First Fortnight 2019

The New Year is often a time for resolutions and reflections, for self-improvement and self-care. And there is no better way to begin 2019 than by participating in the First Fortnight movement.

First Fortnight is a charity that challenges mental health prejudice through arts and cultural action. First Fortnight 2019 is hosting the European Mental Health Art and Cultural Festival and will feature over 150 events over the coming weeks. Visit their website for the full list. Or see below for our highlights….

Nothing But A Toerag
Smock Alley Dublin – 7th to 12th January

Work hard, push yourself harder. Try your best, put your family before you, before your health… A dark, tense and thrilling new play by Aisling O’Mara. Find out more here

Lysis
Droichead Arts Centre, Drogheda – 9th -11th January

Based on the writings and testimonies of people living with mental health issues, Lysis is a docudrama that traces the experiences of five individuals. A celebration of the genuine strength of human character. Find out more here

It’s In The Blood
Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford

Gifty Wiafe, a young woman from Ghana now living in Germany, lights up the stage with her unique blend of humour, heart, wit and truth. She dances, tells stories, plays drums and sings. For more details see here

Vintage Tea, Storytelling And Story Sharing

Manorhamilton Castle Cafe,County Leitrim – 10th January

Sometimes while taking care of others we can often forget about self-care. This unique event works to honour and recognise those dedicated to the care of others. Find out more here

Film : Two Days, One Night

Various Dates and Venues
Oscar winner Marion Cotillard is impressive as Sandra, a woman who returns to work at solar plant after suffering from depression to find out that her colleagues have chosen to take a yearly bonus at the expense of her job. Click links for more details

Sea Swimming

Forty Foot, Dublin – 12th January

As part of the First Fortnight festival, Clean Coasts in conjunction with Grown is hosting a Sea Swimming event. For more information on taking the plunge see here.

Arts And Wellbeing In Kildare

Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge – 16th January

As part of Riverbank Arts Centre’s First Fortnight programme of events, John Conway will host a panel talk with artists, theatre makers, and musicians who deliver, arts, health and well being projects with the support of Kildare County Council Arts Service. For more details see here

This is only a small snippet of some of the fantastic festive events taking place across Ireland for First Fortnight 2019. See www.firstfortnight.ie for the full programme.
To find out what’s on near you visit InspireMe.ie. And of course don’t forget to sign up to get reminders of these great events.
Finally all details were correct at time of publication. But please check with local organisers before you travel.