All Club Comedy Dance Festival Music Psychic Talk Theatre
| 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 |
| 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 |
| COMEDY | Ardal O'Hanlon : The Showing Off Must Go On | October Ardal O'Hanlon : The Showing Off Must Go On Vodafone Comedy Carnival, Galway presents COMEDY 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 | Crowman | October Crowman Jon Kenny in THEATRE by Katie Holly Crowman is Dan Lonergan’s account of the hilarious characters that inhabit his life on a daily basis and a love story that never was. By turns poignant and comic, Kenny carries the audience on a roller-coaster ride from his childhood to middle-age, from the hurling pitch to the pub and from one uproariously funny character to the other. It is about lost love and the sense of belonging and not belonging to a small community. Most of all it is about the humanity and decency of the local characters found in every rural village and town in Ireland. As Dan himself surmises ‘Some people never had the dance that I had and some people never hear the music.’ “Just brilliant” ARENA, RTÉ Duration 75 minutes, including 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 |
| MUSIC | HORSLIPS | November HORSLIPS Johnny Fean, Barry Devlin, Jim Lockhart of MUSIC A rare opportunity to witness members of a genuinely legendary band of the Celtic Rock era. Founding members of Horslips, Johnny Fean, Barry Devlin and Jim Lockhart are joined by Ray Fean (Johnny’s brother) on drums. In their trilogy of albums, The Book of Invasions, Aliens and The Man Who Built America, the band explored Irish history and the forging of new frontiers in the new world. With hits such as Dearg Doom and Trouble with a Capital T, the band became infamous for their blend of Irish trad and rock. To this day, audiences all over Ireland still respond to the unique sound of the godfathers of Celtic Rock. Original drummer Eamon Carr and fiddle player Charles O’Connor are still Horslips members, but no longer tour. www.horslips.ie | 3rd 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 |
| MUSIC | Finghin Collins | November Finghin Collins Music for Galway MUSIC One of Ireland’s most successful musicians, Finghin Collins needs little introduction to Galway audiences, having performed regularly for Music for Galway since he was a child. This will be his first full solo recital for MfG since he became Artistic Director of the organisation in 2013 and is the last stop on an extensive tour of Ireland to mark 20 years since he took first prize at the Clara Haskil Competition in Switzerland. ‘Music, instrument and player seemed in perfect concord.’ Irish Times Finghin Collins piano MOZART Sonata in A major K. 331 “Alla Turca”PHILIP MARTIN Gothic Glory” from the RosTapestry SuiteMARIAN INGOLDSBY “Mingling at the Fair” from the Ros Tapestry SuieSCHUBERT Sonata in A major, D. 959 | 8th 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 |
| TALK | Baking in Space | November Baking in Space Galway Science & Technology Festival presents TALK Join Andrew Smyth (BBC’s Great British Bake Off finalist & aerospace engineer) and scientist, performer and explorer Dr Niamh Shaw on a Science week gastronomic journey into orbit – a fun family event about space, engineering and Astronauts, through the medium of food! How can a retro dessert explain how astronauts safely return to Earth? What connects molten sugar and micro-meteorite protection? How would you even bake bread in space? This interactive event will explore the surprising connections between everyday bakes and the extraordinary engineering that helps keeps astronauts alive in space. The hit of Edinburgh International Science Festival 2018, the show ponders the fascinating science behind baking, eating in space and testing if we could actually bake a cake on the International Space Station. Joined by Romain Charles, Crew support at ESA’s Astronaut Centre, and others guests, this is a fun, interactive family event, with live demos, experiments - and lots and lots of baking. This is a Galway Science & Technology Festival event not to be missed! | 12th 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 | Trio Rodin | November Trio Rodin Music for Galway MUSIC Trio Rodin, one of the most outstanding Spanish young ensembles of its generation, was founded in 2011 in Utrecht, with the aim of creating a common project out of three different personalities. They are focused on presenting the great works of chamber music literature in a diverse range of performing venues and programme styles from classical to contemporary music. Make this concert a lovely after-work treat at the PorterShed. Carles Puig violin | Esther García cello | Jorge Mengotti piano MOZART Piano trio K.442ARVO PÄRT Mozart-AdagioJ. MALATS Piano trio in B flat majorDVORAK Piano trio No. 2 Op. 26 in G minor | 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 |
| CLUB | Bingo Loco | December Bingo Loco Róisín Dubh presents CLUB Róisín Dubh are delighted to be bringing back Ireland's #1 Bingo Rave to the Black Box Theatre on Friday 6th December. It is sure to be a night out full of shenanigans and madness and tickets will go quickly so make sure to grab them now, before they are gone!! | 6th 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 |
| MUSIC | IBO: Handel's Messiah | December IBO: Handel's Messiah Music for Galway MUSIC in association with Irish Baroque Orchestra Irish Baroque Orchestra’s annual production of Handel’s masterpiece is a memorable and glorious affair. Joined by outstanding soloists and the wonderful Sestina choir, IBO’s performance tells the universal story of triumph over trial, where life’s sorrows and despairs are met by overriding hope and unbridled joy. This year, we are pleased to return once more to the wonderful Galway Cathedral and present this festive and seasonal event. Irish Baroque Orchestra | Chorus Sestina | Emma Morwood soprano | Rachel Kelly mezzo soprano Anthony Gregory tenor | Edward Grint bass | Peter Whelan director | 7th Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | Children's Human Rights Free Carol Service | December Children's Human Rights Free Carol Service i4Life MUSIC Admission free. Ticket required. Duration 120 minutes, including interval. | 8th Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | Human Rights Christmas Concert | December Human Rights Christmas Concert i4Life Fundraiser MUSIC Duration 180 minutes, including interval. | 8th Dec | Buy |
| MUSIC | Christmas Crooners | December Christmas Crooners MUSIC A romantic Christmas special. Christmas Crooners is jam packed with festive favourites, and the Christmas hits of Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra. A fantastic cast of West-End Singers are backed by the superb and talented swing band as they perform over 30 well known Christmas hits including Baby It’s Cold Outside, Chestnuts Roasting, Little Drummer Boy, White Christmas and many other swing arrangements of Christmas hymns and songs. | 11th 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 |
| DANCE | The Celtic Nutcracker | December The Celtic Nutcracker Hession School of Dancing DANCE A unique Irish adaption of a classic Christmas ballet. | 16th - 17th 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 |
| MUSIC | The Whileaways | December The Whileaways MUSIC After last year's sell-out show, The Whileaways return to the Black Box for this very special, fully-seated, intimate gig. The Galway band "stake their claim to being among the finest singers in the country" (Hot Press), and certainly know how to weave a spell over their home crowd. With special guests on the night, prepare to get festive! | 20th 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 | Midwinter Festival: Beethoven Quartets and Septet | January Midwinter Festival: Beethoven Quartets and Septet Music for Galway MUSIC ConTempo Quartet in partnership with the Galway Music Residency Alina Ibragimova violin | Cédric Tiberghien piano Aisling Casey oboe | John Finucane clarinet | Amy Harman bassoon | Hervé Joulain horn | Dominic Dudley double bass | Richard Wigmore musicologist Celebrating the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth, Music for Galway’s Midwinter Festival continues its longstanding tradition of presenting a three-day weekend of themed concerts with musicians from Galway, Ireland and beyond. We will focus primarily on Beethoven’s early solo piano and chamber music compositions, featuring violin sonatas, string quartets, the Quintet for piano and winds and the ever-popular Septet. This year we are delighted to be joined by the internationally-celebrated duo team of Russian violinist Alina Ibragimova and French pianist Cédric Tiberghien. Their Sunday recital will culminate in a performance of Beethoven’s Kreutzer Sonata, straying into the master’s glorious middle period. Tiberghien, no stranger to Galway audiences, takes centre-stage on Saturday night with an eclectic programme of variations for solo piano, while Galway’s own ConTempo Quartet will open proceedings on Friday night, joined by a stellar cast of colleagues from near and far. ConTempo Quartet and friendsString Quartet Op. 18 no. 5 (1798-1800)String Quartet Op. 18 no. 6 (1798-1800)Septet Op. 20 (1799-1800) | 17th Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | Midwinter Festival: Beethoven Variations | January Midwinter Festival: Beethoven Variations Music for Galway MUSIC Cédric Tiberghien piano and friends12 Variations on “Minuet à la Vigano” by Haibel WoO 68 (1795)Quintet with winds Op. 16 (1796)Variations in F major Op. 34 (1802)Eroica Variations Op. 35 (1802) | 18th Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | Midwinter Festival: Beethoven Variations & Sonatas | January Midwinter Festival: Beethoven Variations & Sonatas Music for Galway MUSIC Celebrity ConcertAlina Ibramigova violin | Cédric Tiberghien pianoVariations on „Se vuol ballare“ WoO 40 (1792-93)Violin Sonata No. 2 Op. 12 no. 2 (1797-98)Violin Sonata No. 3 Op. 12 no. 3 (1798)Violin Sonata No. 9 Op. 47 ‘Kreutzer’ (1804) | 19th Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | Johnny McEvoy | January Johnny McEvoy An Evening with MUSIC Johnny McEvoy has been one of the most enduring and talented singer/songwriters in these islands over the past 50 years. His songs are haunting, evocative and beautifully presented, with many in the folk and ballad style. This nostalgic evening of “Song and Story” features all of Johnny’s hit songs, including Muirsin Durkan, Boston Burglar, Those Brown Eyes, Long Long Before Your Time and many more plus some songs from his new album. Not to be missed! | 23rd Jan | Buy |
| MUSIC | A New Beginning George Murphy and the Rising Sons |
January A New BeginningGeorge Murphy and the Rising Sons 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 |
| COMEDY | Joanne McNally - The Prosecco Express | January Joanne McNally - The Prosecco Express COMEDY | 30th - 31st 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 | Patrick Feeney in Concert | February Patrick Feeney in Concert JMG Music group presents MUSIC Hailing from Gurteen in the County Sligo, Patrick Feeney is highly regarded as one of Ireland’s finest vocal talents and performers and his forthcoming “Country and Gospel“ tour will feature many of his most popular songs like “I Believe“ ‘’Someone to Love Me “ and his recent smash hit recording “Jerusalem“ (which received nightly standing ovations on the hugely very successful 3 Amigos tour along with his great friends Jimmy Buckley and Robert Mizzell). To coincide with the tour Patrick, recently released a new Country and Gospel album which has received high critical acclaim all across Ireland and further afield. Patrick is really looking forward to his own tour and it’s a fantastic opportunity for fans to hear a collection of his biggest and most popular songs coupled with some new material selected for this exciting project. Joining Patrick on the tour will be his own band of fantastic musicians and a few of Ireland’s finest session players, enhanced by state of the arts sound and lighting. This is certainly a show you won’t want to miss ! Duration 120 mins incl interval Strobe lighting and smoke. | 7th 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 |
| TALK | Mark Beaumont – Around the World in 80 Days | February Mark Beaumont – Around the World in 80 Days Speakers from the Edge presents TALK Around the World in 80 Days - Mark Beaumont set out to make this Victorian fiction a two wheeled reality. Having smashed the circumnavigation cycling World Record twice in his career, he now holds this 18,000 mile title in a time of 78 days and 14 hours, averaging 240 miles a day. Over the past decade, Mark’s epic documentaries have taken viewers to over 100 countries, into the Arctic, the high mountains and around the Commonwealth, also surviving capsize in the mid-Atlantic. Showing films and photography, these events are a fascinating insight into Mark’s career of adventure Duration 125 mins incl interval | 23rd 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 |
| THEATRE | Sruth na Teanga | March Sruth na Teanga Branar Téatar do Pháistí presents THEATRE commissioned by Galway 2020 Branar Téatar do Pháistí invite you to join us on an immersive theatre adventure through the story of the Irish Language, Sruth na Teanga. Branar will create different worlds, each offering a poetic interpretation of crucial periods in the life cycle of this ancient language. The audience are invited into an unforgettable theatrical experience, encountering imaginative worlds that evoke the landscape, history and forces that have shaped Gaeilge, one of the 10 most ancient languages still spoken today. Experience a true sense of adventure with cinematic levels of detail as you travel from one room to the next in five other-worldly experiences combining live performance, puppetry, music, video mapping, breath-taking design and beautiful imagery. Branar’s world-class brand of storytelling will enchant audiences of children aged 8 plus and adults alike. Age Group: 8+Duration: 45 mins approx. * Carnmore is situated at the edge of Galway city within minutes of the M6 (Dublin), the M17 (Tuam/Sligo) and the M18 (Clare/Limerick) Cuireann Branar Téatar do PháistíSruth na Teangai láthair arna mhaoiniú ag Gaillimh 2020 Tugann Branar Téatar do Pháistí cuireadh duit páirt a ghlacadh in eachtra thumthach amharclannaíochta trí scéal na Gaeilge, Sruth na Teanga. Cruthóidh Branar saolta éagsúla, le gach ceann acu ag tabhairt léirmhíniú filíochta ar na tréimhsí ríthábhachtacha i saolré na teanga ársa seo. Tugtar cuireadh don lucht féachana páirt a ghlacadh in eispéireas amharclannaíochta a fhanfaidh sa chuimhne go brách. Ar an gcosán draíochtúil seo, rachaidh siad isteach i saolta samhlaíocha ina músclófar an tírdhreach, an stair agus na fórsaí a mhúnlaigh an Ghaeilge, ceann de dheich gcinn de na teangacha is ársa a labhraítear sa lá atá inniu ann. Glac páirt in eachtra fhíorspeisialta ina mbeidh maisíochtaí ar leibhéil scánnánaíochta. Téigh ar an gconair ó sheomra go seomra, áit a mbeidh cúig eispéireas osnádúrtha le taibhléiriú beo, puipéadóireacht, ceol, teilgmhapáil, íomhánna áille agus dearadh a bhainfidh an anáil díot. Tá bua scéalaíochta den chéad scoth ag Branar agus níl amhras ach go mbeidh an lucht féachana faoi gheasa ag an mórléiriú iontach seo. In oiriúint do pháistí os cionn ocht mbliana d’aois agus do dhaoine fásta araon. *Tá An Carn Mór ar imeall chathair na Gaillimhe, cúpla nóiméad ón M6 (Baile Átha Cliath), an M17 (Tuaim/Sligeach) agus an M18 (Clár/Luimneach) March 7th March 14th - 17th March 21st - 22nd March 28th | 7th 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 |
| THEATRE | Sruth na Teanga | March Sruth na Teanga Branar Téatar do Pháistí presents THEATRE commissioned by Galway 2020 Branar Téatar do Pháistí invite you to join us on an immersive theatre adventure through the story of the Irish Language, Sruth na Teanga. Branar will create different worlds, each offering a poetic interpretation of crucial periods in the life cycle of this ancient language. The audience are invited into an unforgettable theatrical experience, encountering imaginative worlds that evoke the landscape, history and forces that have shaped Gaeilge, one of the 10 most ancient languages still spoken today. Experience a true sense of adventure with cinematic levels of detail as you travel from one room to the next in five other-worldly experiences combining live performance, puppetry, music, video mapping, breath-taking design and beautiful imagery. Branar’s world-class brand of storytelling will enchant audiences of children aged 8 plus and adults alike. Age Group: 8+Duration: 45 mins approx. * Carnmore is situated at the edge of Galway city within minutes of the M6 (Dublin), the M17 (Tuam/Sligo) and the M18 (Clare/Limerick) Cuireann Branar Téatar do PháistíSruth na Teangai láthair arna mhaoiniú ag Gaillimh 2020 Tugann Branar Téatar do Pháistí cuireadh duit páirt a ghlacadh in eachtra thumthach amharclannaíochta trí scéal na Gaeilge, Sruth na Teanga. Cruthóidh Branar saolta éagsúla, le gach ceann acu ag tabhairt léirmhíniú filíochta ar na tréimhsí ríthábhachtacha i saolré na teanga ársa seo. Tugtar cuireadh don lucht féachana páirt a ghlacadh in eispéireas amharclannaíochta a fhanfaidh sa chuimhne go brách. Ar an gcosán draíochtúil seo, rachaidh siad isteach i saolta samhlaíocha ina músclófar an tírdhreach, an stair agus na fórsaí a mhúnlaigh an Ghaeilge, ceann de dheich gcinn de na teangacha is ársa a labhraítear sa lá atá inniu ann. Glac páirt in eachtra fhíorspeisialta ina mbeidh maisíochtaí ar leibhéil scánnánaíochta. Téigh ar an gconair ó sheomra go seomra, áit a mbeidh cúig eispéireas osnádúrtha le taibhléiriú beo, puipéadóireacht, ceol, teilgmhapáil, íomhánna áille agus dearadh a bhainfidh an anáil díot. Tá bua scéalaíochta den chéad scoth ag Branar agus níl amhras ach go mbeidh an lucht féachana faoi gheasa ag an mórléiriú iontach seo. In oiriúint do pháistí os cionn ocht mbliana d’aois agus do dhaoine fásta araon. *Tá An Carn Mór ar imeall chathair na Gaillimhe, cúpla nóiméad ón M6 (Baile Átha Cliath), an M17 (Tuaim/Sligeach) agus an M18 (Clár/Luimneach) March 7th March 14th - 17th March 21st - 22nd March 28th | 14th - 17th Mar | Buy |
| THEATRE | Sruth na Teanga | March Sruth na Teanga Branar Téatar do Pháistí presents THEATRE commissioned by Galway 2020 Branar Téatar do Pháistí invite you to join us on an immersive theatre adventure through the story of the Irish Language, Sruth na Teanga. Branar will create different worlds, each offering a poetic interpretation of crucial periods in the life cycle of this ancient language. The audience are invited into an unforgettable theatrical experience, encountering imaginative worlds that evoke the landscape, history and forces that have shaped Gaeilge, one of the 10 most ancient languages still spoken today. Experience a true sense of adventure with cinematic levels of detail as you travel from one room to the next in five other-worldly experiences combining live performance, puppetry, music, video mapping, breath-taking design and beautiful imagery. Branar’s world-class brand of storytelling will enchant audiences of children aged 8 plus and adults alike. Age Group: 8+Duration: 45 mins approx. * Carnmore is situated at the edge of Galway city within minutes of the M6 (Dublin), the M17 (Tuam/Sligo) and the M18 (Clare/Limerick) Cuireann Branar Téatar do PháistíSruth na Teangai láthair arna mhaoiniú ag Gaillimh 2020 Tugann Branar Téatar do Pháistí cuireadh duit páirt a ghlacadh in eachtra thumthach amharclannaíochta trí scéal na Gaeilge, Sruth na Teanga. Cruthóidh Branar saolta éagsúla, le gach ceann acu ag tabhairt léirmhíniú filíochta ar na tréimhsí ríthábhachtacha i saolré na teanga ársa seo. Tugtar cuireadh don lucht féachana páirt a ghlacadh in eispéireas amharclannaíochta a fhanfaidh sa chuimhne go brách. Ar an gcosán draíochtúil seo, rachaidh siad isteach i saolta samhlaíocha ina músclófar an tírdhreach, an stair agus na fórsaí a mhúnlaigh an Ghaeilge, ceann de dheich gcinn de na teangacha is ársa a labhraítear sa lá atá inniu ann. Glac páirt in eachtra fhíorspeisialta ina mbeidh maisíochtaí ar leibhéil scánnánaíochta. Téigh ar an gconair ó sheomra go seomra, áit a mbeidh cúig eispéireas osnádúrtha le taibhléiriú beo, puipéadóireacht, ceol, teilgmhapáil, íomhánna áille agus dearadh a bhainfidh an anáil díot. Tá bua scéalaíochta den chéad scoth ag Branar agus níl amhras ach go mbeidh an lucht féachana faoi gheasa ag an mórléiriú iontach seo. In oiriúint do pháistí os cionn ocht mbliana d’aois agus do dhaoine fásta araon. *Tá An Carn Mór ar imeall chathair na Gaillimhe, cúpla nóiméad ón M6 (Baile Átha Cliath), an M17 (Tuaim/Sligeach) agus an M18 (Clár/Luimneach) March 7th March 14th - 17th March 21st - 22nd March 28th | 21st - 22nd Mar | Buy |
| MUSIC | The Lost Brothers | March The Lost Brothers MUSIC Shortlisted as one of MOJO magazines albums of 2018, and nominated for Best Band and Best Album at the inaugural RTE Radio 1 Folk Awards, The Lost Brothers have become known as one of the very finest bands around. Collaborations down the line have included work with Brendan Benson of The Raconteurs, Richard Hawley and Glen Hansard. They now add to their growing repertoire with their sixth studio album, “After The Fire After The Rain”, which features contributions from M Ward, Jolie Holland, Steve Wickham and Howe Gelb. The album was recorded in New York by Daniel Schlett and Tony Garnier (Bob Dylan’s longest running band member and bass player of the past 30 years.) With 5 highly acclaimed albums already under their belt and a brand new sixth release on the horizon, they have a rich well of songs to draw from for a spectacular live show. Catch them on their upcoming U.K. and Ireland tour. More info at www.thelostbrothersband.com “As smooth as aged old whiskey. Best of the year” 4/5 Stars- The Irish Times “Spellbinding “ NME “The dovetailing of the two voices make this so very special.” The Guardian “Simon and Garfunkel reborn in the desert.” Uncut Magazine “Making huge spaces very intimate indeed. Superb.” Huffington Post “The Lost Brothers harmonies are to die for, as near as a duo have got to the mastery of The Everlys and The Louvin Brothers' tender close harmony singing that I've heard anywhere near these shores." - Richard Hawley The Lost Brothers have a sound, harmony and spirit that if there is any justice will outlive us all.“ M Ward | 25th Mar | Buy |
| COMEDY | Chris Kent | March Chris Kent COMEDY | 26th Mar | Buy |
| MUSIC | Now That's What I Call Country | March 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 | 26th Mar | Buy |
| THEATRE | Sruth na Teanga | March Sruth na Teanga Branar Téatar do Pháistí presents THEATRE commissioned by Galway 2020 Branar Téatar do Pháistí invite you to join us on an immersive theatre adventure through the story of the Irish Language, Sruth na Teanga. Branar will create different worlds, each offering a poetic interpretation of crucial periods in the life cycle of this ancient language. The audience are invited into an unforgettable theatrical experience, encountering imaginative worlds that evoke the landscape, history and forces that have shaped Gaeilge, one of the 10 most ancient languages still spoken today. Experience a true sense of adventure with cinematic levels of detail as you travel from one room to the next in five other-worldly experiences combining live performance, puppetry, music, video mapping, breath-taking design and beautiful imagery. Branar’s world-class brand of storytelling will enchant audiences of children aged 8 plus and adults alike. Age Group: 8+Duration: 45 mins approx. * Carnmore is situated at the edge of Galway city within minutes of the M6 (Dublin), the M17 (Tuam/Sligo) and the M18 (Clare/Limerick) Cuireann Branar Téatar do PháistíSruth na Teangai láthair arna mhaoiniú ag Gaillimh 2020 Tugann Branar Téatar do Pháistí cuireadh duit páirt a ghlacadh in eachtra thumthach amharclannaíochta trí scéal na Gaeilge, Sruth na Teanga. Cruthóidh Branar saolta éagsúla, le gach ceann acu ag tabhairt léirmhíniú filíochta ar na tréimhsí ríthábhachtacha i saolré na teanga ársa seo. Tugtar cuireadh don lucht féachana páirt a ghlacadh in eispéireas amharclannaíochta a fhanfaidh sa chuimhne go brách. Ar an gcosán draíochtúil seo, rachaidh siad isteach i saolta samhlaíocha ina músclófar an tírdhreach, an stair agus na fórsaí a mhúnlaigh an Ghaeilge, ceann de dheich gcinn de na teangacha is ársa a labhraítear sa lá atá inniu ann. Glac páirt in eachtra fhíorspeisialta ina mbeidh maisíochtaí ar leibhéil scánnánaíochta. Téigh ar an gconair ó sheomra go seomra, áit a mbeidh cúig eispéireas osnádúrtha le taibhléiriú beo, puipéadóireacht, ceol, teilgmhapáil, íomhánna áille agus dearadh a bhainfidh an anáil díot. Tá bua scéalaíochta den chéad scoth ag Branar agus níl amhras ach go mbeidh an lucht féachana faoi gheasa ag an mórléiriú iontach seo. In oiriúint do pháistí os cionn ocht mbliana d’aois agus do dhaoine fásta araon. *Tá An Carn Mór ar imeall chathair na Gaillimhe, cúpla nóiméad ón M6 (Baile Átha Cliath), an M17 (Tuaim/Sligeach) agus an M18 (Clár/Luimneach) March 7th March 14th - 17th March 21st - 22nd March 28th | 28th 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 |
| PSYCHIC | Psychic Sally | April Psychic Sally PSYCHIC 10 Years and Counting Following her gripping appearance on Celebrity Big Brother, with a triumphant Sally reaching the final five, the nation’s favourite Psychic and forerunner in the Psychic world is back on tour with her all new show “10 Years and Counting”. Wowing audiences young and old across the country for over 10 years, Sally’s show will have you on the edge of your seat, as she brings mediumship into the 21st century. “My Ability” Sally explains “ Allows me to harness the energy around individuals in the audience and pass on messages from their loved ones who have passed with incredible accuracy. I call every message validated a wonder moment. So take your seats relax, be open minded and ready to come forward if you think the message is for you.” With her love, laughter and warmth, this show is a unique evening not to be missed. Book your tickets now to see this phenomenal psychic in action. The show is investigational and for the purpose of entertainment. | 1st Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Abendmusik I: The Way of Sorrow | April Abendmusik I: The Way of Sorrow Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC Pärt’s setting of the St. John Passion is perhaps one of the best-known choral works of the late twentieth-century. The gospel narrative speaks with direct intimacy, through a small piquantly-voiced instrumental and vocal ensemble and rigorous patterning of simple ideas. Despite the economical means, the work has a breathtaking nobility equal to its subject matter, and offers us a chance to follow the via dolorosa in a new and powerfully immediate way. The lineup of performers includes Galway’s most wellknown players alongside some of the brightest young Irish singers emerging on the European scene. Brian McAlea bass (Christus) | Ciarán Kelly Pilatus Aisling Kenny soprano (evangelist) | Laura Lamph alto (evangelist) | Chris Lombard tenor (evangelist) Malachy Frame bass (evangelist) | Bogdan Sofei violin | Adrian Mantu cello | Matthew Manning oboe | Mariana Paras bassoon | Ronan De Burca organ | Collegium | Mark Duley director | 10th Apr | 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 |
| MUSIC | Crouching Tiger | April Crouching Tiger Music for Galway MUSIC in association with RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra At the very start of the festival, we unveil the Galway Cello, fashioned out of the Galway landscape by luthier Kuros Torkzadeh, for many years resident in Galway. The very first music we hear will be that of Grammy-winning composer and Galway resident Bill Whelan, who has written a new piece for the cello. Our opening concert then presents the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of the Oscar-winning composer Tan Dun, making his Irish début and performing music from the movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” with the unrivalled Italian cellist Giovanni Sollima. RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra | Giovanni Sollima cello | Tan Dun conductor | Naomi Berrill the Galway Cello Programme includes: Bill Whelan: Newly commissioned piece for cello and voice, written for the Galway Cello - World premiere Tan Dun: Crouching Tiger Cello Concerto | 25th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Aslan | April Aslan MUSIC Aslan's 2020 tour will see the Dublin band performing songs from their full back catalogue of albums with a host of hit singles alongside fan favourites. The band have also hinted that the very special tour will feature songs that have not been performed live in a very long time. | 25th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Abendmusik II : Journey Into Twilight | April Abendmusik II : Journey Into Twilight Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC This concert takes us on a journey from the brightness of day into the shadows of evening. The unique sonority of solo cello with chamber choir is explored through a varied programme contrasting the lush romantic textures of Arensky and Rheinberger with the startling contemporary innovations of Giovanni Sollima and Sam Perkin (new commission). In Nystedt’s Stabat Mater the journey into darkness concludes with a glimpse of glory, the cello acting as expressive commentary on the ancient text. Adrian Mantu cello | Collegium | Mark Duley director JOHN TAVENER SvyatiANTON ARENSKY Three Vocal QuartetsSAM PERKIN Abendlied – world premiereGIOVANNI SOLLIMA LamentatioJOSEF RHEINBERGER AbendliedTOBY YOUNG A song of enchantmentKNUT NYSTEDT Stabat Mater | 26th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Inishbofin Cello Trail | April Inishbofin Cello Trail Music for Galway MUSIC Travel from Galway to Cleggan by coach, and to Inishbofin by ferry. In small groups you will be led on a cello trail around the island. Along the 2.4km walk there will be four stops with short performances. After a lunch break everyone will gather in the Church for a cello octet concert of about 45 minutes. The ferry will be ready to take everyone back to the bus for the return to Galway. Experience breath-taking scenery and magical music in stunning locations. €50 – travel from Galway + event (€40 with free travel pass) €40 – boat + event (€25 with free travel pass) Meeting point Cleggan pier: 10:45 am €25 – event only ticket. Meeting point Inishbofin pier: 12.15pm Places are limited so book early! | 26th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Tan Dun Interview | April Tan Dun Interview Music for Galway MUSIC Catch Tan Dun in interview on Sunday at the Town Hall Theatre. [Tan Dun’s] music – which at one moment is as tonal as Beethoven and as melodic as Gershwin and the next delves into sounds that, before Cage, were considered mere noise — reveals a remarkable range of influences, from Chinese folk song to the Internet.– UT San Diego, 2012 | 26th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Sollima: Berril | April Sollima: Berril Music for Galway MUSIC Two unique cellists, two unique voices. One from Sicily, the other from Headford; both resident in Italy. Witness their very first public collaboration, where anything might happen. Giovanni Sollima cello | Naomi Berrill cello | 26th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bach Plus 1: Giovanni Sollima | April Bach Plus 1: Giovanni Sollima Music for Galway MUSIC | 27th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Cello Ireland | April Cello Ireland Music for Galway MUSIC Cello Ireland is a collective of diverse cellists from across Ireland. Expect music for different combinations of cellos, from two to eight cellos, with well-known favourites and some unexpected departures. The programme will include traditional Irish airs, classical duos by David Popper, a tango by Piazzolla, pieces by Arvo Pärt and Messaien and a movement from Villa-Lobos’ Bachianas Brasileras No. 1. | 27th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bach Plus 2: István Várdai | April Bach Plus 2: István Várdai MUSIC | 28th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Beethoven x 5 | April Beethoven x 5 Music for Galway MUSIC A further celebration of Beethoven’s 250 years, this will be a feast for the senses. Five cellists from different corners of Europe join artistic director of Cellissimo Finghin Collins for a marathon performance of the master’s five sonatas, spanning his entire career. Richard Wigmore provides insights on the composer, the context and the music. There will be two intervals. Christopher Ellis | Laura van der Heijden | Christopher Marwood | Tatjana Vassiljeva | István Várdai cello | Finghin Collins piano | Richard Wigmore musicologist BEETHOVEN The Five Sonatas for Cello and PianoSonata No. 1 in F major Op. 5 no. 1Sonata No. 2 in G minor Op. 5 no. 2Sonata No. 3 in A major Op. 69Sonata No. 4 in C major Op. 102 no. 1Sonata No. 5 in D major Op. 102 no. 2 | 28th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bach Plus 3: Laura Van Der Heijden | April Bach Plus 3: Laura Van Der Heijden Music for Galway MUSIC | 29th Apr | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Decibel Family | April The Decibel Family THEATRE Everyone can make music. To prove that, Micha Wertheim was instructed by the Ministry for Education to learn to play the cello. For two years he has had the opportunity to practice on a Stradivarius specially made available to him for this performance. He is about to perform one of the master pieces in cello music: The Swan by Camille Saint-Saëns. Great plan, don’t you think? Until Micha comes on stage, his hand is bleeding, there is a life-threatening saw on the loose and everything runs differently than expected… The Decibel Family is based on the picture book of the same name that Micha Wertheim wrote with illustrations by Cristina Garcia Martin. This funny and entertaining show is very much geared towards the young and young at heart and we recommend it for people age 6 and up. We are delighted to present it every morning from Wednesday to Saturday. | 29th Apr - 02nd May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Concerto Gala with RTÉ Concert Orchestra | April Concerto Gala with RTÉ Concert Orchestra Music for Galway MUSIC Music for Galway has co-commissioned two new cello concertos with the Cello Biennale Amsterdam. The first, Julia Wolfe’s Wind in my Hair, received its premiere at the CBA 2018 and we are proud to present its second performance as part of Cellissimo. Gerald Barry’s piece, which gets its world premiere during this festival, will be performed again later in the year at the CBA 2020. Elgar’s cello concerto, a favourite in the repertoire, finishes off this remarkable concert featuring the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, three outstanding international cellists led by the leading Irish conductor of his generation, David Brophy. RTÉ Concert Orchestra | David Brophy conductor Tatjana Vassiljeva cello | Jakob Koranyi cello Nicolas Altstaedt cello GERALD BARRY Cello Concerto world premiereJULIA WOLFE Wind in my hair - second performance, Irish premiereELGAR Cello Concerto | 29th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Trad Late Night | April Trad Late Night Music for Galway MUSIC | 29th - 30th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bach Plus 4: Tatjana Vassiljeva | April Bach Plus 4: Tatjana Vassiljeva Music for Galway MUSIC | 30th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Maisky Residency | April Maisky Residency Music for Galway MUSIC We are delighted to present Mischa Maisky, one of the world’s truly legendary artists, in recital with his daughter Lily. The programme could scarcely be more dynamic, more diverse, more appealing. This will be a very popular concert, so do book early! Mischa Maisky cello | Lily Maisky piano BEETHOVEN Seven Variations in E flat major on Mozart’s Magic Flute in E flat major, WoO 46 RACHMANINOV Sonata for Cello and Piano in G minor, Op. 19 BRITTEN Sonata for Cello and Piano in C, Op. 65 PIAZZOLLA Le Grand Tango Tickets: €48.50/€38.50/€25.00MfG Friends: €44.50/€34.50/ €21.00 More Maisky at the Town Hall Theatre: On Friday 1st May, Mischa Maisky will work with students taking part in the International Student Programme in an open masterclass at the Town Hall Theatre from 3.00pm to 6.00pm. Tickets: €10MfG Friends: €8Unwaged & Students (full-time): €5 On Saturday 2nd May, Ludmila Snigireva will present a talk about the legendary Russian cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, and will be joined in conversation by his former student Mischa Maisky. This talk will be followed by “The Cellist” - a movie by Murray Grigor about Gregor Piatigorsky, in which Maisky also appears. Saturday 2 May2.00pm-3.00pm talk3.30pm - 5.00pm film Tickets: €10MfG Friends: €8Unwaged & Students (full-time): €5 | 30th Apr - 02nd May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bach Plus 5: Marc Coppey | May Bach Plus 5: Marc Coppey Music for Galway MUSIC | 1st May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Zagreb Soloists | May Zagreb Soloists Music for Galway MUSIC Another cracking programme, this time featuring the Zagreb Soloists from ECOC partner country Croatia (Rijeka is also European Capital of Culture in 2020), directed by their former artistic director, the charismatic French cellist Marc Coppey. To open the programme, Coppey will be joined by one of his students at the Paris Conservatoire and a true rising star: the young Dublin cellist Christopher Ellis. Marc Coppey cello/director | Christopher Ellis cello VIVALDI Concerto for Two Cellos and Orchestra in G minorHAYDN Concerto in C majorBARBER Adagio for StringsBARTÓK Divertimento for Strings | 1st May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Late Night at the Castle | May Late Night at the Castle MUSIC Round off your day with a late-night concert in the beautiful surroundings of Claregalway Castle with outstanding Hungarian cellist István Várdai and pianist Finghin Collins. A shuttle bus will run from outside the Town Hall Theatre after the Zagreb Soloists concert. István Várdai cello | Finghin Collins piano Programme to includeDE FALLA Seven Popular Spanish FolksongsDORA PEJACEVIC Cello Sonata in E minor – Irish premiere In partnership with Claregalway Castle | 1st May | 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 | Bach Plus 6: Jakob Koranyi | May Bach Plus 6: Jakob Koranyi Music for Galway MUSIC | 2nd May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Zagreb Soloists [Clifden] | May Zagreb Soloists [Clifden] Music for Galway MUSIC Another cracking programme, this time featuring the Zagreb Soloists from ECOC partner country Croatia (Rijeka is also European Capital of Culture in 2020), directed by their former artistic director, the charismatic French cellist Marc Coppey. To open the programme, Coppey will be joined by one of his students at the Paris Conservatoire and a true rising star: the young Dublin cellist Christopher Ellis. Marc Coppey cello/director | Christopher Ellis cello VIVALDI Concerto for Two Cellos and Orchestra in G minorHAYDN Concerto in C majorBARBER Adagio for StringsBARTÓK Divertimento for Strings | 2nd May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Grand Cellissimo Finale | May Grand Cellissimo Finale Music for Galway MUSIC We can safely say that Galway will never have seen the like of it before. A spectacular finale to end the week of all weeks, cellistically speaking. Never will so many cellos have been seen west of the Shannon. To join them, we welcome star Irish soprano Claudia Boyle to sing Villa-Lobos’ haunting Bachianas Brasileiras. Expect to be moved, exhilarated, transported, dazzled! Claudia Boyle soprano | István Várdai cello | Adrian Mantu cello | Hannah Roberts cello | Cello Ireland 12 International Cello Students | Cello students from all over Co. Galway | Amateur cellists from all over the world Programme to includeSOLLIMA Violoncelles, Vibrez!VILLA-LOBOS Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5TCHAIKOVSKY Andante CantabileBRUCH Kol Nidrei | 2nd May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Student Showcase Concert | May Student Showcase Concert Music for Galway MUSIC Our twelve cello students from all over Europe will have spent the week taking part in masterclasses with our visiting cellists and performing short popup concerts throughout Galway city. To help you wind down after last night’s extravagance, come and hear them in their very own showcase concert, accompanied by pianist Dearbhla Brosnan. And then it really will be all over, until we return in 2023! | 3rd 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 |
| MUSIC | Abendmusik III : Over the Alps | May Abendmusik III : Over the Alps Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC in association with Resurgam and Galway Early Music Festival In his lifetime, Rosenmüller was considered one of Europe’s greatest and most well-travelled musicians, and a key figure in bringing Italian musical ideas to Germany. Thus his music looks both ways across the Alps: grandiloquent Venetian splendour meeting Teutonic contrapuntal discipline. Resurgam brings the colourful and virtuosic beauty of his concerted vocal music to Ireland for the first time, with a collation of Latin psalm-concerti, each a mini-cantata. The splendidly sonorous C minor Magnificat in eight parts caps a Vespers setting in the grand Venetian style. Sean Doherty’s new work, setting an ancient Vesper hymn, forms a contrast in the centre of the programme. Resurgam | English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble | Mark Duley director JOHANN ROSENMÜLLER (1619-1684) Vespers SEAN DOHERTY Hail! Gladdening Light – world premiere | 24th 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 |
| THEATRE | Menopause The Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause | June Menopause The Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause Robert C Kelly, Theater Mogul by special license with GFour Present THEATRE Duration: 120 minutes including interval Age 16+ | 9th - 10th Jun | Buy |
| MUSIC | Paper Boat | June Paper Boat Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC in association with Irish National Opera A new community opera for Galway, to celebrate 700 years of St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church On midsummer’s eve, a young homeless man, and a mysterious mother and a child arrive in St. Nicholas’ Church to claim sanctuary from very different threats. But an army from the past is gathering outside the doors, threatening to repeat the destruction of Galway perpetrated by Cromwell’s army centuries ago. Now the people of Galway are being asked to risk their own safety to protect the strangers who have come seeking their aid, and the leaders of the fourteen tribes must decide. Join a professional cast of singers and musicians enhanced by children and singers of Galway and find out what the tribes decide. Elaine Agnew musicJessica Traynor librettoConor Hanratty directorSinead Hayes conductorPaul Keogan Set and Lighting Designer | 11th - 13th Jun | Buy |
| MUSIC | Abendmusik IV : Journey of the Spirit | June Abendmusik IV : Journey of the Spirit Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC The journey in our fourth Abendmusik programme is of a more metaphysical nature, from human despair to transcendent love. This journey is traced in parallel, with baritone and piano taking the more earthly view through Lieder whilst the choral contributions mark the same emotional voyage with biblical texts. At the centre is Brahms’ setting of four passages of scripture which bring sacred and secular together, with the fourth song (the famous description of love from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians) forming the turning point in the programme, and also providing the text for Ann Cleare’s new work for choir. Lieder by WOLF, SCHUBERT, SCHÖNBERG, BRAHMS, STRAUSS and MAHLER BRAHMS Four Serious Songs HEINRICH SCHÜTZ Aus der Tiefe J.S. BACH Komm Jesu komm ANN CLEARE Now we see through a glass – world premiere Jochen Kupfer baritone | Finghin Collins piano Collegium | Mark Duley director | 28th Jun | Buy |
| MUSIC | Abendmusik V : Journey into Light | September Abendmusik V : Journey into Light Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC In association with Chamber Choir Ireland This programme begins with the disconsolate darkness of the Salve Regina prayer, but in Grigorjeva’s setting, suffused with hope through long arching Byzantine-inspired melodic lines. Pärt’s Wallfahrtslied (pilgrims’ song) bridges the ravine between the two worlds of time and eternity, using the words of psalm 121. The dynamism of the string parts set against the static vocal lines gives the work a transfigured serenity. Tavener’s Ikon of Light, becomes suffused with the soundscape of Orthodox liturgy, sets St Symeon’s ecstatic text, bringing us fully into the Divine Light which is its central theme. The text of Ed Bennett’s new work is seventeenth century metaphysicist John Donne’s resonant prayer challenging death with a vision of heavenly infinitude. Con Tempo Quartet | Chamber Choir Ireland | Paul Hillier diector GALINA GRIGORJEVA Salve ReginaARVO PÄRT WallfahrtsliedED BENNETT - world premiereJOHN TAVENER Ikon of Light | 27th Sep | Buy |
| MUSIC | Celebrating Emily Anderson | October Celebrating Emily Anderson Music for Galway & NUI Galway present MUSIC Symposium & Concert A day of celebration of one of Galway’s finest daughters, Emily Anderson. Music for Galway has honoured her each year and this year is no different. Given her close connections to Beethoven, it is even more important that we remember her in 2020. Find out more about this extraordinary woman who is only starting to get the recognition she deserves. Immerse yourself in late Beethoven as John O’Conor tackles his final three piano sonatas. BEETHOVENPiano Sonata no. 30 in E major Op. 109Piano Sonata no. 31 in A flat major Op. 110Piano Sonata no. 32 in C minor Op. 111 | 15th Oct | Buy |
| MUSIC | Abendmusik VI : Resounding Landscape | November Abendmusik VI : Resounding Landscape Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC in association with Irish Baroque Orchestra Serendipitously, our final Abendmusik of the season falls on the feast day of St Cecilia, patron saint of musicians. Purcell’s ode in honour of the Roman martyr sets a text by Irishman Nicholas Brady in which a wide array of musical instruments are extolled both as human characters and voices of nature itself. Heaven and earth are brought together, and the “jarring seeds of matter” into agreement, in Purcell’s grand choruses and intimate arias and duets. These themes are the inspiration for the programme’s “curtain-raiser”: Rhona Clarke’s new setting of Hildegard’s extraordinary O vis eternitatis, a celebration of the divinity of the created order. Resurgam | Irish Baroque Orchestra | Peter Whelan director RHONA CLARKE O vis eternitatis – world premiereHENRY PURCELL Hail! Bright Cecilia | 22nd Nov | Buy |
| MUSIC | Beethoven 9th Symphony | December Beethoven 9th Symphony Music for Galway & Galway 2020 present MUSIC in association with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra With joy, the spark of the gods, Music for Galway ends its programme for Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture. Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, including the EU hymn Ode to Joy, will resound throughout the Galway Cathedral to celebrate 250 years since Beethoven’s birth, to celebrate this fantastic year for Galway and to celebrate its cultural connections with Europe. Choirs from all over Galway City and County will join the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and a star studded cast of soloists led by distinguished Irish conductor Kenneth Montgomery. RTÉ Concert Orchestra | Kenneth Montgomery conductor | Anna Devin soprano | Sharon Carty mezzo-soprano | Dean Power tenor | André Morsch baritone | 12th Dec | Buy |