Shorelines Festival 2018

shorelines festival

Shorelines Festival 2018

 
On the banks of the River Shannon in East Galway, the town of Portumna is famous for its hurling legends. But each September it also celebrates the arts off the sports field. From 13th to 16th September, the shores of Lough Derg come alive for the Shorelines Arts Festival. There is a jam-packed program of events for young and old. We have some of our favourites below. Check out www.inspireme.ie for more details or see the full program of events at www.shorelinesartsfestival.com.
 

A picture tells a thousand words.

 

Shorelines Festival
Film Documentary: A Doctor’s Sword

 
The historical Portumna Castle will be showing the IFTA nominated film ‘A Doctor’s Sword’. This documentary tells the story of the West Cork doctor Aidan McCarthy who survived as a prisoner of war for four years in Java in World War 2, and his daughter Nicola’s journey to find the Japanese camp commander who presented him with a Samurai sword at the end of the war. Find out more here.  Each day the castle will also be showing Film Shorts, a series of five short films. Explore time travel to navigating the perils of school life, and plenty of other topics in between. Find out more here.
 

Literary lyrics

 

Shorelines Festival
Songs Of Joyce

 
Songs of Joyce is a musical extravaganza inspired by the works of James Joyce. Theatrical and musical delights bring this literary genius to life. This show has enthralled audiences around the world. On Thursday 13th it’s Portumna’s turn. See here for details.
 

Friday feeling

 

Shorelines Festival
From Under The Bed By Big Guerilla Productions

There are a huge variety of events planned for Friday 14th. Shane Hennessy will be delighting audiences with his unique guitar performances. Or if you prefer literary events, meet acclaimed Irish author E.M. Reapy and hear her read excerpts from her award winning novel Red Dirt. The town hall on Friday night will feature a Seamus O’Rourke production of ‘From under the bed’ y Guerilla Productions. This story of a pair of ageing bachelor brothers in rural Ireland will make you laugh and make you cry. One not to be missed. Find out more here.
 

Saturday specialities

 

Shorelines Festival
Family Street Events

 
Saturday 15th is the busiest day of the Festival. In the morning there is a Jewellery workshop where would-be silversmiths can learn to make a Silver Pendant under the expert eye of dedicated tutors. Children will be spoilt for choice – there is a dedicated viewing of the Oscar-nominated animated classic Song of the Sea. And in the afternoon, the town square will be filled with Family Street Events . From circus delights to arts and crafts, kids of all ages will be kept busy. Those who like to multitask can learn while they exercise during the Heritage Walk around this historical town. While those who prefer to be transported should check out the fantastically named Folk on a Boat. Incredible music as you travel along the Shannon. What better way to spend a Saturday afternoon at the Shorelines Festival.
 

Musical magic

 

Shorelines Festival
The Irish Guitar Quartet

Sunday 16th has a musical twist. The Shorelines Mass in the morning will be to the sounds of Lady Barbalade, an award winning A Cappella group. There is also a flute recital with classical musician Elizabeth Pectu. Or why not check out the Irish Guitar Quartet who will be combining their talents to bring you on a musical global expedition.
 

Shorelines Festival – A fantastic weekend in East Galway

This is just a small flavour of the many events which will be taking place during the Shorelines Arts Festival. Finally all event details were correct at time of publication. Please confirm details with the organisers before you travel. And don’t forget to sign up here to save your favorites.