All Club Comedy Dance Festival Music Talk Theatre
| MUSIC | Beyond the Barricade | September Beyond the Barricade MUSIC Beyond the Barricade, UK’s longest running Musical Theatre Concert Tour, returns to Ireland following its sell-out show in 2018. Celebrating its 20th year anniversary in 2019, this spectacular show features past principal performers from the professional production of Les Misérables. The accomplished troupe including David Fawcett (Valjean), Andy Reiss (Enjolras and Resident Director for the National tour of Les Mis), Katie Leeming (Eponine) and Poppy Tierney (Cosette), together with a live band, capture the feel of the original orchestrations of the chosen musicals and every note is played and sung live. The brand new show for 2019 includes some of the best numbers from the popular musicals in Broadway and the West End such as The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, Miss Saigon, Blood Brothers, Hamilton and many others, with a stunning finale from Les Misérables. Beyond the Barricade, the brain-child of Directors Andy Reiss and David Fawcett has delighted audiences in UK, Europe, Asia, New Zealand and Australia over the last 19 years. Don’t miss this spectacular show, an absolute must for musical theatre lovers. | 20th Sep | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Beacon | September The Beacon A Druid and Gate co-production THEATRE The world premiere of a new play by Nancy Harris Directed by Garry Hynes A mysterious accident. A dead husband. People are talking. Secrets are resurfacing from the depths. Is the past ever truly dead?’ Continuing their year of new writing, Druid presents the world premiere of The Beacon, a new play by Nancy Harris, in a co-production with the Gate Theatre, Dublin. Directed by Garry Hynes, this marks Nancy Harris’s Druid debut and her welcome return to the Gate Theatre stage after her adaptation of The Red Shoes in 2017. Commissioned by Druid in 2016, The Beacon will premiere at the Town Hall Theatre, Galway before transferring for a 4 week run to the Gate Theatre as part of Dublin Theatre Festival 2019. ‘We were delighted when Nancy accepted Druid’s offer of commission and thrilled when we first read The Beacon last year. She is a fiercely talented writer and it’s a particular pleasure to be continuing our year of new writing with this compelling and ambitious play’ says Druid Artistic Director, Garry Hynes. ‘In co-production with our partner the Gate Theatre and with a fine company of actors led by Jane Brennan, we look forward to bringing The Beacon to audiences in Galway and Dublin for DTF.’ ‘When Garry sent me the script of The Beacon I knew instinctively it was a play the Gate should be co-producing with Druid, as Nancy has her own distinctive voice and vision as an artist.’ said Selina Cartmell, Artistic Director of the Gate. ‘It is a great piece of new writing and we are very excited to have Nancy back at the Gate, as we partner with Druid for the first time.’ CastBeiv: Jane BrennanBonnie: Rae GrayRay: Dan MonaghanColm: Marty Rea Matinee: 28 September, 2.30pmPreviews: 20, 21 & 23 September, 8pmOpening night: 24 September, 8pm | 20th - 28th Sep | Buy |
| CLUB | Q Club - Decade | September Q Club - Decade The Q Club Variety Group CLUB 10 Year Anniversary Show All Ireland Youth Factor Winners and Twilight Dance convention Medalists return to the Town Hall Theatre to perform their 10 year celebration show, a fast moving fun packed variety show - singing, dancing and comedy sketches. Fun day out for all. | 29th Sep | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Alternative | October The Alternative Fishamble: The New Play Company THEATRE What if Ireland was still part of the United Kingdom? What if Home Rule had passed? What if there was no War of Independence? No Civil War? No partition? What if the island had only one soccer team?The year is 2019 and it is the eve of the Referendum. British Prime Minister Ursula Lysaght is returning to her hometown of Dublin to convince voters to Remain. With the threat of chaos in the streets, and personal conflict behind the scenes, the final debate is set to begin at BBC Dublin: Should Ireland leave the UK? The Alternative by Michael Patrick and Oisín Kearney is the chosen play from Fishamble’s A Play for Ireland initative. As part of its 30th year in 2018, Fishamble set out to find one big, ambitious play, that bursts with humanity, and tackles a subject about which the playwright feels passionate - A PLAY FOR IRELAND. This was a two-year process, in association with Draíocht, The Everyman, Lime Tree Theatre/Belltable, Lyric Theatre, Pavilion Theatre, and Town Hall Theatre, which encouraged writers to create ambitious plays that burst with humanity. ‘A Play for Ireland [is] the fruit of Fishamble’s provocation to playwrights to dream bigger. The production will premiere at Dublin Theatre Festival. Ireland had better be ready for it.’ Peter Crawley, Irish Times Cast: Karen Ardiff, Lorcan Cranitch, Maeve Fitzgerald, Fionntan Larney, Rory Nolan, Rachel O’Byrne and Arthur Riordan. Duration: Approx 2 hoursAge restrictions: 14+ with strong language, and depictions of violence. Fishamble's A Play For Ireland programme is supported by Tesco Finest, and transportation partner Irish Rail. This production is funded by The Arts Council. | 1st Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | Zorro - Forgotten Son Of Ireland | October Zorro - Forgotten Son Of Ireland A Rising Tide THEATRE William Lamport, the self professed inspiration behind the legend of Zorro, makes his move. Not happy to languish in the dustbin of history while a fictitional character steals his thunder, it's time to put the record straight. Zorro, however, has other ideas! Séamus Hughes provides the host body for this hilarious showdown in a one man romp that challenges legacy, ego and death itself. World Premiére perfomances before national and international tour in 2020. Running Time: 75m | 1st - 03rd Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Shane Clifford | October Shane Clifford COMEDY “The best comedian in Ireland, hands down” Blindboy Boatclub After ten years working in retail Shane Clifford decided, on a whim, to upload some silly videos to the internet. The videos dealt with issues such as mental health and masculinity through an original, absurd and most of all funny lens - and has gone on to become one of the most original and exciting new acts in Irish comedy. | 4th Oct | Buy |
| MUSIC | Now That's What I Call Country | October Now That's What I Call Country MUSIC A musical journey through the best country songs of the last 100 years performed live! A laugh and cry feel good evening with a history of country music thrown in. Featuring 30 all time great country classics performed by The Wagon Wheelers | 4th Oct | Buy |
| MUSIC | Vladimir & Anton - The Violinists | October Vladimir & Anton - The Violinists MUSIC The Violinists Vladimir & Anton - present Those Were The Days. An evening of songs and melodies we all love and remember, including Que Sera Sera, Hungarian Dance No 5, Russia's Kalinka, Jewish dance Hava Nagila, Danny Boy and Those Were The Days and many more Slovakian brothers Vladimir and Anton, are the fourth generation of professional musicians. Their unique style was inspired by travelling Europe with the family ensemble. Aged 19, Vladimir was due to start his studies at The Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava, in his father's violin classes, but a last minute change of heart made him decide to take a break from classical music altogether, and travel to Ireland. Just three weeks into his adventure, the loss of music in his life had a profound effect on the young man and in an effort to gain perspective and earn some much needed money, he started busking on the streets of Dublin. Performing the popular Viennese music of his homeland on the iconic Grafton Street, he found pleasure in entertaining the regular commuters that passed him daily. Ultimately he was fated to move from the street corners onto the concert circuit of Ireland. After winning several classical violin competitions, Anton continued studying music at some of the best European Universities,sometimes changing courses so he could study under some of the best tutors in the genre. Although learning classical violin, his curiosity inspired him to explore jazz and traditional gypsy music as well as inventing unconventional bow and pizzicato techniques. He had the chance to work with his brother for several one-off performances but after earning his 2nd Masters degree, he decided to join his brother and embark on this new artistic journey. Vladimir & Anton's performances include Dublin's National Concert Hall, London's Palladium and Belfast's BBC Proms. The brothers have collaborated with Katherine Jenkins and the BBC Concert Orchestra numerous times. Vladimir & Anton are passionate, exhilarating, breathtaking. Their virtuosic performances exude sincere musicality, allied with unique takes on familiar classics. A truly unique duo! David Brophy - Conductor | 5th Oct | Buy |
| MUSIC | All Tvvins | October All Tvvins MUSIC It’s not uncommon for bands to begin with grand dreams of future success, but for every realised ambition there are dozens that don’t progress beyond the practice room floor. When Conor Adams and Lar Kaye formed All Tvvins, their shared goal was to headline Dublin’s 1600-capacity Olympia Theatre – and that was achieved when they sold-out the venue last autumn, just weeks after their debut album ‘IIVV’ crashed into the Irish album charts at #2. “To achieve that in two years was pretty special and a real validation point,” beams Conor. “Our parents could go, ok, you do music in real life!” That sense of self-deprecation is never too far away from either All Tvvin, but they’re not the kind of people to ruminate too heavily on the long and often immensely challenging journey to get where they are today. Instead, being shortlisted for Album of the Year at the Choice Music Prize earlier this year symbolically closed the ‘IIVV’ chapter of their career. It was an era full of events that must’ve seemed a world away back when they set that initial goal. Along the way, they have toured Europe, played SXSW, shared stages with Arcade Fire, Foals and Pixies; performed at the 2FM Xmas Ball in front of 15,000 people; amassed over 10 million spotify streams; and Lar was introduced to The Edge of U2 fame, who was not only “very humble and a really nice dude” but already knew All Tvvins’ music. After a minimal break (Lar went to Iceland for a week, Conor chucked all of his equipment into his kitchen to create a makeshift studio), the duo soon “turbo-boosted” their writing process and released “Alone Together”, “Anything and “Crash” to finish off 2017. The band are currently working on their follow up album to their debut and are scheduled to release it later in 2018 | 5th Oct | Buy |
| MUSIC | Hudson Taylor | October Hudson Taylor Róisín Dubh presents MUSIC & special guests Hudson Taylor released their debut album “Singing for Strangers” in 2015. The multi-talented siblings having honed their craft busking on the streets of their hometown of Dublin as well as cities all over Europe. The album, which was produced by Iain Archer (James Bay, Jake Bugg), featured three big hits - ‘Chasing Rubies’, ‘Battles’ and ‘Weapons’. Since the album release, the brothers have been busy writing songs for their next record, and working with musical collaborators in Ireland, the UK and Europe. Hudson Taylor are currently putting the finishing touches to their second album, which has been produced by Ryan Hadlock, best known for his work with The Lumineers and Vance Joy, and is being mixed by Ruadhri Cushnan (Mumford & Son, Ed Sheeran). The band have had a very successful year in Ireland. They played to one of the biggest crowds of the weekend at the Electric Picnic festival in September, and their lead-off Irish single “Feel It Again” is one of the biggest national airplay hits of 2017. Having completed a run of arena shows with Picture This, they are currently midway through a sold-out Irish headline tour. Not forgetting huge gigs in Dublin in December with The Script and Kodaline. 2018 looks very exciting indeed for Harry and Alfie, as they head out on tour across Europe in January in support of their forthcoming new single “Run With Me”, before crossing the Atlantic for an extensive US tour in the spring. Standing Concert Doors 7.30pm | 10th Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | Griselda | October Griselda Irish National OperaPresentsAntonio Vivaldi THEATRE Sung in Italian with English surtitles Irish National Opera is thrilled to present a new production of Vivaldi's Griselda, an exciting opera that was premiered in Venice in 1735. Vivaldi is one of the world's best-loved composers, celebrated for having written The Four Seasons. INO's Griselda will be the first ever production of any of his operas in Ireland. The production of Vivaldi’s Griselda opens at the Town Hall Theatre in Galway on Saturday 12 October. Peter Whelan, who conducts the INO production, says that Griselda is “one of Vivaldi's greatest masterpieces: feel-good music that bursts with Italianate primary colours” and that it is also surprising for “the touching, heart-on-sleeve pathos of some of the slow arias”. The director is Tom Creed, whose last INO production, of Offenbach's The Tales of Hoffmann, is nominated for Best Opera in the 2019 Irish Times Irish Theatre Awards. He describes Griselda as “an exciting political and romantic thriller, full of passion, longing, betrayal and deceit.” Peter Whelan is the artistic director of the acclaimed Irish Baroque Orchestra. He will conduct the period-instrument players of his own orchestra in what promises to be a riveting production of an opera that features some of the most demanding vocal music of the 18th century. “a highly inventive score . . . full of flamboyant ingenuity” Opera magazine | 12th Oct | Buy |
| FESTIVAL | Baboró 2019 | October Baboró 2019 FESTIVAL The 2019 festival will showcase world-class, enthralling and thought-provoking work for audiences ranging from tots to teens, created by extraordinary artists and entertainers from Ireland and across the globe. | 14th - 20th Oct | |
| THEATRE | Wet Paint | October Wet Paint Patrick Talbot Productions Presents THEATRE A play written by and featuring Shane Casey(The Young Offenders) Fresh from his acclaimed performance as Billy Murphy in the TV series The Young Offenders and the feature film of the same name which preceded it, Shane Casey returns to the stage in the 2019 national tour of WET PAINT, a play he has also wrote. It’s 2005-the country is booming-Jambons are at an alltime high at €2. That blind opera singer guy is coming to Ireland for a special concert in Cork and tickets are impossible to find. Tony has a fresh tan from the Canaries; Pa is wondering how Liverpool will get on in the Champion’s League and Barry’s got a secret. Sound familiar? Inspired by his time as a painter decorator himself, Shane Casey’s very funny play depicts a day-in-the-life of two painter/decorators and their boss during the Celtic Tiger era, when anything was possible-at least inside your head. Also featuring Michael Sands and Tommy Harris Duration 110 mins including interval | 21st Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | Ger Carey Live | October Ger Carey Live THEATRE A Comic Journey Inside The Teenage Mind Ger Carey is back with his hilarious stand-up comedy show for transition year students. By secretly observing his subjects in their natural habitat, such as leaning on lampposts, in chippers, outside chippers, in shopping centres and sitting on any kind of steps, Ger has uncovered the weird and frightening world of the teenager! The aim of the show is to get teenagers to laugh at themselves and appreciate the differences of others. For Tickets Contact 059-9114118 | 22nd Oct | |
| TALK | My Wild Atlantic Journey | October My Wild Atlantic Journey TALK with Colin Stafford-Johnson Join wildlife film maker Colin Stafford-Johnson on a journey of discovery along the western seaboard of Ireland. Colin has been walking, exploring and filming wildlife along Ireland's wild Atlantic coast over the last 15 years. He recently presented the BBC series 'Wild Ireland - Edge of the World' - that featured some of his highlights. But there are many more! Come and hear tales of adventure and misadventure from years spent tracking down some of Ireland's most elusive creatures - all accompanied by stunning visuals that will make you wish you were there. | 23rd Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Waterford Whispers News | October Waterford Whispers News Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY Presented by Schweppe Curtis Nunn Starring Damian Kearney and Amy de Bhrún Directed by Barry Murphy Your favourite daily fake and funny news source is now a brilliant live show! The hilarious live show from the outrageously popular satirical website Waterford Whispers News returns on tour this autumn celebrating ten years online. in a stunning live show set in the WWN Newsroom, as our two TV news anchors – Áine Ní Lása and Les Duggan –deliver a rapid-fire, subversive, rollercoaster of a production complete with video reports, in studio interviews and spoof adverts that will have you in stitches and questioning every news broadcast you ever see afterwards. Show running time: 65 minutes (no interval) Age suitability: 16+ | 23rd Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Hound Of The Baskervilles | October The Hound Of The Baskervilles Rod Goodall & Steve Johnston THEATRE Rod Goodall and Steve Johnston, stalwarts and original members of Footsbarn Theatre Company, present a lively dramatization of the classic Sherlock Holmes story by Arthur Conan Doyle, in a new two-man show. This is a piece rich in live music, comedy and drama, for everyone to enjoy. Duration 60 minutes, no interval. For all ages. And also as part of the Druid SessionsThe Hound Of The BaskervillesSat 12 October 8.30pmMick Lally Theatre, Druid Lane, Galway Tickets available from Druid.ie or 091 568 660 | 24th - 25th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Dermot & Dave Live | October Dermot & Dave Live Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY Support: Danny O'Brien Dermot and Dave return with another ridiculously funny show. Every year,Today FM stalwarts Dermot Whelan and Dave Moore sell out just as quickly as many world famous acts – they’re just that popular. The pair have worked together in radio for over 12 years and are only getting better. Asked what people can expect from their stand up show, Dermot Whelan said: “Imagine a bonkers radio show that grows legs and arms and a head and starts firing out craic and waving its arms like an angry King Kong in that movie. Not even close.” Dave Moore commented: “It’s all our listeners’ favourite characters, stand-up, improvised comedy, music and an interactive gardening segment – what’s not to love?!” | 24th - 25th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Omid Djalili | October Omid Djalili Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY Legendary festival favourite, stand-up comedian, film & television star Omid Djaili returns to Galway. Intelligent, sometimes provocative and always entertaining. His stand-up is a hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. Multi-award winner and as seen in ‘Mamma Mia 2’ and on ‘Celebrity Apprentice’. Soon to be seen in ‘His Dark Materials’. "Did someone say National Treasure?" - Metro "One of the most joyfully smart, stimulating and entertaining comedians this country has." - Telegraph | 24th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Reginald D Hunter Facing The Beast | October Reginald D Hunter Facing The Beast Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY Reginald D Hunter returns to Ireland in 2019 with his highly anticipated brand new show. After twenty years of gifted storytelling and effortless dark humour, Facing the Beast showcases Reginald at his controversial and hilarious best. Reginald’s searingly honest material has garnered him a popular fan base that spans the generations. He is one of the few performers to have been nominated for the highly coveted main Perrier Award in three consecutive years. His appearances on television have included Have I Got News For You, 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown and the hugely popular BBC2 series Reginald D Hunter’s Songs Of The South and its equally successful follow up Reginald D Hunter’s Songs Of The Border, both of which documented the growth of American popular song. “HE HAS THE AUDIENCE IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND”★★★★ - Edinburgh Festivals Magazine | 25th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | The 2 Johnnies | October The 2 Johnnies Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY Please note the change of venue Live Podcast and Book Launch with very special guests Comedy heroes The 2 Johnnies are Tipperary duo Johnny B (O’Brien) and Johnny Smacks (McMahon) who effortlessly capture the uniquely funny side of all things Irish. Their popularity is such that their YouTube channel has had over 8 million views; they have 170,000 followers on Facebook, and have scored four Number One songs in the Irish iTunes chart. Their live show often features material too controversial to be broadcast and has been described by the Limerick Post as being like “Blindboy Boatclub on acid!” “Our audiences don’t hold back. If it’s not going well, they won’t be long telling you!” | 25th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Bernard O'Shea, Fred Cooke, Jayde | October Bernard O'Shea, Fred Cooke, Jayde COMEDY Bernard O'Shea, Fred Cooke, Jayde Adams, Pat McDonnell, and Andrew Ryan (mc) | 25th Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | Ardal O'Hanlon : The Showing Off Must Go On | October Ardal O'Hanlon : The Showing Off Must Go On Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents THEATRE Where Ardal comes from (small-town Ireland) there is nothing worse than showing off. Yet he is a professional ‘show-off’ who continues to do stand up comedy for money, a very shy show-off (and as a result conflicted) but a big show-off nonetheless (a disgrace to his family). So why does he do it? Well. Just when he thought he’d made sense of the world, when he thought he knew everything he needed to know. When he finally found a hat that he liked and learned how to make cocktails and learned how to relax sagaciously in a big chair. Just when he was about to quit airing his dirty linen in public and stop (for the love of God) showing off. The world shifted. Dramatically. The world fell off its axis. And is adrift in the universe. And needs saving. In an age of raging populism, MeToo, identity politics, the end of truth, the collapsing middle ground, peak avocado and £15 Gin and Tonics, and terrified of being on the wrong side of history, and desperate to prove that his gender, race, age and class don’t necessarily define him, Ardal is forced to saddle his high horse again and ride fearlessly into the culture wars (with a white hankie in his pocket just in case), comedy as ever being the best emergency response mechanism to extreme events there is. Ardal O’Hanlon, star of TV shows such as Death in Paradise (BBC) and Father Ted (Ch 4) and My Hero (BBC), continues to tour his acclaimed stand-up show worldwide. Because he loves it. And it’s a compulsion. And the world is a funny place. ‘…a brilliant comic mind working away to get the most out of every superbly sharp line.’ - Timeout | 26th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Ross Noble - Humournoid | October Ross Noble - Humournoid Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY What happens when pure comedy takes human form? What happens when a creature is created and bred to do stand up? Nobody knows because that isn’t a thing. What is a thing is Ross Noble doing a show. You can come and see. This is it. Noble’s extemporising shtick is near unique and it can be dreamily funny to witness these streams of nonsense plucked from thin air - The Guardian | 26th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Bernard O'Shea, Dirt Birds, Totally Wired, Owen Colgan, Joe Rooney | October Bernard O'Shea, Dirt Birds, Totally Wired, Owen Colgan, Joe Rooney Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY Bernard O'Shea, Dirt Birds, Totally Wired, Owen Colgan, Joe Rooney (mc) Best known for his Breakfast Republic show on 2FM as well as his starring roles in hit RTE comedy shows Bridget & Eamonn and Republic of Telly, Bernard O’Shea has become one of the major stars of Irish comedy. It’s a joy to see Bernard back at Vodafone Comedy Carnival. "O'Shea has the soft, buttery tones of Ardal O'Hanlon married to the kind of luxuriant angst, glorious vulnerabilities and fabulous impromptu raging that reminds you how extraordinary stand-up can be." – The Scotsman | 26th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Jason Byrne - Wrecked but Ready | October Jason Byrne - Wrecked but Ready Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY The Star of ‘Ireland’s Got Talent’ Jason Byrne has had a hard year. But he doesn’t want to talk about that. He’s wrecked but ready. Ready for a laugh. This show is a celebration. A celebration of triumph over adversity. A celebration of the fact that everybody’s got their own crap going on and they don’t need to listen to someone else moaning about their problems. So, leave your worries at the door and find out why ‘The Times’ described Jason as ‘The Outright King of Live Comedy’. 'Watching a new Jason Byrne show is a bit like witnessing lightning in a bottle'Edinburgh Evening News | 27th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | The Dirty Circus | October The Dirty Circus Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY The dirty circus was spawned many moons ago in the wild west of Galway.. Expect burlesque comedy, freaks, music, fire, contortion and circus skills. Our MC for the night is Mr Phil T.Gorgeous. Drag king, gender illusionist, male impersonator, weirdo…. call him what you want but there’s no doubt that whatever he is, Phil T. Gorgeous is ALL man……. well….. mostly. Performing with Phil, is the current Miss Burlesque Ireland, Ms Bella Curve SO LADIES, WEAR YOUR FINEST AND GENTLEMEN, DRESS LIKE GENTLEMEN | 27th Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | How to Square a Circle | October How to Square a Circle Aisling Ní Cheallaigh & Ronan Brady THEATRE ‘Just because something is impossible, doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying’ A heart-warming story of friendship, ego, love and the joys a cup of tea. With gravity defying acrobatics, aerial dance, cyr wheel and lots of laughter, dynamic duo Ronan Brady and Aisling Ní Cheallaigh, two of Ireland’s leading circus performers explore the realm of the impossible, where the possibilities are in nite. Circus/Theatre, suitable for all ages, How to Square a Circle is contemporary Irish Circus at its best. Duration 55 minutes, no interval. | 30th Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | SHROUD | October SHROUD Omnium Productions THEATRE By Bernard.Field Omnium Productions are proud to present SHROUD, the new play by Galway-based, Dublin playwright Bernard Field. SHROUD dramatises the panic, paranoia, obfuscations, madness, cruelty, delusions and lies behind the Catholic Church's handling of those clergy who abuse children. SHROUD tears the covers back that protect and shield those who love the dark. It is a gripping tale that asks profound questions not only of priests and bishops but of you and me. Running time 70 minutes. No interval. Over 15s. | 30th Oct - 02nd Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Michael English | October Michael English MUSIC Michael English makes a welcome return to Galway this October as part of his national concert tour! With his super band in tow, a brand new show lies in store and this year we are delighted that upcoming young country star Owen Mac joins the show as the special guest Michael is currently packing out venues all over Ireland and The UK for both concerts & dances. Michael and his talented band are renowned for their energetic performances and Michael's superb piano playing. He is dedicated to giving his followers an unforgettable show each time they see him. And with current accolades like "Entertainer of the Year" and "Songwriter of the Year "at The Sunday World country Music Awards and “Irish Male Country Artist of the Year” at The Hot Country Awards, the future is very bright for Michael! Michael has enjoyed recent success with hit singles "Jesse James" and "Music in my Heart" and is soon to star in his own musical which will tour Ireland and U.K | 31st Oct | Buy |
| THEATRE | Defending the Caveman | November Defending the Caveman Robert C Kelly and Theater Mogul Present THEATRE We are delighted to announce that one of Ireland’s top comedians, Tom O’Mahony will star in a brand new production of the hysterical smash hit comedy about life, loves and relationships “Defending the Caveman”. Visiting Galway for one night only, this hysterical look at the contemporary battle of the sexes is be a must-see. Olivier Award winning “Defending the Caveman” is the longest running one person show on Broadway and also in Las Vegas. Having toured to huge critical acclaim for over 20 years this newly updated production has been specially adapted for the Irish market. Duration 120 mins. Age Guidance 16+ | 1st Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Woman Undone | November Woman Undone Brokentalkers THEATRE Written by Gary Keegan & Feidlim Cannon (Brokentalkers) and Mary CoughlanDirected by Gary Keegan & Feidlim Cannon "Startling and disarming" – The Irish Times A fusion of theatre, music and dance, Woman Undone is a reimagining of singer Mary Coughlan’s extraordinary life and her difficult childhood. It tells the story of a young woman who endured abuse, addiction and mental illness; and whose discovery of art and music was her redemption. ★★★★½ "An important piece of theatre ... it took several minutes to get one's breath back after" - The Reviews Hub The performance features an all-female cast including Mary Coughlan herself, four exceptional actor/singers and dancer Erin O’Reilly, who brings a unique physical presence to the stage. The original score by Valgeir Sigurdsson fuses electronic music with live instrumentation and a haunting vocal score. The show marries together Brokentalkers’ distinctive blend of biography, socio-political discourse and breathtaking theatricality with the musical talent of Coughlan and Sigurdsson to create a show that is beautiful, insightful, and inspiring to listen to. Dramaturgy: Bjarni JonssonMusic: Valgeir Sigurdsson Lighting: SJ Shiels Design: Sabine DargentCostume: Sarah Foley Photo Credit: Fionn McCann. Age Guidance: 15yrs+Duration: 75mins (no interval) | 1st - 02nd Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Frankie’s Guys in Oh What A Night | November Frankie’s Guys in Oh What A Night Zac Global Promotions MUSIC A Celebration of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons This fast-paced, energetic production paying tribute to the legendary music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Putting their charismatic stamp on timeless classics such as Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Sherry and Oh What A Night the boys take you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane and remind you exactly why The Four Seasons sold over 100 million records and earned themselves a place in the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! | 2nd Nov | Buy |
| COMEDY | Des Bishop - Take The Points | November Des Bishop - Take The Points Lisa Richards presents COMEDY That’s good advice on the pitch but an even better metaphor for life especially when you don’t take advice well. How hard can it be for a man to say “point taken! ” Des Bishop’s new show tries to digest the incredible changes we have seen in society in the last year and a half. Me Too, consent, Trump, the 8th and how divided everyone is online. Everyone welcome, snowflakes, the easily offended, those that complain about people being offended, PC and non P.C. people, religious people and atheists. We all have points to take and goals to come! | 4th - 05th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Shackleton | November Shackleton Blue Raincoat Theatre Company THEATRE Ireland’s longest running theatre ensemble, Blue Raincoat Theatre Company, return to Galway to perform Shackleton, a story of endurance on the Antarctic’s icy Weddell Sea. A visual feast and the tale of Irish explorer Ernest Shackleton’s escape from the Antarctic told by an ensemble cast, complemented by original footage and scaled puppetry. Their ice bound ship, the Endurance, was crushed and sunk, leaving all crew stranded thousands of miles from home. What follows is a unique story of will power, determination and, above all, hope. ‘Strikes deep into the heart and holds the audience absolutely rapt.’Joyce MacMillan, The Scotsman Please note that this show contains flashing lights. | 5th - 07th Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Jimmy Buckley in Concert | November Jimmy Buckley in Concert MUSIC With Special Guest Claudia Jimmy Buckley is without a doubt one of Ireland's best loved and most respected performers and has enjoyed many years at the top of his profession, receiving numerous awards along the way including the prestigious Entertainer of the Year in the RTE Music Awards. Jimmy possess a very rare talent, not only as a phenomenal singer but also as a hilarious mimic of other major stars. Jimmy’s show contains a wide variety of material, country big ballads and tribute medleys to the greats of country music Hank Williams and Charlie pride. With his magnificent band, Jimmy will entertain you superbly and looks forward to meeting friends old and new. | 6th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Starseed | November Starseed Eva’s Echo Theatre Company THEATRE In this new dark comedy by Killian Glynn, homeless and disillusioned, Iris is far from the goddess she was named for. The streets of Galway transport her to surreal, dangerous and mystifying visions and she finds her past brought suddenly into the present. Armed only with her sharp wit and her best friend Gavrail, Iris must unravel her dreams and step into reality... before it's too late. Duration incl interval 100 mins | 6th - 09th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Caught in the Act Starring Conal Gallen |
November Caught in the ActStarring Conal Gallen Little Round Records Ltd THEATRE They’re back! Conal Gallen and his son Rory have teamed up once again to create a rib splittingly, fast paced and outrageous comedy that will have you laughing out loud. “Caught In The Act” is a laugh a minute comedy “filled to the hoozle” with laughter and craic, with a bit of mystery thrown in for good measure! Conal has kept the well-loved Bridie, Willie, Dick, Betty and the infamous Father “Big Mad Micky” O’Reilly and added a few new faces with a certain je ne sais quoi! And in true Conal Gallen fashion, there will be a few surprises – and as usual, most of the time the cast get the biggest surprise of all! Three actors playing the part of 9 characters, a hilariously funny plot, a night of laughter and craic no to be missed! Starring: Conal Gallen, Paddy McMenamin, Jack Quinn Duration 2 hours 15 mins inc interval Age Recommendation 16+ | 8th Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Mary Black | November Mary Black MUSIC An intimate gig with Mary Black and her all-star band playing favourite songs from her immense catalogue spanning over 30 years - songs we know by heart, from ‘No Frontiers’ to Song for Ireland’, ‘Past the Point of Rescue’, ‘Carolina Rua’, ‘Katie’, ‘A Woman’s Heart’ and many more. Mary Black, one of Ireland’s favourite artists, is regarded as one of the most important Irish vocalists of her generation, with multi-platinum selling albums and a string of achievement awards to her name. Mary’s enduring success has proven that her depth of talent and love of singing transcend the generations. This show is not to be missed. Featuring the band:Bill Shanley – guitars;Pat Crowley - piano and accordion;Nick Scott - Double bass;Richie Buckley – saxophones;Liam Bradley - drums and percussion | 9th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Tom Crean - Antarctic Explorer | November Tom Crean - Antarctic Explorer Multi-Award Winning Show THEATRE Written and performed by Aidan Dooley Tom Crean, the intrepid Antarctic explorer and one of Ireland’s unsung heroes, is brought to life in this dramatic and humorous solo performance by Aidan Dooley. Hear the riveting true stories of Crean’s Antarctic explorations as one of the few men to serve with both Scott and Shackleton and survive the three famous expeditions: Discovery (1901-1004); Terra Nova (1910-1913); and Endurance (1914-1916) "This magnificent revelation of a fascinating character simply compels a standing ovation"The Irish Times “a remarkable and uplifting piece of theatre, gives everything and asks nothing.” - Emer O’Kelly, Sunday Independent Dublin “This magnificent revelation of a fascinating character simply compels a standing ovation” - Gerry Colgan, The Irish Times Dublin “You will go to then end of the earth to find theatre this rewarding" - Murray Bramwell, The Australian "An unparalleled portrayal"Gina Bellafante New York Times Written and Performed by Aidan Dooley Fringe First Award WinnerEdinburgh Fringe Festival 2006Best Solo Performance Award WinnerNew York International Fringe Festival 2003Outstanding Performance Award nominationElliot Norton Theatre Critics Award Boston 2006Best Actor nominationDublin Fringe Festival 2003Adelaide Fringe Award nominationBest Theatre Work by Established Artiste 2007 | 11th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Fiddler on the Roof | November Fiddler on the Roof 9 Arch Claregalway Musical Society THEATRE The play opens in Anatevka, Russia in 1905, and Tevye the poor dairyman that has been married for twenty-five years to Golde and has have five daughters gives us an introduction to the people in his town and how they survive. Tradition, he says, provides a delicate balance, like a fiddler on the roof. Each mother, father, son and daughter has their own defined place in the community. However, when the local matchmaker Yente arranges the match between his oldest daughter Tzeitel and the old widower butcher, Lazar Wolf, this sets in motion the story of love, loss and family. Duration 2 hours 50 minutes, including interval. | 13th - 16th Nov | Buy |
| DANCE | Swan Lake | November Swan Lake Ballet Ireland presents DANCE The ballet which has captivated audiences for decades Ballet Ireland is delighted to present a national tour of Swan Lake, one of the great love stories of classical ballet, to 19 theatres throughout Ireland. This most famous of ballets combines romantic themes, classical technique and ethereal imagery, with Tchaikovsky’s majestic score, to ensure this masterpiece’s immortality. Swan Lake tells the story of Odette, a beautiful princess, who turned into a swan by day by evil magician Von Rothbart, only to regain her human form at night. Out hunting by the lakeside, Prince Siegfried encounters her and falls madly in love with her. But will he be able to break Von Rothbart’s spell..? This enduring story of love and tragedy, good and evil, and has enthralled audiences since it premiered in 1877. ★★★★ 4 Stars ‘(Ballet Ireland) reaches a new level of artistry with this show.’The Irish Times ‘Moving production…beautifully choreographed’ The Sunday Business Post ‘exuberant and beautiful production’ Irish Mail on Sunday ★★★★ 4 Stars ‘(Ballet Ireland) reaches a new level of artistry with this show.’ The Irish Times | 18th - 19th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | It Is What It Is | November It Is What It Is PASG presents THEATRE West End star Michael Southern returns to direct another PASG production. With an inimitable style showcasing hilarious comedy, hard hitting drama and brilliant musical numbers, the production features an excellent and unexpected variety of Broadway theatre. Be prepared for side splitting laughter, to shed a few tears and to be on your feet as you join in this fantastic experience. Running time 2 hours including interval | 22nd - 23rd Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Wallis Bird | November Wallis Bird Róisín Dubh presents MUSIC “The sheer visceral energy of Wallis Bird could kick-start an entire economy.”The Irish Times Acclaimed Irish artist Wallis Bird is back. The string-shredding singer-songwriter - once described by the Irish Times as having enough energy on stage to be able to “kickstart an entire economy” – has announced over 40 live dates and will be touring across Europe in celebration of her new album. “I’m calling it the New Moon Tour because of its symbolism; transition, femininity, the passing of time and new beginnings; the dark side of light. All of this amounts to how I feel at this point in my life. This is my new moon”. “A tsunami of emotion… magnificent ” MOJO, UK “The intensity of Wallis Bird’s live sound will pin you to the wall.” Sydney Morning Herald, Australia The new record - which will be her sixth studio album – will be out in autumn 2019. Folked-up and infused with brute soul, the album is heavy in beats and bass. “It’s built on a quite different tonal and chordal structure than usual”, says Wallis, “and I’ve tried to flood it with love, questions and understanding. I’m trying to make sense of the socio-political new world that we’re living in, and finding a way to heal myself”. “Discovery of the year..Wallis Bird at Woodford folk festival f***king destroying it..“ Amanda Palmer, Artist Wallis’ career has drawn respect from critics and audiences alike. She’s played hundreds of headline shows over the past decade or so all over the world. She’s a two-time Meteor Award winner (national Irish music prize), a two-time Irish Choice Prize nominee, and a nominee for Artist of the Year at the American-based Folk Alliance International Awards 2019. Well known for her energetic performances, she has an unusual ability to bind audiences with her musical spells; inciting the crowds to join in rousing sing-a-longs as she shares her happiest emotions, or observe pin-drop silences as she expresses her deepest hurts. A Wallis Bird concert is unlike any other, and festival performances or support shows in front of brand new audiences always result in a slew of new fans. "Close to Fiona Apple, and the nuanced style of Ani DiFranco." **** El Mundo, Spain While Wallis has frequently toured with a band, she’s one of those rare artists whose stage presence - and jaw-dropping musical prowess - can fill huge rooms and venues on their own. With this in mind, and the heightened intensity that a solo performance brings to audiences, the 2019 New Moon Tour will be completely solo. “As much as I adore playing with a band,” says Wallis, “I've decided to finally plant a flag in the ground, go completely solo and highlight what I'm best at. I'm in my element when I can fill the stage and bring the audience together. I love it and I love working hard at it! I can’t wait to share new anthems and songs, and of course reminisce over the golden-oldies. I cannot wait!” “Bird comes from the camp of rebellious artists like Fiona Apple or Ani Di Franco… . For people who have a place in their heart for Feist and Sophie Hunger.“ Musikexpress, Germany | 23rd Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Kilfenora Céilí Band | November Kilfenora Céilí Band MUSIC Kilfenora Céilí Band celebrate their welcome return to the Town Hall Theatre on Sunday the 24th of November with the release of their 10th Studio Album Both Sides Now. Regarded by aficionados as the quintessential Irish céilí band, the Kilfenora Céilí band - together with guests, singer Edel Vaughan, dancer Laura Minogue, and world champions Michael and Matthew Gardiner - perform an uplifting, energetic and entertaining shows. Don’t miss! | 24th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Parental Guidance | November Parental Guidance Peadar de Burca THEATRE Parental Guidance is a new stand-up comedy show from Irishman Peadar de Burca, who returned to Ireland after 8 years in Poland. He brought his wife and three girls with him and they moved in with his mother. “Charming and slick” The Scotsman Full of sharp observations on how to survive living with three generations of women, Parental Guidance tells of lessons learned, obstacles overcome and the correct dosages of medication to ensure a satisfactory horizontal posture. Duration 1 hour, no interval. | 25th - 27th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Selvage | November Selvage Brú Theatre Presents THEATRE by James Riordan Directed by Lara CampbellMusic by Anna Mullarkey Following a sold out run earlier this year, Brú Theatre’s Selvage is back for one night only in the Town Hall Theatre. A dark comedy about a young man called Joe, forced to find stability and face his ‘gnaw’ after his revolutionary Granny is imprisoned, Selvage features physical storytelling, puppetry and a live musical score from Anna Mullarkey. Selvage was developed as part of Druid’s FUEL program and funded by the Arts Council and Galway City and County Council. Selvage ‘is an always absorbing, frequently funny, and keenly touching piece ... don’t miss it’ Galway Advertiser. Duration: 70 mins, no interval. | 26th Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Phil Coulter - Return To Tranquility | November Phil Coulter - Return To Tranquility MUSIC Phil’s long career as a songwriter, producer and recording artiste has been recognised over the years. Very few in the music business can boast of having chart entries in every decade since the sixties. Even fewer can match the range of Phil’s output – from Eurovision winners to folk classics, from tender ballads to sporting anthems, from Luke Kelly to Elvis Presley! In a recent poll to find Ireland’s Favourite Folksong Phil was delighted to see The Town I loved So Well in the top ten of the most popular Irish songs of all time. As Phil trawls through his 50 years of creativity there is no doubt some of the big hits alongside some which he thought should have been hits! An original retrospective on the work of one of our finest, it’s a show for every lover of good music. Duration 140 mins incl interval | 27th Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Declan O'Rourke | November Declan O'Rourke MUSIC Winner of the first ever award for Best Original Song for his latest work at the inaugural RTE Folk Awards 2018, Nominated for best singer, and fresh from re-releasing his classic debut ‘Since Kyabram’ late last year, O’Rourke does not stand still. He continues to forge his unique brand of original songs, drawing on influences rich and diverse. This artist delivers stories and music with epic performances that keep his audiences coming back year after year for more. | 28th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Gonne | November Gonne Unamused Theatre THEATRE Maud Gonne (socialite, actor, orator, writer, and die-hard republican) is sharing the story of her life. For the sake of ‘balance’, W.B. Yeats has also taken to the stage to tell the story of her life. You can decide for yourselves which version you believe, but Yeats’ has more romance and alliteration. Also, he has a Nobel Prize, so… "It was a breath of fresh air and it deservedly raised a great deal of laughter from the audience" – Nomoreworkhorse Mature themes and strong language Duration 70 mins, no interval | 28th - 29th Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | The Story of Swing | November The Story of Swing MUSIC Performed by Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats return with their hit show THE STORY OF SWING! A musical timeline of swing classics from the 1920s to the modern day. Featuring the music of Louis Armstrong, Fred Astaire, Bobby Darrin, The Rat Pack, Michael Buble, Paolo Nutini and more... Never before has a show captured the full evolution of swing music like this. From its birth in the 1920s to the big band era of the 30s and 40s. From the golden age of the 50s and 60s with household name’s like Sinatra, Bobby Darrin, Andy Williams to the modern era of Buble and Nutini. Hear such classics as King of the Swingers, Puttin on the Ritz, When The Saints Go Marching In, Mack the Knife, I Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Mr Bojangles, New York, New York and many more! The Swing Cats lead by award winning vocalist Luke Thomas have amassed a huge following throughout Ireland and Europe thanks to their distinctive sound and style which is steeped in the golden age of swing music. They have soldout every major venue in the country including Dublin's Olympia Theatre, Vicar Street and National Concert Hall. They can count Irish President, Micheal D. Higgins as one of their biggest fans and have been requested to perform at his residence 4 times... Most recently Luke and the band have secured 2 TV Specials which aired on Virgin Media Two!! | 29th Nov | Buy |
| FESTIVAL | Local Food & Craft Gift Fair | November Local Food & Craft Gift Fair FESTIVAL Showcasing local designers, hand crafted goods & artisan produce The Local Enterprise Office in conjunction with The Galway Advertiser will hold the seventh LOCAL Food & Craft Gift Fair which showcases Galway designers, hand crafted goods and artisan produce. This year again, there will be over 40 stands featuring local crafts people and artisan food producers. Saturday 10am - 7pmSunday 11am - 5pm | 30th Nov - 01st Dec | |
| THEATRE | Johnny Graham - Arseboxin' | November Johnny Graham - Arseboxin' THEATRE An hilarious insight into one man’s struggle of being afflicted with ArseBoxin’. A term used in his native Offaly describing the ability to procrastinate and half complete a task. Stories that see him head for Amsterdam but landing in Kells, arriving at a fertility clinic with a lunchbox and how he ended up with 5 too many girlfriends. Travel with award winning comedian Johnny Graham as he ArseBoxes through this side splitting stand-up comedy show. 110mins incl interval | 30th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | Tea Dance | November Tea Dance THEATRE by Little John Nee & The Tea Dance Triode "Amazing" Kevin McAleer Under Milk Wood meets Twin Peaks - with a live soundtrack! Little John Nee performs this new show of musical storytelling with The Tea Dance Triode (Jeremy Howard and Fionn Robinson). It all takes place on a Friday in May, a referendum day; a local woman is opening a Tea Emporium in the remote village of Tullyglen - where everyone has a story and no one wants to tell it - the sort of place where world weary beatniks, bomb-makers, old hippies, contrarians, suffragettes and fugitives retreat to start afresh. Created and performed with long-time musical collaborators Fionn Robinson and Jeremy Howard. ‘’A twinkled-toed tour-de-force’’ Eamonn McCann | 30th Nov | Buy |
| THEATRE | A Tribute to the Music of John Denver | December A Tribute to the Music of John Denver Marc Roberts THEATRE Marc Roberts performs his critically acclaimed and award-winning show ‘A Tribute To The Music of John Denver’, a full multimedia journey through John Denver’s life and music.Marc is joined on stage by his musical director Terry Byrne with special guests Kathy Crinion, ‘the voice of Karen Carpenter’, Máirín Fahy on fiddle and multi-instrumentalist Yvonne Fahy. Marc performs all the hits including Annie’s Song, Leaving On A Jet Plane, Take Me Home Country Roads, Calypso and Thank God I’m A Country Boy along with his hit single duet release with Kathy Crinion, Love Again. Not to be missed! | 1st Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | ABBA Forever - The Christmas Show | December ABBA Forever - The Christmas Show The Smash Hit Show is back MUSIC From Waterloo to Dancing Queen, every favourite is here! Expect a fantastic fun night out and a feast of hits ideal for the Christmas party including the iconic Mamma Mia, SOS, Money Money Money, The Winner Takes It All, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! and many, many, many more! Not to be missed! Get your glad rags on, brush up on the lyrics, don the dancing boots and come to the best party in town! | 5th Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | Seán Keane: Christmas by the Hearth | December Seán Keane: Christmas by the Hearth MUSIC Seán Keane invites you to join him for another festive treat of music and song by the hearth and hear him recreate his stunning album Gratitude, recorded last year with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra. Seán continues to find new songs to accompany classics like Isle of Hope Isle of Tears, Home Away from Home and many more. This show starts the Christmas season in style and Seán will be adding to the festive mood with Oh Holy Night and Silent Night. | 6th Dec | Buy |
| COMEDY | National Treasure | December National Treasure David McSavage COMEDY David McSavage is a self-proclaimed national treasure. It has been said he is to comedy what the Abbey is to theatre, maybe because he believes he’s more important than he is, or that the majority of the country doesn’t care about him. Duration 90 minutes, including interval. Age guidance 18+, strong language | 7th Dec | Buy |
| DANCE | Over The Rainbow | December Over The Rainbow Corrib Dance Academy presents DANCE A unique dance presentation of the classic Wizard of Oz tale, one of the most celebrated musicals in cinema history. Depicting Dorothy’s journey through the Land of Oz, this highly entertaining production is sure to please all the family. Inspired by the original cinematic production in 1939, the talented cast of CDA dancers will take you on a fun filled trip down the Yellow Brick Road. All the usual favourites - Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman and Cowardly Lion - are joined by cats, witches, jitterbugs, snowflakes, poppies and many more. | 13th - 15th Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | Wild Youth | December Wild Youth MUSIC It’s been a busy summer for the band, which included two sold-out shows in Croke Park supporting Westlife, performing at the sold-out Longitude Festival and their main stage slot at this year’s Electric Picnic! Continuing on from the massive success of Wild Youth’s EP ‘The Last Goodbye, which debuted at #5 in the Irish Albums Charts, the Dublin pop-rock superstars went on to sell-out their first ever headline show in The Olympia Theatre in March, support The Script in London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall and perform to a packed-out house in London’s OMEARA, run by Mumford & Sons member Ben Lovett. In addition to a string of live shows, their outrageously catchy song ‘Can’t Move On’ has earned them over 2 million streams and was the most played Irish song on Irish radio in 2018! Recently, Wild Youth shared the stage with the likes of Mumford & Sons and Dermot Kennedy at this year’s Malahide Castle, and Clean Bandit and Jax Jones at Sea Sessions. Wild Youth consists of David Whelan, Conor O’Donohue, Ed Porter and Callum McAdam Over 18’s , 16 and 17 years olds must be accompanied by an adult | 13th Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | Hermitage Green | December Hermitage Green MUSIC Hailing from Limerick, Ireland, Hermitage Green have made a large impact in a short period of time. After having released their first full length album via SONY Ireland and watching it climb the charts with tracks like Quicksand, Not Your Lover, and Save Your Soul, the band has been touring internationally to sold out rooms across Ireland, the UK, Middle East, Australia and the US. Now the band is back after having spent months in world renowned Rockfield Studios in Wales where their new recordings share company with the likes of Queen, Robert Plant and many others. With Grammy winning producer Matt Lawrence (Adele, Amy Winehouse, Mumford & Sons) at the helm of this record, the band has created an EP entitled Gold & Rust consisting of 6 progressive sonic masterpieces. 2018 will see the band continuing to tour the globe. “Gold & Rust - the title was inspired by a lyric that Darragh Griffin wrote in the song 'Bring It On Down'. I suppose as an album title it represents the many contrasts of being in a band in 2017. The ups and downs, highs and lows, whatever you want to call it... From playing the mainstage at Electric Picnic, to getting laughed out the door of a bank when looking for a mortgage. From walking out of a sold out Olympia Theatre in Dublin, to playing to 7 people in a town somewhere in the U.S. From telling your bandmates you love them and would do anything for them, to trying to kill your bandmates because they piss you off sometimes. 'Gold & Rust' is the dichotomy between the struggle and the absolute privilege of doing what you love for a living.” - Dan Murphy of Hermitage Green | 14th Dec | Buy |
| THEATRE | ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas | December ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Branar Téatar do Pháistí present THEATRE Oíche Roímh an Nollaíg Unwrap the magic of Christmas. “The stockings were hung by the chimneys with care…” The town is preparing for Christmas. Houses are being decorated, cards being written, presents being wrapped and stockings being hung. Join Branar as they take you on a joyful journey through to the most magical night of the year. Inspired by the classic poem, this bilingual show combines storytelling, original live music and puppetry to create a fun and magical festive show for audiences aged 5 and upwards. “Exquisite show for children” ★★★★ – The Irish Times Duration: 60 minutes approx.Age: 5 years upwardsSuitable for all levels of English and Irish | 19th - 21st Dec | Buy |
| THEATRE | Aladdin | December Aladdin Renmore Pantomime THEATRE Renmore’s 41st annual pantomime promises to be a spectacular adventure of laughter, music and song. Featuring a host of Galway performers, electrifying dance routines and of course the charming little Renmore Smurfs, who bring their unique sparkle to this seasonal feast of family entertainment! Panto Dame, Peter Kennedy, brings new life to the traditional tale of Aladdin with his original script. With all the magic of the Genie of the Lamp and the Slave of the Ring, this popular Pantomime tale of Aladdin is packed full of familiar characters, lots of comedy, popular songs and dances, and a few twists to the storyline that see the action flying from the Market Place of Abu Dabbu Do, to the pyramids of Egypt. Will Aladdin win his Princess Jasmine? Will wicked Abanazar meet his Mummy? Will Widow Twankey’s Chinese Laundry be a complete wash-out? You'll just have to come along and find out for yourselves. More details on www.renmorepantomime.com | 29th Dec - 12th Jan | Buy |
| THEATRE | Keith Barry - Insanity | January Keith Barry - Insanity THEATRE His most daring and audacious show to date Keith Barry, the world’s leading TV hypnotist, mentalist and brain hacker, has just announced details of his brand new show 'INSANITY'. The internationally acclaimed Mind Magician is bringing 'INSANITY', his most daring and audacious show to date, on tour across Ireland this December 2019 to March 2020. Featuring crazy and insane mind-reading, escapology and magic experiments designed to shock, amuse and amaze blurring the lines between sanity and insanity. “INSANITY” will push boundaries, and astonish even the most skeptical audience members. | 3rd Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | Reeling in the Showband Years | January Reeling in the Showband Years MUSIC Due to phenomenal public demand, they’re back! With RTÉ’s Ronan Collins as host and compere and featuring Red Hurley, Linda Martin, Shaun O’Dowd, Keith and Lorraine McDonald, The Conquerors and Ireland’s irrepressible Eurovision stars Tommy and Jimmy Swarbrigg, Reeling In the Showband Years returns to The Town Hall Theatre for an incredible record breaking 11th consecutive year! Ronan Collins: sings his renowned tributes to the Great Joe Dolan, the Eurovision and much more! Red Hurley: A living legend of showbiz for the past 40 years. One of THE Superstars of The Showband era! Has had a huge International career and has been feted from Las Vegas to the deep South of the USA. His great big soaring voice has captivated audiences since he hit the stage With the Nevada Showband. Still a major force in Irish showbiz. Hear his stunning voice on “How Great Thou Art” and “When” to up tempo songs like “Tennessee Special” and all of his other massive hit records. Linda Martin: .A Superstar of Showbiz. Lead Singer with that great band “Chips” Winner of the Eurovision Song Contest in 1992 with “WHY ME”. TV Presenter on multiple shows for RTE. All her smash hit songs will all be included. We are delighted, to have this World Renowned Performer in the line-up for our 11th Anniversary Tour! Keith and Lorraine McDonald: This great Brother and Sister combination from one of the oldest musical families in Ireland. Their father, Frankie was trumpet player with Joe Dolan for many years. Lorraine is one of the brightest talents to emerge from the late Showband era and Keith is a star in his own right! Shaun O’Dowd: We are delighted to welcome back Shaun to this year’s show! With his band “Ding-A-ling” he was one of the biggest drawing acts in Ireland right through the 70’s and 80’s. He topped the charts for weeks with his smash hit records “You Are No Angel” and “It’s Good To See You”. All you could ask for in an entertainer. We are delighted to have him back again as part of the show! An outstanding top class artist! The Conquerors Showband: One of the greatest showbands of them all and still packing them in everywhere they go. These Galway boys sang “Baby Blue” and many more hits. Tommy and Jimmy Swarbrigg: sing their Euro Songs from way and their other massive hits! “If Ma Could See Me Now” “Looking Through The Eyes of A Beautiful Girl” etc….. And much more to be announced!!! The show’s exciting finale is an All Cast Salute to the Showband Era. All of the stars join in for a medley of songs from the unique showband years! Bringing you back in time to this magical musical period. It will send you home with great memories of wonderful and never to be repeated time in Irish popular music | 15th Jan | Buy |
| COMEDY | Neil Delamere: End of Watch | January Neil Delamere: End of Watch COMEDY Fresh from a sell-out tour, star of BBC’s the Blame Game, Fighting Talk and the Newsquiz Neil Delamere returns to Galway with a brand new show. Time waits for no man, especially one trying to buy a watch. Things always get complicated. “You’ll be hard pressed to find a more gifted comic at the Fringe. ★★★★★” The Scotsman “One lean, mean, comedy, killing machine. ★★★★★.” The Herald | 16th Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | A New Beginning George Murphy and the Rising Songs |
January A New BeginningGeorge Murphy and the Rising Songs Pat Egan Presents MUSIC At only 33 years of age, George Murphy has lived an entire life in music. Steeped in the tradition and folklore of Ireland’s greatest folk legends, George shot to fame overnight as a contestant of You’re A Star and a number one album produced by Phil Coulter, his brilliant version of Raglan Road was matched only by the great Luke Kelly. Lost his way for a few years touring the States, but brought very much to life again as a brilliant balladeer when he joined The High Kings. Now starring in his own right, his New Beginnings tour is now on the road. | 28th Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | Judy Collins | January Judy Collins Tom Keating presentsLegendary Grammy Award Winning Artist MUSIC Judy Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable song writing, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. The award-winning singer-songwriter is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” from her landmark 1967 album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Judy’s dreamy and sweetly intimate version of “Send in the Clowns,” a ballad written by Stephen Sondheim for the Broadway musical A Little Night Music, won “Song of the Year” at the 1975 Grammy Awards. She’s garnered several top-ten hits, gold- and platinum-selling albums. Recently, contemporary and classic artists such as Rufus Wainwright, Shawn Colvin, Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, and Leonard Cohen honoured her legacy with the album Born to the Breed: A Tribute to Judy Collins. Judy Collins, now 80, is as creatively vigorous as ever, writing, touring worldwide, and nurturing fresh talent. She is a modern-day Renaissance woman who is also an accomplished painter, filmmaker, record label head, musical mentor, and an in-demand keynote speaker for mental health and suicide prevention. She continues to create music of hope and healing that lights up the world and speaks to the heart. | 30th Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | The Fureys | February The Fureys MUSIC Legends of Irish music and song The FUREYS, renowned for their hit songs ‘I will love you’, ‘When You Were Sweet 16’, ‘The Green Fields of France’, ‘The Old man’, ‘Red Rose Café’, ‘From Clare to Here’, ‘Her Father Didn’t Like Me Anyway’, ‘Leaving Nancy’, ‘Steal Away’ etc return due to public demand! The FUREYS have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 42 years, audiences that have included former Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Former Irish President Mary McAleese and the late Pope John Paul while Tony Blair has publicly stated his favourite peace song of all time is the FUREYS “Green Fields of France” and President Michael D Higgins attended their last concert in National Concert Hall. The oldest of the brothers, Eddie Furey left home in 1966 and travelled to Scotland at the time of the great folk revival where he shared accommodation with then unknown folk singers Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty and Alex Campbell. In 1969 with his brother Finbar, he was the special guest for the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem throughout the USA and Canada. In 1971 he moved to mainland Europe where he toured for seven years. Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics has credited Eddie with teaching him his first chords on guitar when they met up in the North East of England while Dave was still a teenager. | 1st Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Bosco’s once upon a time tour | February Bosco’s once upon a time tour Paula Lambert Puppet Theatre presents THEATRE Bosco Magical Garden and Sleeping Beauty Bosco is Bosco, not a boy, not a girl, just a Bosco: a cheeky, lovely, funny, slightly-cracked, irrepressible, eternal five-year-old who lives in a box and who loves nothing more than to just be Bosco and meet all the boys and girls. After starring on Irish TV for three decades, you’ll see why Bosco remains a firm favourite for each new generation. Enjoy the enchanted story of Sleeping Beauty where an evil Fairy-Night filled with jealousy try’s to harm Beauty but luckily she has very good fairy friends. With its brilliant array of Characters, lots of fun and excitement through this completely interactive live experience with the absolute magic of Puppet Theatre. | 2nd Feb | Buy |
| MUSIC | Finbar Wright - Songs You Love | February Finbar Wright - Songs You Love MUSIC Finbar Wright, Ireland’s best-loved popular entertainer and award-winning recording artist, returns to Town Hall Theatre on 16 Feb for a glorious concert packed with great humour and passionate music. Celebrating his greatest hits and all of your favourite music, Finbar will be joined by an impressive line-up of fine musicians in sparkling performances to delight all music lovers Duration 120 mins incl interval | 16th Feb | Buy |
| MUSIC | Flash Harry A Celebration of Queen LIVE | February Flash Harry A Celebration of Queen LIVE MUSIC It’s back! Due to phenomenal public demand! Delivering a show that embraces live music in its purest essence, Flash Harry A Celebration of Queen oozes with talent, energy, passion and of course the pure showmanship that we associate with one of the most exuberant front men of all time, Freddie Mercury. Audiences have been enthralled by Flash Harry's searing take on some of rock’s greatest ever anthems - from 'Radio Gaga' to 'We Are The Champions', 'Bohemian Rhapsody' to 'We Will Rock You' and everything in between. Quite simply it’s live music entertainment at its best. The band Flash Harry has been celebrating the music of Queen for over 20 years. With a huge resurgence in Queen's popularity following the release of the critically acclaimed movie Bohemian Rhapsody, the demand to see and hear their music live is as high as it has been the heady days of post-Live Aid 1980s. Flash Harry's faithful tribute to Queen has drawn fans of the band in over the years to enjoy the quality of the performances and the sheer entertainment value of their show. After an amazing non-stop 20 years delivering unforgettable shows in top notch venues, the reason for Flash Harry’s success is simple - it’s a show of hit after hit, is universal in its appeal, and has been the sound track of the last 40 years. Rarely will a show reach across generations and deliver as much as Flash Harry – a celebration of Queen. | 22nd Feb | Buy |
| MUSIC | Derek Ryan | February Derek Ryan MUSIC Irish country sensation Derek Ryan’s road to stardom is set to continue with his biggest concert tour yet. Following on from the phenomenal success of his recent TEN tour, Derek Ryan returns with a brand new concert show for 2020. Derek and his fantastic band (now rated as Ireland’s leading country band) are back on the road to perform many of Derek’s classic hits from ‘Hold On To Your Hat’ ‘Down On Your Uppers’ and ‘God’s Plan’. Continuing to propel to new heights, Derek Ryan has firmly cemented his position at the top table of Irish Country’s elite with his brand of original, self-penned material and country classics. The Carlow man is a multi-recipient of awards for his performances and song writing including the Sunday World accolade for ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Songwriter of the Year’. But Derek, being at the forefront of this new wave of young Irish country stars, continues to remain ever loyal to his worldwide army of fans. | 28th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Humperdinck Hansel and Gretel |
March HumperdinckHansel and Gretel An Irish National Opera / Theatre Lovett / Abbey Theatre co-production THEATRE One of the greatest operas about children. Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel is full of music that is sweet and beguiling, and it combines childlike simplicity with heart aching beauty. He wanted a plot that ‘was not made up of murders, brutal deaths, operetta-like nonsense, or sugar-sweet fairy tales’. Do not be fooled. This is a story of greed and starvation, mouth-wateringly sugar-coated. “one of the sweetest yet most lushly captivating scores in the entire operatic repertory’New York Times Trouble at home. Two hungry children lost in a haunted forest. The lure of a gingerbread house. The frightening hocus pocus of the predatory Witch. And the smarts of the children who triumph in the end. All wrapped up in the delicious sound world of Engelbert Humperdinck’s operatic masterpiece. Sung in English, with English surtitles CastHansel - Raphaela Mangan (mezzo soprano)Gretel - Amy Ní Fhearraigh (soprano)Mother - Miriam Murphy (soprano)Father - Ben McAteer (baritone)Witch - Carolyn Dobbin (mezzo-soprano)Sandman & Dew Fairy - Emma Nash (soprano) Creative TeamConductor - Richard PeirsonDirectors - Muireann Ahern, Louis LovettSet & Costume Designer - Jamie VartanLighting Designer - Sarah-Jane ShielsVideo Designer - Jack Phelan Irish National Opera Ensemble Amy Ní Fhearraigh “A natural stage performer, gifted with a fine soprano voice…”GoldenPlec Miriam Murphy “She’s a singer with a voice so large, so effortless seeming, so distinctive that once she opens her mouth it’s as if you’re pinned to your seat by some irresistible hypnotic power.”The Irish Times Raphaela Mangan “…superb lower register contralto tones…”The Herald (Scotland) | 3rd Mar | Buy |
| THEATRE | Farmer Michael & Kathleen | March Farmer Michael & Kathleen MPI Artists Presents THEATRE After only 3 years on the comedy scene, Stevo & Sinéad have gathered a following of over 500,000 people worldwide, and over 100 million views on some of their sketches. They've sold out sold shows all over Ireland and the UK, including St George's Hall, Southport Comedy Festival, London, Cork, Belfast, as well as performing in Vicar Street & Goodison Park. Their videos have been featured in notable press outlets including LadBible, Benchwarmers, WorldStar hip hop, JOE.ie, Irish Independent, The Daily Edge, The Star, The Sun, The Mirror, as well as mentions from international superstars Shaquille O’Neill and Marylon Wayans. They've also appeared at length on RTE’s Ryan Tubridy Show, Galway Bay FM, iRadio, 4FM and 98FM. The King & Queen of farming satire may offend some but aren’t planning on quitting any time soon! As featured on : RTE, TV3s Six O Clock Show, CNN, FOXtv, SKY TV. | 6th Mar | Buy |
| DANCE | The Royal Moscow Ballet Sleeping Beauty |
March The Royal Moscow BalletSleeping Beauty KC Touring presents DANCE Starring Soloists from the world renowned Bolshoi Ballet After two spellbinding and sold-out performances of Swan Lake at the Town Hall Theatre Galway in 2019, The Royal Moscow Ballet brings every child’s favourite fairy tale to the Galway stage in March 2020, with very special Guest Soloists from the world famous Bolshoi Ballet. Sleeping Beauty is the classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic set to Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score. Experience stunning choreography, breath taking costumes and vibrant sets - and experience a once in a lifetime opportunity to see Star Soloists from the renowned Bolshoi Ballet! Early booking advised! | 7th Mar | Buy |
| COMEDY | Kevin Bloody Wilson - Almost Awesome Tour | March Kevin Bloody Wilson - Almost Awesome Tour Pat Egan Presents COMEDY A long time ago, a long way from anywhere, in a West Australian mining town called Kalgoorlie, the legend of Kevin Bloody Wilson was born. It all started innocently enough - just a guy with too much time on his hands changing the words to other people’s songs, and writing a few of his own, purely for the fun of it. Thirty-five years later, countless live gigs and millions of album sales down the track, Kevin Bloody Wilson has not only found his niche, he’s grabbed an esky and a deckchair and he’s made himself really bloody comfortable in it! Kev’s songs match the Kalgoorlie landscape, dry and unforgiving. These songs are uniquely Australian, and yet year after year, album after album, tour after tour, people from all corners of the globe keep laughing their guts out at Kevin Bloody Wilson’s completely authentic and original body of work. The bawdy ballad has been around forever. The Bard, William Shakespeare, wrote bawdy verse. Scotland's Wee Robbie Burns wrote an entire book of dirty ditties and bawdy poems. The bawdy ballad has lifted the spirits of Troops from both sides of wartime conflicts, and who of us doesn't remember at least two or three bawdy limericks? Yet, in today's politically correct times, it seems only one person is perpetuating and preserving this unique art form - KEVIN BLOODY WILSON. Labeled by ’60 Minutes’ as Australian Comedy Icon and defender of free speech, Kev's Master Craftsmanship and world-wide popularity, is further proof that Kevin Bloody Wilson is the sole owner of an entire genre of music, The Contemporary Bawdy Ballad.Some politically correct snowflakes may Kev a bit offensive....DILLIGAF! Don’t miss KEV in his highly anticipated return to Ireland - with his Brand New Christmas Album - on his global ALMOST AWESOME Tour! | 28th Mar | Buy |
| THEATRE | Peppa Pig - Best Day Ever | March Peppa Pig - Best Day Ever THEATRE Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - it’s going to be her best day ever! Get ready for a road-trip full of adventures. From castles to caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice-creams to muddy puddles – there is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy, including Miss Rabbit, Mr Bull, Suzy Sheep, Gerald Giraffe and more! Prepare for the brand new Peppa Pig live show packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for Peppa Pig fans! Limited run – early booking is advised! www.peppapiglive.com | 30th - 31st Mar | Buy |
| COMEDY | Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible | April Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible PM Live LimitedProudly Presents COMEDY One man. One Mission. Is it possible? No, not really. Milton reveals the truth about being an international spy, before being given a disappointing new identity which forced him to appear on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo. But this is also a love story with the twist, or even a really bad sprain. Just gloriously daft nonsense or is there a deeper meaning?Every man has his price. Sainsburys, where good food costs less. “He’s fast, absurd and very Funny” - Radio Times ‘No-one can touch Jones when he hits his stride’ The Guardian | 21st Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Wait | April Wait Cúirt and Galway Music Residency MUSIC Experience the WORLD PREMIERE of Wait a new piece for String Quartet, composed by Ailís Ní Ríain, which was co-commissioned by Galway Music Residency and Cúirt International Festival of Literature. The work was composed in response to ‘Wait’ by American poet Galway Kinnell (1927-2014), who read at Cúirt twice, from his collection Mortal Acts, Mortal Words (1980). The composer has created a fascinating aural experience heightened by, and enveloped in, Kinnell’s words. The World Premiere will be followed by a conversation featuring quartet members, the composer, a local poet, Evonne Ferguson, Director of the Contemporary Music Centre, and Aidan Thomson, Director of the BA in Music at NUI Galway. This commission is funded by the Arts Council’s Music Commission Award. | 21st Apr | Buy |
| THEATRE | Friends! The Musical Parody | May Friends! The Musical Parody Robert C Kelly and Theater Mogul Presents THEATRE Duration 120 mins incl interval | 2nd May | Buy |
| MUSIC | The Everly Brothers Experience | May The Everly Brothers Experience The Zmed Brothers MUSIC Since 2016, brothers Zachary and Dylan Zmed along with their partner and drummer Burleigh Drummond, have celebrated the pivotal music and history of The Everly Brothers legacy with enthusiastic crowds all across the US and overseas in prestigious venues. They say “ The music of the 50's and 60's are nostalgic for us, our parents raised us all on it, and we feel that the Everly's contribution is greatly overlooked, especially by younger generations. Our aim is not to impersonate but to do our best in honouring the aesthetics of their iconic sound and in honouring the important role they played in pioneering the rock n' roll movement, all while having a little fun sharing our own personal story,” and they do just that. With a father, (Adrian Zmed) as a traveling singer/dancer/actor (Grease 2, Bachelor Party, T.J. Hooker), and a mother (Barbara) as a second grade teacher in a suburb of Los Angeles, the Zmed Brothers continuously strive to pay homage to their personal roots by always infusing an instinctual blend of entertainment (a la Smothers Brothers) and contextual education in their performance. The Everly brothers career lasted over half a century, they recorded 21 studio albums, sold more than 60 million records worldwide, had over 30 billboard top -100 singles, which still to this day is the record for most billboard charting hits of any sibling rock duo ever, they received numerous accolades in their later career, and influenced countless legendary artist that came after them including The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, The Beach Boys, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Bee Gees, Neil Young..and the list goes on. THE ZMED BROTHERS are absolutely thrilled to be able to contribute to a cause that supports the recognition and preservation of the intimate and singular origins of America's greatest Rock n' Roll singing sibling duo. Duration 110 mins incl interval | 8th May | Buy |
| TALK | Francis Rossi - I Talk Too Much | May Francis Rossi - I Talk Too Much TALK Legendary Status Quo lead singer Francis Rossi will share the extraordinary secrets of his 50-plus years in rock’n’roll when he takes to the stage for an intimate evening of chat and music. In Francis Rossi: I Talk Too Much, the founder, lead singer and lead guitarist of Status Quo will talk about his mishaps and adventures of life on the road with one of the biggest and most loved bands ever. Francis is a true member of British Rock Royalty. He sang the first words at Live Aid in 1985, survived the obligatory rock’n’roll brush with alcohol and drugs, was awarded an OBE in 2010 and has a BRIT for his Outstanding Contribution to Music. His band has sold more than 120 million records globally. Expect laughter, revelations and tales involving some of the giants of music, exclusive video clips, snatches of classic tunes and a great night out. Rossi will be joined on stage by award-winning writer and broadcaster Mick Wall, who has sold more than 1 million books. *There are three prices: €30 Standard Seats €40 VIP (Premium Seat, Merch Bag incl VIP Tour Lanyard & Tour Photograph) ROWS D, E €75 Super VIP (Meet and Greet, Premium Seat, Merch Bag incl VIP Tour Lanyard & Tour Photograph) ROWS F, G, H Please note the VIP price structure is tied to specific rows. To select seats in the Super VIP or VIP range use the price range sliders to select min/max price. The seats in your chosen price range will then be shown, and you can choose your preferred seat from that section. | 24th May | Buy |