The festival will begin with the launch of Artist Liam O’ Callaghan’s – Bit Symphony
in The Former Methodist Church, and an overview of what’s to come over the
weekend.
AI:OK. Dr. Martin Clancy delivers a fascinating talk at 11am on the implications of
Artificial Intelligence on the music industry and what we can learn from it. Free event;
but booking essential.
The Walk, Talk and Chalk tour explores the rich history of Drogheda, exposing
hidden gems of everyday art with Little Twit creator and Artist Caoimhe McCarthy.
Stopping to create art on the go, this tour will guide you through the process of
creating your own images and give you a piece of Drogheda to take home. Tours start
at 11.30am & 2pm.
Improvising Tradition, an afternoon of traditional Irish music at 2.30pm in the
Highlanes Gallery will delight and entertain audiences. Featuring musicians Sárán
Mulligan, Tadhg Mulligan, Muirine Nic Róibín, Colm McGonigle and Seán Ó Casaide.
Big Day out at Scotch Hall
Drogheda Arts festival invite the whole family down to Scotch Hall for an afternoon
of fun and entertainment. Kicking off at 1pm we will have music by Drogheda Brass
Band, The blue Belles, and up and coming jazz electronic duo bbft.
There will be a fine display of street performances by Jitterbug Jackson and Entre
Nos who will no doubt amaze, enthral and give you some real belly laughs. Miss Bella
A GoGo will be there to guide you through the exciting day, while also performing her
enchanting act the Never Ending Story. Additional street entertainment will be
provided by Love Drogheda.
Local artists, Creative Circle, and Gatothor Cerámica will have demonstrations to
inspire any budding artists. The day will also feature “meet your Orchestra “with
Drogheda’s Community Orchestra providing insights and inspiration for classical
music enthusiasts inside the centre.
To add to The Big Day Out , a special edition of the Cottage Market takes place in
Scotch Hall, showcasing the work of talented local artists and makers where you’ll
find something truly unique.
Zine lovers will get a chance to browse through the Drogheda Zine stall, while
enjoying the finest Mexican street food from Biddos, and coffee shops within the
centre itself. Join us for this creative celebration of the great wealth of talent we
have in our town.
The evening will round off in the Droichead Arts Centre with a one-off exclusive
performance by Warp Record Stalwarts– Seefeel, marking their highly anticipated
live return following on from their first new album in 13 years ‘Everything Squared’, in
conjunction with thirty three 45. Tickets can be booked through the DAF website.
Local actress and storyteller Grainne Rafferty presents Around the Head, an
uplifting life affirming performance, taking place in the Little Duke Theatre. Tickets
available through the DAF website.
Closing the festival on Sunday night in the intimate surroundings of Gerrard’s Church,
Tom Dunne (Something Happens) & Fiachna O’Braonain (Hothouse Flowers) will
perform and entertain bringing an evening of songs and stories. The support on the
night is local local singer song writer Sarah O’Brien and friends.
There is so much more on offer around the town over the weekend with Festival
Extra. One not to be missed is Night Moves at Droichead Arts Centre, a late-
night club featuring Oisín Leech with support from Dotts O’ Connor, and
ambient music from DJ Emmie Lou. Curated by Stephen McArdle, audiences will
enjoy atmospheric music in the gallery while experiencing a bespoke art
installation by visual artist Vivienne Byrne. Tickets available from Droichead
Arts Centre.
Look out also for Festival Extra’s late night gig at the Watchtower in McHughs;
line up to follow.
“We worked really hard this year to bring a diverse programme showcasing local
talent and bringing unique experiences to this year’s festival” said Brenda
McComeskey, Festival coordinator. “This year’s festival is all about celebrating
the power of creativity and the way art can unite us. We’re committed to
providing an inclusive and accessible platform for both emerging and
established artists to showcase their work and engage with the public.”
