me for six. One was being a video later that month. reminiscence and romance blending Sessions Volume 1 in January 2012. presented with a letter from Ireland’s ■ He then joined legend Neil with medical, family and community The single, Yellow, reached number-25 on Consul General, Paul Gleeson, thanking Sedaka for his UK tour in experiences. the International Hot-disc chart and me for representing Ireland and joining October. landed in the top-10 on the British and the ranks of all of the great artists from ■ Pete will hook up with Spring’s passing Irish Independent Hot-disc charts. He our country. The other was a VIP behind- Philadelphia soul outfit, The I couldn’t carry the bucket returned to Nashville in May for an the-scenes tour of the Tennessee State Stylistics for their UK tour In one hand, intense two weeks writing with some of Museum where I was shown artifacts through November and early And spread the seeds Nashville’s most in-demand songwriters, from Irish regiments that took part in the December. With the other, and again in June, just prior to the American Civil War. During the tour I was The way I did it before, beginning of CMA Music Festival, to presented with an official letter from the For further information on Pete Because the stick was in the way record his Nashville Sessions Volume 2. museum, thanking me for my contribution Kennedy, visit www.petekennedy.net. It was such a little thing to Irish culture in Tennessee. Both Contact Lee Williams (Manager) Tel: But I got frustrated During CMA Music Festival, Kennedy presentations took my breath away.” 01252 514549/07956 888587 or For I did it before, performed at The CMA Global Artist Party, Email: [email protected] M Every spring. MAKING ‘FRIENDS’ Shoppers at Laois Shopping Centre were wowed one Saturday in May when Laois Youth Theatre presented a flashmob around the fountain.

A flashmob is when a number of people converge in a Then they posed for photos on the couch in front of the flashmob including Laois Arts Office, the National public location to participate in an unexpected activity fountain. When the familiar opening notes of I'll be Association of Youth Drama, Laois Community for a short amount of time. there for you by The Rembrandts sounded, the six Development Board, the staff at Laois Shopping hopped up and began to dance. Within seconds Centre, parents, leaders and the young people Laois Youth Theatre was joined by Clare Youth Theatre around 20 other teenagers from nearby shops joined themselves for their help, support and creativity. on the day and the choreography was created by the dance and soon after there were about 60 youth Portlaoise and Rathdowney Youth Theatre Co-ordinator theatre members shimmying to the music. For more information on Laois Youth Theatre contact Áine Caulfield with the help of Laois Youth Theatre the Arts Office, Laois County Council. Tel: 057 members and staff. In the final moments everyone posed around the 8674342/41 or log on fountain and held up signs and a banner reading to www.laois.ie/LeisureandCulture/Arts/Drama/Lao The flashmob began with six teenagers carrying a sofa ‘Make New FRIENDS join Laois Youth Theatre’. isYouthTheatre/or find us on in through the front entrance of Laois Shopping Centre facebook www.facebook.com/laoisyouththeatre with shouts of "Pivot!" and "Ross, this is heavy!" to draw Laois Youth Theatre would like to thank all those M in the attention of the shoppers. involved in the exchange programme and the 9 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012

EYEON: Offaly based glass artist Michelle O’Donnell recently worked with the students of Scoil Mhuire Fatima and St Marys Boys National School in Drogheda to make EYEON. Michelle combined the drawings from students in both schools to make the piece which is now in their new school.

was doing a workshop on the Olympics in Eurochild launch set for Backstage Ardagh National School. Anish Kapoor did a tower for the Olympics (ArcelorMittal Orbit sculpture at the Olympic Park) and I brought Theatre after overwhelming number a photo of it in and out of that came poems. “I come with an idea, and I get them to draw an image. I’m able to read the image and it of entries from the county gives me an idea of where their first line is, and then the poem arrives. By Neil Halligan “You know the way, as a journalist words are The latest production of children’s artwork and poetry is due to hit the shelves your tools, and you’re thinking about stories this November. Now in its seventeenth year, Eurochild continues to produce the and you’ll see stories where nobody else will see stories. I just think that it’s because I’m very best in creative writing and art from all over Ireland and beyond. in that space, children pick it up,” Mary explained. Based in Tigh Filí Cultural Centre in Cork have got a lot back,” said Eoin Hurley, so much of it, of such high quality.” city, the Eurochild programme started off in Eurochild Project Co-ordinator. “I think poetry is in everyone and I’m only 1995 as a series of workshops promoting Once again, there will be a launch in tapping into an imaginative awareness that cultural literacy, integration and dialogue Eoin admits that the quality in this year’s Backstage Theatre of the Eurochild book in may not have come to their consciousness,” between children from different cultures publication is once again of a very high November this year such is the level of she added. The prospect of having their through art and poetry. standard, with another strong entry from Longford’s entry. Most of that is down to the work published is a significant incentive for Longford – second only to the book’s home work of local poet, Mary, who travels around the young writers. It is a great carrot. It gives The programme culminates each year in the county of Cork. to various national schools in the county, a great emphasis. When you’re writing a publication of the Eurochild anthology of giving workshops to children in poetry. story yourself, when you know it’s going to children’s artwork and poetry, comprising “We get most entries from Cork, but Armed with a topic each time she visits, she be published, you have a different attitude the work of young poets and artists from all Longford is our second highest entrant rate. seeks to engage the children in a creative yourself.” over Europe. Mary Melvin Geoghaghan does magnificent process, in a fun and interesting way. work with the schools up there and sends Jane O’Hanlon, Education Officer with “It will be our most successful book in that huge amounts of work every year, all of it “It’s a bit like osmosis,” Mary explains. “I’m Poetry Ireland, will launch the Eurochild we have over 500 entries in art and poetry very high quality. It’s always a tough thing to a writer. There’s something going on book in Longford’s Backstage Theatre on from Ireland, across Europe and from the have to go through it all and to have to between us (children); we enter an November 6. USA as well. We cast a very wide and we choose the best work because there’s just imaginative space together. For example, I M

I Needed More Detail If it rocketed off to the moon and sketch them all the time. to pay higher taxes and put up by Ryan Kidd I’ll wait for it to zoom back soon. Up at the airport I watch with an increase in V.A.T. I opened his mouth the better the planes take off and land. The Germans agreed to help to see the beauty of my creation. I k now why the money’s not here I’ve read about different aircraft us out, we have to do what Even though the fire was dangerous it grew legs and ran away. my favourite is the Airbus A380 they say. warmth and safety filled me. and the F-35B. At home I see He went to the stream and But, I know it will return some day! them fly over the estate and In Striking Memorial I could see how his colours changed in school I watch them as well. by Kevin Lynch in the moonlight, he finished his drink Bluebell and Rasher When I grow up, I’m going to be a pilot. There are no speeches. and prepared to soar taking to the skies. by Megan Noonan In a dream about planes There are only names. It was clear this creature could kill Bluebell is galloping with me I’m in the cockpit, There’s no happiness. but, no person could destroy through a field of happiness. flying high above the clouds There’s no talking my work of art. Rasher, my other horse and touching down in only tears. is all alone by the wall. London. I Opened a Snow Flake Thinking of the good times I Was Going to Draw a Parachute by Áine Kiely he says to himself - He Came Running Down to Me by Luke McEntire I opened a snow flake “she doesn’t love me anymore” by Thomas Mooney I was going to draw a parachute and found Christmas. But, that’s NOT TRUE! I lost my dog Smiley when the wind was on my face. I stuck my tongue out out on a hunt one day. Halfway down I can see the ground. and caught a reindeer. In One God Particle I hoped he would return Leaving the clouds I’m sorry my It fell from the sky by Claire Shaw went out searching with my father. parachute like a bright white flake. In one God particle We were about to hop in the jeep is just an an eyelash falls and when we heard gods barking, idea. Where Did The Money Go? an ear grows wide. Smiley might be there so we waited M by Aaron Farrell A mouth looks like and there he was running down to me Was it the hole in our pockets it’s to one side, like the speed of lightning. I don’t know, where did it go? and the face is We looked glad to see each other. waving like the tide. The Anchor of Recession Did it grow wings and fly away by Frankie Donlan if so, where did it go? I’m Going to be a Pilot by Tommy Daly The anchor of recession Did the money monster have a snack I really want to fly began with building houses I hope he’ll put it back. so I can see the clouds that no longer can be sold. the birds and the view. A year later we’re in recession. I built a model plane Everyone in the country has 10 Briefs AWARD-WINNING POET PUBLISHES FIRST COLLECTION IN OVER A DECADE Following his acclaimed memoir The Invisible Prison, Pat Boran’s first full- length collection of poems in over a decade entitled The Next Life sees him explore questions of love, belonging and connection, recognising that small and great challenges alike may be entry points to new beginnings and that the instinct to sing and praise has never been more relevant or crucial.

Pat Boran was born in Portlaoise in 1963 and has long since lived in Dublin where he has worked as a writer-in-residence, festival organiser and, more recently, broadcaster and editor.

The recipient of the Patrick Kavanagh Writer and brains behind Pure Mule, Eugene O'Brien, holding a photograph by Veronica Nicholson in which Award in 1989, he is the author of five Eugene created the lightpainting ; sitting with sound artist La Cosa Preziosa (Susanna Caprara) at the launch of A Very Grand Canal - an art exhibition focusing on the Grand Canal commissioned by Offaly County Council collections of poems, as well as New and facilitated by Waterways Ireland, part of Dublin Tall Ships — at Waterways Visitor Centre, Dublin. and Selected Poems (2005). His prose memoir, The Invisible Prison, was published in 2009 and his many other publications include the popular writers’ handbook, The Portable ‘Offaly’ good to see first Creative Writing Workshop (1999, updated 2005). He is a member of Aosdána and was the 2008 recipient of the US-based Lawrence tall ship exhibition set sail O’Shaughnessy Award for Poetry. IT WAS all aboard the Waterways Ireland Visitors Centre in Dublin last August as an Offaly project kicked off the exhibition events at Dublin’s Tall Ship Festival. The launch of A Very Grand Canal - an excited to welcome this exhibition, which with this project is to reach and showcase week on the boat and will always exhibition focusing on the Grand Canal celebrates one of Ireland’s greatest it to as many people as possible and to remember and treasure the memories commissioned by Offaly County Council canals. There is no more appropriate highlight the Grand Canal in Offaly for its from the trip. It was invigorating and it was under the Per Cent for Art scheme and place for it to be open for viewing in Dublin multiple cultural values.” a great break from normal life and facilitated by Waterways Ireland - was part than here in the Waterways Ireland Visitor The exhibition consists of three main opened up new ways of writing and making of Dublin Tall Ships 2012 programme. The Centre, which celebrates all of Ireland’s projects, one of which is A Grand work.” exhibition, which features the work of navigable waterways.” Experience shown on RTE in October and The exhibition will continue to tour as Geraldine O’ Reilly, Las Cosa Preziosa, Work from the exhibition made waves reached an audience of 565,000 people, a body of work and each element will also Mixed Bag Media, Eugene O’Brien, throughout the country with Wayne coming in closely behind Prime Time. have it own journey and avenues of how Veronica Nicholson and Wayne Brennan Brennan’s Roots of These Lands proving This film documentary follows three people experience it. embraces a range of mediums from prints, to be an instant hit, after winning the artists - writer, Eugene O’Brien, sound, film, music, photography and Sean McCarthy Ballad Contest in Listowel photographer, Veronica Nicholson and The collection will next be on exhibit in literature all inspired by the Grand Canal and reaching #2 in the download charts musician, Wayne Brennan over five days Waterways Ireland Headquarters in Offaly. five days after its release. on the barge 68M as it wound its way from Enniskillen from November 22 Speaking at the opening Eanna Rowe, Arts Officer with Offaly County Shannon Harbour to Edenderry. to January 31. Waterways Ireland said: “We are very Council, Sinead O’Reilly said: “Our hope Eugene recalled: “I had a very special The Very Grand Canal Projects 1. A Grand Experience – Mixed Bag Media perfect introduction to the life and mind of someone artwork and in 2004 she was elected a member of Martina McGlynn & Garret Daly run Mixed Bag who lives and breathes music. He has toured AOSDANA for her contribution to the arts in Ireland. Media, a production extensively and been feature on RTE numerous She is a long time member of the Graphic Studio company in Daingean County Offaly. They have times. He currently lives in Spain. Dublin, of which was has been a board member produced a number of films and documentaries Veronica Nicholson is a freelance photographer since 2004 and chairperson in 2008. including the award winning Who is Dervla Murphy? and artist living and working in Offaly. She has and the short film Bogman. For this project they travelled extensively and has worked on numerous 3. Six moorings and a silent thread - La Cosa filmed three artists on a barge from Edenderry to residencies. In 1999 Nicholson visited the Middle Preziosa Shannon Harbour, on a journey for inspiration. East and Pakistan to photograph Irish emigrants for La Cosa Preziosa (Susanna Caprara) is an award- Eugene O’Brien is a writer and actor. His play Eden a book entitled ‘The Scattering’ which was winning sound artist originally from the south of Italy was produced by the Abbey Theatre on the Peacock published in 2000. She has exhibited in numerous and based in Dublin. She produces original work in stage before transferring to the theatre’s main major group and solo exhibitions and is a recipient the form of aural soundscapes and experimental Abbey stage. Eden won the Irish Times and the of many awards from the Arts Council of Ireland. He organic tracks. She is a recipient of the prestigious Stewart Parker Awards for Best New Play in 2001 has recently graduated with Masters in Art in the Europe: A Sound Panorama juried prize for and was subsequently staged at the Arts Theatre, Digital World from NCAD. soundscape art. In addition to her soundart work, on London’s West End. Eugene O’Brien has also Susanna is the Founder and Director of the first written for television, including the IFTA-winning RTÉ 2. A Grand Canal Commission - Geraldine O’Reilly international Artists’ Residency to open in her native series Pure Mule in 2005. He is from Edenderry. Geraldine O’Reilly is a visual artist working in the Basilicata, Palazzo Rinaldi. Wayne Brennan is a critically acclaimed musician mediums of painting, drawing, print-making and M from Offaly, whose debut album In my Hands is the photography. She has received many awards for her 11 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012

All go at the Arthouse and Gallery, Stradbally

Following a jam-packed summer exciting and vibrant images taken in Summer Arts Workshops, in October, composers. An audio-guide narrated by programme, the Arthouse and Gallery Buenos Aires, Argentina entitled, Buenos Shadow Play - a series of five workshops Eamonn Lawlor, RTÉ lyric fm, brings to Stradbally will complete the year with Aires – Desde el Alma. - ran in The Arthouse, Stradbally. life the music that will be on display, resident artists holding a collective Resident artist Lorraine Walsh who holds leading to a truly unique and rich group exhibition showcasing some of Also in August the artists in the Arthouse a MFA from NCAD and has many years of experience for the visitor. their work during the year. were involved in creating the The experience in delivering quality Honeycomb Art Installation Project for workshops facilitated the workshops - a During the Leaves Literary Festival Artists Gemma Guihan, Coilin Rush, the Electric Picnic - a ‘light recycling’ fun exploration of light and shadow for 2012 the Arthouse and Library will play Karen Hendy, Lorraine Walsh will installation involving six artists and young adventurers. host to a wonderful evening of music and showcase their work following a helpers from the Arthouse, with everyone readings featuring Christine Dwyer successful run of Summer Workshops bringing a strong feel of their own Another highlight during November (TBC) Hickey, Niamh Boyce and Nuala Ní with resident artists including Lorraine practice to the project. Using recycled in the Gallery is The Art of Sound - Chonchúir and chaired by Seamus Walsh and Cara Byrne. plastic bottles, to make up the presented by the Contemporary Music Hosey, with music by harpist Claire O honeycomb sections of vivid colour which Centre. This multi-media exhibition looks Donnell on Saturday, November 10. Lots of fun was had by the many young were then lit by hundreds of led lights at new music making from the first idea art lovers who came and worked with the creating a specific vibrant colourful through to the final performance. The Bookings can be made by calling the artists on the series of weeklong display and design. creative process usually takes place Dunamaise Arts Centre on 057 summer camps in July which included behind closed doors, but this exhibition 8663355. workshops for National Drawing Day, a September saw the return of Culture brings it to life through striking series of Mother and Toddler group Night to Laois and a full programme of photographs of the composers and For further information please contact meetings and an exhibition of work by events took place at the Arthouse images of their work. The Arts Office, Laois County Council the children of Corrig Kids Playschool in including artists’ workshops, exhibitions, on 057 8674342/43 or e-mail aid of Chernobyl Children International. music performances and drama giving The Art of Sound exhibition will feature [email protected]. In August a wonderful photographic free entertainment from early till late. photographer Eugene Langan’s dramatic M exhibition by Fiona Saunders showed Following on from the success of the and perceptive photographs of Irish

Aisling Children’s Art Festival a big hit with Midlands youth 2012 hailed the 15th year of the Aisling Children’s Art Festival - one of the greatest national children’s art festivals in Ireland and it takes place right here in Longford.

In these recessionary times, Aisling provides free and value for money artistic experiences for the county’s children. It has always been Aisling’s goal to nurture and develop the artistic expression and appreciation of our children by introducing them to a wide range of artistic disciplines through the medium of workshops and performances. This year’s theme was Celebrating Difference, which is apt given Aisling’s continuing commitment to bring the arts to a diverse range of young people in Longford.

Aisling is managed and operated entirely by a volunteer committee and is a non-profit organisation. A spokesperson said: “We would not exist without the support and goodwill of a host of Longford’s businesses, organizations, and individuals, and we would like to thank you all!”

For more information see www.aislingfestival.ie.

12 Briefs LONGFORD’S NEW PHOTOGRAPHY BOOK CREATES A BANG! Bang, Bang, She Shot Me –a photography book with a difference has just been launched in Longford. The 100- page book is different in its emphasis on fun and creativity, and is initially aimed at second level students, but can be used by anyone looking to take photography up as a hobby. There’s also a strong emphasis on photography as an art form, which only adds to its uniqueness. The book emerged from the success of Longford School of Photography Programme, which is now entering its third year.

Programme Director Shelley Corcoran devised a course to work with transition year students in the county, with support from the County Arts Office and VEC, who previously established the Midland College of Photography. Shelley spends two hours in each school every week during the school year, going through various photography techniques, technical aspects of photography and Adela & the Meanits hit photography as an art form.

She said: “It is kind of a text book where students can go and have a look at the headlines with 32 techniques and understand how to take a photo, but it’s also a showcase of their work from the past two years as well.” county tour in a month County Longford Arts Officer, Fergus Kennedy, added: “There’s a particular emphasis in the book as well; we didn’t After three years gigging together, Laois- 6000 kilometers in two packed cars debut album with high-profile gigs lined up want to write another manual on how to based band Adela & the Meanits has through winding country boreens, over such as the GiftedLive.com TV showcase, take a photograph with a DSLR camera. finally manifested its unusual combination misty mountain bogs “and some motorway playing alongside some of the biggest acts “The emphasis in this book is on art of genres and styles into a tangible form too, thank jaysus!” with pitstop gigs at on the scene in the north of Ireland. photography; it’s on developing students’ – in other words created a CD! such diverse locations as a coffeeshop in visual awareness and encouraging them Carlow, a church/arts theatre in Athy, Co Adela said: “I’ve a strong feeling we’re in to express themselves through the The band traces its origins back to a time Kildare, a shopping centre in Monaghan, a exactly the right place at exactly the right medium of photography. We take a kind long ago when singer Adela and visitor centre in Tyrone, a sports festival in time. The more you play, the better you get. of fun approach where chapters are a percussionist Ros shared the stage on a Fermanagh and a golf awards night on It’s as simple as that.” little left field in topic. St Patrick’s Day parade float in Portlaoise. Achill Island, Co Mayo (at which Santa Some years after this chance encounter showed up early to present the prizes) The band members said they would like to “The whole idea is to reach out and Adela needed a drummer to start a new before finally ending up in Whelan’s music thank those who made the tour and album engage young people in the fun of band so Ros got the call. Soon after this venue in Dublin 28 days later. possible including “the beautiful Anna Duff photography in the hope that they will Ros introduced Adela to bassist Barry who and everyone connected to her for the take it more seriously and acquire the in turn introduced everyone to violinist The highlights of the tour included playing warm beds and hospitality”; friend Mark technical skills in greater depth John… and so the Meanits was born. to full houses at Crane Lane in Cork City, Heally “for coming up with the tour idea afterwards. It’s detailed enough for Castlepalooza Festival at Charleville and his help along the way”; Madhu and people to know what aperture, ISO, After temporarily disappearing from the Castle, Co Offaly and The Rose of Tralee Paul “for recording and engineering the shutter speed is, and there are scene to concentrate on finishing the Festival in Co Kerry - not forgetting the two album” as well as Goodseed PR promotion photographs to illustrate what the recording of their debut album Kinda Wild brilliant home gigs at the Scarecrow company. technical side is, but there are probably a Adela and the Meanits returned to the road Festival in Durrow and later that evening in larger amount of chapters that are art- with an almost impossible sounding but Kavanagh’s Music Venue, Portlaoise. “Thanks to our friends and family for based, like exploring different themes, genius tour idea thanks to their manager; putting up with us being away… and being emotions, moods and that kind of thing. the notion of playing a gig in all 32 counties The tour was such a success and hitting home!” the members all chimed in unison. The technical aspect (of the book) is just of Ireland in just one calendar month. headlines all over the country in national a means to an end. The book really and local outlets that after a brief rest the For further information see: emphasises that photography is an art The Long Road Home Tour began on band is already busy preparing to return to www.facebook.com/adelaandthemeanits form.” August 1 and it took the Meanits over all corners of the country to promote their www.adelaandthemeanits.com M The book will be used as a curriculum support for the future students OFFline taking part in The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the the photography Gaeltacht, Mr. Jimmy Deenihan TD who module tutored formally launched the OFFline Film Festival by Shelley, but will also be available for programme at the Centre for Creative general sale through the Midland College Practices pictured with Marcella Corcoran of Photography website. The book, which Kennedy TD (Chairperson of the OFFline was designed by Noel Strange, was Film Festival). The festival took place from launched in Backstage Theatre in Oct 10-14 in Birr, Co. Offaly October. www.offlinefilmfestival.com For more details visit www.midlandcollegeofphotography.ie 13 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012 LAOIS YOUTH THEATRE presents: It Only Ever Happens In The Movies It Only Ever Happens In The Movies are the girls behaving so weird? And devised by Mikel Murfi & John Taite who is this appearing in his dreams? along with the cast of NYT 2011 Come along and find out! Directed by Áine Caulfield This production was supported by the National Association For Youth Drama “Summer Holidays. Crap weather and me through it’s New Stage programme and with no-one :( Girls everywhere but just took place in Dunamaise Arts Centre can’t seem to talk to them. Only good on Saturday, November 3. For more thing about summer is the 99’s :) and the information see www.nayd.ie new blockbuster movie :D ...Oh, I’m such a loser” Find us on facebook: Will Derek get the girl, just like in www.facebook.com/laoisyouththeatre the movies? Can his friends help? Why M

Rain Falling Up sees schoolchildren perform at Captial’s St Peter’s Convention Centre

Five primary schools across Offaly and Orchestra and has subsequently been Portlaoise Westmeath are participating in a new performed in Belfast and in Italy. It was national children’s choral project in short listed for the British Composers the perfect venue conjunction with the RTÉ National Award in 2010. The composition is Symphony Orchestra and conductor about 50 minutes in duration and Fergus Sheil which takes place in the involved several hundred school to showcase the arts Convention Centre in Dublin on children across Ireland. It tells the story Saturday, November 10. of a young boy called Jake who The Rector of St Peter’s Portlaoise, Church of Ireland, is keen to see discovers how to make a gravity switch the church used as much as possible for the arts and is urging people Some 250 students from St Kenny’s and manages to turn off gravity in the interested in scheduling an event to get in touch. National School, Kilpatrick, Mullingar; St world - with some unintended Over the last few months, St Peter’s has organ itself, though small, is perfectly Colman’s National School, Mullingar; consequences. hosted concerts by the Irish Youth suited to the building and is of high Scoil Mhuire CBS, Mullingar; Scoil Chamber Choir, Cologne Chamber quality. Naisuinta Mhuire Naofa, Rhode and St This was a fantastic opportunity for Philharmonia and the Herbert Lodge Mary’s Girls National School, Edenderry primary schools in the Midlands to be Summer School. Also, lunchtime organ The Irish Baroque will perform on Friday, spent the first term of the school year involved in a high profile and concerts took place during July and November 23 and the 2012 Laois rehearsing for a performance of a major memorable experience involving top August. School of Music Christmas Concert is new work by Belfast composer Brian Irish artists, the RTÉ National Symphony scheduled for Saturday December 11. Irvine and writer John McIlduff entitled Orchestra and a unique top quality Another series of concerts will run next Rain Falling Up. venue. It provided the participants with summer and Rev Stanley Monkhouse Anyone interested in using the church a unique artistic challenge while also would be glad to hear any young singers please contact Rev Monkhouse on The piece is a modern oratorio for equipping them and their schools to and/or instrumentalists who would like 057 862 1157, 087 365 2365, or at massed singing children, a choir of meet this challenge. the opportunity to play in public. The [email protected] senior citizens, orchestra, narrator and M live shadow puppet animation. The M 14 piece was written initially for the Ulster Seamus Kirwan, Ravings of Mad Irish Man. Pic:Paddy Tubritt. Briefs OPENING THE WINDOW ON 20 YEARS Tullamore Rhymers by Majella Reid “A great man that, Sweeney, Between two places, welcome release Between two countries, between two minds, Looking at himself in a water mirror, By the lakeside, on the river bank. of a madman And he all delighted with himself.”

An extract from Sweeney Under A Full October was a memorable month for Tullamore Rhymers’ It traces my path in life over a 10 year period of dealing with Moon by Noel Monahan. Club as it celebrated the launch of one member’s first book. and finding solutions to surviving depression, culminating in Seamus Kirwan’s Ravings of a Mad Irishman - a most the reaching of a brighter outlook and place through the use of When Granard man Noel Monahan puts welcome and illuminating addition to Offaly’s literary scene. humour and fun and satire. It is also my contribution toward his heart and soul into a task, he helping to eradicate stigma attached to mental illness. I never delivers. This is especially true of To label it a collection of poetry, although it is such, simply set out to write a book at all, it just accumulated over the years Windows Publications, a publisher does not do this publication justice, for it is so much more. As as I explored ways of dealing with bouts of depression and founded 20 years ago to provide a well as possessing one of the most creative and innovative getting to that brighter place. About a year ago I decided to platform for established and emerging cover images, this deeply personal and revealing collection of put all my work in book form, in the hope that it might be of writers. It was successfully established poetry, reflective prose and thought-provoking opinion pieces, help to others in dealing with what life throws up at every by Noel Monahan and his colleagues, will resonate with many readers. and anyone.” Heather Brett and Simion D. Supported by Longford, Cavan and Monaghan While held together by a playful undercurrent of humour and The book was launched on Friday, October 19 at Clonamore County Council, Windows Publications wit, Ravings Of A Mad Irishman never shies away from some of House Hotel, in Tullamore and is available locally for €10. has recently released an anthology titled, life’s tougher issues, touching as it does with an intense Windows 20 Years. honesty, on subjects such as the loss of a loved one, the The Rhymers’ Club, which, along with Seamus consists of In describing the publication, Noel and author’s own struggle with depression and the political chaos Thomas Carty, Ken Hume, Jill Britton Batty and Anthony his colleague Heather Brett write: of the last few years. Sullivan, also plan to publish the first of what they hope “Surrender to its currents of thoughts. will be a series of chapbooks entitled Under The Fading Lamp Fall under its spell.” Speaking from his Kirwan says that the book “deals with the use of writing and before the year’s end. For more information on the author home in Cavan, Noel said: “To reach 20 poetry as a therapy in dealing with, and surviving depression. contact [email protected] M years is an achievement. While we have published established writers over the years, we have also supported emerging Music Generation Laois and Laois talent too. “This year our publication features three School of Music Open Evening other Longford writers, namely Margaret Nohilly (Lanesboro), Kieran Furey The Music Generation Laois and Laois harp lessons, a choral music programme wider community a chance to explore a (Curraghroe, County Roscommon) and School of Music Open evening in which can enable schools and range of instruments, from trumpet to Mary Melvin Geoghegan (County September in Portlaoise College communities to establish a choir and The uilleann pipes to harp.” Laois School of Longford).” Incorporating artists and brought school teachers, principals, Music Box, an access and music tuition Music has been providing music tuition in authors from across the country, parents and young people together to programme for children with special the county for over 10 years. Laois Windows 20 Years provides an insight find out more about current musical needs. Students can also sign-up to School of Music tutors and Music School into Irish literature today. Paintings are activity in the county. attend evening classes in Brass, Harp, Co-ordinator Nuala Kelly, provided published alongside short stores and The Music Box and Uilleann Pipes in information on their classes at the Open remarkable pieces of poetry. Noel Uilleann Piper Gay McKeown, harpist Una Portlaoise College. Evening, including classes in violin, viola, himself has five collections of poetry all Ní Fhlannagain, Choral Master, Martin cello, clarinet, saxophone, flute, piano, published by Salmon, Ireland - Opposite Barrett and the Ontoni Brass ensemble Rosa Flannery, Co-ordinator of Music keyboard, guitar, drums and recorder. Walls (1991), Snowfire (1995), Curse of The Birds (2000), The Funeral Game provided an insight into the Music Generation Laois, was delighted with the Laois School of Music also offer (2004) and Curve of the Moon (2010). Generation Laois programmes through response to the event. “There is fantastic ‘Kindermusic’ which is an introduction to His poetry has been translated into performances and practical enthusiasm among young people and the music to children aged four to six. Laois Italian, Romanian, French and Russian demonstrations. wider community about the music School of Music also provide a series of and he has read his work and given Music Generation Laois creates access programmes being offered by both Music ensembles for students to join, including workshops at numerous summer to performance music education to Generation Laois and Laois School of a junior and senior orchestra and a schools and festivals throughout children and young people and the Music. Many of the instruments being woodwind ensemble. Longford and Ireland. He is also the project delivered a range of successful offered by Music Generation Laois are recipient of many prestigious literary summer camps. not currently widely available to young For further information on Music awards. Having been involved in a people in the county. The Open Evening Generation Laois or Laois School of number of workshops in Longford, Noel Music Generation Laois has now gave children, young people and the Music programmes and music lessons, is currently working on a sixth collection launched a series of programmes for contact Laois County Council Arts of new poems, alongside two plays, all of schools and community groups including Office on 057 8674343 or which he hopes to complete this coming brass lessons, uilleann pipe lessons, [email protected] M year. “I’m looking forward to the year ahead and to giving more workshops in Longford in the future, I hope,” said Noel.

Windows 20 Years is available in Eason’s in Cavan. The publishers hope to distribute it to outlets nationwide in M M the near future. Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012 Runner BTS Crew: Front row, left to right - David Foley, Tristan Heanue, Paddy Slattery, John Phillipson, Nichola MacEvilly, Lorcan Dunne. Middle Row, left to right -Claire Tobin Dunne, Eilis Abbot, Ciara O’ Donnell, John Desay, Jass Foley, Lorna Weightman, Carmen Reig. Back Row, left to right - West Connolly, Grace Coughlan, Mark McCauley, Karl Doyle, Paul Noble, Dave O’ Sullivan. (NOTE: Other crew members were stationed either end of the road controlling traffic access when this photo was taken) Pic: Jass Foley Runner BTS Kiloneen Road: Setting up for an Overhead Crane Doing a runner! shot. Pic: John Phillipson

THIS YEAR WILL SEE THE RELEASE OF A SHORT FILM TITLED RUNNER FROM OFFALY BASED WRITER/DIRECTOR PADDY SLATTERY (STAND MANTRA PRODUCTIONS) AND PRODUCER/EDITOR JOHN PHILLIPSON (TUSK PRODUCTIONS).

Runner is a paranormal drama about a reading or watching; something with a bit decided to raise the money collaborate with him again. So, as Post- young successful man who tragically kills of depth or substance. Something with independently and following the advent Production comes to a close, Paddy and a girl in a ‘hit and run’ accident and an unexpected twist in the tale, and this of online crowd-sourcing, they John will prepare Runner for the film foolishly attempts to carry on with his life certainly has those ingredients. I’ve successfully reached and exceeded their festival circuit, which can be a daunting as though nothing has happened. grown fond of Hitchcock’s work over the target of €5,000. Not only did they task. However, this proves to be impossible years and always wanted to make a film receive support from family and friends when he finds himself haunted by a that’s not necessarily scary, but has the but some notable Production Houses But Paddy insisted: “Although it was mysterious female presence. Eventually intelligence to affect you on a deeper stepped in and lent a hand also; tough getting our film to this point, it was his life spirals out of reality and into a psychological level. Finally, I have that companies like Studio Solas, Ardmore also fun and rewarding, so the idea of a surrealistic nightmare as he soon opportunity, which is one of the reasons Sound, Screen Scene and Production screening at a film festival is an added discovers that you cannot outrun a guilty I’m so excited about this project. Depot, the latter providing a state of the bonus. We will treat this process very conscience. art RED One MX camera while John professionally though and do everything “The other reason is that I get to Desay, a filmmaking colleague provided in our power to show off our film to the The film stars Tristan Heanue and collaborate with John Phillipson, an the RED Scarlet (a first for Irish short world. This was the reason we made it, Nichola MacEvilly, two emerging Irish exciting young filmmaker whose work productions at that time). after all. Whether it turns out to be as actors who not only immersed includes the award winning alternative successful as our previous film remains themselves in their characters but also music show Under Ether which ran for With Mark McCauley, BAFTA Award to be seen, but one thing is for certain, managed to take this story to a whole two successive seasons on RTE, and winning Cinematographer at the helm, when all is said and done, we will look new level of intensity. music videos for bands like O Emperor shooting got underway in locations back on this film with pride and and James Vincent McMorrow, which around Offaly and after a hectic but celebrate a job well done.” Following the previous success of have been broadcast on MTV worldwide, productive five day schedule in April, the Paddy’s last short film The Moment, he picking up a prestigious IMTV Award in film was finally ‘in the can’. For more details on Runner or to keep has decided to try something a little the process.” up with its journey around the film different this time. Dave McCune of Ventry Recording festival circuit, you can log on to its Runner didn’t get off to a quick start as it Studios will be composing the music on Facebook page - Runner-Short-film M Paddy explained: “I like to write stories was initially rejected by the Irish Film Runner. After his beautiful score The that I myself would be interested in Board for funding. So, Paddy and John Moment there was always a desire to Ways of Seeing Contemporary Art Residency An Account by Artist in Residence Ursula Meehan Contemporary Art, 2012, St Mary’s National School Collinstown County Ephemeral Art War Westmeath is funded by Westmeath County Council Arts in Context Scheme. At St Mary’s NS Collinstown from Easter objects. Through experiential and creative their pieces. Their experiences in the around the school grounds encountering a untill the end of the term, 34 girls and learning, the pupils began to develop an previous workshops gave them a solid ‘Girls Hut’ and a ‘Boys Hut’ and ‘The Maze boys from fifth and sixth class took part in awareness of contemporary art. platform from which to create and develop of Wonder which younger pupils sat in a residency that introduced them to Gradually words such as installation, pieces. They were inventive, enthusiastic and crawled though whilst viewers were aspects of contemporary art. ephemeral, temporary and concept where and industrious in there art making. They also invited to break the ‘Strings of The becoming part of their vocabulary. worked independently and proved to be Recession’ created on a temporary As the Artist in Residence my aim was to resourceful when dealing with problems in sculpture. Inside the gym they were meet develop a way in which children could With the Principal and staff supporting construction, sourcing materials and for by a depiction of War, a celebration of acquire an appreciation of and confidence and accommodating the developing those with pieces outside on the school Sport, Pizza and invited into a thought in looking at contemporary art through residency I asked the pupils to create their grounds persevering against inclement provoking installation in which they viewed their own experiences of art making. own temporary installations in the grounds weather! The World Turned Upside Down. They then of the school. In this period of time I no could take part in making an ‘Ephemeral Each week I introduced the pupils to longer directed their learning but The artworks they made were created very Artwork’ which was swept away after artworks by either Irish or international facilitated their progress in developing much from their own perspectives. Some being created. The pupils spoke with contemporary artists. The pupils then their artwork. were linked to fun and play whereas confidence to the visitors about their participated in a workshop related to the Some pupils worked on their own others showed an awareness of their artworks, who included Arts Officer, approach and materials used by the individual art works, others collaborated environment and world issues. Catherine Kelly who admired their artist(s) they had viewed. together creating group artwork. They creativity. And whilst there were a few They were encouraged to use everyday developed their own ideas, choose where Their pieces where exhibited to parents, puzzled faces as there often is at a materials found in their own environment, their artwork would be placed and friends, teachers and fellow pupils on a contemporary exhibition, it was well which included string, salt and plastic sourced found objects and materials for showery afternoon. The visitors moved received. M 16 MINISTER FOR ARTS VISITS OFFALY It was a busy day when the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan TD came to Offaly as he launched two Public Art Project commissioned by Offaly County Council.

His first port of call was St Joseph’s The Kilcormac Cantata went onto be Hall, Kilcormac to launch the Kilcormac shortlisted for the prestigious 2012 Cantata CD which was composed by Allianz Business to Arts Awards. Vincent Kennedy. The CD was the culmination of a year of work by Vincent Later that afternoon, the Minister along with the schools, local choirs, travelled to the launch of A Very Grand singing groups, poets and musicians all Canal, a collection of artistic responses Declan Costello, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy TD, Vincent Kennedy (Composer), Minster for Arts , of which was recorded during the to the Grand Canal commissioned by Jimmy Deenihan TD, Sinead O’Reilly Arts Officer and Cllr. Peter Ormond, Cathaoirleach project finale last November. Offaly County Council. The students of St Kieran’s National the county but has the capacity to travel rendition of Roots in these Lands to a School in Broughal and Scoil Naofa The exhibition includes work by Geraldine nationally and internationally. The event rousing reception. agus Chormac gave rousing renditions O’Reilly, Susanna Caprara (La Cosa was rounded off by Eugene O’Brien of Steal Away and Silver River Preziosa), Martina McGlynn, Garret Daly, reading an extract from his short story For more on A Very Grand Canal see the Greaser, and Wayne Brennan gave a page 11. conducted by Vincent Kennedy. Eugene O’Brien, Veronica Nicholson and M Wayne Brennan. The collection of prints, Speaking at the launch the Minister film, photography, soundscapes, music spoke of the importance of music in and literature form a multi layered children’s lives and that he hoped the approach to celebrating the Grand Canal. a Cappella community of Kilcormac would keep From archival material to an illuminated Vincent’s music alive and encourage the sign saying GRAND, the work is intended CLOSE Chorus launched children to carry music with them to travel beyond the county boundaries always. and promote the Grand Canal nationally HARMONY in Athlone as a cultural corridor. Athlone A Cappella Committee 2012 Pic by The County Manager, Pat Gallagher, Terry O’Neill, Back Row: Membership paid tribute to Vincent Kennedy for Secretary: Majella Mc Neice, Assistant bringing the community together in such The Minister paid tribute to all the Musical Director and Librarian: Ann Bradbury, a celebratory way and reiterated the artists involved, for rising to the Secretary: Bríd O’Flaherty. Front Row: PRO councils commitment to using the per challenge set by Offaly County Council and Media: Ursula Daly, Liaison Officer: cent for art scheme in more imaginative and surpassing it. He also commended Maura Dillon, Treasurer & Musical Director: ways around the county. the council for using the per cent for art David Farmer, Chairperson: Dympna Binchy. scheme to create work that is rooted in

The ladies of Athlone A Cappella are Chairperson: Dympna Binchy; delighted to announce the official Secretary: Bríd O’Flaherty; Treasurer launch of their Close Harmony A and Musical Director: David Farmer; Cappella Chorus which started with PRO and Media: Ursula Daly; Assistant small beginnings and which has now Musical Director and Librarian: Ann developed into a 43-strong Chorus – Bradbury; Membership Secretary: and still growing. Majella Mc Neice and Liaison Officer: Maura Dillon. An initial group of four ladies first met and decided to set up a new chorus in Rehearsals take place in the Athlone Athlone. They held their first rehearsal Springs Hotel and the chorus is in January this year and in the weeks extremely grateful to the management and months that followed more and and staff of the hotel for their New Gallery more members were recruited and put constant support, co-operation and through their paces under the tutelage kindness. of their newly acquired Musical set in stone Director, David Farmer. Athlone A Cappella made its debut performance at the Official Opening of A newly opened art gallery which best quality stone tools and view the David has been singing and coaching the Athlone Literary Festival at the focuses on exhibits made of stone has best sculptures in the country whilst four-part a cappella barbershop start of October in the Shamrock recently opened in Kilbeggan, County keeping the two areas separate to give harmony for many years, and still Lodge Hotel in conjunction with the Westmeath and already has had people space to view the sculpture and performs with his award winning renowned award winning poet, Paul sculptures from some of the country’s fine art. We supply the country’s best Quartet Cambridge Blues and his UK Durcan. They will also perform finest stone carvers including Barry stone workers and encourage beginners Champion Chorus Cambridge Chord competitively for the first time in the Wrafter who created the statue that to call in as well.” Company, which appeared on the Late Sligo International Choral Festival, in stands outside Belvedere house in Late Show performing the hilarious November. Mullingar, Jason Ellis a world Gallery 52 will be holding bi-monthly version of Teddy Bears’ Picnic? renowned Sculptor, and many others. exhibitions of local and up-and-coming The Chorus is currently still looking for sculptors and artists, to keep the space Although founded in Athlone, the additional bass (low alto) singers, so if Gallery 52 located on Main Street, fresh and exciting. group’s membership spans all the you love to sing and can get way down Kilbeggan, will also feature fine adjoining counties of Longford, the register - or know someone who paintings from artists locally and from Already local sculptors and painters Roscommon, Offaly, Galway and even can - this is the chance for you to join all over Ireland but their passion lies in have exhibited and will be working with as far as Kilkenny representing all a great group of ladies and use your the art of stone carving. local art groups and community walks of life from teachers, doctors, talents. If you are interested in colleges to promote stone carving and nurses, accountants, civil and public becoming part of the Chorus please The space is a modern, clean gallery bringing sculpting to a wider audience. servants as well as active and retired contact David on 087 694 1220 or and features another very unique home-makers. email . feature, in that there is also a shop Open from Monday until Friday from attached to the gallery called 10am to 6pm and on Saturday from The group, affiliated to IABS, (the The Chorus will be available for Tools4stone where you can buy a large 10am to 2pm, the gallery is open to all Association of Barbershop Singers) various outings and corporate range of stone carving tools. visitors. boasts a wide variety of beautiful functions and if you would like any singing voices. further information, please contact Owner of Tools4stone, Dale Weston For further information visit Dympna on 087 2894095. said: “This is something no other stone http://gallery52.webs.com The newly founded committee M tools supplier has in either Ireland or or Tel: 057 9333335. members of Athlone A Cappella are: 17 the UK - a shop where you can buy the M Briefs TOP CLASS ENTERTAINMENT AT DUNAMAISE ARTS CENTRE For an opportunity to see a feast of top class entertainers look no further than Dunamaise Arts Centre which has a banquet of entertainment lined up for the autumn season.

Some top class entertainers and events include the likes of Sharon Shannon and Vladimir Jaclokov, the sensational opera series coming from The Met Live in HD as well as wonderful theatre, comedy and dance productions and the annual Portlaoise musical and pantomime. With captivating Halloween and Thomas Christmas shows for families and schools also featuring in the Dunamaise autumn schedule and much more, including a performance by Laois Youth Theatre in their production It Only Ever Happens in the Movies it really is a feast for culture vultures not to be missed.

Other events include: ■ Portlaoise Musical Society’s Frye(1710-1762) latest production, Singin in the Rain, November 17 to 24, 2012 ■ Portlaoise Panto Group’s Jack & the Beanstalk, January 9 to 26, 2013; Ballet Ireland’s beautiful presentation of The Nutcracker Groome’s Butchers on O’Connell Barracks. However, the heat and dust ■ Sharon Shannon He was an Square. As a young man he went to of the furnaces seriously affected his ■ Comedy group The Nualas England where in accordance of the health and he retired from the business ■ The Tempest (Thomas Adès) custom of the time he became an in 1759. ■ extraordinary La Clemza di Tito (Mozart) apprentice artist to James Latham. ■ Un Ballo in Maschera (Verdi) He spent a year recuperating in Wales, ■ Edenderry man Aida (Verdi) It appears that his talent was appears to have recovered, returned to ■ Les Troyens (Berlioz). recognised in royal and aristocratic London and resumed his work as a who should be circles and in 1734 he was portrait painter in oils and crayon but There is also a great mix of films to be commissioned by the Worshipful now he concentrated on his speciality screened at the arts centre. commemorated Company of Saddlers to paint a full- which was mezzotinting. Frye added length portrait of Frederick, Prince of his own touch of individuality to this Art lovers will be captivated by the writes Mary Wales which he completed in 1736 and technique and produced a number of gallery’s line up of exhibitions including subsequently engraved in mezzotint and almost life-sized heads form his own an exhibition by artist Carol Booth from published in 1741. He painted the drawings which he published in 1760 November 9 and a craft exhibition O’Connor portraits of numerous members of the and 1761. Yet, the years spent at the from December 7. aristocracy, the merchant classes and furnaces took their toll and Thomas Frye The name of Thomas Frye is virtually that of the philosopher Jeremy Bentham died of consumption on April 2, 1762. The full programme of events with unknown in Edenderry yet this talented and also became a life-long friend of Sir dates can be seen on the Dunamaise man was one of the foremost Joshua Reynolds. There is evidence that members of website. Tickets for all events are on eighteenth century portrait painters of Thomas Frye’s family are buried at sale now from or from the box office. his day. He was commissioned to paint By 1744 Frye was aware that the British Monasteroris Cemetery, Edenderry Tel: 057 86633355. senior British Royals and to quote from upper classes purchased their porcelain where headstones bear the inscriptions his epitaph was “the inventor and first directly from China and he toyed with of John Fry, who died December 14, manufacturer of porcelain in England”. the idea of manufacturing porcelain in 1701 aged 59 and who is likely to have His paintings, prints and mezzotint England on a mass production basis for been his grandfather. It also appears engravings are on exhibition in such the less well-to-do. He carried out that Thomas Frye and his brother prestigious surroundings as the Royal experiments with various types of clay Joseph contributed towards the erection Collection and the Tate Gallery, London, and finally decided that the most of a headstone for their father John Fry the New York Metropolitan Museum of suitable kaolin was that found in the who died June 28, 1752, aged 70 Art, the National Library of Australia in territory of the Cherokee Indians in years. Canberra, the Art Institute of Chicago Virgina with whom he drew up a and the Chester Beatty Library, Dublin contract and in 1749 he was involved in Surely the time has come for Edenderry while his porcelain figurines feature in the establishment of New Canton a to commemorate in an appropriate the Curator’s Choice Section in the porcelain factory in Bow, London where manner the life and achievements of Museum at Collin’s Barracks and in the he spent the next fifteen years of his Thomas Frye who “…had the Burrell Gallery in Glasgow. life. Amongst his products were correctness of Van-Dyck and the figurines of the top show business colouring of Rubens…” ( An Epitaph, Thomas Frye was born in Edenderry, personalities of the day such as the Gentlemans Magazine,1764) County Offaly in 1710 in a house popular actor and actress Woodward M reputed to have stood on the site of and Clive which can be seen in Collins

18 Three Years of Creative Engagement at Birr Community School ST BRENDAN’S COMMUNITY SCHOOL IN BIRR HAD EMBRACED COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE WITH ARTISTS AND RECENTLY CELEBRATED THE STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENTS WITH ARTISTS PAUL FINCH AND JOHN MCCARTHY. Flow Forms in the Sensory Garden for the new 1950’s. Flow Forms are vessel systems This project was funded by NAPD Creative Flow Forms is a sculptural water feature extension to the school. that create rhythm like processes within Engagement, Offaly County Council and designed and constructed by artist Paul the water. St. Brendan’s Community School. Each Finch along with students from Transition The students’ creativity can be seen in student plus staff members had the Year (TY 2) 2010/2011 and three other the coloured ceramic jigsaw pieces Art on Entry opportunity to design and create their classes. This project was funded by the incorporated into the piece. The All Transition Year students worked with own individual stain glass panel and NAPD Creative Engagement Art Grant inspiration for Flow Forms is based on Stain Glass Artist, John McCarthy in these in turn were put together to create and Offaly County Council. The students Goethian Science which is a form of 2012 to create two permanent stain this beautiful and colourful permanent participated in workshops with the artist study pioneered by Rudolf Steiner and glass light boxes which are on permanent exhibit at St. Brendan’s Community to plan and create a permanent feature Victor Schauberger in the 1940’s and display in the entrance of St. Brendan’s. School. M

Ka Yu Chan, Yvonne Claffey, Ming Loughnane (Principal), Brona Conor Bracken, Dillon Patel, Leanne Dooley, Kiera Dooley, Caroline McDermott, Sharon McConnell, David Carroll, Damien Breslin, Kealey, Eleanor Heagney and Conor Guinan. Front Row: Aisling Middleton, Emma Harte, and Jeremy Alexander

One of the advantages of being a creative individual is a headpiece, I go through a process of enquiry not that you have the ability to approach a challenge from dissimilar to that which I would undertake to produce multiple perspectives and apply your creative skills to video art. However, I must also take into account the numerous different applications. Recently, I have fact that my artwork will be worn and must function. diversified in my practice and benefited greatly from the experience. Passion and a strong sense of curiosity, the core Hats motivations for my practice, are the drivers that lead me I started my artistic career by studying Fine and Applied to experiment with a range of fabrics, from more Art Practices, with a specialisation in video art. However, traditional and high quality textiles to non conventional in recent years I have found myself craving other, more materials. What I have discovered, is that millinery off to practical, applications for my creativity. provides endless sculptural, textural and technical possibilities. When creating a hat I use my master- And so, to hats.... crafts skills in sculpture in conjunction with the traditional millinery techniques that I have recently “You shouldn’t ask, why do you wear a hat? What you learned. The work is precise; shaped by hand on Eileen really should be asking is why you are not?” It was this wooden blocks and each hat is entirely hand-stitched. Eileen Maher, an artist from Birr, quote from John Galliano that I found myself considering after I visited Hats: An Anthology by Stephen Jones at Through my exploration of millinery, I have found talks about making the transition the Victoria & Albert Museum, London. ways of diversifying creatively. This has allowed me from video art to millinery. to contextualise my own production of work and “Following my visit to this inspiring exhibition, hats took furthermore, it has provided me with a greater on new form for me; no longer were they merely understanding and appreciation of other practitioners accessories but multifunctional sculptures and objects and their disciplines. that I wanted to create myself. My creative juices in full flow, I applied to study millinery at London College of Perhaps what is most gratifying is that my practice of Fashion. And, although the course was challenging, I millinery has allowed me to discover within myself a new found it to be an extremely exciting new diversion. well of creativity. Although currently I am focusing on millinery, I know that I can draw upon this well and apply Upon completing my course I designed and produced a my artistic resources to a range of new challenges.” collection of eclectic vintage hats, which were exhibited during the 2012 Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival. Designer, Sculptor and Milliner Eileen Maher creates The exhibition allowed me to demonstrate not only the hand crafted hats and headpieces. Eileen spent five craftsmanship required to create bespoke hats, but also years studying Fine and Applied art Practices in the UK that millinery has surpassed the level of craft and can and qualified with a Distinction Masters. She uses her be considered a form of artistic production. master craft skills in sculpture combined with her experience studying Millinery at London College of Like artists, milliners take inspiration from a variety of fashion to design and produces inspiring, original hats. sources. I take inspiration from the things that interest me most, including architecture, film and fashion. As I To view Eileen’s website visit: do in my visual art practice, I use millinery not only to www.eileenmaherhats.com Tel: 0857055771 M experiment but also to express my ideas. When I create 19 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012

From Longford to Carrigstown Actress Lorna Quinn speaks to Briege Madden about her Fair City character Lucy Mallon, what it’s like being on a national soap, her stand-out career moments to date and the ultimate dream!

Longford native Lorna Quinn, who is Dolores and eventually winning the me playing the part, it has been hugely currently playing the character of Lucy heart of Dolores’ son Wayne.” exciting. I love how she has many “People are excited Mallon in Fair City, went to National different faces for the various people School in Newtownforbes and Sitting in the Longford Arms Hotel over a she encounters – kind and thoughtful that a local girl is on Secondary School in Longford Convent. coffee, Lorna told me that she loves with Wayne, nasty and manipulative Her character Lucy, who left Carrigstown the experience of playing Lucy and with Pete, heartless and cold with Fair City and I am early last year, after borrowing 5K from working on Fair City. “I feel very lucky to Laura, efficient and hard working with Dolores, is back with a vengeance and have had the opportunity to play this Bob – She is the ultimate actress, very proud that I trying desperately to conceal a character. The story-team on Fair City fooling everyone in order to get what mysterious and troubled past. have worked so hard on this story and I she wants.” have had the think they have done a wonderful job in The daughter of Frank and Rheda talks building the suspense and mystery so “It is a great storyline and I am working opportunity to work about Lucy’s first appearance to strongly associated with it.” with a great team of actors - Martina Carrigstown: “We first meet Lucy at a Stanley (Dolores), Victor Burke (Wayne) on this national donor seminar in the local community She explained that her character has and Enda Oates (Pete). I am really centre. She reveals to Dolores that her developed a lot since her first enjoying the transition from stage to soap.” life was transformed in her twenties appearance to Carrigstown. “She has screen. It is totally different and requires when she received a cornea transplant. moved in with Dolores and is going out far less in terms of expression, voice Even at a young age performance was She claims that she lost her sight due to with her son Wayne. She has a part- and performance. The camera picks up beckoning Lorna. When she was 13- illness and regained it again thanks to time job in The Hungry Pig. There is a everything, so we are directed to keep it years-old she attended Evelyn Kelly’s this transplant. Dolores is fixated on the sense that this girl is firmly establishing contained and intimate in terms of Speech and Drama Classes, taking part notion that Jessica (her daughter who herself within this little town – eager to performance.” in improvisation games, scene work, died and donated her cornea’s at the move on from her past and start “Longford people have been very acting in short plays and studying for same time Lucy received her afresh.” supportive and I have been receiving her grades in Speech and Drama. transplant) may have been Lucy’s lovely feedback from family and friends. donor. Lucy neither confirms nor denies “When we first meet Lucy, she is very People are excited that a local girl is on During her secondary school years, this. One thing is for certain though, the nice, sweet and innocent. However, as Fair City and I am very proud that I have Lorna was an active member of St two women form a strong bond that will time goes on we see another side to her had the opportunity to work on this Mel’s Musical Society, taking part in ultimately see them become firm character and realize there is much national soap,” she enthused. four musicals – Annie Get Your Gun, Me friends, with Lucy moving in with more to this girl than meets the eye. For and My Girl, Calamity Jane and Anything

20 familiar with theatre companies based “I have had the opportunity to work with in Ireland, observed the work of my many fantastic theatre companies so peers on stage and took part in many far in my career.” These companies acting classes and workshops.” include Public Shakespeare (Twelfth Night), City Theatre Dublin (Jane Eyre), “I remember seeing All My Sons at the Painted Filly Theatre Company (100 Gate Theatre and just being totally Minutes), Carpet Theatre (50 Ways to blown away by the whole production. I Leave Dún Laoghaire & Ferry Tales), immediately stood to my feet when the Spilt Gin Theatre Company (Andy play was over – It was just amazing and Warhol’s Nothing Special), Corcadorca Goes. Also during this time, Lorna was a version!) by Neil Simon and so inspiring.” (PLASTICINE), TEAM Theatre (Skin and member of Backstage Youth Theatre, Copenhagen by Michael Frayn, for which Blisters), No Worst, There Is None (The performing in many plays at The Lorna was nominated Best Actress at “Having spent the Stomach Box), Éala Productions & Backstage Theatre, whilst also the ISDA Awards. Focus Theatre (Walnuts Remind Me of continuing to study her grades in three years in UCC My Mother & TIC) and The Gate Theatre Speech and Drama. It was during this Having studied Drama and Theatre (Little Women). time that Lorna was discovering a real Studies for three years at UCC, Lorna studying the love for performing on stage. decided she would like to train When asked about her ambitions for professionally to become an actress. theories behind the future, Lorna tells Midlands Arts She was about to make another With this in mind, she auditioned and Culture Magazine that her ambition transition into the field of stardom successfully for the two-year full-time acting, performance is to continue working with professional during Transition Year at Longford course at The Gaiety School of Acting in actors and directors in theatre, TV Convent, when friends Gráinne Fox and Dublin. and theatre; I was and film. Shaunagh Connaire formed the girl- group As3 with Lorna. The group wrote She explained: “The only practical now ready to leave “I take each job as it comes and strive their own songs and recorded them with requirements for classes at The Gaiety to give it my all. In this profession, Paul Gurney in Longford. They had School of Acting were for you to turn up the books behind having an optimistic outlook and songs played on local radio stations on time, be dressed in black clothes, be positive nature helps. There will across the Midlands and performed at barefoot and be ready to engage with and focus solely on undoubtedly be rejections, near misses, many local venues in Longford including the work. Having spent the three years bad auditions - but this is often supporting Sandy Kelly at The Longford in UCC studying the theories behind training myself to balanced with lucky breaks, chance Summer Festival. acting, performance and theatre; I was meetings or being in the right place at now ready to leave the books behind become a the right time. It is an exciting “This gave us great confidence from a and focus solely on training myself to profession, and when the rewards young age, as we were performing become a professional actress.” professional come, it is hard to beat that feeling of regularly on stage throughout Longford euphoria when you are successful in and across the country at various Once Lorna had completed her actor actress.” landing a role that you have worked so events. It was a fantastic experience training she remained in Dublin to get hard for. Like anything in life, when you and one we all look back on with fond, her acting career off the ground. want something badly enough, you will fond memories - particularly when we Her first break was a play reading work hard to make it happen. were voted Song of the Week on Mike “I was very excited about graduating. I during Dublin’s Fringe Festival (How to Perseverance is the key to success Mulvihill’s Power Hour slot on couldn’t wait to get started and land my Make a Mountain by Stephen Kennedy). after-all!” Shannonside radio!” first job! I was aware that this was not Not long after this, she worked on I, necessarily going to come easy, and KEANO and had a fantastic time touring Lorna has concluded her work with During her Leaving Cert year, that I would have to remain patient, the popular musical to Cork, Limerick Fair City but will be working on performance took a back seat as Lorna work hard, market myself and be pro- and Dublin. During this time Lorna also Bedroom Farce by Alan Ayckbourn in focused on her studies. In 2002, Lorna active.” completed her Speech and Drama the New Year. She will be playing the went to UCC to study for a BA in English, exams with The Leinster School of role of Kate. It opens on February 5 at Drama and Theatre Studies. She joined She told the Midlands Arts and Culture Music and Drama and qualified as a The Gate Theatre, Dublin and will be the Drama Society and performed in Magazine that she immersed herself Speech and Drama teacher. directed by Alan Stanford. many plays throughout her college years within the Dublin theatre scene at this M including The Odd Couple (the female time. “I attended many plays, became

21 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012

Liv O'Donoghue (IF ONLY 2011) photographed by Luca Truffarelli

I.F. O.N.L.Y. (International Festival Of A Necessarily Lonely You)

Cristina Goletti, Artistic Director I.F. O.N.L.Y and Co-Artistic Director Legitimate Bodies Dance Company describes how making-do becomes an important aspect of artistic direction

I.F. O.N.L.Y. is a dance festival dedicated of Legitimate Bodies Dance Company at to feel very attached to the project. Mexico called ‘Agite Y Sirva’, to show to contemporary dance solo authors, Birr Theatre and Arts Centre, I started The following year we received a small short dance films around Birr, I can’t which was initiated in 2007 as one of thinking more as an entrepreneur than award from the Arts Council under the help but think at the incredible journey I Legitimate Bodies Dance Company just a dancing body. I was curious of Small Festivals Scheme. Having a bit of have lived over the past 5 years, thanks activities to increase and promote how to make the most of what we had money meant the festival shifted from a to this festival. contemporary dance in the Midlands. and how to make contemporary dance one-day evening performance to a more This year I.F. O.N.L.Y. celebrates its fifth more visible and accessible in rural organic event with workshops for the Of course I.F. O.N.L.Y. expansion is also season this year and as a way of paying Ireland. My imagination ran wild as I community and a master class for the result of a considerable increase in homage I would like to take a closer contemplated big dance events and big professional dancers. the financial support I received as the look at some of the aspects that make companies touring to Ireland. However The 2010 festival was a landmark year, festival is now funded not only by the this festival such a unique reality. the reality soon curbed my enthusiasm. because I had enough resources to Arts Council, Offaly County Council but produce a festival brochure, to have an also by the Local Development Agency Why I.F. O.N.L.Y.? I knew the stage of our theatre wouldn’t administrator and to invite people I and Dance Ireland. In my early twenties I travelled to Mexico suit large group work and that our actually respected artistically and I City with an Italian dance company to meagre financial resources would have wanted to see dancing. I also However I feel the biggest reason the perform in a festival called Soliloquios Y made programming larger companies scheduled workshops a two-week festival is growing stronger and stronger Dialogos Bailados. The festival’s impossible. Our technical support was residency. Unfortunately, the weather is that I had the time to engage deeply mission was to present solos and duos limited and we were still developing that year turned really bad and the with the reality I live in, to create from both Mexican and International an audience for dance. My initial event was not very well attended. Yet it connections with the public library, the artists. frustrations faded away as the words still gave me the courage and retirement groups, the schools and the of Isabel Beteta came to mind. I.F. knowledge to continue. local artistic community. I also believe The Artistic Director of this festival, O.N.L.Y. was conceived out of the desire I’m growing in confidence as a curator Isabel Beteta De Cou, a legendary figure to put Birr on the map of contemporary In 2011, thanks to increased support and as an artistic director and I can only in Mexican modern dance, told me dance and make this often elitaristic art the festival arrived, and was an thank the perceived restrictions my something I never forgot. She explained form more accessible and available to incredible event for both the residency posed me, as it forced me to how the festival was a way of utilising audiences in rural Ireland, but more professional dance community and the think outside the box. the main studio of her dance space in than anything as a way of ‘making-do’ local community. It featured an downtown Mexico City; how it became a with the reality I was in. incredible line up of artists like Look out for perfect example of how content followed contemporary dance star Trajal Harrell I.F. O.N.L.Y. International Festival of A form. Her space was small and really Actually, I believe my limited resources from NYC, as well as Liv O’Donoghue Necessarily Lonely You well positioned in the city. She knew the and the reality of my residency helped (IRL), Madalina Dan (ROM) and Shamita (The only festival in Ireland dedicated to space would be perfect for solos or duo me shaping a stronger and more Ray (UK). I received 45 applications Dance Solos) as the atmosphere of the location was specific identity for the festival. And...so from artists all over Europe to take part intimate and there was no real we started. in the I.F. O.N.LY. residency! November 23-25, 2012, Birr Theatre separation between the proscenium and Arts Centre, Birr Public Library and the audience. The first year (2008) I asked my 2012 promises to be an incredible year and other venues. Performances, dancing buddies, people I knew and with more artists, more activities, more Workshops, Screenings, Exhibitions, This idea of utilising resources to their trusted but also people I knew could workshops, more spaces (including a Public Talks, Residency. best stayed with me while I was afford coming to Ireland without really shopping window on Main Street, Birr). For further information see performing in companies around getting paid. We did everything in such a As the festival grows and partners up www.birrtheatre.com Europe. Once I became the Co-director naïve and casual way! However I began with a screen dance festival from M

22 Darren Campion, 2012 discusses Theatre of Self: Presence/Presents by Seamus McCormack We all perform, we inhabit between the popular conception of an can potentially enter the space of the an impenetrable shadow, the darkened certain roles. In many ways, the actor as protean self, disappearing into image. From one side an actor on a stage a multiplicity of unconscious whole drift of Western thought a role, and the equally uncertain bare stage reads a text, as if for a selves. convergence of postures and attitudes rehearsal and on the other is the same has been to grapple with this very that define us individually. stage, minus the actor this time, with a Ours is an age of theatrical self- complexity – the volatility of self series of light changes. Crucially, both impersonation; we can move with and the mechanisms of its By approaching the relative positions of projections are overlaid to create a unprecedented ease between roles and projection are contemporary spectator and performer as a set of single frame, while the narration personas. But the self is also subject to obsessions. But performance is opposing territories, categories of combines the text of the performance deep and inevitable conflict. It is also a social category, and dramatic performance are shifted into with a reflection on the technical perhaps in light of this that we seek the therefore it is a mistake to the social realm – identity is process of its visibility. mediation of fictionalised experience as constructed as performance, fictive a way to direct the turmoil that might assume that the masks we economies of self. For McCormack We are seeing not only the scripted otherwise overwhelm us. The speak out of – or through – are these elements supply the means to enactment of a character, but also conclusion of McCormack’s work seems not in some fundamental degree probe whatever dissonance that might seeing through its articulation – the to be that the individual as the measure the “selves” that are said to arise between the roles we take on and notion of “performance” is taken apart. of identity is a chaotic play of forces, as inhabit them. how they are performed, directing the Even while inside the role McCormack well as being the often reluctant surface supposed interiority of performance has the actor describe (via the upon which they are inscribed – both outward and onto the means of its narration) the apparatus of projection, performer and performed. These themes occur forcefully in the reception. which is connected symbolically to both work of Seamus McCormack, where the the “projection” of a character and also For more information visit formal devices of theatrical space, with These gestures of formal disturbance to the image of those empty spot-lights, www.seamusmccormack.com their uncanny suspensions of time and are exemplified by the work suggesting identity is only what falls in M slippages of character are repurposed Presence/Presents, which is a double to our view, carried by the structures to questioning effect. He traces a line projection arranged so that the viewer that make it visible, and around that is 23 “Laois Youth Theatre gave me my start” By Trevor Mulhare “I completely underestimated my abilities and doubted myself hugely.”

Eleven years old; I sat in a restaurant week. I really have to stress how helpful end all of my success so far and I’d set production and the directing of eight with both my mother and her friend the Arts office in Laois has been ever definitely say that youth theatre was far spaces during the festival period. The when my mother produced a flyer from since I was that nervous 11 year boy more beneficial to me and a great festival itself was incredibe and over the her handbag and passed it across the first made an appearance and I owe preparation. 25 days of the festival I managed to see table to me. Portlaoise Youth Theatre many of my successes in life to their Through my involvement in theatre 71 shows, some breath taking and Auditions was printed across the top continued support. here in Ireland I’ve made a lot of some time wasting but nevertheless I and the following Saturday I was full of Under the excellent guidence of amazing friends which has really stood came home exhausted but filled with curiostity and excitement on the way Siobhan Coffey I gained priceless, to me. For example, during the summer ideas. to my first ever drama workshop. practical experience and had the I met up with a friend of mine who I met One show I stumbled upon was opportunity to put into practice many years ago when we represented called Milk and Mucus and was a From that one workshop I was hooked everything I was learning. Ireland in the European Children’s collaboration of modelling and and for the next five years I woke up, The transition from member to Theatre Encounter. She told me about performance to convey a message earlier than I would have liked, each leader was more difficult than I the Edinburgh Fringe Festival about disabilities and how we view Saturday to attend youth theatre. predicted, as I was so used to enjoying mentioning that I should apply for a ourselves. I have just started modelling PYT introduced me to so many amazing youth theatre it was hard to think of it role. It was to be the first job I have this year so was delighted to witness aspects of theatre and truly made me as a job and except that I was an achieved based on my university modelling holding its place at the fall in love with the world of drama, so authority with responsibility. I do have to qualifications alone when I found out I world’s most important arts festival. much so that when I was filling out my add, however, that being a facilitator is had been given the role of Deputy Although, I am relatively new to CAO form every choice I made was definitely the most entertaining job I’ve Theatre Manager of a venue and, at the modelling I have been fortunate enough drama studies. In September of 2009 I had and the teenagers that attend every same time, learned that I had but five to work with some of the best moved up to Dublin to study Drama and week both excite and inspire me so days to move over and begin my new photographers including Perry Ogden English in UCD. much that I never look forward to the adventure. and Barry McCall, both of their work I would have been nervous had it time for me to leave. I felt quite nervous initially, I instills in me a feeling that I am still not been for the years of drama Although I loved my university completely underestimated my abilities contributing to the creative world. workshops and different NAYD training experience and feel it instilled a great and doubted myself hugely. I dived I don’t have a structured plan as to courses around the country that had work ethic within me alongside a great straight in though and was genuinely where I see my involvement in theatre conditioned me for new experiences. understanding of the theory involved in surprised albeit overjoyed to realise that going, but I never have and the journey As prepared as I was to embrace performance which was brilliantly there was no task or situation that I so far has been completely amazing so everything in Dublin, when I was offered comprehensive, like any other creative wasn’t prepared for. it’s not something I feel like I can guide, a job as a facilitator’s assistant in route, you’re always going to learn the Daily tasks involved managing box it’s just something I’ll enjoy exploring Stradbally Youth Theatre I was glad to most from putting theory into practice. I office staff, front of house staff, dealing organically. have a reason to come home every can’t say that college was the be all and with customers queries and complaints, M

projects collectively we encourage individual art practice and are committed to furthering the visibility Making Space in Athlone and value of art in Athlone.

The Making Space collective is an around you and getting involved in Doolan, Tadhg Kelleher, Louise interdisciplinary group made up of changing it. The movement is open to Shanagher, Anthony Doyle and Rois Ni artists, designers, musicians, writers, everyone. Like all revolutions, we have Dhochartaigh. The space has been of social architects and other no clue how it will all end, we can just enormous benefit to these individual academics. We are a multifunctional enjoy being along for the ride. ‘Power to artists, to all members of the collective collective and are fluid by nature, the people.'" - Jason Gill (Playwright) and to the community. participating in a wide range of Another aim of Making Space is to On August, 17 Making Space officially projects within the community – support individual artists and their opened its studio at number 15 writes Aoife Doolan, Making Space. practices; to create networks and Custume Place in Athlone Town. At this resources for artists living in the event the public were offered the Our aim is to encourage creative progress Midlands and to create opportunities for opportunity to visit the studio and within the greater social spectrum, to artists to exhibit their own body of work. engage with the studio artists as well as demonstrate artistic practices to those Within the past year, it has become other members of the artistic within the community who seek a imperative that Making Space also has community. platform to create and we aim to the tools in which to facilitate the needs The studio received a warm, transform the way in which we look at of these individual artists so that they enthusiastic response, as did the art our everyday surroundings. Making can reach their full creative potential. work on display, which was inclusive of Space is not just a collective - it's a In May of this year, with the support of painting, sculpture, photography and movement, one that celebrates the Athlone Chamber of Commerce and experimental sound. Playwright Jason constant flow of artistic energy within the Hynes Real Estate, Making Space Gill officially opened the space with an spaces that we occupy on a daily basis. began occupying an empty commercial inspiring and heartfelt speech where he "Central to Making Space, I think, is the unit above Burgess Stores in Athlone. talked about the importance of creative idea that you don’t simply have to Since then a number of local artists action and an artistic revolution in The studios are open to the public upon accept the reality that is handed down have been working steadily within the Athlone town and the greater Midlands. appointment. For visitor’s information to you every day, be it in terms of streets space. The two floored unit contains The Making Space studio is a non- contact us at without joy, a townscape that frustrates studios occupied by the following commercial space providing artists with [email protected] your desire to marvel, whatever. Making artists: Sam Sutton, Rose Finerty, Lorna space facilitating contemporary visual or find us on Facebook. Space is about rethinking the space Kincaid, Denis McCormack, Aoife art practices. As well as working on 24 inspired works, all of which have been posted on the same youtube channel that hosts my other video works along with the other works we’ve engaged in Cóilín Rush as a group. The youth theatre will be shares with Midlands Arts and Culture Magazine his routine as Artist in Residence 2012/2013 at Arthouse Stradbally. y residency that commenced on residency in the Arthouse. The Also, to date, there has been 17 meeting again for another academic April 17, 2012 has developed so far members of this group are largely those workshops and the atmosphere has year shortly and I intend to coalesce in three strands, which are reflected in who worked with the previous Artist in become very expansive with different with their activities throughout three weekly workshops which I run in Residence, Vera Mac Evoy, under the ideas and personal dimensions that time. Studio no.5 in the Arthouse. name Cultúrbug, and a few other becoming apparent. After a brief break members who are new to the process. towards the end of the summer to Collaborative sculpture On Monday from 7.30pm to 9pm I run a facilitate my own holiday break we Separate to this I have been involved in workshop with a small group consisting To date the workshops have been one- initiated the beginnings of the larger a collaborative sculpture for the Electric of a painting group from Portlaoise, who off or double roll over workshops on thematic project. Picnic Arts festival in Stradbally. The had previously attended a VEC class different mediums and kinds of art group working on the project is which was cut short, and a local man practice. It is hoped after the mediums Third workshop composed of all of the artists working in and stonemason who have developed and techniques that I consider The third workshop I facilitate occurs on the arthouse: Myself, Karen Hendy, an interest in painting. This group deals constitute the fundamental tools that Fridays from 12 midday till two in the Gemma Guihan, Lorraine Walsh plus exclusively with oil painting and was should be available to any artist have afternoon and is a video based former Artist in Residence, Vera McEvoy assembled on request by the been covered to initiate a larger workshop with a small group of and Artist and former Arthouse Portlaoise group as a result of the ongoing thematic project. teenagers from Stradbally Youth Administrator Cara Byrne. It has been sudden cancellation of their previous Theatre. This began with me sitting my remit amongst other things so far to class. The sessions began with me There is a strong element of art in on the rehearsals of the youth theatre build the substructure and façade walls describing the technical means by appreciation to the workshops and on Saturday afternoons and then of the eventual piece which forms an which I conduct my own oil painting in most of them have begun with a short filming a performance they did for their octogan standing eight feet tall and regards of grounds, extenders, presentation on an artist who exploited end of year show and in preparation for approximately ten feet wide. The mediums and specific techniques and the chosen medium or technique to its a performance for the visit of President structure has been painted to a design now takes the form of me facilitating greatest capacity historically speaking. Michael D Higgins to the Arthouse in which emphasises its structure and will their endeavours with their own painting So far we have engaged in stencil July. Shortly before the group broke for eventually be covered with 1500 plastic projects by way of advice and hands on modules by looking at Warhol and the summer I asked them to act in a bottles which will house the same practical help. Banksy, Collage by way of Max Ernst, short piece I wrote that worked as part number of self lit LED lights which will Foam sculpture in reference of Henry of a series of video works I have been represent the painted pattern in light Second workshop Moore, Left brain drawing techniques, making since 2007. As they were during the darkened hours of the he second workshop I conduct meets Markmaking, Charcoal and ink tonal breaking for the summer I offered a festival. on Tuesday evenings from 7.30pm to studies, Mixed media works in the vein weekly workshop for any interested 9pm. This is populated by those who of Anselm Kiefer, Clay modelling, parties with a view towards video as a M attended a public talk I gave on my work Wireframe 3D works and papier maché medium as opposed to theatre. We and my interaction in the local sculpting. have had some great success - community shortly after beginning my particularly with a series of La Jettée

25 Face-to Face-

GARRET DALY MIXED BAG offers something for everyone

MARTINA McGLYNN

“There is great satisfaction when a production works well, because you are getting to share it with the person closest in your life. That makes it very rewarding.”

Face-to-Face with Martina McGlynn and Garret Daly who run Mixed Bag Media, a production company in Daingean County Offaly. They have produced a number of films and documentaries including the award winning Who is Dervla Murphy?, the short film Bogman and they tell Briege Madden that a feature film is on the cards for 2013!

Garret/Martina tell me a little about platform from which we could the industry is difficult and taxing. Martina: When Offaly County Council yourselves? develop and produce projects that we announced that they were looking for felt passionate about. It’s always Martina: There is great satisfaction projects to respond artistically/ Garret: I’m originally from County difficult to work independently but when a production work wells, culturally to the Grand Canal Corridor Meath, near Tara. After school I went through this method we felt that no because you are getting to share it in County Offaly we were delighted, to England to study film, completing a matter what the medium was, we with the person closest in your life. and we felt that there was so many degree and a masters. My career to could have a shared vision to make That makes it very rewarding. possibilities in terms of how the canal date has taken me from Kerry to programmes that we’d be happy with, could be portrayed. I grew up in Canberra. I have deep interest in and hopefully audiences would follow Was there a person/thing which Daingean which is on The Grand radio, film and television and so far suit. To date it has worked well. We influenced you most? Canal, so for me the researching and I’ve been blessed to work in these are lucky that it is just the two of us, conceptualization of the project was industries here and abroad. because in this business the work Martina: I’ve had many influences, a pleasure. The idea was so simple does ebb and flow, and trying to too many to mention. Our recent film really – three artists take a weeklong Martina: I’m from Daingean in Offaly sustain employment would be on Dervla Murphy lead me to a journey through Offaly on the Canal and started working in radio when I difficult at times when you are in person that really inspires me. and respond to it artistically. The was still in school. I’ve lived in France, development of projects. So hiring Against all the odds she followed her choosing of the three artists to Australia, Limerick and Dublin. I love tends to be seasonal based on dreams and carved out a career participate in the film was very much traveling and will do more. We’ve two projects and their timing. without compromise. due to the fact that they all live or kids now so I’m back living in my have lived near the canal. Eugene, hometown again, but the backpack What's it like working as a husband Garret: Its fair to say my parents have Wayne and Veronica all participated awaits. and wife team? been a massive influence in my life. wholeheartedly in the experience, Knowing how difficult this business and that’s vindicated by the quality of I’ve been fortunate to have had a Garret: It’s great. The business is is, they still encouraged me to pursue the artistic responses that they varied and interesting career in radio. always difficult to navigate and trust it, and are always supportive. They’ve created. Also, I had a very specific I’ve always had an interest in film and is one of the most important qualities definitely instilled in me a great work idea about how the finished film documentary. I consider myself as an you need in a partner. Making ethic and I’d like to think we conduct would look and Garret absolutely ideas person. creative films etc is also a very our work with the same energy and delivered. There’s a beauty about the emotive business, so I think the dignity. film that is difficult to ignore. No When did you decide to join forces combination of these understandings fancy effects, just beautiful images, and create Mixed Bag Media? make it work well. There is a history Your documentary A Grand and a slowness of pace that is so of some very successful husband and Experience is getting a lot of rare nowadays. I think that’s why Garret: The company was started in wife teams in the media business, attention why do you think that is people are interested in it. 2001. The idea was to create a and I think this is common because and tell me how it came about?

26 Tell me about any other current and midlands. Small business makes up Croghan Hill, which to me is much Garret: Get busy. Technology has past films/awards/success etc? such a vital part of Irelands economy, more satisfactory than looking out become so accessible that it is now however the internet services on offer over Merrion Square. possible to express yourself in film. Garret: We’ve achieved a lot of our in rural areas is downright laughable, Production values do not need to be goals, with many more to come. especially for such a small country. What would you say to a young high end, you just need to find a way We’ve been lucky at times, and we’ve I’ve spoken with friends who stand at person who has expressed an to tell stories. Even your basic smart worked incredibly hard for some of the back of their garden just to get a interest in film phone has cameras and editing our successes. Awards are nice, but mobile broadband signal, and they as a career? functions. That gets you making are not the ultimate goal. However to are less than 10 miles from a big things, which in turn can open doors, date, we’ve had documentaries town centre. But in small business we Martina: I’m quite a cautious person, help you meet people and after that, broadcast on all the major Irish do find ways and we do reach our so my advice would be to always have who knows. broadcasters, and some abroad. global markets. something else to fall back on in case We’ve had screenings at many Irish the film thing doesn’t work out. Very What's next/your ultimate goal? film festivals, with some awards What are some of the best/worst few people survive on filmmaking or along the way. things about being based in the writing scripts alone ! And, whilst it’s Martina: A Feature Film is in the Midlands? very admirable to be a ‘filmmaker’ – pipeline for next year, and that’s all I In radio there have been one off the reality is quite different. Unless can say about that for now!!!! documentaries, series and a few PPI Martina: Living in the Midlands has you’re incredible talented or awards. One of our more successful many advantages. Firstly, it’s incredibly lucky ! Garret: We’ll keep telling stories. documentaries was one on the great beautiful ! Mountains, river and M Irish travel writer, Dervla Murphy, lakes and brilliant walking trails. called ‘Who is Dervla Murphy?’ It has Another distinct advantage is that won some awards, but more most of Ireland is accessible from importantly it was received very here. This is helpful when organizing warmly by fans and critics, allowing meetings etc the film to travel the world for screenings. It continues to make an For us - The Bog, and The Grand impact. Canal have been very influential in a creative sense. Can you be based in the Midlands and have a global reach? Garret: Lots of the business of TV and film takes place in Dublin and Martina: Absolutely. Technology is Galway. So it is a struggle at times to just amazing these days and there be part of the networking scene, and are so many platforms that can be attending conferences etc can be used to promote your product. tough. Even though everywhere is Garret – Without a doubt. Companies accessible, you do find yourself doing in Ireland find a way to reach a global lots of traveling. And at times when market, and that is in spite of an the travel gets tough, you think about awful broadband infrastructure in the getting back home to our view of EUGENE, WAYNE, VERONICA

27 Striking a high note - the International Summer Music School in Offaly

As summer slowly drew to a close and the the beautiful village of Geashill with the routine of another academic year began so internationally acclaimed ConTempo String too did the International Summer Music Quartet and virtuoso classical accordionist, School close its doors for another season. Dermot Dunne at the helm. The programme Under direction of cellist, composer and was devised to showcase the talents of eight educator Adele O'Dwyer at Durrow National fine string players aged eight to 17 from both School in Offaly there were participants from Ireland and abroad and featured works by Europe, the UK and the US as well Irish Bach, Massenet, Bruch and Elgar, to name but musicians based both locally and nationally. a few. The summer school brought together The audience was treated to an performing artists and participants of all ages electrifying performance of Adios Nonino music for an intensive period of mentoring and written by the famous Argentinean composer, performance. Astor Piazzolo, for string quartet and accordion. The programme included opportunities for Adele commented that “the cross-fertilisation the public to hear both participants and between young musicians and mature, professional musicians in a series of concert seasoned professionals is an absolutely events presented in venues throughout Offaly. essential step in the process of acquiring both International Summer Music School the love and the skill of performance – the International Summer School - Dermot Dunne and junior composers Director and founder Adele O'Dwyer said: “The International Summer Music School is designed International Summer Music School to give participants that necessary contact – oriented programme of a collection of musical to add a visual flavour to the evening. programme has grown significantly over the the concerts were a wonderful collaboration items which demonstrated the extensive variety Adele O'Dwyer explained: "Without the past four years and provides an opportunity for between aspiration and wisdom.” of work produced during the summer music support of the Offaly Local Development local and international students to work with The sellout Café Music Night performance school sessions. Company and the Board of Management of Irish as well as International professionals on in the Tullamore Rugby Club followed with a The concert included the 'premier' Durrow National School and in particular both solo and ensemble music. Participants dazzling programme of music from around the performance of two new musical compositions Principal Frank Kelly, the International Summer have the opportunity to perform regularly in world which included the wonderful full- created by summer school participants with the Music School 2012 would not have been able informal and formal settings and to hone their throated singing of sopranos Helen Hassett and guidance of internationally recognised Irish to provide the environment necessary for skills with the mentoring of top-class Deborah Hadley in the music of Mozart and composer Elaine Agnew and veteran performing participants to access the depth of experience, performing artists. The International Summer Puccini to the fiery gypsy-inspired execution of artist, Dermot Dunne. professional expertise and creative artistry of Music School is a great opportunity for aspiring the Popper Hungarian Rhapsody from cellist Inspired by the visual images of and the exceptionally talented staff of artist- musicians to engage with high-calibre artist- Adele O'Dwyer and accordionist Dermot Dunne, contextual associations with ‘the moon’, performers who took up residence in County performance professionals and it is my hope rounded off by the soulful sounds of the participants were called upon to create a Offaly for the duration of the Summer School." that we will see more local participation in uilleann pipes played by Offaly’s Joe Finn. collective dialogue in sound from their own Pic by Kevin O’Dwyer coming years." The final concert of the 2012 Summer musical thoughts and instrumental resources. M The opening concert of 2012 took place in School took place in Birr Theatre with a family- Participants even made their own moon masks

seemingly disparate nations, far more effectively than politics will ever do. One of his university degrees is in Politics and International Their stories in our place Affairs. Karen gave up studying science to keep along her artistic path for as long as she is able. Isabel had recently “danced algorithms” with a In its present, a landscape holds the resonant Wolf is from the USA. Their vocabularies are interludes and images'. It is a series of solos mathematician. That there is a strong link energies of its past gatherings. Whether those sprinkled with the names of countries they have and partnerings in a meld of dance, music and between this art form, maths and the sciences were synods or fleadhs; games or skirmishes; danced in, for festivals and conferences and the video, and will have a 'visually arresting set'. is a revelation. Apparently physicists, such as weddings or funerals; famines or harvests, the nationalities they have collaborated with, in “There are so many different layers that those working on the Hadron Collider, are rhythm of seasons and daily living has been workshops and performances, both abroad and can pull the whole piece together or pull it apart seeking ways to put description to their new imprinted into the slow beat within the earth in Ireland. Add 'Switzerland' into this mixing again”, says Jadd. “Dance always wants to be discoveries by immersing themselves in the we walk on now. bowl, with Offaly-based, internationally true - you yourself have to be genuine.” Isabel expression of contemporary dance. Gathered in Birr to absorb the atmosphere renowned artist Therry Rudin as designer, and knows that after putting a lot of hard work into a These four strikingly intelligent young of the Midlands and thus to participate in German born musician Joachim Hein (now of particular sequence, you can't get too attached people are modest and highly articulate when creating a new contemporary dance piece, Banagher) who is helping with the soundscore, to what you have done as it may not ultimately given an opportunity to open up. Their morality, inspired by our region, were four inspirational and you have a taste of the multi-cultural back- work with the whole piece. “You have to be their openness, their fresh and mostly optimistic young people from Ireland and abroad. They story to the very local inspiration for this new adaptable, flexible; not hang on too much to views, present their lack of interest in excessive worked with and through the choreographic production. things. It's a blessing in some sense but also a materialism and their courage to keep on the guidance of Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, The contemplative effect also touched pain!” she admits. “I am constantly learning path of creativity, which expresses their love of whose regular beat is Birr Theatre & Arts Centre. Mollie, who feels that Birr has a dynamic she from others – it is a very collaborative process.” life and learning. This is the company's latest drawing-in of strong has had to ease into. “It has a subtle magic to it While the dance form may have been Their chosen dance form is curious to national and international talent to Birr, bringing that I didn’t quite understand until I had been unfamiliar to many in the local audience who many in rural parts of Ireland. But we, being subtle and specific benefits to the town, as here for a month or so. There is access to a attended the premiere in early October, the curious by nature of our fellow men and women, apparently our place is bringing to them. quiet concentration in this place - the images of familiar sites, projected on screen might make the effort to assuage that Living in Birr as artists over the past few environment of Birr provides rich grounds for during some of the sequences presented a inquisitiveness and go a little more boldly weeks has been a different experience for each deep artwork and creativity: the type of connection. But in an instance of our places beyond our boundaries and take on a trip into and for all of them involved. Having the privilege creativity in which you can lose yourself and find conjoining with their stories, when Therry Rudin our own inner rhythms. By Rosalind Fanning M of extended time to research and develop yourself at the same time.” “Might it be the was spending a couple of days filming the movement, is not least is due to generous, first- damp weather?” she pondered. Or is it the, dancers at indoor and outdoor locations, Mollie time funding by the Arts Council. However, the “Repetitive, ritual quality of the culture here?” had a catharsis. In the remains of a once four dancers also cited the 'lack of distractions' But something about Birr inspired her to “deep popular pub, broken glass and charred beams as a significant benefit! In the house they investigation and diligent creativity.” Jadd and under foot, it was only then that the full force of rented, there was neither television nor internet; Isabel are also big city dwellers who enjoyed the news from her brother in Colorado, engulfed no pictures are allowed to be hung by nail on being brought back into the fold of a small her: forest fires had entirely consumed their the walls, and that includes mirrors. “The community which was interested in, and helpful family home. Her solo thus speaks volumes of a absence of these has helped coax me into the to them. child in pain and disjunction; and so the present moment,” considers Karen Gleeson, The dance is entitled, Second Hand audience shared an emotional experience. who also took joy in regular riverside walks with Landscapes. Its inspiration and development The reactions to contemporary dance are her new friends. “It gave me time in the was 'informed' by the choreographers and often likened to going to a gallery filled with evenings to reflect and I feel it has influenced dancers as they continued to absorb the abstract art for the first time, a conceptual my working creative process. I am inspired to be essence of the Midlands into their movements. movement conveying the fitfulness and more honest and present. I feel more in tune The finished pieces of the whole have a trivialities of modern life. The emotional effect with myself and my surroundings.” universal relevance, for they have created a can be powerful. Jadd and the others, have a Karen is Irish and from Dublin. The three dance which will tour Ireland and far beyond. strong conviction that art – and dance in other young dancers are Isabel Oberländer from Directors Bryson and Goletti describe it as a particular, can create change in the world. They 28Austria, Jadd Tank from Lebanon and Mollie 'poetic and thought-provoking series of believe that it provides a commonality in Athlone Dancer Orla Shine talks about her practice and reveals that dance can be more than a hobby Maurice Gunning 1 Step Up 33 Researching dance as a possible contemporary dance. The project is a partnership career choice when I was a transition Sallynoggin College of Further between the Arts Council, Dance Ireland year student in school in Athlone Education in Dublin was my first step and the University of Limerick. I revealed something to me...that dance into professional dance training. gratefully accepted my place as the can be more than just a hobby. I Inevitably I had to leave Ireland to project would enable me to improve my started to think about dance very continue my training and studies. I professional opportunities in Ireland. differently; I wanted to train as a completed a BA (Hons) in Dance, We functioned as a dance professional dancer! I discovered ways achieving first class honours at the company, working intensively for an in which I could pursue this ambition Manchester Metropolitan University eight-week period. We resided at the and I then made the decision to make (MMU) in 2012. I attained a prestigious University of Limerick and utilised state it happen. The following year, I was award for Academic Excellence in the of the art studios at the Irish World fortunate to meet dance artist, Niamh contemporary arts department and I Academy of Music and Dance. Each day Condron who was dancer in residence received a dance excellence award for commenced with morning class in Roscommon and Westmeath. My my choreographic work in my second facilitated by one of our guest teachers: experience with Niamh proved to be and third year. Elena Giannotti (IT/IRE) and Lindsay and supported, owed to the selection of vital to my progression as it was with During my final year of University, I Clarke (US). Working under the direction dance practitioners whom I Niamh that I discovered and engaged in questioned where I would base myself of choreographers Liz Roche (IRL) and encountered in Limerick. I look forward when I completed my degree. I planned John Jasperse (USA) the culmination of to availing of the support structure and to stay in the Manchester area as I had the project resulted in the production facilities that Dance Ireland provide and already built some connections as a and performance of two original I feel confident and more exposed to dance artist there. Coming home to choreographic works, which were pursue a contemporary dance practice Ireland was a consideration I chose to performed at the Irish World Academy of in Ireland. neglect, as immersing myself into the Music and Dance, in DanceHouse, Irish contemporary dance community Dublin and the Firkin Crane in Cork. For further information visit and practice seemed unpredictable In addition to the enriching and www.orlashinedance.com M after spending three years away in the unique practical experience that was UK. However, I received information realised through my participation in the about a project that aims to bridge the Step Up project, a greater affect has gap between dance education and manifested in the context of my professional contemporary dance emerging contemporary dance practice practice in Ireland. I applied and I was here in Ireland. I am now connected to one of six contemporary dancers that five other fantastic Irish contemporary Step Up Dance were selected for Step Up: Dance dancers that are at the same stage in Project Project 2012. their emerging careers. I feel informed Step Up Dance Project Watching Through My Fingers By Laois Actor Thomas Byrne Thomas is an aspiring thespian, writer, almost on-par with that of a theatrical screen is conferred with special film-maker and is interested in all performance and coupled with the fact significance – usually that of disdain, manner of artifice. He likes to wax lyrical that you are actually amongst the mock or ridicule. My character does on a range of subjects including audience this time and denuded of any scream and flail around a lot at the end anomalous phenomena, film, folklore, ability to control how the work will play though so I brace myself for the literature, science/technology, visual art, out – that has bequeathed to the editors onslaught of the peanut gallery and and video games. and special effects bods in post- return to the womb-like embrace of the production (I had been made privy to a hollow in the golf course where we filmed It’s an oddly dissociative experience to be making-of effects sequence shortly those final scenes. Emerging from my present at the screening of a film in before the premiere that featured my eye- reverie as the credits roll, I am aware of a which one features – akin to being a balls being removed and remodelled in 3- distant sound – rhythmic and pleasing – shade at one’s funeral service, I’d wager. D with some form of supernatural it’s actually applause! I don’t need to ‘Pshaw!’ You might say, ‘solipsistic, cataracts added so there was some shield myself or assume the foetal egocentric actors with their gaping understandable trepidation on my part!) position! I join the rest of the production existential lacunae that require constant Of course, having agreed to feature in the team and cast and we all file out as the praise and attention’. And yes, it’s easy film in the first instance should indicate theatre gradually empties. The story has to level this accusation at one whose task some level of trust on my behalf – been told and the spirits exorcised – for was – ostensibly – as in my experience although whenever a release form is now. Reality beckons. circa September 2011 – to run about a signed, the spectre of an eventual Soupy The new supernatural chiller He wooded area garbed in period dress while Norman-style Eastern European comedy Moved Through the Fair, directed by John wearing the contents of a pot-plant on my re-dub lingers for some time thereafter. Hennessy and produced by Trench head (and thus providing the basis for Those fears are usually unfounded, Entertainment in collaboration with some contemporary folklore in the though. Kerbute Productions was screened at process) but the seeming simple, passive Once the screening commences, this year’s Galway Film Fleadh and act of viewing a finished piece of filmic however, a strange fascination develops nominated for a Tiernan McBride Award artifice can be, shall we say, a white- and I am transfixed by the unfolding in the Best Short Drama category. Follow knuckle ride. That said, the Universal spectacle – muscles locked and eyes the film’s journey at Studios animated logo sequence was unblinking. Like a Kubrickian Clockwork www.throughthefair.com once a source of near motion-sickness Orange aversion therapy session, I’m The creation of narratives and for me and had it provided backing for doomed to process and assimilate what mythologies within the experience of the film, I may have been reduced to a is before me. Paranoid ideation follows daily life is a continuing source of intrigue writhing mess in the central aisle of the presently and with hypersensitivity in full for him. theatre. swing, every cough and murmur from the Follow his musings at Indeed, the pre-show nerves are crowd during my character’s time on http://idioskoinos.wordpress.com M 29 Culture Night in the Midlands The Midlands showcases a variety of talent during Culture Night

Offaly Legitimate Bodies Dance Company at Sculpture in the Parklands Offaly.

THE Midlands came alive on September 21 when a day and night of free entertainment was offered up as part of Culture Night.

Offaly, Laois and Westmeath County Councils took part in the event, with all three counties drawing huge crowds to the many events that were held around the counties.

Events around Laois included singing Crztof group Vocalese who appeared in the Library Portlaoise and enthralled the audience with a variety of songs from their wonderful repertoire; Portarlington Library hosted a very successful workshop with writer Jean O’Brien and there was a talk on the works of Samuel Beckett by Arthur Broomfield in Mountmellick Library.

Westmeath events included The African Pipe Band. Connection, which secured national coverage on RTÉ; presentation of prizes for photographic competition Jack Crztof and friends. in Castlepollard Library; Mullingar Comhaltas Branch, Market Square and a lunchtime recital from a selection of musicians from the Midlands Youth Orchestra.

Offaly events included, performances from Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, the multi award winning St Colmchille’s Pipe Band, Mark Cunningham, Jasango Theatre Company, Wayne Brennan, Eugene O’Brien, Jean O’Brien as well a performance from Jack, Crztof and friends a fusion of Polish and Tullamore Edenderry Groupa Ceoil Musicians, Clara Concert Band, Comhaltas sessions, a photography exhibition at Birr Theatre and Arts Neil Des McGonigle and Mark Cunningham. Centre and poetry at Edenderry Library. M

30 Culture Night in the Midlands Laois Westmeath

Choir Group Vocalese performing at Participants in the Stampede Drumming Workshop Portlaoise Library with Eddie O’Neill at the Dunamaise Arts Centre

Students visiting Helena Malones Studio for the Design your own Ring competition and exhibition.

Shirley Nugent and Dominique Foley who attended the Studio 93 Exhibition, Mulligar Student players present Comic as part of the Moate Art Trail for Culture Potential by Alan Ayckbourn at Mullingar Night 2012. Arts Centre, pictured are: Daniel Egerton (as Adam Trainsmith), Ben Mulligan and Pearse Murphy (as Weiters) and Orla Tubridy (as JCF 31333, Jacie Triplethree, a male actoid)

Viking Tours River Sailing with Historical and Environmenttalk with Michael McDonnell, Eimear Corroon of Mullingar Town Molly McCarthy pictured during the River Shannon, departs from rear of Castle Band appears during the 2012 2102 Culture Night in Mullingar. during Westmeath Culture Night Culture Night in Mullingar

Exchange students from Athlone, Marela Malies, Ruth Maria Pelesen and Aura Castrein pictured at the Viking tour in Athlone.

Tina Adagun of The African Connection giving an interview for RTE at the Lorna Farrell, Christopher Foley, Darrren Doyle, Alan Nagle and Niamh Kelly at Celtic Blondes, Rose and Daisy Carey at Bringing Africa to Ireland event that took Studio 93 Exhibition of the Moate Art Trail. P. Egan Bar, Moate. place in Athlone Shopping Centre during Westmeath Culture night 2012. Putting best foot forward Longford girl heads to Germany to pursue ballet dream

Home to one of Ireland’s leading ballet dancing during that time,” she explained. were it not for her,” she said. schools, Longford has earned itself a As well as proving to be a welcome In the past month, Orla got a taste of reputation for producing world-class break from her studies, ballet provided the big stage, performing in one of language. I will study classical and dancers. Orla with a choice of career, as she Scotland’s famed theatre venues. contemporary dance and it is a degree course.” Based just outside the rural village of embarks on a course at Frankfurt “Through the Shawbrook Youthdance While the move to a new country will Legan, Shawbrook School of Dance has University of Music and Performing Arts, Company, Anica picked 10 people to create a distance between the local continually developed some of the where she will study dance – one of the dance at a youth festival in Aberdeen and dancer and her family in Newtownforbes, leading dancers, some of who have first from Ireland to be accepted to study I was lucky enough to have been she finds it hard to hide her excitement at grabbed the headlines at the world stage. at the institution. selected. We had to raise money to go on the prospect of the challenges that lie Added to that, Longford-based Michael The intensive three-year degree the trip and the theme was a mix of ahead. “I am apprehensive about being Keegan Dolan and his Fabulous Beast programme will include contemporary music and dance. away from home and I will miss my family, Company have developed some of their dance, improvisation and technique, “We performed in His Majesty’s but there is Skype. At different stages award-winning shows there, including ballet, anatomy and choreography. Theatre in Aberdeen; it was my first major throughout the last couple of years, I did Giselle, The Beast and most recently, Dancing since the age of six, Orla performance and the first time that I think about doing something more Rian which was a collaboration with Liam started out with the Shawbrook School of performed outside of Ireland, so it was normal and I tried to find courses that I O Maonlai. One of the latest crop of Dance under the guidance of Anica Louw, very exciting.”Earlier this year, as she was would like, but I always came back to dancers from Shawbrook, Orla McCarthy Founder and Co-Director of the school, making her post secondary school dance. (19), is about to embark on a career in which has theatre, rehearsal rooms, choices, Orla made contact with another “If things don’t work out in Germany, dance. Having performed exceptionally dance studios and accommodation in a former student of Anica, Marguerite then I can always come back home and well in her Leaving Cert, which included converted dairy farm, surrounded by a Donlon, whose Donlon Dance Company look at other options.” top marks in a number of subjects, Orla is forest of oak, lime and ash. in Saarbrucken, Germany, is now a But Orla is keeping her options open. to follow her ballet dancing dream in Anica plays a major role in renowned contemporary dance company. “With regards to where I’ll be in five years Germany. developing the young dancers from an “It was she (Marguerite) who time, I have no idea; I would hope to get “I was delighted with my Leaving early age, and understandably has been suggested that I apply to the dance into a dance company eventually, but we Cert results; I was dancing throughout the a huge influence on Orla’s career to date. school in Frankfurt,” Orla said. “The will just have to wait and see.” Leaving Cert year and I suppose initially I “Anica has been such a help to me and to course is done through English, but I will felt that it would be an extra stress, but I be honest with you; I wouldn’t even have study German and that is also a great auditioned for about six schools of found out about the dancing schools opportunity for me to learn a new 31 Poetry of self and place

by Noel Monahan “Once the initial charge of poetry has started, words pop in and out of lines to shape images and I am happy at what I love to call “Wordfarming”, gathering words into clusters and shaping them into the form of a poem to be.”

Since poetry by its very nature is self reminds me of the Ice Age, where the reflective, I have decided to deal with ice is dragging stones along and my own personal thoughts on poetry shaping them into hills and drumlins. at the start of this essay and conclude These are the drumlins I love. The by giving a brief overall view of poetry drumlins are my region of the soul. in its present state in the Midlands Poetry opens inquiry for me. I realise I and in particular County Longford. have grown tired of the empiricism of Poetry for me is a flow of psychic energy the education system and that Noel Monahan signing where chance ideas linger and demand Cartesian philosophy of total to be written down. The ideas flow and commitment to cause and effect, the ability to delve into something new healing and discovery. Sometimes I feel wherever I am and whatever I perceive cue hitting the billiard ball and the beyond the norm and accepted modes I write poetry for the great sense of enters me. In Diary Of A Town a long result. Over the last three hundred years of learning. As a poet I want to be in relief when the poem is finished and poem in my most recent collection, we have lost our sense of wholeness communication with the unconscious, complete. Curve Of The Moon, I gathered and the mythic world. We banished our bringing messages up from deeply felt I am lucky to be living in an age that scattered memories of my childhood gods into space and named the planets archetypal levels. nurtures creative writing locally. Poetry that lingered on. Some of these images after them. We have become too Poetry gives you a licence to enter the is thriving in the Midlands since the were full of fog and particles of rain. I scientific, too fond of proving everything, apocalyptic world where cause and appointment of Arts Officers. All this wrapped them in clouds of imagined in a world as I have already stated, that effect are not prevalent. It is a beyond has happened over the last 20 years. As events and turned some of them on is constantly changing. place, hearing colours, tasting shapes, a native of Granard, County Longford, I their back and let them chase the Poetry has to have a much more open reading smoke from the fire. Poetry is a have worked with Fergus Kennedy, shadows of the night. All of this sense of inquiry for me and a sense of “Staying Alive” as Neil Astley has Longford Arts Officer, on several literary playfulness is an example of the fun you self discovery. I love to break free of the illustrated in that wonderful anthology projects in the county and acted as can have writing poetry. conventional way of looking at things, I published in 2002. Poetry prepares me facilitator to poetry workshops. Poetry for me brings about love to shake hands with ghosts, hear to live in a world that has changed all With this emphasis of the arts in the transformation. It is a matter of tuning poltergeists hammering away in the too quickly for my liking. Midlands we can continue to challenge into the moment and waiting. I do not bookcase and look out for the hidden When I finish a poem the world feels reality as we know it, to move beyond create my thoughts about a field or hill. I secrets in things. It is that sort of brighter, more vivid and alive for me. My the distinctively local vision and create have them given to me. I leave myself attitude that lead recently to my work on thoughts walk slowly back to sleep. I new mappings of our journey through open to whatever chances to appear. In the Medieval story of Buile Suibhne, feel transformed, with a sense of life. other words, I work at dethroning the Mad Sweeney, a manuscript in the everyday ego and allow my mind to go Royal Irish Academy. It is a story that empty. It happens in a meaningful way has fascinated many Irish writers over “I came through the Irish Education and has a presence and a belonging the ages right down to Brian O’Nolan ( system of the 1950s and early 60s. like moss growing on a ditch. The “Myles na gCapaillín” ) in his novel At common breathing in all of us gives my Swim Two Birds and of course Seamus It was a formula, a dogma and there lines a sense of rhythm, a natural Heaney’s Sweeney Astray. According to rhythm. Sometimes pathetic fallacy, the ancient legend, St Ronan banished was no place for your own thinking invented by John Ruskin often rushes Sweeney to the trees to live as a wild me when I am out on my walks about bird and he now inhabits the In-between and certainly your own creativity.” Longford or Cavan. All things seem to be Realm of his imagination awaiting in sympathy with my own feelings. I feel redemption. The story is full of psychic poetry is an attempt to discover some energy, that energy I referred to at the pre established harmony. The stones in opening of this essay. the field and by the roadside are not You must remember I came through the Longford fostering dead and lifeless. I console myself that Irish Education system of the 1950s all of this is not madness. I rely a lot on and early 60s. It was a formula, a modern discoveries in quantum physics dogma and there was no place for your creativity and the universal principle that energy own thinking and certainly your own There are five Writers Groups in the of novelists have arrived on the scene: is constantly changing into something creativity. You were caught in the county, in Granard, (the longest Belinda McKeon, Anne Collins, Lorne else and that the observer affects what collective wisdom of the parish. You established), Ballymahon and Patterson and Kathy Rodgers. is observed as Wolfgang Pauli has thought and acted as everyone did. I felt Lanesboro and two in Longford. “Poetry For Pleasure” is a most recent stated. trapped as a child. I felt a great urge to success story that awakened a love of Once the initial charge of poetry has escape from the chapel of my childhood The county has produced a great number poetry in the hearts of second level started, words pop in and out of lines to in Granard. I needed new tunings, of anthologies showcasing emerging students in counties Offaly, Westmeath shape images and I am happy at what I transformation and a sense of self writers. and Longford. This project was organised love to call “Wordfarming”, gathering discovery. My trip to New York in 1970 It also has a most valuable internet site: by the librarians in the same three words into clusters and shaping them to work as a student helped me on my Virtual Writer, www.virtualwriter.net . On counties and it involved poets Jean into the form of a poem to be. I listen for way. It opened doors and windows. this site you have all the information you O’Brien, Nuala Ní Chonchúir and myself. the melody and colour of words. Finding Poetry is a border zone activity. It should need to get started in whatever genre of The programme was supported by Poetry the right words and shape of a poem be life changing for the writer and the writing you choose. In keeping with Ireland and it culminated in a visit to Áras M often happens by chance. It sometimes reader. The fun with poetry now is my Longford’s proud literary history a number an Uachtaráin, to meet the president.

32 LAOIS ARTIST PATRICK FITZPATRICK SHARES SOME THOUGHTS AS HE GETS READY FOR HIS FIRST SOLO SHOW

Being the recipient of the Laois With photography I try to capture Patronage Award 2010 was a nature’s deep spring of memories and wonderful gift and a total surprise. It emotions and the beautiful and came at a crucial time, I had just enchanting melancholy that interweaves finished my BA in Printmaking at the all things and to capture nature’s and Limerick School of Art and Design and man’s transience and change. doubting if I could start my Masters Photography’s ‘decisive moment’ can on there. The prize enabled me to be reflection show the profoundness of life’s financially secure to take my Masters in ephemerality in nature. Printmaking and to further my work into I search for where photography Memory and Nature. opens a visual silence, a silence to ‘set My work concerns the place where the darkness echoing’ [Heaney] and the memory and nature resides. My theme power of the fragility of place and and work lie in the earth and earths memory as in ‘the lady and the lark’ and matter, which for me contains infinite ‘kind of blue’. The Lady and the Lark - Portumna Forest Park, Co. Galway value and mystery inherent in even the most humble matter of things. For me Memory Matters was a joint exhibition, touchstones such as a wasps entrance prints, photographs, and bouquet of wild the earth holds memory and existence, midterm in my Masters, with Evelyn nest, such as ‘on a sunday evening’ and flowers, which kicked started memory concepts and contexts, value and Glynn in Dunamaise Arts Center, ‘everyone thinks this is nowhere’. from a site. I would like to think that the meaning and a spirituality expressed December 2010. I focused in on earth’s history of personal and artistic roots through the material world. Through matter and the memories that grow from remain[s], -the title of my Masters show recasts memory into something else, drawing, print, photography and video I there, inspired by the words of George in Ormston House, Limerick, in imbued with nature’s regenerative connect my work with nature’s processes Santayana -‘Not the poetry of a poet December 2011- opens memory to beauty and hope. to find a profound sense of human about things, but the poetry of things many meanings and ambiguities. The There is the old Irish word rosc, existence and the fecund emergence of themselves’. I remembered the ground I remain[s] of a powerful emotion of a which translates into a ’poetry of vision’ new creative possibilities through art. walked on in the Slieve Bloom hills, my place; the remains of light; the remains of where our ancestors joined our local bog, or Emo forest full of gnarled of the day, the effervescent spirit that physical and spiritual worlds, our loves, I would like to take you through my roots, delicate tendrils, leafy clumps and can be found in earth’s grace. And then our joys and deep connection to nature work that the Laois Patronage Award mossy vegetation forming a rich and remain[s] of something that can’t be to express a new vision creatively. And enabled. riotous undergrowth flowering memories. held, the hint of knowledge, of the living through my Masters this is what memory Firstly, with the Laois Patronage I had the This deep resonance and profundity in day, slipping, as if imbued into earths and nature opened: the fecund myriad opportunity to buy a good camera -a earth’s matter became a metaphor for matter, somehow graspable, somehow bounty of growth, associations and Nikon D90- to help to photographically the fragile nature of memory and understandable. juxtapositions that opens new ways of record my experience and impressions in regeneration. I decided to create ‘Memory Boxes’ seeing and thinking. the landscape. I got shortlisted for My drawings which have calligraphic to deposit and open a space between This year Laois County Council has Showcase at The Gallery of Photography markings through layers of earth as the Nature, Memory and culture for continued to support my artistic path in Artists Award where I was one of the six first markings of memory are made with associations, allusions and offering myself and Evelyn Glynn their shortlisted. I choose six images from earth holding wild flowers, seeds and reminiscences inspired by places. The Award in Printmaking at The Tyrone walking through various Irish detritus specific from a site, with natural ‘Memory Boxes’, which people could Guthrie Print Studio in Annaghmakerrig landscapes. rummage through, were full of drawings, and we are looking forward to experiment and continuing to grow artistically as professional artists. In the Bourne Vincent Gallery in University of Limerick, November 2012, I have my first solo show provisionally titled common ground, a more immersive digging into nature finding memory. You are all invited to the Memory box home and away, 2011... opening! right- memory box footsteps [for remain[s] exhibition image. maura], 2010-11 M

33 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2012

“I feel that playgrounds are very necessary, but they don't allow for creative play. Because adults, politicians are intimidated, back alleys are being destroyed and gotten rid of, but they were private stomping grounds for kids, where imaginations flourished. I think if they were looked after they could be beautiful.”

VISUAL ARTIST AMANDA JANE GRAHAM DREAMS OF DESIGNATED GALLERY SPACE IN LONGFORD

Visual artist Amanda Jane Graham, like histories, collective memories, I use Montana works could have 70 prints on County Longford Arts Officer) is brilliant. many city dwellers, made the move humour a lot. I work with drawing, print- each, not including drawings or It's a bit lonesome for a visual artist, I from bustling Dublin to the Midlands making, sculptural installations – a kind embroidery. Everything I do has an awful have to admit, but Fergus has been and the quiet, rural surrounds of of varied practice. I deal a lot with lot of detail in it. It mightn't look like it – really supportive. It would be lovely to Ballinalee, Co Longford. collective memory where the viewer kind like the hat was a monumental piece of have a bit more of a community going on of takes ownership of the work. I hand it work,” said Amanda. “Every piece would – there's a lot of writers, but not a lot of It's a move that many people have made over to the viewer, they're very important be incredibly detailed, even drawings, visual people.” over the years, in search of the peaceful, to it,” she explained. and I actually enjoy that.” countryside life, and Amanda is no Amanda says while there is a gallery different in that respect. By way of illustrating her point, Amanda At the moment she's working on an space available in Backstage, she feels explained about an installation she had etchings and drawing collage of a it's quite limited and would love to see “We have small children and were at Ktcontemporary, a pop-up space in a smaller versions of the Butte Montana someone take an initiative and open a looking around Westmeath, and ended former gym in Donnybrook. “I did a works. She also working on murals for an designated gallery space and possibly a up in Ballinalee. We just wanted to get piece, a giant hand-knitted Aran bobble upcoming show entitled 'Back alley, workshop of some kind. “You see what out of the city; not that far, but enough,” hat. It was seven foot tall and about trying to get into my mother's shoes', one the sculpture centre has done for recalled Amanda. “There's a lot more eight foot wide, and the title of it is 'I'll of which depicts a little girl in a big pair Manorhamilton and the north Leitrim space and a lot less pressure, and more Never Forget That Fucking Hat'. It has of swing-backs. area. It does bring very creative minds to time to think.” enlivened anyone that has encountered an area. It's a focal point and a reason to it. It was in a gallery in Donnybrook and “I grew up between Drogheda and come. It would be wonderful to have She operates out of studio space in bus drivers were slowing down, having a Scotland, and when I return to these something like that (in Longford).” Manorhamilton, and when the drive is look at it in the window,” said Amanda. places I notice that chunks of where I too much, she works from home in grew up disappearing. I feel that Some of Amanda's work was recently Ballinalee. “I have a piece on oral history that goes playgrounds are very necessary, but they on display at an exhibition in the back from my grandmother in Butte, don't allow for creative play. Because markets area in Smithfield, entitled Her work is described as both Montana, where she was born and grew adults, politicians are intimidated, back Dublin Contemptibles Gentrify This. biographical and autobiographical. It up. She was part of the Irish community alleys are being destroyed and gotten rid revolves around family history, narrative there; they were Fenians. Her stories and of, but they were private stomping She has another booked from and childhood memories, where the also what my mother told me – she filled grounds for kids, where imaginations December to January in Temple Bar viewer completes the experience. She in the gaps – from all this I did an flourished. I think if they were looked Gallery as part of a group showing and utilises her memory of past events and exhibition 'A Tribute To The Irish after they could be beautiful.” another solo show next May in Aras combines this with humour, to create Community Butte Montana' in Kilkenny.” Inis Gluarie in Belmullet. quirky and enticing characters and While the support has been excellent scenes. The detailed artwork in those pieces from the local arts office, Amanda would For more info see: took a seemingly painstaking amount like to see more space available for www.amandajanegraham.com “I work with personal narrative, oral time, but she loves it. “Each of the Butte creative display. “Fergus (Kennedy,

34 MidlandsArts andCultureMagazine

Tempus Media and Brosna Press, using their combined expertise in journalism, marketing, design, print and production have created a new-look Midlands Arts and Culture Magazine.

TEMPUS MEDIA BROSNA PRESS There’s never a wrong time to do the right thing Creative Design and Print Located in the heart of the midlands, Brosna Press Tempus Media was established at the height of the has been providing a nationwide client-base with recession in September 2009 as the founders saw creative, high quality design and print for over 50 an opening for a top quality, good value media years. Its Irish Print Award acknowledges the company in a challenging marketplace for business company’s commitment to the pursuit of excellence and Government. Midlands-based Tempus Media in print and creativity in design. Clients in the arts specialises in five key areas - Publishing/ sector include: RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, Copywriting, Public Relations, Media Training, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Music Network, Music for Lobbying, and Business Crisis Management. Galway, New Ross Piano Festival, County Council Arts Offices, Dunamaise Theatre, Birr Theatre & Editor: ANGELA MADDEN Arts Centre, Tuar Ard Arts Centre. Brosna Press Angela has more than 15 years’ experience in the operate their design studio & print works from publishing industry as a Journalist, Foreign a state-of-the-art 12,000 sq ft facility in Correspondent, Editor, Group Editor and General Ferbane, Co. Offaly. Manager for trade, local and national press in Creative Director: DIARMUID GUINAN Ireland and the UK. Angela has excellent local Senior Designer: ANDREW MOORE knowledge as she was previously Editor of the Production Manager: CIARAN GUINAN Athlone Voice and has an enviable list of contacts Creative Director Diarmuid Guinan holds throughout the country, built up during her time as a BDes, and has more than 18 years professional Group Editor for 13 River Media newspaper titles. experience in graphic design and printing. He She also has a wealth of experience launching new manages a highly creative and experienced design publications responsible for content, layout and team including Andrew Moore, BDes, Senior templates having brought a number of new River Designer, Ann Quinlan, BDes, Senior Designer Media titles to market in ’07. and the highly experienced Mary Egan. Managing Director Ciaran Guinan holds a Diploma in Print Deputy Editor: BRIEGE MADDEN Management and has more than 25 years professional experience in the print industry. Briege is a trained journalist who has worked for The production staff at Brosna Press are local newspapers for close to four years. After all highly skilled press operators and print attaining her BA Creative Writing & Media Studies finishing specialists. degree she started her career at The Athlone Voice before taking up a more senior role at the Cavan [email protected] • Tel: 090 6454327 Post. She is Communications & Marketing Assistant [email protected] • Tel: 090 6454327 for Tempus Media and is the lead consultant on a number of important Public Relations contracts. Briege is also an avid poet, short story writer and artist. For further information contact: [email protected] • 086 7732023 [email protected] • 086 414 0906 Meet the team

ARTS OFFICE CONTACTS Have Muireann Ní Chonaill, Arts Officer Laois County Council, Portlaoise Tel: 057 8674342/44 • [email protected] your story www.laois.ie/arts Sinead O’Reilly, Arts Officer covered… Offaly County Council, Charleville Road, Tullamore Tel: 057 9357400 • [email protected] If you have a story or news www.offaly.ie/arts relating to the arts in the Catherine Kelly, Arts Officer Midlands that you would like Westmeath County Council County Buildings, Mullingar Tel: 044 9332140 • [email protected] to see covered in Midlands www.westmeathcoco.ie/arts Arts and Culture Magazine, Fergus Kennedy, Arts Officer contact your local Arts Officer Longford County Council County, Great Water St., Longford (details opposite). Tel: 086 8517595 • [email protected] www.longfordcoco.ie/arts_office.html 35 How and why do particular objects hold significance to the person who The meaning in things owns the ‘THING’? Does the object represent an event of fundamental importance in the owners’ life or does it represent the importance of a Artist Rowena Keaveny discovers that putting her projects social or historical relationship? Is there any significance in where the online is increasing her audience and saving her money. ‘THING’ is located within the owners living environment be it on display in a public space easily accessed by anyone entering the building or is “As an artist trying to make new work in a time of continuing economic it protected from view in a confined private space such as a specifically constraint I’ve increasingly integrated the use of new technologies, dedicated ‘memory box’? particularly the internet into my working process. Through submissions to the project I want to examine on what level do, Also frustrated by trying to attract and build an audience for ‘challenging’ people interact with their ‘THINGS’. Are they a talking point within the or ‘theme’ based work I’ve found that by placing projects on-line not only living space or vehicles for personal/private meditations such as USA is the collaborative capacity greatly increased but also the ‘footfall’ of contributor Michael J Solenders’ Japanese Daruma doll? On obtaining viewers. For example my self-initiated on-line project 100:WORDS which one of these papier maché figures the owner sets themselves a personal asks people describe the life they have experienced using 100 words or goal and colours in the left eye, the right eye can only be coloured in less has to date attracted approximately 84 participants from 16 following subsequent completion of the goal. Having owned his doll for countries as diverse as Russia, Lebanon, Venezuela, South Korea, almost 20 years Michael says, “Hardly a day goes by where I am not Canada as well as Ireland, Canada and the U.K. It has been viewed over under his watchful gaze. I nod back in a daily ritual of acknowledgement.” 7,000 times which wouldn’t have been feasible in a gallery context given the on-going nature of the project. To participate in the project please email a photo of your chosen object (www.lifein100wordsorless.wordpress.com) and a short description of it’s meaning in your life to [email protected].

Encouraged by this on-line collaborative method of working I have To see the project visit www.themeaninginthings.wordpress.com recently started a new project, “the meaning in THINGS” which examines the emotional and physical meanings of objects to their owners.

MidlandsArts andCultureMagazine A REVIEW OF THE ARTS IN LAOIS, LONGFORD OFFALY AND WESTMEATH

PUBLISHED FOR THE ARTS OFFICES OF LAOIS, LONGFORD, OFFALY & WESTMEATH COUNTY COUNCILS BY TEMPUS MEDIA • DESIGNED & PRINTED BY BROSNA PRESS