VISUAL ARTS MUSIC & DANCE ISSUE & FILM THEATRE THE WRITTEN WORD A REVIEW OF THE ARTS IN LAOIS, LONGFORD, OFFALY AND WESTMEATH SPRING 2013

19 FREE New Director at Dunamaise Arts Centre ...... Page 3 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2010 Offaly Documentary is Flying High Get involved in Laois Culture Night 2013 Midlands A New Look for Ireland’s Oldest Literary Website...... Page 4 Critics Laud Debut Novel The Herbalist andCulture More than €500,000 for Offaly and Westmeath Music...Page 5 John Saunders Publishes Second Collection of Poetry A Word from Arts Magazine Ballymahon Native Scoops Top Accolade ...... Page 6 Cairda na Cruite an Mhuileann to Launch Website the Editor Longford Musician Creates Awareness Welcome to the first Midlands Arts and about Organ Donation through Song...... Page 7 Culture Magazine of 2013. Last year School Girls Create Irish Language Comic marked a series of debates regarding County Laois based design team to exhibit in France the role of the arts and for the first Laois Summer Arts Programme 2013 ...... Page 8 time in their history both houses of the Laois Youth Theatre Workshops Oireachtas had concurrent debates. Frank’s Shed Providing High Quality, And closer to home, the new Luan Low Budget Recordings ...... Page 9 € Gallery in Athlone was creating it's own 5 MORE THAN 500,000 Tullamore Community Arts Centre wave of controversy as Athlone Town Gets a Thumbs Up for a Grand Design TO MAKE MUSIC IN Council discussed a motion to have Backstage Joint Exhibition Programme OFFALY & WESTMEATH Fragmens sur le Institutions A Great Success ...... Page 10 Republicaines IV, the work of Mark Boylan – A Young Musician Making Tracks internationally acclaimed Longford artist Laois Trio to Launch CD...... Page 11 Shane Cullen, removed from the gallery. Shannonside Environmental Poetry Workshops Catherine Kelly Departs Westmeath Arts Office ...Page 12 It features messages originally written on Templemichael College Shaping Photography cigarette papers by IRA hunger strikers as a Fine Art...... Page 13 in the 1980s. The papers were Offaly’s Lead Role smuggled out of Long Kesh by their family members and has been Encouraging a Love of Music ...... Page 14 internationally exhibited. 11 LAOIS TRIO TO Arthouse Stradbally to Showcase Make Good, Make Better 2,000 Turn Out in Tullamore for Anthem of Hope...... Page 15 The debate reached national headlines LAUNCH CD Orchestrating a Move South throughout the country and caused How Becoming a Self Publisher Made discussion, proving that art does in fact Life Rosy ...... Page 16 invoke emotions, contributes to society Ceramic Artist Ed Walshe Moves to Longford ....Page 17 and that society is shaped by the ideas Midlands Photography Club Offers Classes and thoughts of everyone in it. Luan Gallery Has Welcomed Over However despite this there was a cut 2,500 Visitors Since Opening ...... Page 18 made across the Department of Arts, Woven Red – A Temporary Art Installation Heritage and the Gaeltacht of 5.4 by Lorna Kincaid ...... Page 19 percent for 2013, which will result in Paul Guerney – An Icon of the Midlands more fundraising efforts to get arts, Music Scene...... Page 20 12 CATHERINE KELLY cultural events and even buildings into Would You Like to Join Irish Midlands Concert Orchestra fruition. DEPARTS WESTMEATH Festivals 2013...... Page 21–25 ARTS OFFICE All the latest news on Upcoming Festivals in Longford, Other than the new gallery in Athlone Westmeath, Offaly and Laois this edition of the magazine sees Arts A Look at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre Officer, Catherine Kelly from Westmeath As it Celebrates 125 Years ...... Page 26 County Council say a fond farewell to her Brendan Collum Bog Oak Sculptor position. An Offaly film is flying high as Aer Lingus announces they will be Extraordinaire ...... Page 27 showing it, A Grand Experience, on Unearthing a Local Textile Tale from the Famine Era board as part of its 'Gathering' inspired Face to Face: Rosa Flannery ...... Page 28 entertainment. Love/Hate star Robert An Audience with The Edge ...... Page 29 Sheehan makes an appearance in Laois Writings in Rhyme ...... Page 30 and in Longford a new poetry workshop, Creating a daily encounter with the arts which will explore the great outdoors, in Edenderry ...... Page 36 hopes to inspire. Lucy Tormey ...... Page 32/33 The Midlands MOVEment WAVE...... Page 34 Angela Madden Editor 32/33 LUCY TORMEY Meet the Team ...... Page 35 Spring Courses at MCP ...... Page 36 Athlone's Luan Gallery is pictured on the front

A look inside cover. Pic taken by Corin Bishop Photography.

YOUR LOCAL ARTS OFFICERS

County Offaly County Westmeath County Laois County Longford WHO: Sinead O'Reilly, WHO: The Arts Office 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 8664025 CONTACT: Tel: 086 8517595 [email protected] www.westmeathcoco.ie/arts [email protected] [email protected] www.offaly.ie/arts www.laois.ie/arts www.longfordcoco.ie/arts_office.html 2 New Director Briefs at Dunamaise Get involved in Arts Centre Laois Culture Night 2013 gets special Laois County Council is calling for participants to get involved in Laois Culture Night 2013, on Friday September 20. welcome from Following the success of Laois Culture Night 2012, the county is Actor Robert Sheehan set to participate in Culture Night and Louis Brennan, 2013 and is hoping to expand on TV star Chairman, welcome new the range of free activities which Director of Dunamaise took place all around the county Arts Centre, Michelle de last year and including workshops, Love/Hate star Robert Sheehan has Forge. Photo by Alf Harvey, taken as Robert exhibitions, drama performances welcomed Birr native Michelle de Forge as the launched Red or Black a and concerts. newly appointed Director of Dunamaise Arts major fundraiser for The Arts Office in Laois will publish Dunamaise to take place a brochure of events again this year Centre highlighting the role the centre has on Friday March 15. and all culture and arts venues, played in his success. Tickets from 057 individuals, groups and 8663355 or organisations are encouraged to www.dunamaise.ie. organise something in their local area. The Portlaoise actor and rising star house rather than on stage myself! I’ve teams last year coming from all over spoke highly of his early performances been keenly involved in the organisation Ireland, the UK and Holland. Muireann Ni Chonaill, Arts Officer, in plays and pantos on the Dunamaise side of arts events in a voluntary Laois County Council, said: “Music, stage and acknowledged the importance capacity over the years; this has ranged FUNDRAISING dance, literature, history, and much of its local arts remit as well as its from curating exhibitions, event managing Fully aware of the changes in levels more will be on display for free as presentation of world class professional opera galas, concerts, youth theatre, of state funding and commercial locals and visitors to the county arts, “right here in our community.” street theatre and festivals, particularly sponsorship, Michelle leads a great enjoy the unique experiences of through programming Birr Vintage Week team of Dunamaise staff and volunteer Culture Night. Michelle, who has worked in various & Arts Festival and campaigning for the supporters all geared up for the challenge “Museums, galleries, churches, management roles including Birr relevant fundraising to ensure events of increasing awareness of programmed Theatre & Arts Centre, the Mermaid Arts success.” events and therefore increasing box historic houses, artists’ studios and Centre, Bray and Cork Midsummer office sales, as well as hosting major cultural centres are encouraged to Festival and, most recently, as Programme fundraisers throughout the year, open their doors late into the Coordinator at VISUAL & The GB Shaw I’ve always including the upcoming Red or Black, evening to welcome people of all Theatre, Carlow, brings a wealth of preferred being novelty game-show event, in March. ages to enjoy the artistic and diverse experience to Laois’ multi cultural delights we have in Laois”. disciplinary county arts centre. front of house PROGRAMME If you have an idea or concept for a A fantastic, wide ranging programme of free event for Culture Night please Michelle said that she intends to develop rather than on events is published for the current contact Laois County Council who “an increased level of community season. Highlights include a duo of Tom are available to advise or assist. participation and involvement in arts stage myself! Murphy plays by Druid Theatre Company events” at Dunamaise with artists, on tour following crucially acclaimed The deadline for information to performers and audience members runs in London and New York. reach the arts office to be included alike, from across County Laois. As a founder member of OFFline Film in the brochure is Friday, June 28. Festival, Michelle also helped develop For further information contact: For more information contact: She said: “My parents always encouraged its successful programme of screenings, Tel: 057 8664025 or an interest in theatre and the arts and professional workshops and an exciting www.dunamaise.ie or call 057 866 3355 for information on exhibitions and events. email: [email protected]. not just from the audience but hands three-day short-film making challenge, All events must be free of charge on on. I’ve always preferred being front of growing from strength to strength, with M Culture Night. M OFFALY DOCUMENTARY IS FLYING HIGH! Aer Lingus will be barge as it wound its way from Shannon delighted with the news knowing that it will due to be repeated on RTÉ later in 2013. Harbour to Edenderry in Offaly. directly showcase Offaly to such a large A special edition DVD is on sale locally showing a documentary Speaking after the announcement that audience coming into Ireland this year.” in Trax, Tullamore, from Offaly County film from Offaly on board the film is to be shown in flight, County Council and online at its transatlantic flights Offaly Arts Officer Sinéad O’Reilly said: The film, made by Mixed Bag Media, www.mixedbagmedia.com. “From a cultural tourism perspective was first shown on RTÉ last October to M this April and May as part this could not get much better. We are an audience of some 565,000 and is of its 'Gathering' inspired entertainment. The documentary film A Grand Experience, which was commissioned by Offaly County Council in 2012, follows three artists (writer Eugene O’Brien; photographer Veronica Nicholson and musician Wayne Brennan) on the 68M 3 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013 A new look for Ireland’s oldest literary website www.virtualwriter.net Someone once said that the It is for these reasons the Longford About www.virtualwriter.net invention of the internet County Arts Office decided 13 years ago to construct what is now Ireland’s www.virtualwriter.net is a valuable caused the “death of distance.” oldest dedicated literary website resource for aspiring writers and for If that is true and, many believe www.virtualwriter.net which has anyone with an interest in literature. It received a major overhaul and that it is, it may yet turn out accepts submissions in poetry, fiction, set to go live at the end of February. to be the greatest single shot creative non-fiction and book reviews in the arm to creative writing Creative writing is probably Longford’s and includes information on literary festivals, most popular creative activity with five competitions and workshops. Over the and literature since Johannes flourishing writers groups in a county with 13 years it has been in existence, the Gutenberg invented the a population of little more than thirty website has published writing from such movable print press. thousand people; it has produced a diverse countries as the United States, continuous stream of emerging Australia, Russia and India as well as the professional writers over recent years. work of Irish writers. However, as it is a A sense of personal and creative isolation Longford-based initiative, the Editor is However Longford is a small primarily during the creative process and the extreme particularly interested in showcasing rural county with a dispersed population difficulty of bringing ones work to the writing from the Midlands area. largest audience are the two greatest so the challenges Longford writers challenges facing the aspiring writer. share with other writers were somewhat www.virtualwriter.net has been completely The internet provides a solution to both amplified by these factors and this led overhauled and is now in it’s third incarnation. of these difficulties as – a writer may the County Arts Office to construct a It is a valuable asset and the Arts Office maintain a continuous process of dedicated literary website. hopes to see it used as the basis for the communication with fellow writers by development of a distinct community of The purpose of the site was twofold: to virtue of e-mail and skype, he or she midland writers. As a result, it is asking provide a platform for Longford writers can receive practical technical support for writers to submit their work and any to exhibit their work and to use the site and assistance through on-line workshops, suggestions they might have about how in a pro-active way to provide on-line mentoring and lectures and finally they to improve the inventory of supports professional development information can display their finished work to the provided to the emerging writers and creative mentoring. whole world, at least in theory, by through multi-media packages. M displaying on internet websites.

Critics laud debut novel The Herbalist as “a must read”

The much anticipated the visitor also helps get rid of some and original new talent.” of the town’s more sordid little secrets novel, The Herbalist by and as the summer progresses life Niamh works as a librarian in Ballylinan, Niamh Boyce, described becomes complicated and dangerous County Laois and won the Hennessy as “a must read” by the for the herbalist and his devotees. XO New Irish Writer of the Year award in 2012 for her poem Kitty. She has Irish Independent will be The book is a rich multi-layered story also been short listed for the Francis hitting our shelves of life in 1930s Ireland told through McManus Short Story competition the eyes of four women, each of whose 2011, the Hennessy Literary Awards in June. lives is changed irrevocably by the 2010, the Molly Keane Award 2010 herbalist. and the WOW Award 2010. Describing her novel as reminiscent of Joanne Harris’ 1999 novel Chocolat Patricia Deevy, Editorial Director with Writing workshops the Irish Independent said: “already Penguin Ireland, which will be Sponsored by Laois Arts creating buzz in the industry... this is publishing the book, said: Office & Library Service certain to be a must-read for those “Niamh vividly conjures both the warmth A series of creative writing who want a break from vampire fiction and the darkness of life in a provincial workshops with Niamh will run in and S&M.” Irish town during those years before Ballylinan Library this March from the Emergency. In particular, she 10.30 -12.00 on Friday mornings. The Herbalist is a vivid and atmospheric handles the now familiar shadow side With a relaxed atmosphere and story set in a midlands town over a of Irish life – the rigid social stratification, gentle pace, absolute beginners are summer in late 1930s. An Indian man the fear of sex, the double standards welcome. You can book a place from appears in the market square, sets up – in a wholly fresh and confident way. Friday March 1 by calling a stall and declares himself a herbalist. Her characters are fascinating women 059 8625007 or dropping The people of the town flock to the and she has written a thought-provoking, into the library. exotic visitor, who seems to have a moving and viscerally engaging novel Places limited. cure for everything that ails them. But that marks her out as a remarkable M

4 More than €500,000 for Offaly and Westmeath to make music

John Saunders publishes second collection of poetry

County Offaly resident John Saunders has just had his second full collection of poetry published by New Binary Press. The collection entitled Chance deals with the coincidences that shape our lives Ruairi Quinn TD, Kgomotso Ngwenya(Music Generation Laois), The Edge and Paul McGuinness such as the families we are born into and the people we meet. More than half a million euros has been awarded to counties Offaly and Westmeath in a partnership from John’s first collection After the Music Generation Funding offered by U2 and the Irelands Funds. Accident was published in 2010 by Lapwing Press, Belfast. And, his poems Offaly and Westmeath have become the energy that exists in both Westmeath She added: “For Offaly and Westmeath, have appeared in Revival, The Moth latest counties to benefit from the Music and Offaly and will enable us to create this opportunity will provide access to Magazine, Crannog, Prairie Schooner Generation programme. With Laois already a strong regional partnership over the many different types of music education Literary Journal (Nebraska), Sharp the recipients of funding from the previous next three years and beyond," enthused for thousands of children and young Review, The Stony Thursday Book, Boyne round of applications, the midland region Sinead O’Reilly. people who would otherwise not have Berries, The New Binary Press Anthology of Poetry, Volume 1, Riposte, and on is now well and truly on the way to the chance of participation as well as line, The Smoking Poet, Minus Nine providing music education for thousands In excess of 7,500 creating many job opportunities for Squared, The First Cut, The Weary of school children. musicians over the next three years.” children and young Blues, Burning Bush 2, Weekenders, Pat Gallagher, Offaly County Manager, Poetry Bus and poetry 24. In excess of 7,500 children and young people in Offaly and said: “This represents an important people in Offaly and Westmeath will now Westmeath will now addition to the range of arts programmes John is one of three featured poets in Measuring, Dedalus New Writers have access to music tuition for the next already offered by Offaly County Council have access to music published by Dedalus Press in May three years. Music Generation has awarded as well as providing vital employment 2012. He is a graduate of the Faber €568,000 to the Offaly Westmeath opportunities for music practitioners tuition for the next Becoming a Poet 2010 course and Music Education Partnership in the third three years working across the region and we look since then has been a member of the round of funding to help children and forward to working with our partners on Hibernian writers group. young people avail of accessible vocal Rosaleen Molloy, National Director of this exciting initiative.” M and instrumental tuition in their Music Generation said: “We are own locality. delighted to be working with Offaly About the project... what the critics say... Westmeath Music Education The project will have three distinct strands: “John Saunders writes in This funding will be matched by financial Partnership and look forward to the 1. An Early Years Programme focused Chance of 'secrets' among 'the and in-kind supports from Offaly and exciting developments ahead for music on singing and based on the Kodály shadow of waste' with a formal Westmeath County Councils in association education in both counties. Music teaching method aimed at 4–9 year olds. control and fortitude. There are with Offaly and Westmeath VEC’s, Offaly Generation, which was initiated by Music 2. ‘Play an Instrument’ Outreach Local Development Company, Westmeath Network, has been enabled by a €7m poems here which share a Programme aimed at over 9’s which Community Development Ltd, Offaly philanthropic donation – €5m from U2 sympathy with the past, its will extend the existing Westmeath VEC and Westmeath Community and and a further €2m which is currently scars and with people who Music instrumental scheme into Offaly. Voluntary Fora, Comhairle na nÓg, being raised by The Ireland Funds. ‘know that tears are only the County Childcare Committees in 3. The ‘Midlands: Music in our Lives’ indulgence / of those who partnership with Athlone IT and Athlone “Music Generation in partnership with Programme for all ages which will haven't suffered enough.’ Education Centre. The American Ireland Funds... announced comprise of a three-part developmental Saunders’ poems ‘stand intervention comprising workshops, earlier this year that it is the beneficiary against the pull of the The funding application was spearheaded of a $1m grant from Bank of America composer in residence & annual by the arts offices of Offaly and Westmeath Merrill Lynch through the Bank of America showcase day, to interconnect the work undertow’ with a moral integrity County Council under the guidance of Charitable Foundation. The Bank of of the Music Education Partnership and and an authority all his own.” arts officers Sinead O’Reilly and America Charitable Foundation Grant that of existing music providers. Paul Perry, author and editor of a Catherine Kelly. forms part of The American Ireland For more information Contact number of critically acclaimed books Funds’ €2m fundraising target for the Westmeath Arts Office on 044-9332140 including The Drowning of the Saints M “We are thrilled with this significant programme. The entire €7m donation or [email protected] or Offaly Arts and Goldsmith’s Ghost. announcement which will provide an represents the largest-ever single Office on 057 9357400 Chance is now available in Kindle or important opportunity to harness the philanthropic gift to music education in [email protected] great wealth of musical talent and Ireland in the history of the state.” Paperback from Newbinarypress.com.

5 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013 Cairda na Cruite an Mhuileann to launch website

Pictured is artwork by Ballymahon native Lorraine Masters who Pictured are junior members of Mullingar Harp School. scooped the Limerick Art Society Award for Excellence Shown.

Mullingar Harp School (Cairda na Cruite an Mhuileann) is to launch a website to promote the harp in and around Westmeath. The planned website will include the BALLYMAHON school’s history and contact details for prospective students. It will also aim to highlight the school’s ethos of making the instrument assessable to anyone NATIVE SCOOPS who would like to play by providing the necessary equipment. Tom Maher (RIP), assisted by his friend Pasty Sheridan, founded the Mullingar TOP ACCOLADE Harp School in the early 1980’s in a bid to promote the love of playing and ensure County Longford has graduates of the local university. in Limerick, and currently, the work I am a new generation of harp teachers for earned itself a glowing doing centres around the whole area of future young students. This dream has “Art was always something that I had an Body Image. now become a reality with many of the reputation over the years interest in, and as I got older I felt that I school’s past pupils now teaching harp wanted to pursue it as a career,” said “My aim is to highlight – through this work in the art and literary both in Mullingar and beyond. Lorraine. – the way in which people feel about circles. themselves and how they see themselves. Tom had a love of the harp, its history “I was very influenced by my art teacher, I held a number of shows before Christmas, and actually made the school’s first The latest in a long line of artists is Rachel Ryan when I was a student at the and I certainly hope that I will be in a training harps. His book The Harp’s a Ballymahon native, Lorraine Masters Convent in Ballymahon, and then when I position to exhibit my work in Longford Wonder is a testament to his dedication who, following her graduation with a BA went on to Limerick, I became a member some day. It is all starting to come to the instrument, his wish to promote Art & Fine Painting, was awarded a top of the art society, which also gave me together for me now and that is very the knowledge and preserve the harping accolade for her art work at the great inspiration. My parents have also exciting for me.” tradition. University of Limerick after she became provided me with a lot of support and Mullingar Harp School classes are held, the proud recipient of the Limerick Art encouragement along the way.” So, with a bright and creative future with the assistance of the Greville Arms Society Award for Excellence Shown. ahead, where to from here for Lorraine? Hotel Mullingar, every Saturday during The award that Lorraine received in The 22-year-old former student of Mercy Limerick is a prestigious accolade, and “I plan to work hard practicing my art school terms catering for beginners to Ballymahon Secondary School is one, which is only handed out to those with and hold more shows in the future,” she advanced players. Training Harps are currently specialising in Body Image art, immeasurable talent in their chosen field. beamed. provided to beginners for their first two and has already caught the eye of years with the school. The school also experts in the field, because of her “It was an honour to receive the Limerick “I also want to travel and really perfect faciliates the ability to take unique and creative approach to the Art Society Award for Excellence Shown, my skills. I suppose at the moment, I am examinations. M subject matter. it really was,” she explained. “It is an in the early stages of developing my art, For further information contact: award that recognises hard work and but when I advance I very much hope to Bernadette Tyrrell on 087 9745561 or Lorraine is currently running her own dedication, and I really love what I do. At hold an exhibition in my home county.” Siobhan Lynam on 087 9262516 studio in Limerick with other art the moment, I have my own studio, here M

6 Pictured is Tommy Flaherly Briefs County Laois based design team to exhibit in France

A husband and wife team with a studio nestled in Vicarstown, County Laois, will be heading further afield in March to exhibit their “no house style, just high standards,” furniture at Le Centre Culturel Irlandais, Paris. “When we design, it’s as if we are at the convergence of two oceans: we make pieces for both the way people desire to live, and Longford musician creates awareness how they truly do,” said, self-taught designer/makers, Susan Zelouf and Micheal about organ donation through song Bell (zelouf+BELL) The alliance of Belfast-born Bell and New by Thomas Lyons Yorker Zelouf may seem a collision of cultures Every day four people die in Ireland and Mizzel and Mick Flavin.” song into Paul and asked him to have a and characters. Instead, theirs is a union that has resulted in a portfolio of well-made edgy the UK needlessly through lack of listen to it. The song is about organ The seed of the idea came to him while pieces grounded in practicality. suitable donor organs. There are many he and his partner were in Birmingham donations. Paul suggested that Charlie reasons why donations do not happen, McGettigan might have a look at it. I By merging honest and luxurious materials, waiting on her call for a transplant: sensuous finishes and witty details, they have but the main one is because of a lack of thought that was a great idea.” “When I was in the hospital I was reading seduced collectors seeking furniture with awareness about the process. an article on transplants. It said that in Tommy said that the renowned Leitrim quality, vision and provenance. Raising awareness about the importance Ireland and the UK between four and singer songwriter was very helpful: zelouf+BELL claim “no house style, just high of organ donations is essential to halt eight people die every day because of “Charlie is the master craftsman. I standards”, and cite high fashion as a major these unnecessary deaths. One man who the lack of donors. When you think about played it for him and he took it home influence. Their work is considered the “haute looks to change public perception is it there is no reason for that to happen.” and tweaked a few things. The song is a couture” of Irish furniture design, so it makes sense that couturier Peter O’Brien (Rochas) is Longford man and member of a famous The Longford musician said that the slow song, it deals with death, but it is opening their 21st Century Classics exhibition Longford music family, Tommy Flaherty. process of writing The Gift of Life was really about hope.” When his partner found herself in need at Le Centre Culturel Irlandais, March 21 – different to any other he had composed: What happens next to The Gift of Life is April 26 2013, curated by Jennifer Goff, of a kidney transplant Tommy was “The problems we were experiencing up to others, but Tommy hopes it can make Curator of Furniture, Music, Science & the confronted with the difficulties were playing on my mind. One night I was a difference to public perception: “I have Eileen Gray collection, National Museum of experienced by those on transplant finding it hard to sleep so I got up and sent it on to the Irish Kidney Association, Ireland. waiting lists. picked up the guitar. Some songs would I don't know if they will use it, or what The exhibition will run in Centre Culturel Tommy decided to use his musical take months to come together, this came in they will use it for, but what I have done Irlandais, 5 rue des Irlandais from March 22 - talents and experience to address the half an hour.” this for is to raise awareness. You cannot April 26, 2013 with a preview on March 21, 6:30 - 8:30pm. The centre is open Tuesday to issue: “I’ve been playing music since I Not long after Tommy was in the studio buy an organ donation. You can have all Saturday 2 - 6pm with a late opening on was old enough to hold a set of drum recording an album of his own music the money you want in the bank, but if sticks. I also play a bit of guitar and over you don't have a donor it is no use. What Wednesday until 8pm and Sunday 12.30- with Paul Gurney. He spoke to the 2.30pm. Admission is free. Visit the years I have been fortunate to have I want out of this is for people to carry producer about The Gift of Life. From www.centreculturelirlandais.com for more worked with well known names like there another musical heavyweight organ donation cards.” information or call +33 (0)1 58 52 10 30. Declan Nerney, Jimmy Buckley, Robert contributed to the song: “I brought the M More information can also be found by contacting Susan Zelouf on 087 230 5368, [email protected] or SCHOOL GIRLS CREATE IRISH LANGUAGE www.zeloufandbell.com. M COMIC BASED ON LOCAL MYTHS by Thomas Lyons Three pupils from Scoil Mhuire in from the Midlands region and contains popularity of Pokémon, the Manga style, Longford used their Transition elements of enduring romance, betrayal, was an influence for the look of the magic, transformations and rebirth. comic. I tried a few sketches and the girls Year business project to create Each girl brought her own distinct flavour then gave me feedback on what I had done something just a little bit to the comic – Mary was very much the until we settled on the look of the comic.” different. creative force; Saorlaith was instrumental Marie-Claire explained that she got a lot Mary Smyth, Marie-Claire Igoe and Saorlaith in bringing the story to the page and out of the experience: “The enterprise Dragons’ Den was dedicated to the ideas Ní Nualláin took their Transition Year Marie Claire oversaw the administration. project was a great learning opportunity. of Ireland’s budding young entrepreneurs. business project and created an Irish Though more than a thousands years The magazine is the end result of a Second Level students from every corner language comic based on an endearing old, the story still has a contemporary process that taught us a lot, not just of Ireland were invited to take part in a local myth. The comic tells the tale of appeal. Saorlaith explained why they about how business start-ups grow, but large recruitment drive to find young Midir and Étaín, a lesser-known legend opted for this project: “Our initial thought how to work as a team. We have all been entrepreneurs to take part in Junior Dragon’s was to do a colouring book in Irish; that selling them, but in the initial stages Den with the chance to receive up to was the seed idea, but as we went before we had a finished product to offer €2,000 to fund their business idea. for sale we all had our duties.” through the development it progressed Although they were not selected their to being a comic book in Irish. We AWARD WINNERS achievement was one that they are proud thought it was something unique and the Their company, also named Midir agus of: “It was a lot of fun, frightening in ways, legend we picked is not as well known as Étaín, won the Most Creative Business but a great experience. It was stressful some of the more famous legends about Award at the County Enterprise Student and a lot of it was in the run up to exams, say Oisin or Fionn. The style of the comic Business Awards. They went on to win so there was a little extra pressure on us. is vibrant and colourful.” the regional final of the Junior Dragons We got a lot out of it as a life experience, Mary supplied the artistic direction for Den held last November in the Hume Hall we were happy with the way it panned the project: “We were thinking about in Sligo IT. The girls took part in the out, but it would have been better if we what would appeal to children most. I National Final in December in the Dillon had won the Jr Dragon’s Den,” Marie- suppose from a stylistic perspective the Hotel in Dublin. Claire laughs. M

Pictured are Mary Smyth, Marie-Clair Igoe and Saorlaith Ní Nualáin 7 LAOIS YOUTH THEATRE WORKSHOPS RECOMMENCE

Pictured are children who participated in last year's Pottery Workshop WITH NEW LAOIS TUTOR SUMMER ARTS PROGRAMME Young people can learn 2013 all about theatre, play games, get creative, see how to put on a Artist and tutors are now invited ...inspire to submit proposals for the Laois show and how things Summer Arts Programme 2013. imagination and run back stage while Planning is underway for the 2013 self-expression having fun, gaining programme, which will include a mix of activities such as, arts & crafts, with a world of confidence and making creative writing, dance and music. hands-on art Keith Millar new friends. The aim of the programme is to inspire activities Portlaoise Youth Theatre has a new an MA in Community and Youth Work in imagination and self-expression with a drama tutor taking over the group NUI Maynooth as a result of his positive world of hands-on art activities. Through Depending on demand a workshop for this year. Keith Millar, a drama experiences with drama facilitation. painting, sculpture, dance, drawing, the younger age range runs in the facilitator with Kildare Youth Theatre collage, dramatic play and much more. morning from 11am–1pm and for an and Crooked House in Newbridge, Portlaoise Youth Theatre Workshops encourage confidence and older age range in the afternoon from said he was delighted to be joining meets weekly in the Dunamaise Arts support artistic potential. 2pm-4pm in the same venue. Laois Youth Theatre. Centre on Saturdays from 11am to 1pm for age 13 upwards. Contact Keith on The programme runs in the month of Workshops normally cater for up to 20 Keith has performed his role as a drama 085 1403938 for more info. July and workshops are two hours long but may vary according to the type of art facilitator since 2007 having previously and run from Monday to Friday. activity. Venues are selected by their been a member of the youth theatre Stradbally Youth Theatre suitability to the type of activity that is himself. Throughout this time he has meets weekly in St Patrick’s Hall, proposed and also to give a good delivered drama workshops for Kildare Stradbally on Saturdays from 1pm to geographic spread of the programme. Youth Theatre’s regular groups (including 3pm for ages 12 upwards. Contact Putting their best foot Tutors are paid at a rate of €30 per hour the weekly skills development programme, Siobhan on 086 3300943 for more forward at last year's including taxes. info. Dance Workshop annual festivals and specialised Improvisation workshops). Artists/tutors must have Garda Vetting, Young people can learn all about have relevant references and have For Crooked House he works as part of theatre, play games, get creative, see experience of working with children and the Outreach Facilitation Team. Projects how to put on a show and how things young people. A clear costing of a of this capacity include Headspace, a run back stage while having fun, gaining proposal is required but in the case of 15-week Drama programme promoting confidence and making new friends. art classes the Arts Office have a supply positive mental health with three of general art materials available– ie: communities of young people in Kildare. Laois Youth Theatre is run by the Arts scissors, paint brushes, paints, glues, He has devised and directed numerous Office, Laois County Council. Call now to etc. Additional materials required must shows mostly involving social issues book your place. Places can be limited. be listed and priced. The deadline for affecting young peopde. These Include Check out the Facebook page for all the receipt of project proposals is Tuesday Proper Preggers, an original musical latest news April 30, 2013. M that was staged at the National Festival www.facebook.com/laoisyouththeatre of Youth Theatre in Scotland. Last or call 57 8674342/43 For more information contact: summer he devised and directed or email: [email protected] The Arts Office, Laois County Council, Shining Stars, which also traveled to or www.laois.ie for more information. Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise, Co. Laois this festival. He is currently studying for M Tel: 057 8664025 Fax 057 8674382 Email: [email protected] 8 Frank’s providing high quality, low Shed budget recordings Frank’s Shed Recording Studio opened Salmon, Mel McCarthy who hosts the show and now, as if by accident, we are in its doors in 2012, in Portlaoise, to shows, Stephen Murphy on camera and discussions with RTÉ and TV3.” Mel McCarthy, Host of FranksShedTV. provide a high quality, low budget option editor of footage and Shane Lewis, who Frank’s Shed has provided live shows and Photo by Trevor Byrne. to audio and video recording. manages the desk in the studio. had a stage at this year’s Heyday festival in It is also the studio that plays host to The show demands a lot of work with an Portlaoise, where they videoed all the acts, FranksShedTV. average of 50 hours work going into each and in doing so took a snap shot in time of and every show, the sound is mixed and the original music scene in Laois in 2012. FranksShedTV is an online TV show mastered by Joe whilst Stephen takes on This footage will soon be available online. showing the latest and greatest in musical the video. Joe is currently running a serious of talent from all over Ireland, and Joe has personally put a lot of work into programmes in the new Portlaoise Youth beyond. Run by Joe Salmon, a local the structural elements of the recording Café with the aim of transferring the advocate of original music in Laois, studio, explaining: “I built the studio from knowledge that he has learned to the FranksShedTV gives artists another option, scratch, recorded my own music and younger generation. for free and high quality music recording, produced my own CD’s. This studio is With the vision of having young people along with video being a crucial component completely organic, a place where I help playing, hosting and recording concerts all to the whole process. musicians and bands help themselves. I by themselves to empower the next am a jack of all trades and for sure a generation. After the course, the young Joe exclaims: “I shot the first show by master of none, but I try pull it all together people at the Youth Café will host their own myself in mid 2011 with an amazing band to produce something nice and easy to concert. M called The Little Smoke, it’s still up for all hear and listen.” to see but I soon realized I needed a team Speaking about the future plans for the For further information visit: of volunteers to pull this project off.” space, Joe said: “The show started to get www.franksshed.com and/or www.Franksshedtv.com The Frank’s Shed team consists of Joe popular and some cool artists came on the Tullamore Community Arts Centre gets a thumbs up for a grand design

The 2013 spring edition of A10, the The project is currently at construction journal for New European Architecture, tender stage and the board of the highlights Tullamore Community Arts project is hopeful to have a construction Centre as a “democratic project, hopeful contract signed in time to break ground about the future and town life.” by autumn 2013. The building schedule is likely to take some 12 months to Emmett Scanlon writes: “It is rare in complete. Meanwhile work is ongoing Ireland for a practice the size and youth behind the scenes on the operational of A2 to win a major building project side to ensure the centre opens with a such as this. But this is a project with an full programme of events during the openness rarely seen in Irish Architecture, winter of 2014/15. reminiscent of open – system projects of the 1960’s and 70s, and seems like Fundraising is still continuing as the a democratic process, hopeful about community element of the capital the future and town life. needed makes the final push to reach the €200,000 committed to the project. "This was a beautifully designed and presented project at competition stage For more information on the centre see and if the architects can sustain the www.tullamorecommunityartscentre.ie, ambition to create this open and follow on Facebook or email democratic arts centre for Tullamore, it [email protected] will be an even greater achievement than M winning the competition in the first place.” M 9 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013 Mark Boylan a young musician making tracks MARK Boylan is a 15-year-old musician from Banagher in Offaly who has already made headlines and an impact with his music.

At the age of 13, he composed a song mother, I couldn’t refuse. It was an called The Festival, inspired by a visit to emotional journey writing the song, Cheltenham with his family, which he especially having been told that then put up on YouTube. It was an Campbell loved my music and played my Backstage overnight hit (31,000 views to date) CD constantly in his car.” which resulted in him being invited to A Song for Campbell was released on play for 60,000 people at Cheltenham; January 24 on iTunes with proceeds tour with the High Kings; play in Vicar going to the Injured Jockeys Fund (who joint exhibition Street and flown to America to perform flew Campbell’s body home from Greece) in front of 70,000 people and millions and the reaction was phenomenal on TV – as his song became the World reaching Number 14 in the UK Championship theme for Breeders Cup Singer/Songwriter iTunes Download programme a 2011. Chart in a week. He spent the summer of 2012 playing in It featured alongside songs by Jake Bugg, California and Holland and in Spring Damien Rice, Boyce Avenue and was 2013, he travelled to The Cheltenham positioned a few places ahead of Ed great success Festival where he did a series of interviews, Sheerin’s A-Team and Eva Cassidy’s reports and live performances for a Songbird. variety of TV and Radio shows. In early 2012 Longford Arts Office and the Atrium Gallery at “My song actually spend a period at Mark is currently working on promoting a Number 2 over the first weekend”, said Backstage Theatre joined forces in an effort to provide a more new project, again inspired by horse an excited Mark. “I have been contacted cohesive and efficient support service and exhibition space to racing. Speaking of his new venture by many members of the Scottish and Mark said: artists in the area. English media who are excited by the “I was asked to write a song a few whole song and story and the family are months ago in remembrance of a young delighted as it is providing a fitting Construction work in Backstage in the the Longford Photography Schools jockey from Scotland called Campbell tribute to Campbell. preceding few years had impacted on programme. Gillies who died last June in an accident “I received almost 10,000 views on the the gallery space there and the theatre In the coming months the programme in Corfu while he was there celebrating You Tube video in 2 days and over 1400 was keen to re-launch this space and will feature artwork from two visiting his twenty second birthday. Campbell tweets. In fact one fan in Scotland has give it a greater focus, following renovation artists from Galway, Anne Harkin- had become the first Scot in ten years to had my lyrics tattooed on her body!” M work in 2011 to improve the facility. In ride a winner at Cheltenham, just three Petersen from Tuam and Ruth Cadden Mark Boylan’s song is available to order to re-launch the programme of from Spiddal, as well as Cavan artist months previous. I was reluctant to take on download (with a few others) on iTunes by exhibitions and indeed raise the standard Elena Duff and James Brady. this venture given the sensitivity of the searching A Song for Campbell and also of supports offered with this exhibition subject but when I was contacted by his on Amazon. space, the theatre approached the local The exhibitions programme has worked seamlessly with a joint literary programme Arts Office with a proposal to work A Song by Campell by Mark Boylan (pictured) is available to download on iTunes. together to deliver this service. Fergus already established between both Kennedy Arts Officer welcomed the organisations and in fact many of the proposal, acknowledging the shared exhibitions featured have an integrated interests and objectives of both parties. literary dimension. An exhibition of the work Lucy Brennan from Lanesboro in In 2012 the joint programme hosted June 2013 will also feature readings exhibitions by Cavan artist Padraig from poet Kieran Furey. Lynch; Roscommon based artist Anne Rigney; Ceramics Artist Ed Walshe and Both the Arts Office and Backstage are keen to introduce an educational outreach an exhibition of the work of photographer element to the programme and are in Shelley Corcoran and the students of discussions with artists on the structure and scope of this proposal. The success of the Arts Office supported Director in Residence Programme at Backstage which is headlined by Seamus O Rourke in 2013, and the positive outcomes to date on the joint visual artist and literary programmes demonstrate clearly the value of pooling of resources in time of financial difficulties to maximise available resources. M

Vases made by ceramic artist Ed Walshe exhibited as part of a joint exhibition along with other works including those of Gary 10 Robinson (pictured above) Trio Vocalese are making quite a name for themselves on the music scene in Laois and beyond. In an unbelievably short time-frame they have just finished a session in a recording studio and are now preparing for a CD Launch Concert.

Pictured are Georgina Ireland, Nuala Kelly, Vivienne Graham (Photo by Dom Reddin) Laois Trio to launch CD The vocal trio, comprising of Vivienne She explained: “We didn’t set out to Newbridge Musical Society concert, songwriters and hope to cover some Graham, Georgina Ireland and Nuala form a group as such but the blend of the Cuisle Centre Concert and Abbeyleix original material over the coming Kelly, with their exquisite vocal harmonies the voices was so good and the Library along with radio slots on months. have been delighting audiences near harmonies came very naturally to us so Midlands 103. The Vocalese CD Launch Concert and far and have been widely praised in we just took it from there and went with Vocalese are multi-genre in their song will take place in the Dunamaise Arts the short time they have been together. it and so Vocalese was born.” choice covering an eclectic mix of songs Centre on Thursday 2nd May. It promises All three singers are well known soloists Gathering momentum over the past from Carole King, Crying in the Rain, to be a magical evening, and if you have in their own right and Vocalese came year, Vocalese have performed in such Neil Young, After the Goldrush, The not heard this trio yet, you are in for a about when Nuala Kelly was asked to diverse places as Ballyfin House, the Police, Every Breath You Take, along real treat. provide a short musical interlude for Durrow Scarecrow Festival, the with some traditional songs such as M International Women’s Day celebration International Eucharistic Congress in Water is Wide and Neidin. They have in the Dunamaise Arts Centre in March 2012. the RDS, Aherlow Gospel Festival, also been in contact with some singer/

Shannon-side Environmental Poetry Workshops by Neil Halligan The historically rich landscape natural stimulation of their morning’s He also said they hope to be able to take in “I’ll start with the structure from the across south Longford, including experiences.” one of the islands. stirring of the poem – where the poem is Award-winning poet Noel Monahan – a Given the volume of inspiration, in terms of coming in; then the whole word-farming – the lakes and islands of native of Granard – will lead the workshops, landscapes, may be vast; Noel said people the sense of language, finding the words Lough Ree and the River and while it will include a historical look at may respond to something as simple as and phrases; the shape of the poem and Shannon, will provide much the area, he emphasised that those taking the flowers or bird life in the area. then editing the poem.” of the inspiration for aspiring part will be writing with a “free hand.” At the end of the tour, the workshop It’s the end product that will be entered “In the workshops we'll be looking at the returns indoors where Noel will give the into the multiple poetry competitions that poets later this summer. landscapes of south Longford, and its more technical side of the day. take place over the summer, including Longford County Council has devised an Cork, Listowel and Strokestown. beauty, and hoping that a focus on this “I have given workshops before, but never unique Environmental Poetry Workshop to area will lead to poetry,” said Noel. before with such a focus on an area. I don’t Noel stressed that the workshop is open to attract people to sample the beauty of the “The hand must be extremely free; it's not want to say you have to write a poem about all people from all areas. M greater Lanesboro/Newtowncashel areas. history or geography we're writing. There's this or that; I would never do that, because For further information, contact the Longford Arts Officer, Fergus Kennedy explained: Arts Officer Fergus Kennedy on 086 8517595 or something that draws a writer to an area poetry doesn't happen like that,” he said. email: [email protected] “The landscape of west Longford is so like this, especially when the space is gentle, unspoiled and beautiful that it is spread over such long period in time. bound to have an impact on anyone who “Some writers might be interested in the experiences it. Since the original cave mythological aspect of it, because not too artists and fireside storytellers began to far away you have the Corlea Track way express themselves creatively, nature and Road, going back to 148 BC and that's a the environment have always been central fascinating place. And then you have Brí to artist’s creativity. Leith, the Hill of Ardagh, which is one of “Our objective is to expose contemporary the Celtic stories, which goes back to early writers to the beauty of our flora, fauna Celtic times,” he added. and landscape by taking them on walking While the exact details of what the workshop tours of the country side. The walks will be will entail have yet to be finalise, Noel said followed by workshops facilitated by Noel the tour may include award-winning Tidy Monahan where the artists will be Towns (villages) like Newtowncashel, Ardagh Pictured is Saint's Island Church and Cemetery, Longford, where those encouraged to respond creatively to the and the current titleholders, Abbeyshrule. taking part in Longford's newest poetry workshops hope to get inspired.

11 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013

“It has been with a great sense of admiration and professional appreciation that I have observed from the sidelines of a neighbouring county (Longford) the quietly efficient and effective manner with which Catherine has animated all forms of cultural activity in Westmeath over more than a decade. Being from Westmeath she was always aware of the enormous creative potential of the county, and she more that anyone has been instrumental, in her own quiet way, in developing the arts in Westmeath to the admirable position it holds today.” Longford Council Council Arts Officer, Fergus Kennedy.

“I have really enjoyed working with Catherine as a colleague across the border (from Offaly) particularly on collaborative Catherine Kelly pictured with Minister Jimmy Dennihan and projects, such as our recent Miriam Mulrennan at the recent opening of the Luan Gallery. success with Music Generation funding, but also on others such as this magazine and the Midland master classes. CATHERINE KELLY Together with all of the Midland Arts Officers, she is/was a regionalist; innately understanding DEPARTS WESTMEATH the benefits of working together, to create a greater cultural identity for the midlands of Ireland. ARTS OFFICE She will be missed!” Offaly County Council Arts Officer, I have been lucky enough to have to a bright future for the sector with After 11 wonderful years, Sinead O’Reilly. I am leaving Westmeath been involved in high profile public vision, energy and hope. art projects, the development of the The world of arts is woven so tightly Arts Office to take up a Abbey Road artists studios and the into everyday life in Westmeath and “Catherine Kelly has been a Luan Gallery and the recent new position abroad. I have had both the pleasure and successful Music Generation fantastic colleague to work with privilege of working with exceptionally Over the past decade having worked application. There have been many as we four midland arts officer talented people that have inspired in tandem with the arts community I changes for the sector; funding has me every day. I would like to thank strived to forge out a midland have seen a revolution in the energy, risen and fallen in dramatic fashion the arts community for their support arts identity in the last number of the dynamism and the impact of the but the steadfast conviction and and commitment to this ever evolving years. We have done this through arts across the county and I have commitment of the artists that I have process and for all they do to keep witnessed the increased relevance of encompassed remains constant. the magazine, masterclasses, Westmeath curious about the arts the arts in the lives of the people of literary publications and music and confident in the arts, for bringing Westmeath both socially and initiatives. Catherine has The recession has served to galvanise the opportunity to participate in and economically. the arts community by allowing them enjoy the arts into the lives of people demonstrated great creativity, Westmeath has a rich cultural life, to reinvent how they create work and in Westmeath. leadership and imagination in the develop their practise and has led to steeped in the world of arts that programmes she devised. infuses the most private of lives meaningful collaborations and new It is with a heavy heart that I leave We will miss Catherine and as well as the most sociable of partnerships. It has facilitated the but I would like to thank the arts communities. The breadth and depth sharing of resources, skills and community for their continued we will watch her career path of what is going on in the arts in expertise and the arts in Westmeath friendship and support and I wish the with great interest.” sector every success in the future. Westmeath at any one time is is ironically stronger due to the Laois County Council Arts Officer, M nothing short of incredible. downturn and we can all look forward Catherine Kelly. Muireann Ní Chonaill.

12 as opposed to just the technical. There is also now an emphasis on studying recognised fine art photographers much the same as traditional History of Art recognises the skills of acclaimed painters.

Now in its third year, in Templemichael College as part of the Art and Design Course, the amount of Distinctions received by the Templemichael Students is very high, which only proves that the students are developing their capacity both to perceive and express creatively and that they are able to create visual Pictured are photography students from metaphors to give meaning beyond Templemichael College. the image’s superficial beauty.

The level of creative development of the students of Templemichael Community College was very evident recently in their contribution to the innovative publication Bang…Bang Templemichael College She Shot Me (An Introduction to Digital Art Photography) and in their continued success in the Longford shaping Photography Schools Photographer of the Year Competition in which they participate through the Longford Schools as a fine art by Shelley Corcoran Photography Programme. The demand for photography to be and Design PLC. Photography is And because the Templemichael If you look around, the thought as an art form is increasing increasingly standing side by side with College Art and Design students number of exhibitions that each year and Templemichael more traditional genres of art such as have sought this creative course showcase photography are Community College through its painting and ceramics in terms of they are producing conceptual Fine Art offering of FETAC Level 5 Digital more numerous than ever public awareness and in the context photographs that do indeed convey Photography Course, its participation before – from wild life to of student demand. abstract ideas. in the Longford Schools Photography architectural forms to fine The FETAC Level 5 Photography module Programme and being the location art photography. According to Paul Anderson, in his for the Midland College of book, The Fine Art of Photography, the students are undertaking has Templemichael College Longford also changed this year, with more Photography makes it the centre for fine art is “any medium of expression the study of photography studies in is increasingly becoming a serious which permits one person to convey emphasis on Visual Diaries which the Midlands. M centre for the study of photography to another an abstract idea of lend themselves to the creative in the Midlands. The College offers lofty emotion”. process, the developing of ideas and photography as part of its Art the conceptual side of photography OFFALY’S LEAD ROLE! Once again, Offaly and the Her books have brought Offaly Manchester with Leo, her widowed Irish midlands are placed into readers’ homes and sparked Italian father who owns Leonardo’s curiosity, affection, longing and restaurant. centre of the literary map, memories amongst her fans from in Geraldine O’Neill’s all ages and backgrounds. When tragedy strikes, Maria finds that tenth novel. Geraldine’s books are devoured by her comfortable, predictable life is teenage girls (who relate to the young shattered when she has to turn to her Her faithful and dedicated fans will heroines and enjoy reading about a mother’s estranged family in Ireland. be delighted to know that her next different period) and their mothers book, Music From Home, (published and grandmothers (who love the In the old farmhouse in County Offaly by Poolbeg) will be available in local nostalgic look back to the 60’s they she uncovers a bitter legacy of secrets bookshops and on the internet this grew up in). She also has a strong and lies, and she comes to realise March. male fan base, and receives e-mails that her mother was not the person from a large number of men including she’d been led to believe she was. As Often compared with the late, one from France who worked in Ireland new stories and new characters come legendary Maeve Binchy, Geraldine and loves reading about the country. along with every one of Geraldine’s continues to claim the hearts of her Music From Home tells the tale of a books, one thing remains the same – eager readers who span the globe. young girl, Maria Conti, growing up in the leading role of County Offaly! M

13 ARTHOUSE STRADBALLY TO SHOWCASE MAKE GOOD, MAKE BETTER Make good, make better is a forthcoming show by Saidhbhín Gibson at Arthouse, Stradbally comprising of new work produced specifically for the exhibition.

The work marries aspects of mans’ domesticity with elements of the natural world. This has been executed through delicate mark-making in the drawings and intricate thread based techniques (needlepoint lace) in the made objects. The work is a response to the natural world that exists around us, and our relationship with that which is not man-made. Rather than being an overt statement Encouraging a of a perceived improvement of nature by the artist, the title Make good, make better is purposefully ambiguous. The reflexive title refers both to the artist’s adornment of the natural artifact and also to our betterment through close association with nature. LOVE Saidhbhín Gibson has exhibited both nationally and internationally since Kindermusik classes, which graduating with a Degree in Fine Art promote the belief that music is (DIT Mountjoy Square). During 2012 the best vehicle for early she was selected for a variety of childhood development and of MUSIC exhibitions including Common Thread learning, are currently running International, Oakville, Canada, Birr in Athlone and Mullingar. Vintage Week and Arts Festival, Winter Open, Rua Red, and Easter Small Works, CLASSES Ger Relph, a musician, teacher and When young children are consistently The Higher Bridges Gallery, Enniskillen. Village (0–18 months): Kindermusik Educator has been playing engaged by music in an age-appropriate, Takes those special bonding moments Make good, make better opens on April music since she was seven-years-old. socially accepting environment, they between you and your baby and adds a 4 and runs until April 24. There will be She completed a BA in Music at NUI benefit at many levels: unique blend of musical learning a talk by John Duffy, gardener at Emo Maynooth in 1996 and continued her activities that stimulate and engage all EARLY LITERACY They gain the Court, on Saturday April 13 at 2pm at studies at Queen’s University, Belfast the senses and encourage your baby's phonological processing, spoken Arthouse and Library, Stradbally, followed and completed a Masters Degree in learning through vocal play, object language, and comprehension skills by refreshments. All are welcome. M Twentieth Century Music in 1997. exploration, instruments and creative that are the foundation of reading. movements. OPENING HOURS She discovered Kindermusik while QUANTITATIVE They build the spatial- Wiggle & Grow (18 months–3 years): Tuesday–Friday: 1 – 4.30pm researching a way to teach music to her temporal and reasoning skills required for Your child will love singing, dancing, and Saturday: 10am – 1pm own children while they were very young. maths, science, and engineering. playing instruments and you’ll love She completed her teacher training with Please contact Vernon McNicolas helping to practice a wide variety of Kindermusik International and received at 057 8641740, Tuesday–Friday, SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL They develop abilities such as gross and fine motor her license to teach in 2011. 1–4.30 p.m. for further information. social and emotional skills that are skills, turn-taking, social skills, and essential for school readiness – like the Kindermusik offers developmentally active listening. Below: A Hot Cup of Fluff ability to regulate their responses and specific educational programs for children Laugh & Learn (3–4 years): by Saidhbhín Gibson relate to others in complex ways. aged newborn to six. The curriculum is Each week the class combines your based on the principals of Kodaly, Suzuki, PHYSICAL By moving and dancing to child’s natural love of music, storytelling, and Orff and at its core is the firm belief music and playing simple instruments, and imaginative play with age-appropriate that music is the best vehicle for early children improve their gross and fine activities that introduce early music concepts and foster independence, childhood development and learning. motor skills. Activities that encourage social and emotional skills, language freedom within a fun and friendly Psychologists, neuroscientists, and growth, and self-control. structure spark their creativity. experts in early childhood development Move & Groove (4–6 years): have demonstrated that music does more CREATIVE Activities that encourage In class your child will be engaged in for children than bring them joy; it helps freedom within a fun and friendly music and movement activities that also their brain cells make the connections structure spark children’s creativity promote language, social and emotional needed for virtually every kind of and provide inspiration. skills, early math and early literacy, intelligence. Kindermusik’s curriculum physical coordination, creativity, and is built on this research. And of course, they develop a lifelong more. Plus, they will learn basic music love of music. M vocabulary and notation—all setting the stage for future school success and formal music lessons. Full details of the music and movement programme for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and young children can be found at www.kindermusikwithger.com

14 Song for Ireland – Brendan Keeley in Geashill National School

to come out and bring small children in that weather was just great." 2,000 turn out Tullamore Gospel Choir kicked off the bitterly cold afternoon with rousing choruses and soon after Brendan was introduced to the crowds by special guest in Tullamore for Henry Healy, who had just returned from the inauguration of his eight cousin President Barack Obama. Brendan's eldest son Sam Keeley who is an up and coming film actor, currently Anthem of Hope starring in the popular TV series Raw was on hand to lend his support to the project, On a cold Sunday in January, record their voices onto the single, We sadly been lost in all the talk of much to the delight of the younger female audience! musician Brendan Keeley Will be Strong composed by Tullamore recession and ‘doom and gloom.’” singer/ songwriter Brendan Keeley. The song was mixed at Brytestar brought over 2,000 people to Brendan spent the weeks leading up to the project, traveling to 82 schools Productions in Carlow by Brian Sheil Speaking of his intention for the anthem, Offaly to sing a new anthem across the Midlands teaching the song who was nominated for Best Producer Brendan said: “The anthem has been of hope for Ireland. to children. at the World Music Awards in London in created to bring alive the message of February. The single is now on sale with “Given the day that was in it with wind Despite the awful weather, over 2,000 hope in the people of Ireland and to all profits going to St. Vincent de Paul. M whipping up the stadium, I thought if we people turned out at O'Connor Park in awaken the sense of survival that lies For more information please see Tullamore on Sunday, January 27 to deep within the Irish people, but has get 100 we will be lucky, and for people www.brendankeeley.com

ORCHESTRATING A MOVE SOUTH

RTÉ recently announced the appointment Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce cultural treasure. It has played a major and he took up the position on a full- and the Belfast Telegraph. role in professional music-making in time basis on January 1, 2013. Artistic partnerships included a joint Ireland and in providing important As General Manager, Declan will have performance with the Ulster Orchestra platforms for Irish soloists and composers overall responsibility for the artistic, and the Ulster Youth Orchestra at the and international artists. Great economic organisational and financial BBC Proms in London, a collaboration and social challenges face us in Ireland management of Ireland’s premier between the Ulster Orchestra and the today. The RTÉ NSO is a reminder of symphony orchestra. RTÉ Concert Orchestra for the London all that is great and strong in Ireland’s cultural fabric. I look forward to working Declan was appointed Chief Executive 2012 Cultural Olympiad, and an annual closely with the orchestra and with of the Ulster Orchestra in November concert celebrating the music of colleagues in RTÉ to help steer its 2010, a position he held until March Scotland and Northern Ireland with the journey over the years ahead.” 2012 when on secondment from his support of the Ulster Scots Agency. current position as Executive Producer, At BBC Northern Ireland he instigated Welcoming his appointment, Séamus Laois-born Declan BBC Northern Ireland. Previous roles the annual open air Proms in the Park, Crimmins, Executive Director, RTÉ McGovern has been include Editor, Music, BBC Northern established a series of St Patrick’s Day Orchestras, Quartet and Choirs said: Ireland and Senior Producer, Classic FM. concerts in collaboration with Belfast “I am delighted that Declan has accepted the post of General Manager, appointed General Declan grew up in County Laois and is a City Council, commissioned 15 new RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra. BMus (Hons) graduate from University works from Irish composers, produced Manager of RTÉ Declan’s experience in radio, television, College Cork. TV programmes on Leonard Bernstein, Steve Reich and The Chieftains and won orchestral management and business National Symphony As Chief Executive with the Ulster awards for his radio biography on Yehudi position him well for the challenges Orchestra, Declan was instrumental in Orchestra following his Menuhin and a documentary for BBC which the orchestra faces. The RTÉ appointing a new Principal Conductor, Radio 3 on the role of music inside the NSO has a unique position within Irish re-establishing the Ulster Orchestra’s position as Chief Maze Prison. cultural life and I know that Declan will recordings with Naxos, securing new build on its artistic strengths whilst Speaking of his appointment, Declan Executive of the Ulster sponsors, negotiating a new contract fulfilling the full range of RTÉ’s public McGovern said: “The RTÉ National Orchestra. with the musicians and establishing service obligations.” M strategic business partnerships with the Symphony Orchestra is a national 15 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013

How becoming a self-publisher made life Rosy

I always thought (absent-mindedly) about the possibility of writing women’s fiction. I love a good old-fashioned love story, but there has to be more to the story than a gallop to a romantic end. I want to enjoy the journey along the way and I want a book where every sentence is worth reading.

For anyone out there who has ever I also knew that I wasn’t the type of I think it is very important to write about thought about writing a book, the best woman who would enjoy frittering my what you know, and secondly, something piece of advice that I ever read was just time away in the long-term by meeting that is close to your heart and that you sit down and do it! If you don’t make the the girls for coffee and lunch. Besides, can be passionate about. You must love time, it will never happen. my country sisters were far busier that I your characters even if they themselves was – they were not accustomed to a life are hateful individuals – again, you have I grew up in County Westmeath. I have a of idle either! to feel passionately about them and you Master’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences have to believe in them. and I work part-time in the field of Solid I eventually started writing about five Organ Transplantation. I now live on a years ago with little success. I found the On the whole, I found the subject matter farm in County Longford with my demands of three young children of Alice-Rose very easy to work with for a husband and our three children. incompatible with the task…I could never number of reasons – I am passionate get a good run at it! When our youngest about old houses; I value family highly I got married in 2000 and continued to child started school in September 2010, and I was lucky enough to have a work full time in Dublin for another two I was then able to apply myself. I number of close friendships to draw the possibilities of self-publishing. It years; my husband and I ‘enjoyed’ a discovered that the more I wrote, the upon for inspiration when it came to inspired me. And here I am now, €3,000 weekend marriage – no thought nor time more I enjoyed it – escapism is a writing about the dynamics, and the poorer but free from the manuscript for writing during this period. In 2002 I wonderful practise! It became less a rewards, of a long-lasting one. gathering dust on the shelf. I self- finally went job-sharing and moved to live case of: “I should really sit down and try published through Xlibris (an unlikely full-time with my farmer husband. Sadly, Unfortunately, getting published didn’t to write something,” and much more a name in some regards…not as both my parents-in-law had passed away prove to be so easy. I sent the first fifty case of prying myself away from the reassuring or as familiar as Amazon) the same year that we married and so pages of the manuscript to several laptop to make the aforementioned using the premier package and found Timmy’s family home, which was a 1970’s agents, all were very positive except for dinner before the kids came home from the experience to be a very positive one. bungalow, became our new home. The one agent who said that my writing style school. Towards the end, I was constantly next year saw me undertaking a lot of needed work- they was right! I got back Lastly, many thanks to all who have roping in my ever-supportive husband to DIY and having our first child, but no pen down to the job of improving my bought, or intend to buy, Alice-Rose. I pick up the kids and to cook the dinner! was put to paper; I was far too busy manuscript and then I left it on the shelf, hope you enjoy the story and that it doing other things! too weary to think about approaching provides a little restorative distraction. THE STORY OF ALICE-ROSE another agent. M Four years and three children later, and The story of Alice-Rose evolved naturally the idea of trying to write something even over time and changed its course quite In the meantime, word was spreading vaguely interesting was beginning to take dramatically from the one I had in mind among family and friends that I had hold in my mind again. By that point, I initially! This was mainly due to the written a book. Those who read it Alice-Rose by Caitríona Leslie is available in paperback, hardback and eBook from was beginning to realise, and more realisation that I needed to add more claimed to love it. Then one day I Amazon and Barnes and Noble, as well as meat to the bones of the story; otherwise importantly to fervently hope, that in received two newspaper cuttings in the a number of other online book suppliers time, there would be more to my life in it would have ended up being a boring post from my sister-in-law’s mother including the publishers, Xlibris. the home than worrying about the old gallop to the end. And for that I needed about the very successfully self- For further information visit housework and what was for the dinner. to change the storyline quite a bit! published author Amanda Hocking and www.alicerosebook.com

16 Niamh Mulligan’s bronze medal winning picture from the IPF National Shield Competition A Race in Hand. MIDLANDS PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB OFFERS CLASSES Midlands Photography Club was In addition to this the club also organises formed in 2008 by four photography outings with their members as it is enthusiasts and since then the club important to get out there and take Ceramic Artist has developed and evolved into a pictures. Members also get a media diverse mixture of beginners, pass for entry to shoot some bands at hobbyists, advanced and the Prince of Wales and learn a lot about professional photographers. the challenges of photographing live gigs. Ed Walshe moves The club season runs from September to June, every second Wednesday in the Midlands Photography Club celebrated Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone, and the winning a Bronze medal at the 2012 club is always looking for new members Irish Photography Federation National to Longford Shield competition held in Dublin in of all levels – from absolute beginners to professionals to get involved. November. Niamh Mulligan won her medal Landscape, macro, nature, architecture, in the Individual Monochrome Section, for her photograph entitled, A Race In In order to work more freely, ceramic “I did a show in Backstage Theatre, sport, music, portrait and/or fashion are Hand. Niamh just joined the Club and artist Ed Walshe decided to move out which Fergus (Kennedy – Arts Officer) all covered in the classes. won her recent medal using an entry- of the big smoke in order to create organised for me. At the moment I'm Each September the club runs a level camera so its not so much about working on a commission for a ceramic photography course for beginners, more smoke. the camera you use but about the eye to wall mural,” said Ed. intermediates and anyone who wishes He explained: “At that time I was living in to up skill their photography. The course spot and capture a great photograph. The 3ft x 2ft mural will be mounted on Dublin. I rather like doing smoke-fired is given by two of the clubs professional plywood, which can be hung on a wall. ceramics and it’s really difficult to do photographers Liam Kidney and PJ Members Emilia Krysztofiak, Aaron Saurer that up in the city because it really Retired at 55, Ed enrolled in a four-year McCormack. and Robert Hederer represented the annoys your neighbours if you have course at the NCAD (National College of Throughout the club season guest talks club at the Mid-Western Region Print & smoke all over the place. Art and Design) in Dublin and graduated are given by professional and award Projected Competition in December and in 2006 in ceramics. Having spent 35 winning photographers, which have their work placed in the top three of “Anyway, I wanted a place where I could several categories. have a studio, so I bought a house down years working with IBM as a programme included Mick Quinn, Peter Gordon and and IT specialist. His interest in ceramics Vincent O’Byrne. Within the club, here, just outside Longford (Killoe). There’s If interested in improving your camera a double garage which I converted to a grew from the time he spent in the NCAD. members also give talks on certain aspects of photography that they are skills, sharing your knowledge, or simply studio. I generally make ceramics and sell “I always had an interest in art and I passionate about. Emilia Krysztofiak (Rua joining Midlands Photography Club e-mail them at a Christmas fairs and the like. went to evening classes in NCAD for Photography) spoke about photographing [email protected]. about 11 years while I was working. In live gigs and music festivals and Aaron For more details about the club and the first year of the four-year course you “At that time I was Sarauer gave a talk on HDR photography. upcoming events visit do a bit of everything – sculpture, print- The club also had a workshop midlandsphotograpyclub.com or living in Dublin. making, ceramics, glass, metals, photographing a professional model Facebook page everything. The idea is that you get to using professional studio lighting www.facebook.com/MidlandsPhotographyClub. I rather like doing experience the whole range of recently purchased by the club. M smoke-fired ceramics techniques and then you decide what you want to graduate in. and it’s really difficult “I had originally thought I wanted to do “You do it outdoors in a special kiln, and in ceramics like me because the to do that up in sculpture, but then had a go at ceramics, you bring this material up to about 1,000 commercial firms aren’t interested in it which I thought was cool because I could degrees and bring it out and put it into a because it’s unpredictable. It means that the city because it have my own studio and just work away bin that’s filled with sawdust or straw, or I can compete. There’s no point in making myself. If you're doing sculpture, you have anything that will burn. You usually end mugs because I can’t make them for €1 really annoys your to cast bronze, and you have pay loads up with white glaze, but it’s all crackled like you’d pay in Tesco,” said Ed. M of money to foundries to cast them for with these little black lines in it. neighbours if you have you,” he quipped. Although he doesn't currently have a “One thing about it is that it’s very website, Ed does have samples of his smoke all over the Ed says he has been doing quite a bit of unpredictable; pieces might not come work on the Crafts Council of Ireland raku firing at the moment, it is an ancient out correct or quite often pieces will website: place.” and delicate ceramic production process break. It’s handy for somebody working http://directory.ccoi.ie/clients/member/21762

17 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013 LuanGallery has welcomed over 2,500 visitors since opening

Since November Speaking to Midlands Arts and The opening, saw almost 400 This work, a thread based installation Culture Magazine, Aedín McGinn, people including locals, councillors, was a symbolic nod to the Athlone Athlone’s multi- Visual Art Coordinator with Athlone business people and artists from Woollen Mill once located across the Arts and Heritage said: the region come to celebrate not river (see pg 19). million euro gallery “The schools programme has had only the building but also the A total of €3.4 million was invested has welcomed more an overwhelmingly positive reaction. inaugural exhibition Borrowed in the development of the gallery, Pupils from schools from across Memories. with funding partners – Border than 2,500 visitors the region come to the space, enjoy The Borrowed Memories theme Midland and Western Regional a guided tour and then retreat to referenced the memories and Assembly, the Department of Arts, and has engaged the workshop where they are invited associations of the building, and Heritage and the Gaeltacht and with over 25 to create their own art works in resulted in a selection of work that Athlone Town Council. response to the works exhibited. balanced Luan Gallery’s necessity It is so exciting to be part of this In September 2011 Athlone Town schools and to have regard for local and regional Council redeveloped a building in learning and we will work to build artists, as well as setting out its on this programme of workshops, Abbey Road (formerly the Fire community groups stall within a national and Station), for use as artists’ studios tours and talks for young and international context. via its education old alike.” facilities. This ensured that the IMMA’s (Irish Museum of Modern foundation stones of engagement programme. The Luan Gallery is the first Art) director Sarah Glennie said: with the visual arts community purpose-built municipal visual art “Borrow Memories has been long were already in place prior to the gallery located in the midlands and in the planning and one of our most Luan Gallery project being completed. marks a significant development successful partnerships to date.” Abbey Road developed an active for the arts in Ireland. To accompany the IMMA exhibition, programme of community events, The gallery, which was opened by a site specific artistic intervention, workshops, as well as a dynamic Minister for Arts, Heritage and the guided by the theme of Red Carpet range of short courses which are Gaeltacht on November 29, was was created by local artist Lorna now complimented by the educational designed by Keith Williams Architects Kincaid – the founder and project activities in the gallery. who also designed the Wexford Opera director of the Athlone based M House and the Civic Offices in Athlone. Making Space Collective. “Art can be provocative and controversial” by Briege Madden When a Fine Gael councillor called provocative and controversial, requests Republicaines IV’ (by Shane Cullen) is for the removal of a contemporary art that the exhibit entitled Fragments within the strategy adopted for the installation from the new Luan Gallery sur les Institutions Républicaines IV Luan Gallery.” in Athlone, Co Westmeath it sparked be removed as it is offensive to so What is for sure is that this debate a debate regarding the role of the many people.” sparked local public interest and arts and evoked polar emotions. Cllr Cooney acknowledged the fact discussion in the arts and from many Hughie O’Donoghue Blue Crucifixion, In January Cllr Mark Cooney, whose that art is subjective but in this who may not normally visit a gallery or 1993–2003. Oil on linen canvas in 3 father Paddy Cooney was Minister for instance, he said that he objected encounter art such as this– which panels 330.2 X 823cm. Collection, Irish Justice ‘during the Troubles’ in the to and still objects to the content of some might even argue is the Museum of Modern Art. Gift, The American Ireland Fund, 2010 1970s, claimed the installation was the art. He felt that all the families of purpose of art at its finest. “offensive” and should be removed. those killed or maimed at that time in Created by Longford-born artist Shane history would find this offensive and Cullen and titled Fragments sur les asked that it be removed. Pictured are Shane Cullen, Minister Jimmy Institutions Républicaines IV, the The Town Council voted to refer Deenihan and Daphne Wright. artwork is based on a collection Cllr Cooney’s demand to the board Photo: McInnes. of Republican prisoners’ messages of Athlone Art and Heritage and the smuggled out of the H-Block prison board’s decision was not to remove in 1981. the artwork. Cllr Cooney tabled the motion at the “While the board of Athlone Art and monthly meeting of Athlone Town Heritage is aware of the range of views Council. He asked: “This council in recently expressed and is satisfied congratulating Athlone Art Heritage that the current programme, entitled Ltd’s successful opening of the Luan ‘Borrowed Memories’ and including Gallery and noting that art can be the piece ‘Fragmens sur le Institutions

18 UPCOMING EVENTS March – May programme is firmly WovenRed grounded in the work of artists and projects from the midlands. The gallery plays host to two separate exhibitions by local and regional artists. In residency in the Luan Gallery’s New Gallery is Engaged a group exhibition comprised of work by artists who have completed residencies in the gallery’s sister venue Abbey Road Artists’ Studios, among them Laurence O’Neill, Lesley Wingfield and Margo McNulty. M Showing in the Library Gallery space is A Very Grand Canal, a multi- disciplinary group exhibition of artistic responses to the Grand A temporary art installation by Lorna Canal in Offaly and the River Gallery will see the next instalment of Shane Cullen’s ‘Fragmens sur les Kincaid showcased at Luan Gallery Institutions Républicaines IV’ displayed. A temporary artworks existence is skyline are slashed, segmented Lorna; a local artist from Ballymore, Miriam Mulrennan, Manager of brief, Woven: Red was showcased and framed. This interactive public Westmeath creates sculptures Athlone Art and Heritage said: during the opening show of Athlone’s art piece can be viewed from several and installations with a focus “…the March – May programme Luan Gallery. As an outdoor piece it vantage points – from across the on participation and social components sit well together as is exposed to the elements and its river, from the bridge, from the river engagement. Lorna wanted the the artists and the artworks are lifespan is short. But an artwork can gallery, from the boardwalk – it can creation of this art work to be a themselves all of – and from the be so much more than the finished be walked under, looked down social experience so she enlisted midlands. This is a real celebration piece it lives on in the documentation upon and peered through. the help of artists from the Making and photographs that are evidence Space Collective who are based in of place and practitioner, and we Woven:Red also lives on in the of its existence, proof it was Athlone. The process of collaboration, have a breadth of media in these memories of those who came, saw, once there. teamwork and sharing as well as shows which includes print, painting, and experienced the artwork. As an the conversations and arguments Woven: Red is a site specific thread outdoor piece it became part of the sound-scape, sculpture, documentary all contributed to making this installation commissioned for the landscape of Athlone, people going and text all cohabiting across the artwork a social sculpture. opening of the new gallery. The about their daily routines such as three spaces.” M concept, by artist Lorna Kincaid walking the dog or going for a jog. who was guided by the theme ‘Red The piece has a local resonance Carpet’, was motivated by the idea being situated across the river from of revealing and concealing. This the site of the old Athlone Woollen abstract composition invades the Mills which burnt down in 1940 space and alters the everyday and installed in the former workers experience of this public walkway. hall. This giant loom with its fiery As you walk under the geometric red colour pays homage to the hood its linear patterns creates history of its location. web like angles. Through these angles the building, its vista and

Patrick Graham Ark of Dreaming, 1990 Mixed Media on canvas, 180 x 346cm Éadaoin Fleming amongst Daphne Wright’s Collection, Irish Museum of Modern Art Where do Broken Hearts Go, 2000 Purchase, 1991 Photo by McInnes

19 WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN IRISH MIDLANDS CONCERT ORCHESTRA?

IMCO was founded in 2010 by Vincent Hunt (cellist, teacher, and director of many orchestras in the midland region), who also conducts the group and is assisted by Assistant Conductor John Kenny. The members of the IMCO are primarily college and post-college students, semi - and professional musicians, teachers, capable amateurs and retired musicians. The age range varies as well as playing ability with music set for a Grade 5 standard and above. IMCO members come from all over the midland region such as Portarlington, Portlaoise, Stradbally, Birr, Mullingar, Dublin and Carlow. money together to get our first studio. There are currently 25 members With a lot of money back then all you got was a mixing desk and a multi-track. and they are open to recruiting For the same amount of money now you new members of any part of the would buy an awful lot of equipment.” orchestra, especially string players.

Those changes in technology have IMCO has the whole range of changed the landscape of music. instruments; with a very strong PAUL Coping with those changes is part and wind and brass section. parcel of staying viable: “The changes IMCO works through a varied make things less difficult. Most of my repertoire of music, from classical job now involves mixing stuff that GUERNEY people recorded in their own bedroom. I orchestral pieces to Irish ballads and have dedicated rooms, for example a airs to modern music from films and live drum room. This provides tools that musicals. Besides having all of the AN ICON OF THE home recording can't. The technology members play orchestral music as a makes the job a lot easier. When we whole ensemble, they also split the were doing edits years ago you literally group and perform music specific had to take a razor out and splice a to the wind instruments and tape and if you got it wrong there was music specific to the string section. MIDLANDS no undo button.” Currently the group is working on music from composers such as A lifetime in music, be it as a session Correlli, Dvorak, and Offenbach. musician or with Rig The Jig, has given MUSIC SCENE Paul many memories: “I suppose doing IMCO meets twice a month on a the Eurovision in 1997 was the highlight Sunday from 10am–1pm Mullingar SPEAKS WITH THOMAS LYONS that immediately comes to mind. I have Arts Centre, Mullingar and are also worked with some fabulous people. currently working on scheduling a Creating music and Starting out in the early 1980s there Being so blessed as to work with the concert for some time in May. was less opportunities to make a career cream of the cream of Irish music. facilitating the creation of out of music, but Paul was pretty single Donal Lunny, Sharon Shannon, Charlie Trip to Tallin: Last year IMCO travelled music for over 30 years, minded about what he wanted to do: “I McGettigan and Matt Molloy, I really to Tallin in Estonia to participate in came from a background in electronics have worked with some incredible the European Orchestral Festival. Paul Gurney is an icon and, being a musician as well, this path musicians. We've had songs up at For the future IMCO hope to once again of the Midlands’ music seemed like a natural way to go. I had number two in the charts. We are still my heart set on having a studio from a writing songs and using the studio as a take part in the European Orchestral scene. This multi-talented very young age. I remember being up in creative tool.” Festival in 2015 and as it is set for Ireland to be the host of this Festival, performer, producer and Dublin once or twice and going past With such an impressive past behind IMCO's aim is to have their orchestra Windmill Lane and sneaking a look in to him Paul intends to use it in the future: teacher has had chart be one of the highlighted performances see what is going on. It was rare to get a “Right now I am teaching music more and ensembles of the event. M success, played with look, so you can imagine the dream of than anything else. I will also be owing my own studio was also rare.” some of the top names handing down the studio knowledge For further information or if you are in the Irish music scene Starting out back in the analogue era that I have amassed over the last 30 interested in joining the group things were very different. The years. For young people with all this check out the Irish Midlands and his work as a technological advancements of the last technology at their disposal it's one Concert Orchestra on Facebook or 20 years have meant that the cost of thing having the tools to record a contact Kimberly Melia on producer is much hundred tracks it is another to know creating music has come down: “I 0863751604. sought after. remember a few of us putting our what to do with them.” M

20 festivals 2013 LONGFORD Artists The idea of a LOVELongford community arts new festival to show pride in the community festival is hardly either new or very ARTISTS LOVE LONGFORD WRITERS LOVE LONGFORD MUSICIANS LOVE LONGFORD Artists Love Longford is one element of Writers in Longford will use their talents in Musicians Love Longford and they will innovative however, a much wider programme entitled Love a variety of ways; poets and prose be showing just how much – in a series Longford whereby people from every writers will write imaginary pieces of small intimate performances in Longford artists walk of life, every strata of society and inspired by their home town. venues throughout the town and also in every ethnic background will come a number of large scale events such as Submissions will be printed in The intend to develop together to pool their talents and to the Biggest Choir Ever in the Midlands Longford Leader each week and a prize share their interests with one single which will perform in the Market Square for the winning poem, prose or an arts festival this purpose in mind – to show pride in their on the Sunday of the festivals and a reminiscence piece will be presented at community. whole range of local musicians and a literary night during the festival. All summer from a bands will perform on the Parade While the precise programme of events the contributors will be video recorded Ground of Longford Army Barracks on a very important and are still evolving a series of five solo and reading their work and the readings will family day which ends the festival. original stand point. group art exhibitions have been be uploaded to Longford’s literary scheduled by professional artists and website www.virtualwriter.net According to the original festival amateur art groups in improvised promoter Cllr Gerry Warnock: When a requisite number of spaces in vacant commercial units on submissions of sufficient quality have “We have always known that Longford Longford artists will organise a festival in the town’s busy streets. Art students in been received they will be collected and is a creative town, everybody is either June to showcase their talents and the secondary schools will create large published in a professionally edited friends with, or related to somebody highlight just how many talented people scale temporary public art features on a anthology of creative writing entitled, who has talent. There are whole there are in the community. Most theme of Love Longford. importantly they aim to demonstrate the The Town I Love So Well, if that title generations of families that have crucial role the arts can play, in the Lens-based artists will organise similar hasn’t already been used for something been associated with all forms of art developing of community pride and photography exhibitions small scale else!! This publication will be either from drama to music to writers. In community cohesion and essentially show night-time projections in shop windows, annual or bi-annual and will be the past this might not necessarily large-scale night-time projections on the published in partnership with The how people can be proud of their home been seen as a community asset, but town through the work of their local facades of buildings and, as yet, a highly Longford Leader. is very much so today. We propose to artists. secret community film based project. tap into that local reservoir of creativity and talent to make Longford a better place to live.”

Echoing that sentiment Mayor of Longford town Cllr Peggy Nolan MCC also stated: “We now live in a creative society where employment follows the creative work-force. Where employers look first and foremost for imaginative, creative, talented employees and where a clean safe environment and a convivial lifestyle are important considerations when investors are considering locating industry in an area. We, the members of Longford Town and County Councils intend to use events such as The Love Longford Festival and to use such assets as our local creative community to improve the quality of life of the people of Longford and to improve the quality of the ‘brand Longford’ for the betterment of the Longford's newest festival will take place in June following a entire community.” M very successful Aisling Children's Festival last year (pictured). 21 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013

WESTMEATH

What they said about “Inner Self" (2012) Barbara Lüneburg, David Stalling, Anthony Kelly Composition for violin, vinyl record, video, lighting, objects. Hilltown... Hilltown New Music Festival, performance view LAOIS Hilltown Studio Theatre was beyond my own experience is less easy, of as its right in the middle of summer term. course, but Hilltown represents a model of Performers, composers and artists from established in 2005 with its how things might happen, a coming Ireland and abroad can come together to flagship event, Hilltown New Music together through which there is no ease of listen to new music, exchange ideas, see Electric Festival now in its sixth year. slipping into old routines. The venues are and hear many innovative installations not conventional, the living is more or less where exciting visual and sound Programme details of this year’s communal and there is nowhere to run off technologies can be experienced. I have venue to music festival, which takes place and take care of some other business. always found it a great source of inspiration on July 20 and 21 can be found Then it becomes more than music as a for my work, as it has become a festival host forestry habit performed to familiar faces and in where no barriers exist and new ideas can at www.hilltown.ie. standard settings; the music, the be explored. Its success is testament to soundworks, listening, the weather, eating, the vision of Fionnuala Cawkill, joint and bio This year has seen many new conversation, unexpected meetings and artistic director of the Hilltown Studio developments at Hilltown – the the spontaneity of events all conspire to Theatre and the festival curators, David energy show appointment of Rory Cawkhill as Joint create a more intense idea of how sound Stalling and Anthony Kelly. Artistic Director; two new intensive theatre work that is demanding can be meaningful Grainne Mulvey is an internationally and film training courses and the and spread its influence out into the world recognised contemporary composer and This May Stradbally Hall enhancement of facilities at Hilltown as a lived practice. her music has been performed in many including the creation of new workshop Estate, the home of the British writer and composer David Toop countries in Europe.Two of her works have spaces. whose recorded output including solo and been released on CD by Black Box Music. famous Electric Picnic music In addition, other art/craft groups being recent collaborative works is in the vein of She is a member of Aosdana and currently festival will host The Irish invited to apply to use the venue, either to experimental ambient. Well known as a teaches composition at DIT Conservatory organise their own events or to conduct journalist and music historiographer, David of Music and Drama. Forestry, Woodland and Bio their own training programmes with the is the author of two widely hailed books, hope that the venue will become a major Q. Describe the Hilltown experience? Energy Show 2013. Rap Attack and Ocean of Sound as well as A. The openness of the space and the contributor to arts/crafts events in the a contributing editor and columnist for UK The bi-annual event takes place on Friday, north Midlands. garden in the middle of all different stages experimental music magazine The Wire. facilitate that people talk to each other. May 10 and Saturday, May 11 and will Q. If I was asked about Hilltown …? He was a featured guest artist at Hilltown Members of the audience can feature a wide range of forest and A. If I were to be asked about Hilltown New Music festival in 2012 and the sound immediately, directly and on a personal Festival then I’d like to be given the woodland machinery with all the ancillary installation he developed for the festival can level react on the performances. challenge of explaining how a small rural be viewed on site. activities that go with tree growing and festival of experimental music can be Often visitors approach the artists after harvesting. A large part of the machinery Q. What is so special about Hilltown important and enriching. The answer for their performances to inquire about the Studio Theatre? section will include chainsaw and fire log me as a participant is quite easy to give: I compositions, to share their own A. Hilltown Arts Centre is special in many equipment with major international felt immersed in an inspirational setting, perception of it and to learn about the ways. Firstly it is located in a very beautiful companies exhibiting. empowered to work in a way that is not thoughts of the artist him- or herself. In my part of the country in the heart of usually possible for me because of opinion this immediate personal encounter The show will also host the National Tree Westmeath. The house and buildings are commitments and context and all the other is one of the main attractions that the Climbing Championships. For further of great historical interest and contain complexities that prevent us from fulfilling festival holds to many of the local visitors. information contact: [email protected] beautiful spaces in which to work. ourselves, and I felt in the company of The artist serves as exemplifier for art that Secondly, Hilltown has an easygoing always interesting, often brilliant people is lived and experienced as something atmosphere that masks a serious desire to belonging to real life. The audience can who enabled a fluid, collaborative and David Wilkinson, organiser of the National create excellent work in co-operation with build a personal relation with him or her. environmentally- aware approach to working Forestry and Woodland Show, pictured here the local community. Thus they feel the artist's passion and with sound. To say why this is important in Stradbally Hall Estate with members of I have found the location and space mixed authenticity on a very direct level, which with the attention to detail of the people at facilitates their access to new music that TreeCare Ireland and Husqvarna Ireland, Hilltown to be a special combination. The otherwise, might not be there. And vice who will be hosting the National Tree Westmeath people I have worked with versa it allows the artist to get to know Climbing championships at the event in May have also contributed to this feeling. his/her audience in a direct way. Paul Meade is a writer, director, actor and Barbara Luenburg from Germany artistic director of Gúna Nua theatre. His work has established herself with her as a writer includes Scenes From a Water performances of the violin and the viola as Cooler, Skin Deep (Stewart Parker Award a major interpreter of classical and 2004) and he directed the Award winning contemporary music. She has won various play Little Gem. Paul teaches classical text European violin competitions and is a at The Lir (National Academy of Dramatic founder member of Hamburg based ensemble Art) and acting at Inchicore VEC. Intergales. She has been a principal Q. What do I think of The Hilltown performer at Hilltown New Music festival since its establishment. M “FLATTIME/sounding>silencing> Festival? lightening>darkening” (2012) A: The Hilltown Festival is always a vibrant For further details about Hilltown David Toop, Anthony Kelly, David Stalling. event. It is set in such an idyllic setting, with email Rory at [email protected] Drum, light, mechanical devices, nature shavings. a wide variety of spaces and environments Hilltown New Music Festival, installation view. and it also occurs at the right time of year, Images are by Doreen Kennedy.

22 festivals 2013 A SHAKEFEST OFFALY SHAKE UP New Acts and Themes announced for Shakefest 2013

Eight years on, Shakefest grows from Shakefest will also provide an eclectic Charleville Castle has been named as strength to strength and will be offering mix of family orientated workshops official headquarters. Dedicated much more interactive activities and ranging from Poi, Irish Dance, African enthusiasts of the Gaelic Kilt will, as part performances for all ages. Shakefest Dance, and Communal Drumming with of The Gathering 2013, meet to discuss takes place once again at the beautiful Fuinneamh Bounce, Hula Hoop, and the future of the traditional kilt through Charleville Castle, starting at 12pm on giant winged friends such as Dragonflies workshops, activities and discussions. Saturday, May 25th, with overnight camping and Butterflies, a wing making workshop, Members from across the globe are available on the castle grounds. Slam Poetry Tent, Juggling, Stilt walking expected to attend and will include A highlight of Shakefest is international a Samba parade, a Dance Competition entertainment from Kilt dancers guest instructor Mariel Sitka from with prizes up to €1,000 and much from Scotland. Argentina, who will share her knowledge more entertainment. The above activities Tickets for Shakefest can be purchased of Egyptian Oriental Dance with a (plus more to be announced) are all on at the gate or at www.shakefest.net or SHAKEFEST, A Celebration complimentary workshop on finger offer for kids and families between 12–6pm. www.brownpapertickets.com and range of Dance and Culture, was cymbals. She will be conducting three For those camping overnight, or who from €10 general admission, €10 camping, formed at Charleville other workshops on Tunisian, Nubian stay on, evening performances €20 family day pass or only €15 for African and Classical Oriental dance for highlighted will be the Multicultural evening entertainment. Gates open at Castle, Tullamore in 2006 Irish students. Hafla, followed by a daring Fire Show 12pm. All proceeds will be going towards with an eclectic mix of Also featuring is KHI (Knight Hospitaller by The Red Embers and special guests Charleville Castle Restoration Fund. Middle Eastern, Cultural Ireland) medieval re-enactors who will Babylon’s Inferno. To finish the evening Shakefest is supported by Offaly Local in a cultural and energetic crescendo, Dance and Artistic be treating audiences to Combat Re- Development Company, Offaly County enactments of the Crusaders Knight’s Shakefest hosts Gypsy Kleizmer Band Council, The Department of the Workshops that ended with Templar as well as providing authentic The Underscore Orkestra from the USA. Environment, Community and Local a multicultural evening of Medieval tents and full try-on armory New to Shakefest this year will be the Government and the European and archery for all ages. much-anticipated Gaelic Kilt League Commission. dance performances. International Conference of which M CAFÉ MUSIC NIGHTS sorts of musical collaborations such as O’Dwyer said: “We are delighted that AUGUST 22 the hearty and well-establish finery of the Arts Council awarded us funding to Different Trains and a Bird Fancier’s Delight the string quartet, exotic and sensual build on the enthusiasm of last year. We Spanning the centuries from Modernism to expressiveness of guitar, voice and would like to encourage all music lovers the Middle Ages, come take a walk through an extraordinary palette of musical colours accordion, intimate delicacy of solo who would like to see this project grow Artists: ConTempo String Quartet soprano recorder and the earthy raw into the future, to please offer your Bogdan Sofei violin • Ingrid Nicola violin power of large ensemble partnerships! support, by attending the concerts and Andreea Banciu viola • Adrian Mantu cello The Cafe Music Nights Project will also enjoying the music, by spreading the Sean Carpio percussion • Helen Hassett support the creation of new music as word to friends, colleagues and family, soprano • Laoise O’Brien recorder Aoise O’Dwyer viola • Siún Milne violin well as provide a platform for recent and by letting us know what you think about the events as they unfold. This Adele O’Dwyer cello • Dermot Dunne commissioned works, which will be accordion programmed comfortably alongside a concert series is your concert series - richly endowed listing of 'greats' from grasp it and hold on tightly!” M OCTOBER 3 the classical music repertoire. Adding FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, TO ORDER Razoumovsky to Transfigure the Night spice to the classical bulk, Cafe Music TICKETS OR TO REQUEST A BROCHURE: A journey of contrast visiting the treasures of Mozart, Beethoven, Schoenberg and Nights invites you to come and enjoy a [email protected] Single Tickets €15 purchase in advance or O’Carolan with short excursions to delights little bit of the musically unexpected too Music lovers in the midlands on the door. yet unknown! - don't shy away from the electrifying SPECIAL OFFERS Artists: ConTempo String Quartet have an opportunity to performances of work which herald ‘Circle of Friends’ (6 tickets for the price of 5) Bogdan Sofei violin • Ingrid Nicola violin experience broad and from the realms of jazz and world or ‘Full Series’ Ticket €60 or ‘Mini Series’ Andreea Banciu viola • Adrian Mantu cello music! Ticket €40. All events in the Tullamore Anne-Marie O’Farrell harp • Ellen Cranitch, flute eclectic musical repertoire Dermot Dunne Accordion • Adele O’Dwyer cello The Café Music Nights Project has been Rugby Club this year in Tullamore in a created in response to the overwhelming COMING UP DECEMBER 5 new concert series called public demand expressed following the MAY 9 A Fitting Finale Artists: New Dublin Voices Chamber Choir Café Music Nights. success of the first Café Music Night in Dreams, Prayers and Arguments in the Dåil August 2012 where a sell out crowd of A feast of curious combination await those Director: Bernie Sherlock • Yurodny Leader Co-curated by professional musicians who dare to attend Nick Roth New Dublin Voices have placed 120 were treated to performances by in the top 10 best chamber choirs in the Adele O’Dwyer and Dermot Dunne, they Artists: ConTempo String Quartet the ConTempo String Quartet and friends world by Intercultur 2012. have brought together a collection of up in a diverse and colourful programme of Bogdan Sofei violin • Ingrid Nicola violin Andreea Banciu viola • Adrian Mantu cello to 10 artists per concert and created BOX OFF: More information can be found on music designed to spark the interest Paul Roe clarinet •Nuala Hayes actor uniquely designed programmes which the Cafe Music Nights FACEBOOK page, and curiosity of a whole new audience. Alex Petcu percussion • Dermot Dunne offers audiences the chance to hear all Tel: 087 6855050 and/or Speaking of the programme, Adele accordion • Adele O’Dwyer cello email: [email protected]

23 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013

OFFALY

HAVE A FLEADH- BULOUS TIME THIS YEAR IN OFFALY

Its Fleadh time in Offaly in 2013 as the county will host both the Offaly Fleadh and the provincial Leinster Fleadh Cheoil. The Offaly Fleadh, run by Ballyboy Comhaltas under the leadership of Chairman Michael Buckey, will take place in the town of Kilcormac on the weekend of May 10 to 12. The small town borders the picturesque village of Ballyboy and is located between Birr and Tullamore. Kilcormac has a proud tradition of hosting both county Fleadhs and Celebrating over four Leinster Fleadhs in the past along and is home to some well renowned musicians, singers and dancers. Competitions will be located in various venues decades and Gathering throughout the town and include Scoil Mhuire, The Kilcormac Development Association (KDA) Hall and the new GAA centre. A shuttle bus will be provided for those who need to travel momentum between venues speedily. There will also be a gig-rig located in the square in Kilcormac. Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival will Since the Festival began the arts have artists for all ages will also feature. Here local musicians and dancers (and celebrate its 45th anniversary during played a central role. This year’s This year’s arts programme will include a possibly some not so local) will perform to August and is one of Offaly's flagship professionally curated Visual Arts Trail will performance from international German entertain visitors. It promises to be a great festivals for The Gathering 2012, along deliver a high quality, engaging and soprano, Kerstin Doelle accompanied by weekend of craic and ceol! Bígí ann! with Tullamore and Rhode. thought provoking arts programme with up flautist, Karin Leitner; theatre performances, THE LEINSTER FLEADH CHEOIL The Festival is delighted to be participating in to 100 local and visiting artists showcasing contemporary dance from Legitimate In addition to the Offaly Fleadh, the provincial The Gathering 2013 and as part of its work in all media. Bodies Dance Company and School of Fleadh – The Leinster Fleadh Cheoil – is contribution has extended the length of Exhibitions will be located across the town in Rock gig. being held in Edenderry and is being run by this previous seven day occasion to an over 20 non-traditional spaces with plenty One of the undoubted highlights of Birr the local Edenderry CCÉ branch under the eight day experience to encompass all the of artistic surprises in pop-up shops and Vintage Week & Arts Festival is the stewardship of Chairman Tom Bourke. events which will make up the all-inclusive studios occupying previously vacant spaces! spectacular parade which brings thousands of Edenderry has become a real musical Festival Programme, which promises a Artist’s talks, demonstrations, hands-on art people onto the streets of the town to powerhouse in the local and provincial scene dynamic range of vintage and modern and craft workshops by actors, filmmakers, enjoy the displays from marching bands, over the last number of years having hosted events for all ages. dancers, musicians, performers and visual vintage cars, tractors, bicycles and some of the most successful county Fleadhs in recent times along with being home to some household musical names and some real up and coming stars. Having not rested on their laurels, following BEALTAINE THROUGHOUT the successful county Fleadhs, Tom and his committee have gone from strength to communities, Offaly Arts Officer, Sinead strength and succeeded in landing the Leinster OFFALY BEALTAINE 2013 O’Reilly explains why in Offaly, this is being Fleadh for 2013 in Edenderry. They have a The tenth anniversary of Bealtaine of Offaly County Council, Birr Theatre and expanded upon: “Last year we undertook huge amount of preparation and planning in Offaly celebrates 1963 when the Arts Centre and active retirement groups an evaluation of Bealtaine in Offaly, completed already with a great number of knowing that we were coming up to our Beatles and JFK came to Ireland around the county, the 2013 festival is events planned. There is great emphasis focusing on the year 1963 - the year that US tenth year and we realised that we needed All of Offaly’s active, free-thinking, young on this year’s Leinster Fleadh as being a President John F Kennedy paid a three day to take a fresh look.” at heart over 55’s are invited to make the week long music festival. There are many visit to Ireland; the year The Beatles She explained that a core focus was getting 2013 Bealtaine Festival the most concerts, gigs and performances taking arrived in Dublin to perform a show and more people involved. “The festival has great memorable one yet. place in the town in conjunction with all the the year Brendan Bowyer and the Royal participation among active retirement groups competitions that the weekend will bring. Organised by the Arts and Library Services Showband become the first showband to and care centres, but beyond that, many This will really be an action packed week and reach number one in the singles chart with people over 55 are not connecting with will provide great entertainment for all ages Kiss me Quick. the festival. When we looked at the which takes place in Edenderry from July 6– 14. Bealtaine is a national festival which celebrates demographics of the county, we realised For more information on these great events look creativity in older age, and it has been that only eight per cent of those over 55 at the Offaly Comhlatas website on developed by Age and Opportunity since 1995. are involved in an retirement groups while www.offalyfleadh.com. M the majority of people over 55 who are While the national theme this year is Grow working and active don’t consider that Happy – a call to celebrate growth, spring they are in older age!” and positivity for ourselves and our 24 festivals 2013

LIVE MUSIC FOR FREE AT The Gathering - NATIONAL Ireland’s open MUSIC DAY arms for 2013 National Music Day gives people a chance to hear Throughout 2013, Ireland is quality live music throughout opening its arms to hundreds of Ireland and Offaly for free. thousands of friends and family from all over the world – calling Free live music events will be heard in usual and some unusual public places them home to gatherings in across Offaly as well as scheduled gigs. villages, towns and cities. Last year audiences in Offaly were treated Communities throughout Ireland to jazz in a shop in Birr (Miles O’Bog); a are showcasing and sharing the big band in the lobby of Tullamore Hospital very best of Irish culture, tradition, (Tullamore Town Band); a chorus at the checkout in Dunnes Stores (Tullamore machinery along with community floats, BECOME A VOLUNTEER! business, sport, fighting spirit and Concert Choir) and a bagful of bagpipes equestrian entries and some of Irelands’ The importance of sponsorship, the uniquely Irish sense of fun. at Edenderry Town hall (St Cholmchilles finest street theatre companies who will organisation and manpower has Pipe Band) as well of lots of singer also entertain the crowds after the Parade, Over 70 million people worldwide greatly increased in recent years with songwriter and traditional music events and add to the festive atmosphere. claim Irish ancestry. The Gathering local support and participation the key throughout the county Approximately 100 more events will take to the success of this festival. The Ireland 2013 provides the perfect This year National Music Day takes place place throughout the Festival including the organising committee is very grateful to excuse to reach out to those who Ormond Flying Club’s display of aircraft and all the funders and sponsors who on Friday, June 21 with the hope of entertainment at their Spectacular Air Show, recognise the enormous positive impact have moved away, their relatives, bringing music to more towns in Offaly - the Artisan and Craft Market with its large of the festival on the towns’ commerce friends and descendants, and so keep an eye in June look for more range of stalls and fantastic variety of and community development and who invite them home. The Gathering information on FREE Live Music Events. sights and aromas and the Festival Mass support the events so generously. Also check out www.offaly.ie/arts or log celebrating the community’s activities is the people’s party. It kicked Festival patrons are encouraged to on to the Offaly Arts Facebook page during the week with choirs of the parish and acknowledge their generosity and to off in spectacular style at the and/or www.lovelivemusic.ie for instrumental music, to mention only a few support those who support the festival! New Year’s Eve Festival in of the vast events planned. national events. The Organising Committee constantly Dublin and is being celebrated With annual favorites, new events, vintage If you are a musician in Offaly and would welcomes new members and ideas for like to become involved give Offaly Arts flavour and modern entertainment the through gatherings of the people this Festival so for anyone interested in Office a call on 057 93 57400 or e-mail forty-fifth Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts becoming involved please contact us and Ireland’s major festivals [email protected]. M Festival will be an exciting and vibrant through our Facebook page, Birr during 2013. week celebrating Birr’s remarkable heritage Vintage Week and Arts Festival. The and culture, inspiring participation and festival will run from Friday August 2 to For further information and to be part of enjoyment in everyone who makes the effort Saturday August 10, 2013. it visit www.thegatherinireland.com to come out and sample the events. M THE MIDLANDS

When asked why the county had decided to theme the event around 1963, she added: “In 1963 (50 years ago) important social and political milestones were achieved, which needless to say impacted on cultural development, nationally and internationally Have your event included - Martin Luther King delivered his ‘I have a dream’ speech to over 250,000 peopl in in Laois Bealtaine 2013 Washington DC and Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman in space. It is LAST year well over 3000 people took Arts Group in Áras an Chontae opening on In addition, the Dunamaise Arts Centre’s hoped that looking back at this era will part in all kinds of arts activities in Thursday May 9. programme will include a packed inspire people to explore how far we have county Laois from an intergenerational Also scedhuled is an inter-generational programme of events including film come culturally and socially.” dance project with young and older dance and writing projects with the 50 plus screenings, dance workshops and talks. people participating together to Whether you are part of a group or an active retirement association. The Arts Office, Laois County Council will exhibitions, concerts, writing workshops, individual, Offaly County Council wants to publish a comprehensive brochure that will theatre performances, and film Performances by The Carnation Theatre hear your ideas and what would make you include all events happening in the county screenings in venues and centres Company and the Laois Federation ICA want to go out and be more involved in the in May. If you would wish to have your countywide. choir for residents and out patients in St Offaly Bealtaine Festival. Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick and in event listed in the 2013 brochure please For more information call Offaly County Council Confirmed events for 2013 include an Abbeyleix District Hospital are also contact 057 8664025 or email Arts Office on 057 93 57400 or see exhibition of paintings by the Heath Ladies programmed. [email protected]. M www.offaly.ie/arts for more information. M 25 A look at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre as it celebrates 125 years

Nestled in the tree-lined 1930s Oxmantown Mall, Birr Theatre In 1934, the Oxmantown Hall was & Arts Centre is a dedicated purchased from the Church of Ireland Board of Trustees by Mr John Murphy of purpose built theatre, which Emmet Square, Birr, who ran, what was dates from 1888. It is one of then, the old cinema in the town. For the next two decades the hall was to become the oldest theatres in Ireland; a major centre of activity and entertainment pre dating the Abbey (1899) within Birr town, both under John Murphy’s and the Gate (1928), with the ownership and under the ownership of his son, Mr Henry Murphy. Gaiety being the oldest, still In 1934, Mr JI Fanning produced several functioning theatre in Ireland plays there before his Birr Little Theatre of JM Synge’s The Playboy of the Western with proceeds of their annual productions (1871). was inaugurated in that same year and World which was put on in the Oxmantown going to pay off the renovation debt. In opened by the playwright TC Murray. Hall for eight nights in December. The early 2008, Offaly County Council cleared Originally known as Oxmantown Hall, a main obstacle to producing plays was the outstanding amount of €30,000 During the 1930’s many bands, dramatic cultural landmark in Birr, the building the heating system, which had become allowing the Centre to concentrate on shows and traveling companies visited was constructed as a purpose-built concert unreliable, and throughout the 1970’s its development of the arts in the town Birr, and all of these would have performed hall and theatre. The design was based and ‘80s the hall gradually became derelict, and surrounding region. at the Oxmantown Hall. In general, such on styles of architecture, which the being used only by Birr Badminton Club. Countess of Rosse had noted while in acts must have enjoyed visiting Birr, as The venue has succeeded in attracting Germany. the Oxmantown Hall was at that time one acts such as Dixieland clarinettist Acker of the best-equipped halls in the country. Bilk, Dubliners legend Ronnie Drew; Bond The hall was constructed from local The stage was large, the lighting good 1990s girl, Honor Blackman; musicians Andrew limestone and took eight months to and there was little need for amplification In 1992, minor restoration of the hall was Lloyd Webber, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Jack erect. The building featured Elizabethan- as the acoustics in the hall were excellent. undertaken in order to house the temporary L, Duke Special and many more. The many style half-timbering on the façade with Most of the shows were seasonal, being Birr Museum of Childhood and Social celebrity visitors to the Theatre have brick lining to the side windows, while performed mainly during the summer History’. Renewed interest prompted Offaly included Hollywood actors Holly Hunter the interior included tinted windows, hot months. Many of the greatest names of County Council, Birr Town Council and a and Aidan Quinn. water pipes for heating, four gasoliers Irish theatre appeared at the Oxmantown small group of interested locals to purchase hanging from the ceiling, painted Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, led Hall, including Maureen Potter, Jimmy the hall under the ‘umbrella’ of Birr spandrels, and decoration in terracotta by artistic duo Nick Bryson and Cristina O’Dea and Anew McMasters. Scientific and Heritage Foundation. and wedgewood blue. The hall was Goletti, was established as resident dance officially opened on January 15, 1889. In 1994 Birr Stage Guild secured a lease company at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on the building and was established as in 2007. In a very short time they have The King’s County Chronicle reported: 1954 a limited company. A grant was approved been seen on the international stage In 1954, the Oxmantown Hall underwent in 1996 for the re-development of the having performed in Mexico, Cypress, “Oxmantown Hall, standing on the extensive renovation. The old stage was hall from the Department of Arts, Vienna, Italy, New York and Brussels centre of the Mall of the same name taken out and replaced by a smaller one, Heritage, Gaelteacht and the Islands. (Parliament Buildings), Northern Ireland peeps out from amongst and avenue and a new maple floor which is still there Funding also came from LEADER and and the UK, all while flying the faithful of trees, facing north...” the report today. However, the old bar and supper the Arts Council. flag for Birr and Offaly. room – which had been located underneath Restoration work began in 1997 and went on to describe the opening, saying: the stage – was filled-in, and for many Birr Theatre & Arts Centre was officially “By 8.15 the Hall was completely included a new roof, dry-lining for the opened by President of Ireland, Mary patrons this represented a loss for the hall. walls, and retractable tiered seating to a filled, jammed to the door: some 150 McAleese on June 29, 2004. Employing capacity of 220. In additions, the dressing eight people and with over 135,000 who had no tickets having forced the rooms were relocated to the rear of the patrons through the doors to date, Birr cash into the door-keepers’ hands 1968 building. The main frieze was restored, Theatre & Arts Centre is going from a sophisticated lighting and sound system and themselves into the porch.” In 1968 the first of Birr Stage Guild’s Good strength to strength. The Centre greatly was installed, and the original gas lamps Olde Days variety shows was produced acknowledges the voluntary input from The hall quickly became a centre of in front of the building were renovated. during Vintage Week. Subsequently, these the Board of Management, Front of House activity in Birr, housing everything from shows became a regular feature of the staff and ushers who contribute dramatic productions to orchestral annual festival and were always held at significantly to its success. concerts and local dances. The Bowyer- the Oxmantown Hall. Westwood Company, grandparents of 2000s This summer, Birr Theatre and Arts Centre Brendan Bowyer presented a week of will celebrate its 50th programme Since opening the doors to the public in opera in September 1928. With 30 first of events, so please keep an eye July 2000 and renamed as Birr Theatre class artistes, chorus and orchestra, the on the programme by visiting 1975 & Arts Centre the building has played people of Birr were treated to Maritana, www.birrtheatre.com or following Although Birr Stage Guild, founded in 1958, host to many theatrical, music, dance Carmen, The Lily of Killarney, Il Trovatore them on Facebook. M staged most of its productions in the and classical events and more. In those and The Daughter of the Regiment - all Marian Hall during these years, one earlier years, Birr Stage Guild played a Sources: A Brief History of Birr by Oisin Deery; for the sum of three shillings (15p) per night. notable exception was its 1975 production huge role in the financing of the centre Birr Theatre & Arts Centre Archives.

26 Unearthing a local textile tale from the Famine era by Mary O’Connor, Edenderry

Local cultural traditions, particularly those unique to the Midland’s are easily lost in an age of modernity and new technology and through the Midlands Arts and Culture Magazine we are delighted to provide a platform to safeguard their stories.

BRENDAN The stitch known as the Offaly Famine The women used worn hessian sacks, Stitch (pictures) was taught to my late which were manufactured locally in mother by the late Mrs Nan O’Sullivan Clara and were used by the farmers COLLUM BOG of JKL Street, Edenderry. She was well to hold produce, such as potatoes known being the sister of the onetime and vegetables oftentimes loaded on parish priest of Edenderry, Fr John to their pony and carts to sell to the OAK SCULPTOR Killian who hailed from Rhode, where local grocer or were bartered for their parents were primary school sacks of flour, tea and sugar. teachers. The women also used remnants of speaks with Thomas Lyons My mother met Nan when both were wool which were left over from hand The wood itself is As things progressed I realised that patients in the local Cottage Hospital knitting jumpers and socks and caps people wanted more artistic pieces.” around 1956. Mrs O’Sullivan was for their families. extremely hard. It has to also known as an accomplished pianist The self-taught artist has been and gave music lessons in her home. They cut the sacks into suitable be dried for a few years experimenting and researching with shapes and made cushion covers, Bog Oak over the years: “It is difficult ORIGINATION table centres and covers for the before it can be worked to work with. The wood itself is This stitch originated in an Ireland cradle and decorated them using the on. Like wine you have extremely hard. It has to be dried for reeling from the effects of the coloured wool remnants. The bright a few years before it can be worked Famine. In this predominantly colours were attractive addition in the to mature the wood, on. Like wine you have to mature the agrarian post-Famine society, the white-washed kitchen and the wood, otherwise it will crack. It is agricultural community, particularly cushion covers in particular were a otherwise it will crack. hard on tools and it is hard to work farmers wives were motivated by welcome addition to the hard seat of on, but it takes a lovely finish.” thrift and the “waste-not-want-not” the settle bed and the hand carved Brendan Collum Bog Oak Sculptor motto was practised with great wooden chairs. M speaks with Thomas Lyons Over the years his eye for design and regularity in everyday life. The artistic works of Brendan Collum the process has changed and developed. are so popular that they have been Brendan has a great love for the brought all over the world and grace artistic sculpture of the natural roots the homes of many famous names. that suggest the shape of the piece. Thousands of years in the making his “It is a pleasure to work on it. I really pieces represent a link between the enjoy it,” Brendan explained. “There artistry of the earth and the guiding hand is a mystery as to what shapes will of the craftsman who creates them. emerge as I work on the wood, I can get a root and it will be covered clay Using fire, water and wood Brendan and fibres before I start. I work with creates unique pieces of art that are fire and water as well as the wood. much sought after. Over the last three Sometimes I would get a big twisted decades Brendan has developed his root and initially it would be very art and his business: “I am over 30 unsightly, I would go over it with a gas years working with Bog Oak. When I torch and burn off the dead material, first started it was mostly souvenirs. then I would power wash it and the Items with Irish emblems like harps, shape would begin to emerge from it. Celtic crosses and shamrocks. I I help the shape along” started turning different woods at first and the items that were the most The quality of the Drumlish craftsman popular were those done in Bog Oak.” is such that his work has been presented to many famous names down through Brendan’s passion for his craft is the years. Mary McAleese, John Hume, evident when he speaks about what Alex Ferguson and countless sports he does: “I was fascinated with wood personalities and community activists turning right from the start. When I have been awarded his work. started turning pieces of Bog Oak, If you would like to know more about which is readily available around my Brendan’s work visit his website at area, I was selling it to craft shops. www.bogoakart.ie. M

27 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | WINTER 2011/2012 Face-to Face-

Briege Madden goes Face to Face with Music Generation Laois’ Rosa Flannery to find out what the Donegal native thinks about living in the midlands and what it was like meeting U2 legend The Edge!

Rosa tell us... what is Music Generation? Music Generation is Ireland’s National Music Education programme. It helps children and young people access music education in their own locality. 6 Music Generation projects are now up and running in the work doesn’t stop there. Creating stranger to the midlands – having on to continue the development and Country, Louth, Mayo, Sligo, Wicklow, performance outlets and ensembles worked with NOMAD Theatre Network expansion of the project. Cork City and Laois. In Laois, Music for students to participate in is key, which tours to various venues in the Generation provides performance including commissioning new works midlands. Prior to coming to Laois, I Being from Donegal...how are you music tuition in a range of contexts – that meet the needs of our ensembles. worked with the Donegal Music finding living/working in Laois? primary and post primary schools, Education Partnership, co-ordinating What are some of the best/worst Local Tuition Centres, Youth Clubs How important is the initiative? a large-scale cross border community things about being based in the and After School Clubs. Ireland has a wonderful culture of music project ‘The North Wind Blows.’ Midlands? music-making, however, for children I find the heavy fog very strange! But I Can you tell me a little about your and young people there is huge What’s happening with Music love the quirkiness of the midlands… role as Co-ordinator, Music disparity in who does and does not Generation Laois at the moment? the figures of speech, the accents – Generation Laois? get to participate in music education We have six programmes up and and I find it hard to resist the fact This is a new project, which and music-making. The current running, with 24 schools and centres that the midlands is such a central commenced in April 2012, with eight recession has heightened this now participating in our programmes. location. programme strands; Harp, Brass, disparity – Music Generation Laois Our Stampede Drummers performed Uilleann Pipes, Choral/Singing, an seeks to reach out to children and for The Edge in Dublin in January What would you say to any young Orchestral programme, a School of young people in the county, offering which was a wonderful experience for person to encourage them to get Rock, The Music Box – a programme subsidised music tuition in a variety those young musicians. We are in the involved in Music Generation? for children and young people with of instruments in a range of genres. process of setting up our School of Come, hear, see, try – there are so special needs and Stampede For example the Glee Clubs we are Rock – there has been immense many instruments out there – try them!, Drumming – a world percussion offering under the choral/singing interest in the school to-date. There are so many opportunities to programme. programme have been hugely successful sing – join the Choral Revolution!. – there is great interest in popular What has been your stand out Meet new people and develop skills My role is multi-faceted, recruiting music genres like Rock and Pop. memories to date with Music that you will carry with you for the rest Tutors, developing relationships with Generation Laois? of your life. schools and other youth organisations You have a wealth of experience in Needless to say, the experience of in the county and establishing arts administration and music meeting and performing for The Edge What's next/your ultimate goal? programmes with schools and youth education tell me about some of will go down in Music Generation Laois To organise a large-scale inclusive organisations. Once a school or a your previous positions. History! Our Open Evening in September performance that brings together young youth organisation comes on board, I completed the MA in Arts Policy and 2012 was extremely exciting. I find musicians from the eight programme Music Generation Laois supplies Practice in NUI Galway, and went on that now, 10 months into the role, strands of Music Generation Laois. instruments and lessons – but the to work in Galway Arts Festival and hearing how the original cohorts of M Tulca Festival of Visual Arts. I am no students have progressed, drives me

28 Siofra Marum (Music Generation Laois) and The Edge An Audience with the Edge

Music Generation Laois’ Co-ordinator of Music Generation In response to the announcement Laois, Rosa Flannery, said: "This was a made by Ruairi Quinn TD, The Edge Stampede Drummers milestone event for Music Generation said: “We are absolutely delighted that travelled to the Laois! The Edge was so responsive and the Department of Education and Department of Education indeed energised by the Stampede Skills has committed to the long-term Drummers performance, and chatted funding of this brilliant Music The current and Skills in Dublin in easily with the group before they took Generation scheme. The response has recession has January where the young to the stage. been incredible with over 5,000 children and young people getting “It was so positive to see the young heightened this group of musicians met music lessons. It is a source of great musicians receive recognition for their with and performed for pride for U2 that along with The Ireland disparity – Music musical talents. Performance is central Funds we were able to step in and the legendary Edge to playing an instrument and for these Generation Laois keep it going after Government cut young musicians to travel to Dublin from U2! backs put it in jeopardy in 2009”. seeks to reach out to and perform for The Edge – well that really is a pinnacle moment,” she Between September and December The performance took place at the children and young enthused. 2012, over 21 schools and centres people in the county, inaugural Seminar for Music Education participated in Music Generation Laois Partnerships, presented by the The group of performers, who range in programmes. The Music Box, offering subsidised Department of Education and Skills in age from 9 to 15, enjoyed significant Stampede Drumming, brass, harp, partnership with Music Generation. national publicity on RTÉ News, RTÉ uilleann pipe and choral programmes music tuition Radio and in the national press are now firmly established, and further in a variety of Under the direction of drummer Eddie including The Irish Times, The Irish expansion is planned for 2013 O’Neill, the six young Stampede Independent, and The Irish Examiner. including the commencement of a instruments in a Drummers performed for an audience School of Rock and an Orchestral At the seminar, the Department of that also included Minster for programme. Music Generation Laois range of genres. Education and Skills, announced their Education and Skills, Ruairí Quinn and continues to expand across Laois. M commitment to fund the Music Paul McGuinness, U2’s well-known Generation initiative on a phased basis For further information, see manager. www.musicgenerationlaois.ie or call from July 2014. Music Generation Laois on 057 8674370

29 In an exciting initiative aimed at bringing the arts, and specifically the written word in rhyming poetic form, closer to everyday life in the town, Tullamore Rhymers’ Club has launched the first edition of its chapbook, Under The Fading Lamp.

Rhymers’ Club members at the ‘Readings From The Pallet’ event in Banagher last year. Back row, left to right, Seamus Kirwan and Anthony Sullivan. Front row, left to right, Ken Hume and Thomas Carty. writings in rhyme

Written, funded and produced by and chip away at the visions “At the moment anyway, we are Club, revealed the groups’ the Rhymers’ Club, the chapbook they’re chasing, so there you have looking to publish three editions reasoning for this approach. takes its title from lines in the the obvious relevance of the lamp.” this year. If each can have a Thomas Kinsella poem, Mirror in lifespan of at least a week or two Tullamore Rhymers’ Club are: February, which reads: “Under What the Rhymers’ Club hopes to with a little bit of profile, plus Thomas Carty, Ken Hume, Willie the fading lamp, half dressed – achieve with Under the Fading whatever may come beyond that, Rimes, Seamus Kirwan, Jillian my brain/Idling on some Lamp is quite simple, as revealed then we feel we'll have achieved Britton-Batty, James Delaney, compulsive fantasy...” by Ken Hume: “What we want to something in the way of making a Cormac Lally and Anthony Sullivan. do is provide people with an contribution to the artistic life of The club celebrated its first Speaking on the subject of the opportunity to read poetry from the town during the year...How official anniversary last January. title shortly before the launch, local writers on a more regular that contribution is viewed, of During that year, members have, rhymer Thomas Carty explained: basis and in a relaxed, informal course, or the response we get, is amongst other things, published “As poets, we sometimes find way such as when they visit the not something we can think too collections, been invited to meet that our minds are never fully library or when they’re enjoying a much about because it's beyond President Higgins, taken part in turned off from the writing cup of coffee in somewhere like our range of influence really. It the Tullamore Arts Festival and process. Even as we go about the Chocolate Brown’s [in Tullamore], will be what it will be.” helped co-ordinate events to mark business of our day to day lives, for example. National Poetry Day. The Rhymers’ the wheels of rhyme are ever “All we can do,” said Séamus, “is hope 2013 is every bit as turning and often times it’s in the “The books are free, so if anyone put something out there and see creatively busy, challenging, midst of the very ordinary and wishes to take a copy home with what happens. But I think, in any exciting and rewarding! necessary acts of living where life them they’re more than welcome artistic process, the very act of is actually glimpsed a little to do that. If not, the idea is that creation is the most important Tullamore Rhymers’ Club wish to clearer, be it for the best or people will read as much as they thing. Any issue of judgment, express their sincere thanks and otherwise, and within those want to and then when they're matters only very slightly in the gratitude to everyone who has moments, poetry is born.” done, just leave it there where overall context of events.” supported their Under The Fading they found it, for whoever comes Lamp project, and in particular, to The poet continued explaining: along next to hopefully enjoy, too!” The first edition of Under the artist Chris Tyrrell for his fantastic “This is what happened with Fading Lamp was officially cover illustration. Copies of Under Kinsella while he was shaving. Another member of the Rhymers’ launched at a low-key, no fuss the Fading Lamp can be obtained And of course, all writers have Club, Séamus Kirwan, detailed affair in Tullamore Library at the from any member of the club. spent late nights and early the groups’ plans for future editions end of February. Willie Rimes, mornings trying to build and craft of Under the Fading Lamp. another poet in the Rhymers’ M

30 encounterCreating a daily with the arts in Edenderry Public Access Arts is Offaly’s newest centre for the arts, based in JKL Street in Edenderry with the remit to promote how people encounter the arts in the town, and to encourage arts participation with a strong emphasis on community convergence.

Offering a broad-based programme of visual, performing and literary arts, being painting in its many guises. They also acted as a useful educational aid, with art accessible and involving the community is its tune! teachers in the local secondary schools bringing students in to see the work.

Public Access Arts is a non-profit organisation that supports the belief that This was followed by An Duanaire, a fine art print exhibition by the artists of community-based arts provide significant value both to communities and artists. Leinster Printmaking Studio in Clane and their colleagues from many parts of The people behind the project come from a range of creative disciplines but all Ireland (who together include members of the RHA and Aosdána). The theme of share a passion for year round and sustained access to culture in the town. The the exhibition was based on the anthology of Gaelic poetry from 1600 – 1900 team include: Timothy Mann, a professional artist with a keen interest in called An Duanaire compiled by the Irish scholar Sean O’Tuama and translated community projects who is managing the project; Catherine Mann, an artist and into English by the poet Thomas Kinsella. This was a traveling print exhibition, arts educator; Niamh Fitzgerald, a musician and educator; Denis Baker, a graphic which Public Access Arts were delighted to have hosted. The show also involved designer who runs his own business (Unlimited Design); Aidan Kelly, a journalist poetry readings from the secondary schools and the local community and working for RTE and Newstalk; Eithne Mooney, a community activist and included Brendan Cummins, a sean nós singer, who performed on the opening programme manager with a keen interest in the arts; Danna Davis, an actor and night. singer who has worked on Broadway and Sinéad O’Reilly, Arts Officer for Offaly County Council who has been advising and supporting the project. But Public Access Arts is more than a gallery space, with theatre forming part of the programme at the Gables in Larkins. The play, Dead Men Walking, written Public Access Arts opened in November 2012 and its first project, entitled The by local writer Padraic Seery, was an opportunity for an audience to experience Crowded Room invited people to come into the space and make outline drawings the same one act play performed twice but with a slightly different cast and of one another onto large sheets of paper, effectively making a portrait of the different endings. This was followed by a critique with the Director Gay Veitch and community. The participants varied from school children, local Gardaí, bank staff, writer Padraic Seery being interviewed by the playwright Eugene O’Brien. The an MEP and many more. This was also documented using time lapse audience participated enthusiastically in terms of questions and voicing their photography by local artist Veronica Nicholson and can be seen on You Tube by preferences. clicking on the following link, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGcVdB9yfNc (or search for Crowded Room). The future is to build on what has already been accomplished in a few short months by engaging the community and collaborating different creative The project was facilitated by Timothy Mann, who explained: "We wanted to find disciplines and by encouraging and nurturing different arts projects that will a fun way to actively engage and encourage the local community to get involved enrich the cultural life of Edenderry. and take ownership of this new creative space in Edenderry. Speaking about how the project is being financed, Timothy said: “So far the "It created a great buzz in the town and we had almost 2,000 figures drawn onto project has been run on a shoe string, with a lot of voluntary hours put in. Going the piece. We followed this with an open Christmas show of work by local artists, forward, funding will be a challenge but to be viable we aim to think like a giving local artists the opportunity to display and sell their artwork in a business, and encourage the role of patrons, supporters, sponsors, enthusiasts professional space. Keeping the programme fresh, innovative and varied is and volunteers to ensure it can continue and to go from strength to strength. important for keeping audiences interested.” Without art we only exist!”

The first one-person show was by local abstract painter Louise O’Brien, whose For more information on Public Access Arts, follow its page on Facebook or email large colourful canvases brought light to the dark December days. They [email protected] or contact 086 606 5487 M challenged and intrigued the many visitors and expanded the appreciation of 31 An unexpected marriage of art and golf has produced a hole in one for Mullingar’s Lucy Tormey, as the Midlands Arts and Culture Magazine’s Briege Madden discovers. Lucy Tormey

Following a chat about our travels of it. Back in 1985, you just didn't “I am a painter and over breakfast, I soon uncover how tell people in Art College that you playing golf for Ireland as a young played golf. It didn’t work together, what I produce is fairly child has led Lucy on an unexpected so I stopped playing and went off expressionist in a way. journey… to Bethlehem! into my new life. I learned to paint In 2009 the visual artist went to a and draw and forgot all about golf.” I love colour. Someone major sporting event to rekindle Years later, Lucy started playing once described my her love of golf, which has created golf again and began thinking that a very successful and somewhat maybe there was something she work as ‘Mullingar accidental merger between her could do with golf artistically and meets Mexico’ and craft and the sport that can still decided in 2009 to go to two golf bring her out in a cold sweat. tournaments. that describes it well. And begging the question of whether “The local golf club commissioned I love to take an art imitates life or life imitates art, I one of my paintings as a gift for the find out that the burning question bishop and I used the funds from ordinary place and doesn’t really matter. According to the sale of that painting to go to absolutely blast it Lucy: “It’s totally intertwined and Bethlehem, near Philadelphia, for inseparable.” the Ladies US Open Golf with colour.” Tournament.” Mexican Dreams Lucy explained that she was painting around Westmeath and She then made work based on her will happen...My plan has always working on themes of instinct and experiences from the tournaments been to make a living from the arts memory, for a number of years, and following the same process as somehow and I am managing to do before hitting on the idea of her landscape paintings Lucy came it in a nice way at the moment. I am mingling both art and golf. back with her strongest memories excited and really enjoying the people and then made them in the studio. I am meeting and the fact that I am “I am a painter and what I produce making paintings regularly.” is fairly expressionist in a way. I love When Lucy finished her paintings colour. Someone once described my she sent them to someone she The former Loreto College student, work as ‘Mullingar meets Mexico’ knew who was managing a major who has also worked as an art and that described it well. I love to golfing event coming to Ireland facilitator at Mullingar Resource take an ordinary place and later that year and “it has just Centre, a training centre for adults absolutely blast it with colour. opened a million doors,” ever since. with intellectual difficulties, for the last 10 years explained the “It is an unusual marriage [art and She jokes: “Obviously I still harbour importance of making art golf] because the two don’t really some anxiety about golf...but I’m accessible to all. go together and I had a lot of really grateful for it. shame about it too,” laughed Lucy. “I just think that art is an essential “I truly believe that if you are part of everybody’s life and is “I played golf when I was a kid and I following your path in life, if it feels especially important where I work. played for Ireland but when I went to right, if it seems right doing it and Everybody should to be able to or college in Galway, I was so ashamed with good intentions then things

32 ABOUT LUCY... 2006 • Tyrone Gutherie Centre Residency. 2001 – PRESENT • Arts facilitator at the Mullingar Resource Centre 2001 • Facilitator on ArtReach project, Longford 1999 – 2001 2013 • Arts facilitator, Siol Resource • Work on loan Windmill Lane Centre, Mullingar Stidios 1998/1999 2012 • Member of the board of directors • Limitless Solo Show Inspirational CAFÉ Arts, Dublin 1998 Lucy with the Curtis Cup Team 2012 • Curtis Cup exhibition, Featured Artist at the Nairn Book & Arts • Artist in residence, Westmeath Community Development have the opportunity to express Magazine that it is actually the artists Festival themselves, their true self,” she said. at Mullingar Resource Centre that • Event artist Curtis Cup, Nairn, 1997/1998 Scotland The eldest of four explained that have influenced her most. • Participant on first accredited delving into a career in the arts “They make art without questioning 2011 training for community arts trainers, was fully supported by her parents or with the need for someone to say • Event Artist Solheim Cup, Killeen The Learning Wheel, CAFÉ. and that there was even a kitchen it’s good...they make art in such a Castle, Co. Meath 1993 – 1998 wall dedicated to her and her natural, true and pure way, to me 2010 • Facilitator with various siblings’ doddles. those guys are just incredible artists.” • Exhibition of work at the Irish Community Arts goups, VTOS, “My parents [Sylvia and Simon] were After spending most of January Ladies Open, Killeen Castle. VEC, HSE, WCD. very supportive when we were kids. clearing away the cutter, Lucy EDUCATION I am lucky to have very free thinking explained: “I am in a phrase right 2008 • NUIM Adult education awards via parents and they never stopped me now where I just want to reset. • Instinct & Memory Solo show, Visual Arts Studio & Gallery the Learning Wheel from doing anything.” “I have quite a bit of work on, which • City & Guilds in Graphic Design The artist whose hero’s include golf is great and I have a couple of plans 2007 • Painting and Printmaking, GMIT legend Suzann Pettersen, her folks just going quietly in the background, • Collection of group shows involving • Loreto College, Mullingar and now her sister’s kids told the but I haven’t got any shows booked Midlands based artists. WORK IN PUBLIC & Midlands Arts and Culture Magazine yet. Ultimately my greatest wish for • Three Colours Love Solo show PRIVATE COLLECTIONS. that as well as art being “central” myself and in terms of my prayers 2007 – 2008 • Westmeath Co. Co. and “part of us all,” it is “vital” is that I can survive on what I am doing. • Proprietor of the Visual Arts Studio • Tullamore General Hospital socially as well. It doesn’t really matter to me about & Gallery, Mount St. Mullingar Commenting on the recent controversy acceptance, I just would like to make • Hosted a series of exhibitions PUBLICATIONS to have artist Shane Cullen's piece a living out of what I am doing.” and activities. • Frontline Magazine removed at the Luan Gallery in Athlone, M • Visual Arts Ireland she said: “Everybody has the right to an opinion but you have to accept that something is one person’s creation and not take things too personally around it. The most important thing that a society needs is to have people within that society that shed light on things from a different viewpoint or a different angle. You might not like it and you might not agree with it but it is such an important thing for us all to have in our lives and to have in our society.” When asked about her best memories from 2012 Lucy said that being the featured artist at The Curtis Cup, Nairn, Scotland, was a lovely experience and a standout memory to date. Lucy who is a big fan of Frida Khalo, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Edvard Munch and the “sublime”, yet undiscovered, Christine Foard, told the Midlands Arts and Culture

All Square playing 9th (Curtis Cup 2012) 33 Midland Arts and Culture Magazine | SPRING 2013

DNA

Stradbally Youth Theatre will perform DNA by Dennis Kelly The Midlands in the Dunamaise Arts Centre on Saturday May 4 at 3pm where they will join forces with the Arthouse Artist-In- MOVEment Residence, Cóilín Rush to welcome you to the murky realm of herd mentality, a realm where the menace of WAVE what is grimly termed “casual violence” is ever present.

A group of teenagers do something bad, really bad. A “bit AN ALTERNATIVE of a laugh” at a school friend’s expense rapidly descends into something a lot more sinister. When the inevitable happens, SPACE TO DANCE there is blind panic and an elaborate cover-up. Recrimination THE Midlands It is inspired by examples such as goal of 'improving' the dancing of an and finger-pointing among Funky Seomra in Dublin, Wicklow individual But rather provides an the perpetrators soon surface MOVEment WAVE Dance Co-op and Galway Dance opening for a shared group frequency. as the trauma begins to affect Project as well as European initiatives each of the characters. (MiMWave) is an such as Lunch Beat. The hope is that The key ingredients of MiMWave are the Midlands can become another A welcoming space for self-expression initiative started meeting point, which can also provide through dancing and moving. They examine the question - a different type of space for dancing A music mix that provides a wide could it ever be right to do by Nick Bryson of for all interested. There is huge variety of familiar music building and something bad to one person for Legitimate Bodies benefit to authenticity and self- subsiding in rhythmic energy – the sake of a lot of people? awareness through dance movement. ‘The Wave’. Dance Company, In summary "ARRIVE, LIVE IN THE For more information contact: MOMENT, MOVE." A facilitator who helps the space to Laois Arts Office on which will commence happen and then merges into MiMWave is an alcohol-free open participation. 057 8664025 or in Birr Theatre & Arts dance space (for ages 16 –100) email: [email protected]. Centre on the evening lasting for around an hour and a half Payment that is by donation, in other Tickets €8 adults €5 for Youth that does not intimidate by being doo words it comes from the heart if you Theatre Members and Students of May 3, 2013. ‘difficUlt’. It is not a performative thought the session has been of available from the Box Office space, rather it emphasise dance as benefit to you. Dunamaise Arts Centre, It is a response to an energy across an activity to find yourself, fi.d the 057 8663355 or online group and find social connections. Stay in touch with MiMWave through the country and beyond, driven by a www.dunamaise.ie. desire and a need to provide a more The qpace is experiential rather than Legitimate Bodies on Facebook or general open space for dancing than prascriptive and is first and foremost [email protected] a designated space for 'contemporary about partiaipation, there is an M Performance not suitable dance', or other dance form. The aim exchange of frequency between the for under 12s. M is to allow for mindfulness in movers and is thereFore a space for Photograph by Connor Buckley” movement. change. The event does not have a

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’s company in a challenging marketplace for business commitment to the pursuit of excellence in print and Government. Midlands-based Tempus Media and creativity in design. Clients in the arts sector specialises in five key areas - Publishing/ include: RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, RTÉ Copywriting, Public Relations, Media Training, Concert Orchestra, Music Network, Music for Galway, Lobbying, and Business Crisis Management. New Ross Piano Festival, County Council Arts Offices, Dunamaise Theatre, Birr Theatre & Arts Editor: ANGELA MADDEN Centre, Tuar Ard Arts Centre. Brosna Press operate Angela has more than 15 years’ experience in the 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: ANN QUINLAN 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 8664025 • [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 Arts Officer Midlands that you would like Westmeath County Council County Buildings, Mullingar Tel: 044 9332140 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 SPRING COURSES AT MCP The Midland College of Photography, which is now in its sixth year, offers its own selection of courses. It also operates the Longford Schools Photography Programme involving six secondary schools, in Longford, and one in Westmeath as well as organising the Longford Schools Photographer of the Year Exhibition and Awards Ceremony.

The College has unveiled its latest course offerings for the Spring of 2013, which An Introduction to Portrait/ Studio Photography will commence on Saturday April 20, includes the ever-popular FETAC Level 5 Digital Photography Course, which is 10.00am-1.00pm for six weeks (double lecture on last week). This will involve an on-going and will not be accepting applications until September. introductory examination of such subjects as: posing subjects, lighting techniques, framing, candid shots, photographer’s position and choosing the right location; for the Other courses taking place are The Introduction to Digital Photography for Beginners, advanced post FETAC Level 5 photographers there is a course available in which is for anyone coming to photography for the first time and will cater for both compact and DSLR owners and will introduce beginners to subjects such as memory storage Advanced Digital Photography: Still Life will commence Saturday April 13, 10am – 1pm and filing and composition techniques. for six weeks and finally there is the Industrial Photography Course (Post FETAC Level 5) which examines the cameras and materials necessary for photographing subjects for The course will commence on Tuesday March 12, 7.30-9.30pm for seven weeks and commercial reproduction aimed at intermediate level non-professional photographers Improvers Photography will commence on Wednesday 13 March, 7.30 – 9.30pm for who want to improve their knowledge of controlled lighting techniques commencing for seven weeks. 6 weeks on Saturday April 13, 2–5pm M

FURTHER DETAILS OF ALL OF THESE COURSES CAN BE FOUND ON WWW.MIDLANDCOLLEGEOFPHOTOGRAPHY.IE

Organisations, individuals and groups from the county are the new Print Studio at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre. One of the invited by Laois County Council Arts Service to apply for the artists must be an experienced printmaker and preferably a following awards and opportunities: member of a recognised print studio. Laois ARTS ACT GRANTS 2013 ARTISTS IN SCHOOLS Provision has been made by Laois County Council for the SCHEME 2013 payment of grants to arts organisations and individuals who Grants are available for artists’ residencies in schools, to meet the artistic and financial criteria set down by Laois County include all art forms. This scheme gives primary and post Council and who provide adequate information on their proposed primary schools the opportunity to select and work with Arts activities. Maximum amount payable will not exceed €1000. professional artists and explore new arts media. TYRONE GUTHRIE RESIDENCY BURSARY AWARDS 2013 Details and application forms regarding the above schemes are A Bursary is available to enable a Laois artist to spend one available on request from: The Arts Office, Laois County Council, Awards and week working at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre in County Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise, County Laois. Telephone: 057 867434 Monaghan. The bursary is open to artists in all fields and is Email: [email protected] or can be downloaded from the Opportunities selected on previous achievements and project/s in hand. Website: www.laois.ie In 2013 a special Bursary for Printmakers is available and will The deadline for receipt of project proposals is enable two print artists to spend a week sharing and working in Tuesday 2nd April 2013.

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