All Comedy Dance Film Music Psychic Talk Theatre
| 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 |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | January Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK G is for gold, G is for Galway The story of ancient goldwork in Galway Speaker: Prof. Mary Cahill The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 23rd Jan | Buy |
| FILM | Subtitle 2020 | January Subtitle 2020 FILM In conjunction with the Town Hall Theatre, Subtitle European Film Festival is delighted to return to Galway to present some of it's most popular titles for a weekend Best Of! Come and see popular, accessible comedies, thrillers and dramas, for a magical weekend of cinema. | 24th - 26th Jan | |
| 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 |
| THEATRE | A Holy Show | January A Holy Show Verdant Productions THEATRE Written and Directed by Janet Moran When Airplane meets Father Ted. A nostalgic comedy based on a very Irish hijacking of the 1981 Aer Lingus plane by an ex-Trappist monk with a bottle of water as his weapon, the Pope as his nemesis, and a burning desire to know The Third Secret of Fatima. A Holy Show takes us back to 1981 and brings us on board the ill-fated Aer Lingus flight EI 164 from Dublin to London. There’ll be music, nostalgia, heroism, praying, visions, romance (maybe) sex (maybe) a special appearance by Our Lady (definitely). Starring Roseanna Purcell & Mark Fitzgerald. | 29th Jan | Buy |
| COMEDY | Joanne McNally - The Prosecco Express | January Joanne McNally - The Prosecco Express COMEDY The world around her is getting married, having children and streaming off to buy slow cooker crock pots and buggies. Joanne owns nothing and has birthed nothing and despite some ABSOLUTELY MASSIVE (incredibly minor) comedic achievements, her mother is still trying to convince her to go back and study nursing. Due to her thirties age box, Joanne spends her weekends celebrating other people’s milestones at their garden parties drinking prosecco out of jam jars. She is full of questions, her main one being if she doesn’t have a child, who will be obligated to watch her die so she doesn’t have to do it alone? She’s a people’s person, she’s just not sure she’s a raising people’s person. And what if she doesn’t marry anyone, is she prepared to face her biggest fear of being buried with her mother? And once her mother reads this, will she retract her offer? Joanne tackles the trials and tribulations of modern life with hilarious, charming, irreverence. Joanne wants you to know that she wrote this herself, but stands by the previous line 100%. | 30th - 31st Jan | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | January Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Bog-deal, in Irish giúis: what is it? what does it tell us about past environments? Speaker: Prof. Michael O'Connell The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 30th 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 |
| THEATRE | The Matchmaker | January The Matchmaker John B Keane's THEATRE With Mary McEvoy & Jon KennyDirected by Michael Scott The smash hit comedy based on the novella Letters of a County Matchmaker returns due to public demand! John B. Keane’s beloved hit comedy follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O’Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn from all parts of the country. At the centre of this celebrated production is John B Keane’s marvellous and mischievous wit coupled by his unparalleled way with words and taking us back to a simpler time, when even phones were few and far between and the only web was one left behind by spiders. | 31st Jan | Buy |
| COMEDY | Jes Rowing Comedy Fundraiser | January Jes Rowing Comedy Fundraiser COMEDY featuring Colin Geddis with Mark McCarney, Sinead Walsh & Karl Spain (mc) Colin Geddis is the creator and writer of Gedzilla films, an online based Sketch and Stand Up Comedy channel which has now seen him reach almost 10,000,000 YouTube hits. He gained notoriety in Northern Ireland in late 2009 with his hit YouTube based sketch show, ‘I Am Fighter’ which he wrote, performed and produced all episodes as well as played the lead character ‘Barry ‘the blender’ Henderson’. He is also the creator of the hugely successful audio and video podcast ‘Audio Picnic’, which has gone on to receive 1000’s of plays and downloads on iTunes since its creation in 2010. He now produces his own Podcast “The General Banter Podcast” which has over 500,000 downloads. He also starred in BBC NI sketch show ‘LOL’ and is currently in development with C4 plus sketch show "Late Licence" is on the way for BBC 2. Colin started his stand up comedy career in 2010 and since then has become a regular headline act all across Ireland, selling out several tours and prestigious venues such as The Ulster Hall, Belfast, alongside his residency at Lavery's Comedy which he books and runs. Mark McCarney is fairly new to the Irish comedy scene, but is already a regular fixture at comedy clubs in Belfast and around Northern Ireland. Mark has supported some of the biggest names in Northern Irish comedy on tour and will charm you with his poetically absurd take on ex-girlfriends and breaking up with someone during the famine. Sinead Walsh is a Dublin stand-up comedian, based in Cork (for reasons still unknown). Her fast-paced, witty and extremely funny stories take in everything from nature, nursing a broken heart and nanny-goat mamboing. Hosted by the “achingly funny” Karl Spain. Doors 8pm / Showtime is 8:30pm. | 31st 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 |
| THEATRE | My Father, My Son | February My Father, My Son Ultan Macken THEATRE Written, directed and performed by Ultan Macken Tickets €20*/€15* Ultan Macken is Walter Macken’s son. This critically acclaimed one-man show gives an insight into the family history and life of one of Ireland’s most cherished authors. It reveals the true breadth of Walter Macken’s creativity in film, novels, plays and theatre management - and the extraordinary relationship with his son. Don’t miss it. Duration 2 hours 15 minutes, including interval. | 3rd - 06th Feb | Buy |
| MUSIC | Viennese Strauss Gala | February Viennese Strauss Gala MUSIC STRAUSS · LEHAR · KALMAN Directed by Stephen Leatherland Back with a sparkling new production and recreating the romance of the Viennese Festive season, A Viennese Strauss Gala features highlights from some of the great Operettas of the Strauss family, Kalman and Lehar including Die Fledermaus, The Merry Widow, the Gypsy Baron and many more. The European Orchestral Ensemble will accompany four soloists from major opera companies including Opera North, English National Opera and D’Oyly Carte. This wonderful production is cleverly staged and choreographed, and authentically costumed, and will appeal to the romantic as much as the music aficionado. Don’t miss! | 4th Feb | Buy |
| MUSIC | KIPPS - The New Half A Sixpence Musical | February KIPPS - The New Half A Sixpence Musical Galway University Musical Society MUSIC Kipps: The New Half a Sixpence Musical is a fresh adaptation of the classic H.G. Well’s novel Kipps: The Story of a Simple Soul. Arthur Kipps, an orphaned draper’s assistant, unexpectedly inherits a fortune that propels him into high society, where he encounters love both new and old. Featuring a toe-tapping score which includes Flash Bang Wallop, Money to Burn and If The Rain’s Got to Fall, this Irish premiere will delight audiences both young and old. Duration 2 hours 45 minutes, including interval. Open to all ages | 4th - 08th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Man in The Woman's Shoes | February The Man in The Woman's Shoes Mikel Murfi THEATRE “Astonishing performance” The New York Times It’s October 1978. Pope John Paul I is not long dead and Pat Farnon has ‘some business’ to do in town. A man with a boundless enthusiasm for life, this show is funny, tender and at times downright daft. “A masterclass in the art of the monologue” Time Out Final opportunity to see BOTH of Mikel Murfi’s acclaimed one man showsWritten and performed by Mikel Murfi. Returns due to phenomenal public demand!Tickets €20/€18 See both productions for €35* book directly through THT Box Office on 091-569777 or in-person. | 5th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | I Hear You and Rejoice | February I Hear You and Rejoice Mikel Murfi THEATRE “Astonishing performance” The New York Times Late in his life, Pat Farnon, a cobbler and all-round contented man, embarks on a journey he had not quite planned and finds that every twist in the road can bring its own surprises. “A masterclass in the art of the monologue” Time Out A companion piece to The Man in the Woman’s Shoes Final opportunity to see BOTH of Mikel Murfi’s acclaimed one man showsWritten and performed by Mikel Murfi. Returns due to phenomenal public demand!Tickets €20/€18 See both productions for €35* book directly through THT Box Office on 091-569777 or in-person. | 6th Feb | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | February Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK The Dillon Family of Ahascragh, County Galway: Irish Identities and the Clonbrock Photographic Collection (1860s-1930s) Speaker: Úna Kavangah The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 6th 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 |
| COMEDY | Tony Cantwell - Pure GRÁ | February Tony Cantwell - Pure GRÁ COMEDY Over 5 million views online. Fresh from sell-out shows at the Dublin and Edinburgh Fringe, cult-comedian Tony Cantwell is taking to the road for his first-ever Irish tour. Join the comedian for a new night of stand up, sketches, and songs all based on his meme-soaked social media page. "The funniest Irish sketch of all time. Simple as.” - JOE.ie "His unconventional take on comedy belongs on the Adult Swim network” - The Irish Times. "One of the city's most exciting emerging comics." -Totally Dublin | 7th - 08th Feb | Buy |
| MUSIC | Imagining Ireland | February Imagining Ireland Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture MUSIC Speaking Up, Singing Louder SOAK, Radie Peat, Lisa O’Neill, Sorcha Richardson, Sinead Gleeson, Sarah Moss, Denise Chalia, Sara Baume, Elaine Feeney and more guests to be announced Recent years have seen a groundswell of women’s voices in Irish literature, music and poetry. This intimate event will celebrate those voices, bringing together a stellar cast of women with a lot to say. “a glorious, cliche-free musical melting pot” **** The Guardian, Imagining Ireland 2018. Art-pop auteur, SOAK, creates emotionally probing songs of startling candor. Lisa O’Neill’s raw and unvarnished folk has won widespread praise and awards this year. With Lankum and solo, Radie Peat is one of the remarkable voices of new folk. Sorcha Richardson’s debut First Prize Bravery marks the arrival of a major new artist. The words are just as vital as the music, the show gathers the leading lights of an acclaimed generation of writers to speak up. The cast Sara Baume (A Line Made by Walking), Sinéad Gleeson (Constellations), Sarah Moss (Ghost Wall)and acclaimed Galway poet Elaine Feeney whose debut novel, As You Were, is published in April 2020. Word and music meet in the work of Denise Chaila, a Zambian-Irish rapper, singer and poet hailing from Chikankata, Zambia and based in Limerick. Her music blends spoken word and rap to give voice to the sound of a transatlantic odyssey. Curated by Sinéad Gleeson & Gary Sheehan of NCH. Imagining Ireland is an annual specially produced concert elucidating current themes and key artists in Irish culture. Imagining Ireland is presented at The National Concert Hall and The Barbican, London. Imagining Ireland at Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture is produced by NCH and supported by Culture Ireland and the British Council. | 10th Feb | Buy |
| COMEDY | Jack Dee - Off The Telly | February Jack Dee - Off The Telly Róisín Dubh Comedy & Off the Kerb Productions presents COMEDY ON SALE Friday 1st Nov 10AM Join Jack Dee for an evening of entertainment (food and beverages not included) in his new stand-up tour. “In these difficult and uncertain times people need hope – a ray of sunshine to brighten their day. And that’s very much where I come in” says Jack. Star of TV sitcoms Bad Move, Lead Balloon and Josh, Jack also hosts the legendary Radio 4 show I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. Additional credits include presenting Jack Dee’s Helpdesk on BBC Two, C4’s The Jack Dee Show, ITV’s Jack Dee’s Saturday Night, BBC’s Jack Dee’s Happy Hour and Jack Dee Live at the Apollo. “In fact,” explains Jack, “I’ve probably appeared in every TV show with my name in the title”. Other sidelines include Motivational Speaking, which Jack describes as “Basically a total waste of time, talking to losers, but the cash is decent” and then adds “Don’t print that”. It’s so hard to tell when he’s being serious. In recognition of his charity work, Jack was denied an OBE in 2015. Age Guidance: Strictly 14+ Swearing and adult content | 11th - 12th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Do Fish Sleep? | February Do Fish Sleep? Beluga Theatre THEATRE Written by Jens RaschkeDirected by Oisín Robbins "A hundred years old? Who’d really want to be a hundred?" "Probably a ninety-nine year old." Beluga Theatre proudly presents the English-language premiere of Do Fish Sleep? This award-winning play is an honest, humorous and moving exploration of childhood, loss and hope. A world seen through the eyes of a perceptive child with some big questions. You’re never too young for an existential crisis. Duration 55 minutes, no interval. Age Guideline 10+ | 12th - 15th Feb | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | February Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Back to the future: Renaissance Galway in the mid-seventeenth century Speaker: Paul Walsh The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 13th Feb | Buy |
| COMEDY | Jason Byrne - Wrecked but Ready | February Jason Byrne - Wrecked but Ready COMEDY On Sale Friday 1st Nov 10am Following on from his sell out success at #VCCG19, the Star of "Ireland’s Got Talent" returns to Galway in February. 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’d 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’. 'Unmissable' Evening Standard 'Watching a new Jason Byrne show is a bit like witnessing lightning in a bottle' Edinburgh Evening News 'Byrne is consistently brilliant' Metro ‘Full on, doubled up, gasping for oxygen, hilarious’ – Chortle. | 14th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Dirty Dusting | February Dirty Dusting Dressing Room 1 THEATRE Starring XFACTOR’s Mary Byrne Hold onto your seats – and don’t miss this wild new comedy about a trio of 70-something cleaners facing the axe. Instead of taking threats of redundancy lying down, these game girls set up a phone sex service - and that’s when the fun begins! Be shocked, delighted and amused by the only chat-line girls with dusters, attitude and their very own bus passes! Pure theatrical Viagra? It probably is for those who might just need the real thing! If you love Mrs. Browns Boys, come and meet their match in this must-see comedy of the year! Duration 120 minutes. Age guidance 16+. Strong language throughout. | 15th 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 |
| DANCE | State of Exception | February State of Exception Catherine Young Dance presents DANCE Inspired by the experience of making work with refugees and asylum seekers in Direct Provision, State of Exception is a powerful and raw multi-cultural interplay of dance, music and text. Featuring a cast of outstanding Irish and international performers, this compelling and original dance work delves into the world of asylum seekers to understand, to connect, to challenge and tear down the walls and borders that divide us, finding home in the common that binds us all.Catherine has been making and touring work to critical acclaim since 2011, creating powerful, percussive, physical, primal work that shows all shades of the human condition – its grit, edge, truth, honesty and beauty. There will be a post-show discussion with Catherine. Duration 60 min, no intermission. 12+ | 18th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | The 10 Dark Secrets of 1798 | February The 10 Dark Secrets of 1798 Paddy Cullivan THEATRE Experience the incredible true story of Ireland’s 1798 Rebellion through song, imagery and storytelling with historical entertainer and musician Paddy Cullivan. Inspired by the American and French Revolutions of the late-18th Century, The 10 Dark Secrets of 1798 is a historical drama of Game of Thrones proportions, bringing a staggering array of characters to life. Wolfe Tone, Lord Edward Fitzgerald and Napper Tandy - George Washington, The ‘Mad King’ George III and Napoleon Bonaparte. Huge battles, victories and losses from the epic Wexford Rebellion to the unbelievable Year of the French …and most importantly, the timeless call of the United Irishmen (and women!) to unite ‘Protestant, Catholic and Dissenter’… Duration 120 minutes, including interval. Age guidance 16+ | 18th Feb | Buy |
| DANCE | Absolute Legends | February Absolute Legends Lords of Strut DANCE All their lives, Sean and Seamus have wanted to be famous. To get there they need to make the perfect dance routine; they need your help. In this dance fantasy adventure the brothers rock out banging moves, run into trouble, cause mayhem and find out if fame is really what they’re looking for. Fusing dizzying acrobatics and riotous comedy, Lords of Strut are rip-roaringly funny, fantastically bizarre, they are …absolute legends! Duration 60 minutes, no interval. Age guidance 6+ | 19th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Gearóid Farrelly - Alchemy | February Gearóid Farrelly - Alchemy THEATRE Alchemy is a new show from comedian Gearóid Farrelly in which he is pretty certain he will be able to solve all of the world’s problems. To start with Science needs more laughs, we need more superstar comebacks and Conor McGregor should just stop talking. Gearóid has appeared at comedy festivals all over the world, touring with the likes of Joan Rivers, Patton Oswalt and Sarah Millican. He recently appeared on the BBC Radio 4 panel show An Elephant in the Room and can be heard on his podcast Fascinated where he tracks down his childhood heroes! | 20th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Blindboy Live PODCAST Show | February Blindboy Live PODCAST Show In association with AMA Music Agency THEATRE Blindboy's increased notability away from his band Rubberbandits, has allowed for him to explore wider avenues and create perhaps outrageously mind-altering brainchildren which can only be described as courageous, yet bonkers. With a number one selling book under his belt and a podcast that has reached interest not only in Ireland but internationally, the satirist could possibly single-handedly change people's mindset on mental health and the deafening stigma it surrounds. Outspoken, informed and empathetic, Blindboy engages his audience with an unusual touch of realism. There is a very authentic feeling of "freedom" he exhumes which allows his listeners and participants to openly speak their mind without judgement and no topic off limits - certainly an air of belonging encircling the space you find yourself in when listening or in the company of Blindboy. His latest innovative creation, The Blindboy Podcast does not only indoctrinates mental health issues but reaches further into a wide spectrum of current topics, may it be gun laws, feminism, racism or a bit of history. Blindboy has it covered. ‘’His uncanny ability to articulate what nearly everyone is thinking is unparalleled and something that is sorely needed in Irish society’’ The Daily Edge Blindboy has over 1 x million listeners to his podcast No 1 bestseller Book in Ireland Frontman with Rubberbandits as seen on Trainspotting Movie ( T2) BBC - Hosted his own TV show (see BBC i-player) Listen to Spike LEE + Blindboy Podcast Radio Times international list the biggest podcasts in the world, Blindboy Joins the top list | 20th Feb | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | February Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Landscape and environmental history of Galway: prehistoric woodlands to Medieval city Speaker: Dr. Karen Molloy The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 20th 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. | 21st - 22nd Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Cherry Orchard | February The Cherry Orchard Druid presentsAnton Chekhov’s THEATRE Druid presentsAnton Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard In a version by Tom Murphy Directed by Garry Hynes Times are changing.An old way of life is dying out.A family faces extinction.A country prepares for revolution.And the cherry orchard? What will become of it? Bringing together one of the world’s great classic plays with one of Ireland’s greatest writers, Druid presents Tom Murphy’s version of Chekhov’s masterpiece. Directed by Garry Hynes, with the acclaimed creative team behind DruidShakespeare, this production will feature a large company of actors, starring Derbhle Crotty alongside Rachel Feeney and other leading members of the Druid Ensemble. Druid’s production of The Cherry Orchard, a play about land, legacy, and the struggle between tradition and change, will be the first major production of Tom Murphy’s work since his death in 2018. Cast:Derbhle CrottyIan-Lloyd AndersonSíobhan CullenMegan CusackPeter DalyRachel FeeneyGarrett LombardAaron MonaghanRory NolanHelen NortonJohn OlohanMarty Rea Creatives:Director Garry HynesSet & Costume Designer Francis O’ConnorCostume Co-Designer Doreen McKennaLighting Designer James F. IngallsSound Designer Gregory ClarkeMovement David BolgerMusic Conor LinehanAssistant Costume Designer Clíodhna Hallissey | 22nd Feb - 07th Mar | 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 |
| THEATRE | Tintown | February Tintown Blue Raincoat Theatre Company THEATRE Written and performed by Bob KellyDirected by Niall Henry “Wonderful production, terrifically directed” Sunday Independent With the outbreak of WW2, the Irish government introduces internment without trial for all suspected IRA members, and Bernard Carroll is swept up with hundreds of others and held in a ramshackle internment camp on the plains of the Curragh. The camp is packed with left-wing revolutionaries, civil war veterans and republicans, all held without trial. There’s one catch – they can leave any time they want, provided they are willing to renounce violence and take an oath of loyalty to the Irish government. They stay. Duration 75 minutes, no interval. | 24th Feb | Buy |
| THEATRE | Theatre Room Galway | February Theatre Room Galway THEATRE A unique, monthly showcase of crowd-sourced one-act plays that are written, directed and performed by talented locals of all stripes, from drama students and seasoned professionals to passionate amateurs as well as a few complete chancers. Duration 1hour 30 minutes, no interval. | 24th Feb | |
| THEATRE | Coirm Gael Linn | February Coirm Gael Linn THEATRE Primary schools from all over Galway City and County present 20-minute variety shows, as Gaeilge. Tuilleadh Eolais www.gael-linn.ie/coirm | 25th - 26th Feb | |
| COMEDY | Julie Jay: Julie Really Love Me? | February Julie Jay: Julie Really Love Me? COMEDY Julie Jay is a comic who has taken the comedy world by storm in recent months. She has also supported the biggest names in comedy, including Neil Delamere, Ardal O'Hanlon, acted as resident support act for Tommy Tiernan on his Paddy Crazy Horse Tour and most recently MC’d the 2019 series of the Tommy Tiernan Show. “The brightest, funniest thing I’ve seen in a long time” - Tommy Tiernan Her new show 'Julie Really Love Me' explores her quest for validation, applying lessons gleamed from Oprah in the early nineties to modern life, navigating being childless in the state of Gilead and guards. Lots and lots of guards. One of the most exciting new voices on the Irish comedy scene, her on-stage warmth accompanied by a sizeable side dish of distinctly Irish self-deprecation. Wry wit, neurotic ponderings and clever joke-writing make her an act not to be missed. “One of Ireland’s leading comedians” – The Journal | 27th Feb | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | February Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Genealogies of Irish dance in Galway, 1922 to 1992 Speaker: Dr. Méabh Ní Fhuartháin The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 27th 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 |
| MUSIC | Mary Coughlan | February Mary Coughlan MPI Artists MUSIC “A song is not complete unless it has been sung by Mary Coughlan”Melody Maker Mary Coughlan is arguably one of Ireland’s greatest female jazz and blues singers, a true artist who has carved out a timeless and highly regarded career and a legion of devoted fans worldwide. Described as ‘Ireland’s Billie Holiday’ Mary has overcome childhood trauma, alcoholism & drug addiction to become a musical force like no other. “Her life story gives weight to the truth that the best singersare the ones with the most painful lives” The Guardian Duration 110 minutes, including interval. Age guidance 16+ | 29th 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 | Queen of Technicolor -The Story of Maureen O' Hara | March Queen of Technicolor -The Story of Maureen O' Hara Elaine O’Dwyer THEATRE Directed by Gráinne Byrne This one-woman show marks the centenary of legendary Irish actress Maureen O’Hara who was born in 1920. Star of Hollywood’s Golden Age, O’Hara played roles that often mirrored her true persona as a tough and courageous woman. A frontrunner of the #Timesup movement, O’Hara stood up against Hollywood’s studio bosses and steered clear of the casting couch. Portraying over twenty characters in this tour de force performance, O’Dwyer takes you on an intimate journey with Maureen. Don’t miss! The vanity case used in the production is the original case which belonged to O’ Hara. Duration 110 minutes, including interval. | 4th Mar | Buy |
| COMEDY | Aidan Greene - Did I Stutter? | March Aidan Greene - Did I Stutter? The Lisa Richards Agency presents COMEDY Did I Sutter? Yes, I absolutely did. Quite badly actually. I’m award-winning comedian Aidan Greene and I have a stutter. Let’s clear up misconceptions you may have about it: from The King’s Speech to bad dates to ancient Nordic cures, this comedy show will break down everything you thought you knew about this sexy, silent disability (and teach you some things you definitely didn’t want to know!). As heard on The Moth Podcast, NPR, BBC Radio 4 and ABC Australia "Aidan Greene stands alone as one of the most unique comedians working today” – The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival "Heartfelt, hilarious hour of comedy from rising star Aidan Greene" **** – The Wee Review "Aidan Greene clearly has a talent for comedy, and harnessing his gift has given him an authentic edge" **** – Deadline News "Brilliant" – Tommy Tiernan | 5th Mar | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | March Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Archives, a valuable cultural resource Speaker: Patria McWalter The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 5th 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 | 9 to 5 | March 9 to 5 Twin Productionsby kind permission from Music Theatre International (Europe) THEATRE Tumble Outta' Bed and Stumble to Dolly Parton's Rip-Roaring Musical Comedy 9 to 5 9 to 5 The Musical Comedy is getting down to business at the Town Hall Theatre, courtesy of Twin Productions! The smash-hit musical features a book by the iconic movieʼs original screenwriter Patricia Resnick and an Oscar, Grammy and Tony award-nominated score by the Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton. 9 to 5 The Musical tells the story of Doralee, Violet and Judy - three workmates pushed to boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss. Concocting a plan to kidnap and turn the tables on their despicable supervisor, will the ladies manage to reform their office - or will events unravel when the CEO pays an unexpected visit? Inspired by the hit film this hilarious production is about teaming up, standing up and taking care of business! Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture. Originally produced on Broadway by Robert Greenblatt, April 2009. Performed by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) Limited. Director Brian PowerMusical/Chorus Director Eoin CorcoranChoreographer Declan J.Gardiner 2 hour show with an interval of 15mins. Age Recommendation: 12+ Please note: This production contains comic sexual references, light drug use and the occasional curse word Tue Mar 10th – Sun Mar 15th @ 8pm Nightly (ex Sun)Matinee Performances Tickets €21* & €19*Matinees Sat 14th at 3pm & Sun 15th at 5pm | 10th - 15th Mar | Buy |
| FILM | Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2020 Galway Regional Heat | March Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2020 Galway Regional Heat Fresh International Film Festival 2020 FILM The screening features the work of the best young filmmakers from the West. If you would like to see the future of Irish filmmaking, don’t miss! Booking through Eventbrite or email Fresh Film info@freshfilmfestival.net Check us out on www.freshfilmfestival.com or call us on 061 319555 | 12th Mar | |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | March Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Shaped by shock: How abrupt climate change helped mould Galway's landscapes Speaker: Dr. Gordon Bromley The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 12th 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 | The Mai | March The Mai THEATRE Marina Carr The Mai is an epic tale, both wildly funny and humorously tragic, of three generations of a family inspired by love but shattered by inescapable reality. “A luminous production... beautifully orchestrated... a play that entertains as it chills and never ceases to hold interest” No More Workhorse Directed by Andrew Flynn | 18th Mar | Buy |
| THEATRE | 3 Hail Marys | March 3 Hail Marys THEATRE A Unique Nursing Home Experience! After spending over 10 years together in the same nursing home, it’s time for Mary O’Toole, Mary O’Neill and Mary O’Brien to bid farewell to one another. It might be their last day in each other’s company but they decide to celebrate it in style! From nostalgia to comedy and even a few sing-songs it’s going to be one hell of a hooley! This rip-roaring Irish comedy is written by Tommy Marren – writer of It’s the Real McCoy and Nobody’s Talking To Me – and is a must-see! | 19th - 21st Mar | Buy |
| THEATRE | Seminar | March Seminar SamePage Theatre THEATRE by Theresa Rebeck Seminar by Theresa Rebeck is SamePage Theatre's 5th production - a provocative comedy exploring the lives, the work and relationships of four aspiring young writers. The group round together to arrange private tutoring by an esteemed former novelist. Their struggles as artists come to the forefront as they learn how harsh the world of creative arts can be. This amateur production is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd. Duration 90 minutes, no interval. | 19th - 21st Mar | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | March Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Speculative Imaginaries: Rethinking our relationship to the natural world Speaker: Dr. Nessa Cronin The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 19th 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 |
| FILM | Wilderland Wildlife Film Festival | March Wilderland Wildlife Film Festival FILM Selected from over a hundred entries from filmmakers around the globe, Wilderland visits Galway for the first time, bringing the very best of the world’s short wildlife films. These groundbreaking films will offer audiences unparalleled insight into some of the world’s most incredible wildlife. A must-see for lovers of wildlife, film, travel, conservation and adventure. Website: https://www.wilderlandfestival.com Suitable for ages 12+ Wilderland founders Dan O’Neill and Isaac Rice will host and introduce each film live on stage. | 24th 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 - Christy Doesn’t Live Here | March Chris Kent - Christy Doesn’t Live Here COMEDY ‘Original hilarious material...Among the best acts I’ve seen’ The Mirror ★★★★★ Cork comedian Chris Kent returns to the Town Hall Studio on the 26th March with his brand new show ‘Christy Doesn’t Live Here’. Chris has more stories, more kids and a keep cup to compensate for his guilt about over population. Chris tries to come to terms with being called “well trained” for carrying out basic tasks. Chris also gets deep and talks about his favorite clothes horse or “garment donkey” if you’re a maniac… ‘Hilariously deadpan’ Wee Review ★★★★ ‘Unequivocally talented raconteur’ Ed Fest Magazine’ ★★★★ ‘Fresh and original material, extremely endearing performer’ Broadway Baby ★★★★ | 26th Mar | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | March Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Some student days from UCG, 1920 Speaker: Patrick Larkin The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 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 |
| MUSIC | Don Baker Band | March Don Baker Band MUSIC The Blues Man Tour To star opposite Daniel Day-Lewis in In the Name of the Father, headline with Tom Jones and Van Morrison at The Marley Park Festival, have his songs recorded by scores of artists and tour at home and internationally for 50 years; it can clearly be seen that Don Baker’s career in the entertainment industry has been amazing. But it is in his love of The Blues, of the harmonica and of performing live that Don really shines. Don’t miss! | 27th 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 |
| THEATRE | Joe Daly Children's Magic and Illusion Show | March Joe Daly Children's Magic and Illusion Show THEATRE Direct from his weekday magic show abraKIDabra on RTÉjr, Joe Daly brings his children’s comedy magic and illusion show to Galway and will bring the kids on a rollercoaster ride of magic, illusion, comedy and fun. Tables will fly, newspapers will be torn up and restored, cola poured over a volunteers head - and Joe will even make it snow! “Ireland’s leading Magician” The Irish Times Age guidance 3-12 | 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 |
| MUSIC | National Graduation Concert | March National Graduation Concert Suzuki Education Institute of Ireland MUSIC Hosted by Music Matters Loughrea | 29th Mar | |
| 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 |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | April Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK Do we worry about climate change? Understanding climate change perceptions in the North West region of Ireland Speaker: Axel Leahy The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 2nd Apr | Buy |
| COMEDY | Gusto with Billy Magra | April Gusto with Billy Magra World Premiere Sideline Productions COMEDY "extremely funny, most imaginative, exceedingly agile and irresistibly charming"The Irish Times In 1983 Billy Magra was hailed as one of Ireland’s best stand-up comedians, appearing on the Late Late Show and blazing a trail for others. But then his ‘other half’ Billy McGrath emerged as an award-winning TV/ Film director (U2; Italia ’90; Pogues; Clannad; Bowie; Rats); comedy producer (Sean Hughes; Izzard: O’Kane; Rubberbandits; Tiernan; Bishop); first ever Commissioning Editor of RTÉ TV Entertainment & now Sideline (Great Irish Bake Off; GAA DVDs; RTÉ Radio 1’s Comedy Showhouse & grintage FB). Now Magra & McGrath re-unite to explore how a lifelong hippy punk can still buck the system - and grow old disgracefully. Warning – contains references to sex, drugs and sean-nós singing Duration 75 minutes, no interval. | 3rd - 04th 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 |
| MUSIC | Jack Lukeman | April Jack Lukeman MUSIC Jack Lukeman invites you to celebrate the 21st anniversary of his first original album Metropolis Blue. The multi-platinum ground-breaking album established Jack internationally both commercially and critically, featuring much-loved songs such as Georgie Boy, Rooftop Lullaby, Ode to Ed Wood, When the Moon is High. US CDNOW magazine enthused "Combine the talent of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Tom Waits, and Tom Jones and the result is a velvet-throated, hip-shaking madman with a sexy accent that would likely resemble Jack Lukeman. The voice is the clincher. Surely one of the great voices of our times, with Metropolis Blue, Jack Lukeman is ready to take his place on the rather short list of truly great singers." Similarly, The Boston Globe was astounded at "Lukeman's lush, evocative debut". The album emerged in 1999 from songs tested on the rough and ready Acoustico cassette demos. Shaped by the wonder of Jacks startling voice and born of life on the road. The album was produced by Jack with some songs co-written with axe-man David Constantine and long-time collaborator Martin Clancy. So come and enjoy Jack Lukeman's renowned live performance and celebration of his initial breakthrough Metropolis Blue in full plus a few surprises. Duration: 90 mins, no interval | 11th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | A Celebration Of Frankie Valli & The four Seasons | April A Celebration Of Frankie Valli & The four Seasons MUSIC Presented by Europe's No. 1 Tribute Bye Bye Baby Bye Bye Baby is more than your average tribute group. They deliver a full theatre show covering the journey of the Four Seasons from the very beginning up until the Disco era and the rock and roll hall of fame. In fact a musical journey through the sounds of one of the most successful vocal groups of all time. They perform 33 numbers in close 4 part harmony ,with slick choreography and the recognisable falsetto this really sets the scene for a great night. The show demonstrates the diversity and harmonic sounds as once performed by the great group themselves. Each number has been carefully choreographed, giving their show a fresh look to the Four Seasons usual copycat version from the Jersey Boys. Since launching back in 2013 they have performed in over 400 venues. This sensational production features many of the bands worldwide hits, including: Beggin', Can't take my eyes off you, Let's Hang On, Rag Doll, Walk like a Man, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye), Sherry, Working my May Back to You, Big Girls Don't Cry and many more | 16th Apr | Buy |
| TALK | Spring Lunchtime Lecture | April Spring Lunchtime Lecture Natural and Human Heritages TALK From Medieval Galway map to 3D model - a window into the past Speakers: Gavin Duffy & Eithne Verling The School of Geography, Archaeology & Irish Studies, NUI Galway continues its successful run of public lectures exploring the relationship between Archaeology, Geography, Irish Studies and the natural world. Ticket required | 16th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Coolio | April Coolio MPI Artists presents MUSIC Coolio took over the world rap scene in the '90s through the immense success of “Gangsta’s Paradise”, which won a Grammy in 1996 for Best Rap Performance. It sold over six million copies and was Billboard Magazine’s number one single in 1995. "Gangsta’s Paradise” would also be featured on the “Dangerous Minds” soundtrack and movie. Coolio's music has been featured in several iconic major motion pictures including: “Space Jam,” “Clueless,” “The Big Payback,” “Panther,” “New Jersey Drive,” “The Jerk Boys,” “Eddie,” “Half Baked” and many more. He also composed the theme song for the popular TV series “Kenan and Kel” on Nickelodeon and has had regular cameo and acting appearances in many major movie productions and TV Shows including: Batman & Robin, The Muppets, Dracula 3000, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, Fear Factor, Charmed, Futurama, Celebrity Big Brother and many more! Coolio has won an American Music Award, three MTV awards, two Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards and a World Music Award. He has received six Grammy nominations (1994, 1995 and 1996) winning best rap performance in 96, two Billboard Music Awards (1994 and 1996), two ASCAP awards (1996, 1997), four American Online awards (1996) and was the Playboy Music Poll winner in 1997. In 2016, Coolio won a Vintage Soundtrack Song of 1995 award for “Gangsta’s Paradise” from “Dangerous Minds” via the Vintage Film Awards. 2006 saw Coolio release ‘Return Of The Gangsta’ via Hardware Records. The album featured some great appearances from L.V as well as a lead single ‘Gangsta Walk’ Ft. Snoop Dogg. After a short time away, 2019 has seen the beginning of a major comeback for Coolio. Gangsta’s Paradise is set to be a feature song in the highly anticipated ‘Sonic The Hedgehog’ motion picture, set for release in February 2020. Coolio’s music also had a major feature on ‘Raising Dion’ one of the most highly rated Netflix shows of the year, released October 2019. 2019 has also seen Coolio spark a kinship with Irish rap group Versatile. They released an instant hit single together in November ’19 ‘Escape Wagon’, which racked up a million views in its first 2 weeks. Coolio performed the single live with Versatile at their sold-out 3 arena show in Dublin for the first time on November 30 2019, a very special day for Irish Hip Hop as Versatile are the first-ever Irish rap group to sell out an arena. They also performed Gangsta’s Paradise together as an encore at the show, once again Coolio’s influence in Hip Hop transcends multiple generations and cultures. Coolio is set to tour throughout 2020 with his full live band show on the ‘We Love The 90’s’ arena tour throughout Europe as well as festival appearances and concerts around the world. There are also rumblings of a major album release in 2020. Coolio is currently writing and recording his next album with his band members, world-renowned Jazz musician and composer Jarel Posey AKA Jarez rated as one of the top ten Jazz Saxophone players alive and Long Beaches guitar guru A.J Luke ( Guitarist and vocals for Snoop Dogg, Warren G, Nate Dogg ) THE GANGSTA IS BACK! Standing / Over 18’s | 17th Apr | Buy |
| MUSIC | Paul Brady | April Paul Brady MPI Artists MUSIC An Evening with Paul Brady | 18th 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 |
| THEATRE | West Cork Podcast Live | April West Cork Podcast Live The Good Room presents THEATRE Sophie Toscan du Plantier was murdered days before Christmas in 1996, her broken body discovered at the edge of her property near the town of Schull in West Cork. The rest remains a mystery. Gripping, yet ever elusive, join the real-life hunt for answers with journalist Sam Bungey and documentarian Jennifer Forde, creators of the popular true-crime podcast series. They pick the story up on stage for an original live episode where they attempt to piece more of the puzzle together. Time Magazine - Top 50 Podcasts Of All Time "After 22 years there has finally been a criminal trial over Sophie's murder, but it was no ordinary trial and it's not at all clear what it will lead to. We sat in the courtroom in Paris recently as Ian Bailey was convicted of the murder, in absentia. We'll be talking about what that trial means, along with other developments, as we gather research for new episodes.” Sam Bungey - West Cork Podcast | 23rd 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! Please contact THT box office directly at 091-569777 or in-person for bookings | 26th Apr | |
| 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 | April Bach Plus 2 MUSIC Adrian Brendel Cello Bach Suite No. 2 in D minor BWV 1008Ligeti Sonata for solo celloKodály Sonata for solo cello, third movement Allegro motto vivace Get your Bach Cello Suite fix here, as each morning a performer chooses a companion piece to go along with the suite they perform. | 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. Adrian Brendel | Christopher Ellis | Laura van der Heijden | Christopher Marwood | Tatjana Vassiljeva, cellos | 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 |
| THEATRE | Bingo Wings | April Bingo Wings Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Theatre THEATRE A ripping yarn about love, luck and bingo that takes you on a flight of fantasy. The masters of aerial spectacle present a stunning new show suitable for everyone from 8 to 98 years old. It’s 1974, and Bingo Fever has hit the town of Ballydawn, where everyone dreams of scooping the huge Snowball jackpot. But when star-crossed lovers Jimmy and Moya try to rig the game, fate, family and a giant storm get in the way. Will destiny keep them apart, or will their lucky number finally come up? Bingo Wings is a story about luck and love that takes you on a flight of fantasy that’s funny, moving and spectacular. This exciting new Fidget Feet production, blending circus, aerial dance and theatre, is delivered by an award-winning team; director Jo Mangan, choreographer Chantal McCormick, playwright Tom Swift and composer Jym Daly. Duration: 60 minutes.Age Suitability: 8 + | 29th Apr - 01st May | 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 Bus transfer available from Town Hall Theatre to Claregalway Castle.Return ticket: €11.For bookings contact THT Box Office directly on 091-569777 or in person. | 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 pianist Finghin Collins. A shuttle bus will run from outside the Town Hall Theatre after the Zagreb Soloists concert. Finghin Collins piano Programme to includeDE FALLA Seven Popular Spanish FolksongsDORA PEJACEVIC Cello Sonata in E minor – Irish premiere In partnership with Claregalway Castle Bus transfer available from Town Hall Theatre to Claregalway Castle.Return ticket: €11.For bookings contact THT Box Office directly on 091-569777 or in person. | 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 16+ | 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 | Adrian Brendel 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 |
| COMEDY | Alison Spittle & Kevin McGahern: The smallest tour of Ireland world tour | May Alison Spittle & Kevin McGahern: The smallest tour of Ireland world tour Lisa Richards Proudly Presents COMEDY Alison and Kevin, comedian's who've both been on telly team up for a major mini-tour. Alison Spittle (Nowhere Fast) And Kevin McGahern (Hardy Bucks, Republic of Telly) are from the lake counties, Alison is from Westmeath, Kevin is from Cavan. “Highly entertaining” Irish Times It's a double feature of Ireland's top comedians. Come for a night jam-packed with craic with the best material from their most recent solo tours and new stuff in the mix too. “Go and have a laugh with this alarmingly suited, funny, friendly Irishman. I am still laughing” The Scotsman “Funny, bright and entertaining” Irish Independent “Hilarious, moving and thought-provoking” DailyEdge.ie | 10th May | Buy |
| MUSIC | The Speks | May The Speks MUSIC If your little ones love fantastic, magical songs...then The Speks are the boys for you!Tom Dunne, Newstalk The Speks present a lively show of nursery rhymes and sing-along songs set to acoustic Irish music which will have adults and kids jumping in their seats! Their hand-clapping, toe-tapping, hearty-laughing show is all about life on Glasses Island – a magical island off the coast of Co. Clare where everybody wears glasses! The Speks have won a Parents’ Choice music award in the US where their music has been described as “Riverdance for kids” and they encourage everyone to sing, scream, clap and dance along during their performances. This will be a great, fun event for kids aged 2 to 92! Duration 50 minutes, no interval | 10th May | Buy |
| FILM | Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour | May Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour FILM Wed 13 May (red film programme) and Thurs 14 May (blue film programme), 7.30pm Embark on a thrilling night of adventure with a brand-new collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival! The Banff Mountain Film Festival joins the world’s best adventure film-makers and explorers as they push themselves to the limits in the most remote and stunning corners of the globe. Witness epic human-powered feats, life-affirming challenges and mind-blowing cinematography – all on the big screen! There are two shows, each with an entirely different selection of films - the red film programme (Wednesday 13 May) and the blue film programme (Thursday 14 May). Double the adventure by coming to both with a two-show discount, available through the box office. An adrenaline-fuelled, not-to-be missed event with free prize giveaways that is guaranteed to ignite your passion for adventure, action and travel! Age Guidance: 12A | 13th - 14th May | Buy |
| THEATRE | Into the Dark Woods | May Into the Dark Woods Blue Teapot Theatre Company and The Abbey Theatre present THEATRE A modern day fairy-tale, Into the Dark Woods is Charlene Kelly’s debut play. Through the familiar archetypes of fairy-tale, Charlene deftly entices us into rare territory, using the living realm of the woods as an extraordinary invitation into the world as experienced by someone with an intellectual disability. A new voice in Irish playwriting, Into the Dark Woods is a subtle, powerful play that speaks with gentleness and a ravaging rage. Writer: Charlene KellyDirector: Petal Pilley Set Design: Sabine DargentExecutive Producer: Hillary KavanaghProducer: Tracey FergusonScript Dramaturg: Eileen Gibbons Duration 90 minutes / Interval 10 minutes | 19th - 20th May | Buy |
| THEATRE | a little space | May a little space A Gecko and Mind the Gap production THEATRE What does it mean to you to have a little space? A little space where we can escape the world and be ourselves. Where we can say whatever we want, do whatever we feel and where no-one will ever bother us. But it can be an unpredictable space too, where voices are funnelled away, fears leak through the floorboards, songs light up the room and you never know who’s listening behind the door. A place where whispers come to life and where one kind gesture could change everything. This show is part of Crossing The Line, a pan-European theatre Festival celebrating artists with intellectual disabilities. Produced by Galway’s Blue Teapot Theatre Company, it will run from 20-23 May 2020. For more on Crossing the Line visit http://blueteapot.ie/ | 20th - 21st May | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Erased | May The Erased Moomsteatern presents THEATRE Written and Directed by Nina Jemth & Pelle Öhlund The story unfolds around a table. That everyday kitchen table known to us all, a meeting point in constant change and stagnation. Sit down and join us for burlesque theatre, circus art and visual magic, highlighted by music and an absurd sense of humour. The Erased is a play independent of spoken language, told with visual magic, emotional music and a large chunk of liberating humour. This artistic collaboration between Jemth, Öhlund and Moomsteatern has created stage art that appeals to the emotions of the audience, much like music, poetry and dance. This show is part of Crossing The Line, a pan-European theatre Festival celebrating artists with intellectual disabilities. Produced by Galway’s Blue Teapot Theatre Company, it will run from 20-23 May 2020. For more on Crossing the Line visit http://blueteapot.ie/ | 21st - 22nd May | Buy |
| DANCE | Home In The West | May Home In The West Speckled Egg presents DANCE Seven dancers have been invited into the home of a family living in Galway's West End. Over several months they have shared life experiences, exchanged knowledge, settled in together. You are warmly invited to join Speckled Egg Dance Company for an intimate, live dance performance that explores what it means to be welcomed into someone else's home. Moving from room to room, and all of the spaces in-between, the dancers make themselves at home. Five dances in five rooms, each choreographed as a collaboration between the Speckled Egg dancers and the host family. Choreographed by Rachel Parry and the company members Produced by Maeve Mulrennan Duration 45 minutes / no interval | 21st - 23rd May | Buy |
| THEATRE | The Water Boys | May The Water Boys Equinox presents THEATRE Jim and Gary have a double life. They are actors by night…but by day they are... The Water Boys for Carrickshock hurling team! As kids they dreamed of raising an All-Ireland hurling trophy in Croke Park. Their bodies may have prevented them from playing for their club, but nothing will stop these striped crusaders from being part of their team. The Water Boys is an extraordinary, real-life story about learning to walk, learning to fall and learning to follow your dreams. This show is part of Crossing The Line, a pan-European theatre Festival celebrating artists with intellectual disabilities. Produced by Galway’s Blue Teapot Theatre Company, it will run from 20-23 May 2020. | 21st - 22nd May | Buy |
| THEATRE | Les Diables | May Les Diables Compagnie de l’Oiseau Mouche and La Coma present THEATRE Directed by Michel Schweizer On stage, in the theatre, where the Other is often placed at a polite distance from the viewers, Michel Schweizer gathers small temporary communities that try to redefine this relationship. In Les Diables, 7 actors from l’Oiseau-Mouche gather to illuminate what life makes us forfeit: the possible displacement of the norm. Les Diables issues a kind warning for the audience. The actors’ presence here has a devil-like intensity and you may not be able to look away. This show is part of Crossing The Line, a pan-European theatre Festival celebrating artists with intellectual disabilities. Produced by Galway’s Blue Teapot Theatre Company, it will run from 20-23 May 2020. | 22nd - 23rd May | Buy |
| THEATRE | From J. to Jessica | May From J. to Jessica Theater Babel presents THEATRE The story follows Jessica a transgender actress at Theater Babel in Rotterdam. She shares her story openly, nothing remains unspoken, all is vulnerable, without taboos. This wonderful production explores straight-forward, vulnerable and (un)usual confessions about youth and sexuality which features a spectacular 360-degree projection. From J. to Jessica is the first in a series of five portraits from an inclusive society. Theatre text based on conversations with and improvisations by the actors. Written by Erik-Ward Geerlings Directed by Paul Röttger | 22nd May | Buy |
| THEATRE | Revolution that never was | May Revolution that never was Teatr 21 presents THEATRE Written by Justyna Lipko-Konieczna, Justyna SobczykDirected by Justyna Sobczyk The starting point for this show was a protest organised by people with disabilities and their parents which began in the Polish Parliament on 18 April 2018 and lasted for forty days. The performance is not a reconstruction of those events, but rather a play on the meanings and emotions of that time. The protest, witnessed by the entire country, ended in disappointment and was a painful testimony to the marginalisation of people with disabilities. Archival materials including banners, letters and postcards written to and by the protestors will be used by the actors to ask questions about what happened in the Parliament, about the image of people with disabilities in Poland and, finally, about whether the community can unite around a common cause. The show is based on improvisations by the actors and is part of Crossing The Line, a pan-European theatre Festival celebrating artists with intellectual disabilities. Produced by Galway’s Blue Teapot Theatre Company, it will run from 20-23 May 2020. | 23rd 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 | May Francis Rossi - I Talk Too Much TALK Apologies. Scheduling issues have arisen that affect Francis Rossi's Spring 202 tour and his six dates in Ireland and Northern Ireland have been withdrawn. Quo fans will be able to see Francis on his Autumn 2020 Status Quo tour - and we remain hopeful that we'll be able to bring Francis over further down the line. We apologise for any disappointment and thank you for your understanding. 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 | |
| COMEDY | Oliver Callan - Callan's Kicks Live | May Oliver Callan - Callan's Kicks Live Aiken Promotions present COMEDY Impressionist Oliver Callan brings his award-winning Callan’s Kicks comedy show to life on stage for the first time in five years. Aiken Promotions and Leo (ledgebag and Teesh) are totes excited to announced RTÉ’s award-winning show Callan’s Kicks Live on stage at Town Hall Theatre. Oliver Callan brings his huge cast of characters to the stage for the first time in the age of Leo, Boris and Trump. It’s no Kylie concert, but Leo heads a troupe of voices from the world of Irish politics, sport and entertainment. As the 2020 General Election campaign gets underway, Callan deconstructs our leaders and stars in a special night of comedy and satirical commentary. Join the Marty Party, Paschal “I only have a certain amount of money” Donohoe, hear an alternative history of Ireland, a whirlwind tour of county accents, movie stars and GAA legends. Ever wondered what really happens during Marian Finucane’s newspaper panel? What did Enda Kenny do next? Who’s actually pulling Mary Lou McDonald’s strings? Is Michael D Higgins still a thing? Why is Bertie back? Can Dermot Bannon be stopped and brought to justice? Oliver Callan brings his most ambitious live show yet, with dozens of impressions, sketches and voices kicking our leaders and legends into the next decade. Praise for Callan’s Kicks Live: “Totes lolcano. I love laughing at myself because it gives my amazeballs abs a workout and makes me look 5% more relatable and less like a neocon passing off my resting bitch-face disdain for Middle Ireland as intellectual aloofness” - Leo Varadkar, Taoiseach and Minister for Ignoring the Housing Crisis “No one loves Ireland more than me, with its bagpipes and haggis puddings. And the data centres all in the one place to make it easier for my friends to hack” - Donald W.T.F. Trump, President and Box of Taco Fries in a Suit “I’m so excited about this show, a bit of wee has come out” - Enda Kenny, waiting on a massive retirement lump sum with no tax or f**ks given | 28th May | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bell X1 | June Bell X1 MUSIC Acoustic-ish with Dowry Strings Tickets on sale Friday 29th November at 10am! Bell X1 live is always a magical experience, and the band are constantly evolving and changing things up for themselves and their fans. Collaborating with Dowry Strings has resulted in an incredible and quite moving live experience. “It’s been a joy to work with Éna and the strings on some more songs from the catalogue, and also some brand new tunes that we’re itching to play live” says Paul. Last year Bell X1 and Dowry Strings performed a very special version of Rocky Took A Lover on the Late Late Show Bell X1 are Paul Noonan, Dave Geraghty & Dominic Philips. Dowry Strings specialise in cross-timbral & cross-genre collaborations. The ensemble is run by Éna Brennan (Dowry) and includes musicians Gareth Quinn Redmond, Nozomi Cohen and Yseult Cooper Stockdale. http://bellx1.com/ www.twitter.com/bellx1 www.instagram.com/bellx1 Tickets on sale Friday 29th November at 10am! | 6th Jun | 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 Starring Cheryl Fergison (EastEnders), Nicole Barber-Lane (Hollyoaks), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty), and Nicki French (Eurovision), it’s our brand-new show, Cruising Through Menopause. In the hysterical sequel to our smash-hit Menopause The Musical®, we fast forward five years to catch up with the same four characters for tales of their lives, loves and losses as they set off on the high seas. Hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses, weight gain - these are a few of our favourite menopausal things! Cruising Through Menopause is a hilarious, heartfelt, reassuring and unflinching look at the joys of menopause and friendship. When your life is a bumpy ride full of twists and turns, it’s hard to find true friends. But step on board and we’ll take you on a trip of self-discovery, love and friendship all backed by a soundtrack of brand-new toe-tapping parodied hits! For these four ladies the menopause was not the beginning of the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers, and friendships never fail. So, all aboard and we’ll have you laughing, singing and maybe even dancing on-stage, as you join us for Menopause The Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause. Join us on Facebook at “Menopause The Musical UK Tour” The show is sponsored by iMEDicare as www.mypelvichealth.co.uk. Age advisory 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 |
| THEATRE | This Beautiful Village | June This Beautiful Village An Abbey Theatre Production THEATRE ‘Paul, darlin’, this isn’t a democracy. It’s a residents association.’ Lisa Tierney-Keogh’s razor-sharp This Beautiful Village premiered at the Abbey Theatre with a sold-out run in September 2019. On a quiet street in leafy, suburban Dublin, local residents meet about a piece of graffiti. Who did it? What does it mean? And what’s to be done about it? They have wine and a quorum. Nothing can go wrong. Exposing every side of what it means to co-exist in Ireland today, six people will confront their pride, prejudice and privilege. It won’t be pretty. But it could be beautiful. ★★★★ 'Explosively funny' Sunday Business Post 'An absorbing, funny, challenging play as hot as today's bread fresh from the oven'Sunday Independent 'Excellent ensemble' The Guardian Writer: Lisa Tierney-KeoghDirector: David HoranSet Designer: Ciaran BagnallCostume Designer: Katie DavenportLighting Designer: Sarah Jane ShielsComposer & Sound Designer: Carl KennedyVoice Director: Andrea AinsworthDramaturg: Louise StephensCasting (2019): Amy RowanCasting (2020): Sarah JonesProduction Photography: Pat Redmond | 30th Jun - 01st Jul | Buy |
| MUSIC | The Greatest Love of All | September The Greatest Love of All Pat Egan Management presents MUSIC Whitney Houston’s musical legacy is brought to life in this critically acclaimed tribute show described as “mind-blowingly spot on”. Be stunned by the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids – a RiSA chart-topping artist in her home country of South Africa - who has performed alongside the likes of Keri Hilson, Keyshia Cole and Monica and featured on Fox TV’s ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ and BBC1 TV’s ‘Even Better Than the Real Thing’. With the accompaniment of a live band, backing vocalists and choreographed dancers, plus state-of-the-art sound, lighting, vision and theatrical effects, this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers. The two-hour production will fill you with joy, nostalgia and wonderment as it takes you on a heartfelt journey through Houston’s greatest hits including ‘I Will Always Love You’, ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’, ‘How Will I Know’, ‘One Moment in Time’, ‘I Have Nothing’, ‘Run to You’, ‘Didn’t We Almost Have It All’, ‘Greatest Love of All’, ‘I’m Every Woman’, ‘Queen of the Night’, ‘Exhale (Shoop Shoop)’, ‘Million Dollar Bill’ and more. The Greatest Love of All has already wowed audiences across the UK, Europe, Middle East, Asia, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, and continues to gather glowing reviews worldwide. This special once-in-a-lifetime concert event will leave audiences wanting more and talking about it for years to come. Don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself. Duration 2 hrs 20 mins incl interval This production is presented by Showtime Australia which is not affiliated with the Estate of Whitney Houston. | 3rd Sep | 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 | Echoes - The Best of Pink Floyd LIVE | October Echoes - The Best of Pink Floyd LIVE MUSIC Following a run of sold out tours Breathe - The Pink Floyd Experience present “Echoes – The Best of Pink Floyd LIVE”, an explosive live music experience showcasing the very best of Pink Floyd. This brand new show is a career spanning celebration of Pink Floyd’s incredible back catalogue, featuring fan favourites from 1967’s debut Piper at the Gates of Dawn right up to 1994's The Division Bell. Classic Pink Floyd tracks like Arnold Layne, One of these Days, Hey You, The Happiest Days of Our Lives, Another Brick In The Wall pt2, Have A Cigar, Wish You Were Here, Time, Learning to Fly, High Hopes, The Great Gig In The Sky, Money, Comfortably Numb, Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Run Like Hell and many more. Accompanied by stunning lighting and visuals “Echoes – The Best of Pink Floyd LIVE” is a real Pink Floyd Experience, a psychedelic rock trip not to be missed. Breathe – The Pink Floyd Experience is Ireland’s premier Pink Floyd show, formed in 2015 it features the very best of Ireland’s session musicians, its members have previously played with an array of the country’s top talent including; Sinead O’Connor, Westlife, Sharon Shannon, Mary Black, Shane McGowan, Imelda May, The Commitments, Donovan, Clannad, Gavin Friday, Jack L, Brian Kennedy, Rebecca Storm, The Irish Tenors, The RTE Concert Orchestra, Brian Downey and Eric Bell (Thin Lizzy). | 3rd Oct | Buy |
| MUSIC | Bee Gees Direct From Australia | October Bee Gees Direct From Australia Pat Egan presents MUSIC Direct from Australia, Showtime invites you to dance your way into a time warp of 70’s disco dance floor thrillers and timeless heartfelt rock ballads with The Bee Gees Night Fever! Night Fever is jetting into town to recreate the Bee Gee’s 1997 One Night Only Las Vegas concert experience in a theatre-style production with over 2 hours of LIVE engaging entertainment showcased through vibrant state-of-the-art lighting, digital display screens, impeccable sound and of course a handpicked international cast that will immerse audiences into the disco era with exquisite trio harmonies and the iconic high-pitched falsetto that we all know and love! With disco tracks like Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, You Should Be Dancin’ and best-loved ballads like How Deep Is Your Love, I Started a Joke and Tragedy, the magical event The Bee Gees Night Fever is not to be missed! Duration 2hrs 20 mins incl interval | 5th Oct | Buy |
| COMEDY | Ed Byrne - If I'm Honest... | October Ed Byrne - If I'm Honest... MCD presents COMEDY Following his biggest ever tour last year and yet another sell-out Fringe run this August, one of the Ireland’s finest observational comics embarks on an EVEN BIGGER brand-new tour. ✭✭✭✭ "Thoroughly entertaining… he is a total pro and, on this form, terrific company"The Times Yes, Ed Byrne is back! With his new show If I’m Honest, Ed will embark on a nationwide Irish tour in October 2020 including a visit to Town Hall Theatre Galway! ✭✭✭✭ “Byrne is at the top of his game” Sunday Telegraph Join Ed as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has ANY traits that are worth passing on to his children. A TV household name, Ed Byrne has been seen on pretty much every TV programme in the UK including Mock The Week, Top Gear, Have I Got News For You, The Graham Norton Show, Live At The Apollo (Host), The One Show, The World’s Most Dangerous Roads, Dara & Ed’s Big Adventure, Dara and Ed’s Road to Mandalay and most recently QI and The Pilgrimage. ✭✭✭✭✭ “A masterful display of the comics art…This is a seamless and perfectly timed show that could stand proudly next to any Izzard, Bailey, Carr or Skinner stadium-filler”Sunday Times ✭✭✭✭✭ “The hour is self-deprecating, never self-indulgent, and his packed audience are well entertained” Sunday Express ✭✭✭✭✭ “A master of observational comedy” BROADWAYBABY ✭✭✭✭✭ “Hysterical … a must-see show. My face still hurts from laughing so much”The Student Newspaper ✭✭✭✭✭ “Expert stand up from the brilliant Ed Byrne” Fringe Biscuit | 9th Oct | 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 |