Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas
Now in its 7th year, the Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas is a real gem in the literary calendar. Set in the beautiful village of Borris, County Carlow, over 60 speakers will be inspiring visitors from June 8th – 10th in the grounds of historical Borris House.
The Festival of Writing and Ideas has such a varied program of events. Certainly there is something for everyone. From fact to fiction, history to comedy, you will be spoiled for choice. Listed below are some of our favourite events. But check out Inspireme.ie or see here for the full programme. Although tickets are selling fast so be sure to book in advance so you don’t miss anything.
Fabulous lineup on Friday
On Friday 8th June, the festival kicks off with two literary legends Margaret Atwood in conversation with Anne Enright. Or if you have always wanted the inside track on life in a Rock’n’Roll band, check out Guy Pratt. With tales from his life as a bassist on the road with Pink Floyd, Michael Jackson, Madonna and others you are sure to be enthralled. Then the inspirational Joanne O’Riordan is in conversation with journalist Roisin Ingle. Entitled ‘Impossible is just I’m possible’, Joanne will be discussing her life as a campaigner for disability rights.
Stars of the written word on Saturday
Saturday 9th kicks off early with a packed schedule of events. Una Mulally and Emmet Kirwan will debate ‘The death or re-birth of the Catholic Church’ with journalist Fintan O’Toole. Everyone’s favourite Offaly man Neil Delamere discusses ‘Filmaking and other Diseases’ with writer and director Stephen Bradley. RTE News Anchor Caitriona Perry talks Russia and Politics with Luke Harding in Soviet Scandal. Become fully informed on the investigations into possible interference with the US election.
Spoiled for choice on Sunday
Sunday 10th continues the literary treats. In ‘Held against his will Senator Ivana Bacik will be talking to Ibrahim Halawa about his time in an Egyptian prison. Or if food is your passion, don’t miss Darina Allen and Claudia Roden in conversation with Rory O’Connell. Hopefully there will be lots of tales of culinary delights as they discuss the importance of food in human relationships. The art of making people laugh will be teased out by comedic goddesses Alison Spittle and Francesca Martinez. Meanwhile Bob Geldof will be discussing Yeats, the Republic and social revolution.
Literary laughs
If comedy is your thing there are so many treats in store. Deirdre O’Kane presents her hilarious show ‘A Line of O’Kane’. Then Sarah Breen and Emer McLysaght reveal the story behind their jeans and county jersey wearing heroine Aisling to Alison Spittle. Finally, if you have read ‘Oh My God, What a Complete Aisling’ you won’t want to miss this – dangly earrings optional.
The organisers of this festival have thought of everything. With music and art exhibitions, poetry and concerts, surely the biggest problem will be choosing what to attend.
Remember all details were correct at time of publication. However please check with the organisers before you travel. And remember to check out www.inspireme.ie for more literary events around the country over the summer.
