FRINGE FESTIVAL

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Contents Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Literature / Spoken Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Visual Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Shankill Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Events Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Fáilte is fiche leis an ceathrú clár Féile AKA Fringe 2018. Tá clár iontach agus spreagúil againn agus rudaí lé gach aois; óg agus sean. Welcome to the fourth AKA Fringe Festival for 2018. We have a wonderful and exciting programme and something for all ages; young and old. The Fringe is now a toddler of a festival in Kilkenny’s large family of festivals; we have new babies; Kilkenny Animated and Kilfest. That’s what makes our City and County so unique; we are constantly innovating, trying out new things and always bringing people together in a spirit of cultural and creative celebration. Building on the previous three years, we have an expansive programme of visual art, poetry, literature, music and craft all falling within the AKA dream; to bring community and collaborative talent to as wide an audience as possible and where practitioners have a platform for their artistic endeavours that they can use to sustain their creative output and ability to make a living from their craft. We are grateful for the ongoing and unwavering support of our main sponsors; Transfermate and Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP). Transfermate

have been with us since the start and this year they have strengthened that partnership further. Likewise too KLP has seen the potential for broad engagement with AKA Fringe throughout the County and beyond and has committed a three year funding programme with us. To our festival partners, venue partners, volunteers and curators and contributors, we are so very grateful. This is a collaborative and evolving project so your faith in what we are trying to achieve is valued and appreciated. So here it is; a jam packed programme for You to savour and enjoy. Go out and support these great makers, artists, musicians, writers and poets. Buy an original work of art for your home and bring home memories, songs and laughter from AKA Fringe 2018. The AKA Fringe Festival Committee

Cat Back Chat Open Podcast

7 Aug - 11 Aug | 1pm-8pm Brewery Corner, Parliament Street This is an open podcast where anyone can be the guest, including you! The presenter Sean Walsh will be live streaming all day from his desk upstairs in Brewery Corner on Parliament Street – and anyone can walk in off the street to shoot the breeze and have a natter, sing a song or share a dream. Don’t chat to the cat, because the cat chats back!

WILLIE The seed of AKA Fringe was sown in Cleere’s one lunchtime over a bowl of soup and a doorstep sandwich. Like so many matters cultural and creative in Kilkenny, Willie Meighan was in the thick of it. For a visionary he was the most unassuming of people. But what Willie lacked in arrogance, he more than made up for in his dry wit, sarcasm and innate ability to see the potential in something and someone. Even in the throes of his illness, Willie found time last year to put together an incredible music strand for AKA 2017 and to make sure that the artists who visited here had a good time and were looked after. Like he did all year round; if the door takings fell short of that which was agreed; he shelled out from his own pocket. People like him are rare in the arts and music world. It’s only right that other festivals in Kilkenny have paid their respects to our anti-hero. He has left an indelible mark on the cultural map of Kilkenny and indeed Ireland. Rollercoaster shines on Kieran Street as a beacon of all that is good and

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wholesome about the spirit and soul of music. AKA Fringe is honoured and equally thrilled to collaborate with Kilkenny Arts Festival this year to celebrate Willie’s life and legacy with a truly incredible line up in St Canice’s Cathedral; artists he loved in a space befitting of a great man. We are so very grateful to Eugene Downes, to the Kilkenny Arts Festival Board and in particular to Willie’s wife Aisling, his family and to Olga Barry and Garrett Kehoe for making this night possible. Garrett and Olga have been immense in curating this special concert. All funds raised will go towards charities that were close to his heart and comforted him on his journey. We miss You Willie. We miss You terribly. But our hearts and heads are telling us to keep your dream alive; keep putting on music, keep creating and keep innovating and pushing boundaries. Our love to You our brother and comrade Willie; look at what You started, look at the people You brought together, look at the joy You brought to us, look at the lives You have changed for the better. “This note’s for you”.

MUSIC Arborist (Full Band) with special guest Robyn G. Shiels

3 Aug | 9.00pm | Cleere’s Bar & Theatre | €15 ARBORIST released their debut album Home Burial in November 2016 to critical acclaim. They are set to release their follow-up album later this year. It was recorded live in the idyllic surroundings of Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios in Gloucestershire and is a reflection on what it is to reside at around 55 degrees north on planet Earth. An album of pastoral themes and curious love songs, it is a worthy successor to their lauded debut. Since the release of their debut single “Twisted Arrow” in 2015, Arborist have become somewhat cult properties, thanks in no small part to Kim Deal (Pixies, The Breeders) contributing delicate harmonies to the song. “A deliciously self-assured collection” ☆☆☆☆ Mojo “A staggering debut of depth and substance” 8/10 UNCUT. “A poignant, beautiful record” Lauren Laverne BBC 6 Music Tickets available from Rollercoaster Records & Cleere’s Bar & Theatre

John Murry & The Dark Matter

4 Aug | 9pm | Ryan’s Bar Full Band Show with Special Guests TBA The Tupelo, Mississippi native brings some of the literary heft of his second cousin, William Faulkner, to the table but there’s no mistaking that he’s up to rock & roll business, his sound howling with electricity, distortion, and ornery, primal growl, the rabble-rousing spirit of the MC5 and Patti Smith breathing anew through Murry. For all his jagged edges and shadowy speculation, Murry is at his core a lover and a most dedicated one to boot. For all the muck he’s encountered spelunking the human condition, he’s still intensely aware that for all the endless battles and casual disregard we’re capable of, there is nothing as healing, bonding, or just plain humanizing as real love.

Sound & Vision presents Parts Unknown

4 Aug | 9pm | Brewery Corner Sound and Vision - Where Electronic Music and Visual Art Collide. Local Kilkenny DJ Kevin Fanning introduces his new melodic techno alias. He will be joined by several support artists with live visuals on the night. One not to be missed for fans of electronica. 5

Mick Hanly, Shane Joyce, SOLA & Roy Thompson

5 Aug | 9pm | Hackett’s Lounge | €5 A host of renowned musicians join together for a night of music in Hackett’s Lounge, it’s one not to be missed by music aficionado’s during AKA. All funds raised on the night will go towards The Good Shepherd Centre.

Hedge Schools

9 Aug | The Tholsel (City Hall) | 7pm | €15 ‘Magnificent Birds’ is the 3rd long player from Hedge Schools and was released 5:5:18 on Hedge Schools Records. Now Kilkenny based, Patrick M. Barrett and Nice based Musician/Producer/Bicyclist Joe Chester are now on their third release as the collaborative collective. With contributions from Kevin Murphy, Donagh Molloy, Vyvienne Long’ down through the three albums critical acclaim of the three pieces has been widespread. Featuring artwork by Jacob Stack the follow up to the critically acclaimed ‘At The End Of A Winding’ 2013 release was recorded and produced by Joe Chester in Nice in France. They play The Tholsel ( City Hall ) on August 9th as part of The AKA Fringe Festival with special guest Tim V Smyth. Limited to 80 seats so buying early is recommended. Tickets available from Rollercoaster Records

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Songwriters Sunday with Richie Healy & Friends

5 Aug | 7pm | Lenehan’s Bar Richie Healy and friends including talented musicians such as Gerard Moloney, Elise Ramsbottom, Patrick M Barrett, Eamonn O’Connor and Emlyn Holden, along with fellow friends and songwriters will perform on the night in one of Kilkenny’s cosiest pubs.

Pierce Turner

9 Aug | 9.30pm | The Hole In The Wall | €20 From the heart of Wexford to the heart of New York City, Pierce Turner has blazed an artistic and musical trail that is eclectic, witty, heartfelt and true. Hometown tales, choirboys, go boys, old loves, the glory of music all falling in under his songwriting spell. Much lauded by his peers, adored by his many fans, a Pierce Turner concert is more than that word suggests; it’s an all in experience, heart on the sleeve with the song front and centre, peerless in ways and something that will never leave you. Pierce is coming to cast his spell at the beautiful Archer Room at the Hole In The Wall for the AKA Fringe Festival.

¡NO! with special guests Rigmarole

10 Aug | Ryan’s Bar | 8.30pm | €10 ¡NO! are para-psychedelic spontaneous composers based in Dublin. They describe their sound as «psychiatric music ÷ 3 x history² ,” which roughly translates as free-form polymusical improvisation beyond specific genres. Recognizable currents emerge though: free jazz, psychedelia, post-punk, no wave, noise, krautrock, komische, electro-acoustic and primitive musics for a start. They have created and curated Concrete Soup, Dublin’s critically acclaimed monthly improvised music residency, featuring international and domestic guests in live collaboration with the hosts. Over the many years, and under various past guises, ¡NO! members have worked live with an eclectic array of iconic underground and not-so-underground pioneers including but not limited to: the late Glenn Branca, Damo Suzuki (Can), Kawabata Makoto (Acid Mother’s Temple), Itaru Oki, Makoto Sato (Linda Sharrock Network, Evan Parker, Yellow Magic Orchestra), Alfred 23 Harth, Daria Klotz (God is my Copilot), the late Drew Glackin (Silos/Graham Parker), Bruce Martin (Tom Tom Club), Katsura Yamauchi, Paul Roe (Concorde Contemporary Music Ensemble), and Kazuhisa Uchihashi (Ground Zero/Otomo Yoshihide) among others. 7

Rock Against Racism

Richie Healy, Elise Ramsbottom, Ger Moloney with Special Guests

10 Aug | 7.30pm | Hackett’s Lounge | Free Another night of music with Richie Healy and friends. Entry is free so come on down to Hackett’s on Parliament Street for what promises to be an entertaining night showcasing many musical talents.

11 Aug | 12pm-8pm | St. Canices Community Hall | €5 suggested donation United Against Racism Kilkenny are delighted to host a family fun filled day, with local, national and international talent. A day for different communities to come together and stand in solidarity with each other and show there is only one race, The Human Race United Against Racism is a membership based grass-root, democratic organisation conducting its activities based on agreed principles. #NoToRacism

MOOT Present a night of Noise

11 Aug | 8.30pm | Brewery Corner | €5 ‘MOOT’ is a Kilkenny and Cork-based art and music collective, record label, and zine publishing house. ‘Brendan’ is Stephen Morton, Peter Lawlor (Replete), David Sheenan (Jellypelt, Vogelbat), Neil Quigley (Trumpets of Jericho) and Tupelo-born John Murry. Their ‘Kill the Pigs, Paint it Pink’ EP is due out this summer. This show will be Brendan’s second gig since their sold-out show in Cleere’s Theatre last February. Brendan is a mix of guitar noise, electronic fragments, beats and synths speckled with field recordings and spoken vocals. Replete and Vogelbat will finish out the night with house and techno music, until late. First 20 in get a free pint!

James McDonald

10 & 11 Aug | Ryan’s Bar James McDonald is a classical guitarist who graduated from Waterford Institute of Technology with a BA in Music. Under the tutelage of Michael O’Toole he was awarded first place in the Féis Ceoil Senior Classical Guitar Bach Competition 2018, Senior Classical Guitar Competition 2017 and was also awarded the Bridget Doolan award in 2017. Solo and chamber performance venues include the National Concert Hall, St Mary’s Cathedral in Limerick, and Black Abbey Church in Kilkenny. 8

John Blek

11 Aug | Ryan’s Bar (Back Room) | 9pm | €10 John Blek will be performing a very special show with long time friend Ari Sheehan. John came to know Ari while working in Crowley’s Music Centre, Cork in 2012. “Ari was working as a luthier in the basement of the store and I was upstairs trying to sell his wares” John said. It was a mutual appreciation for one another’s crafts that drew them together. Sheehan an incredible instrumentalist in his own right is part of folk group Rianor as well as progressive classical trio Second Moon of Winter with soprano Kim Sheehan and composer Tom Hodge. This show will see the pair rework a number of John’s songs for two guitars and his voice. A celebration of friendship, brotherhood and the acoustic guitar.

The Midnight Union Band

11 Aug | 10.30pm | Ryan’s Bar (Front Bar) | Free The Midnight Union Band’s music may best be described as a unique blend of Americana, Folk, Rhythm and Roots and Blues, nestled with an alt-country twist and a sprinkling of pure sweet Rock n’ Roll. After a short hiatus, the band, returned in 2017 with a large European tour and the release of some much anticipated new music. That trend is set to continue in 2018 with the band set to play a number of shows and festivals again throughout the U.K., Germany and Ireland.

Reel to Reel

10 Aug | 10pm | Paris Texas | Free When the Carmel Hotel was the centre of music in Kilkenny, a band called Jigs and Power began the Sunday morning trad session there. Fusing a mix of trad musicians and a back-line of Tom Treacy, Mog O’Grady and Dave Prim. They later became ‘Reel to Reel’ and continued to pack the Carmel many years. Reel to Reel are getting together for one night in Paris-Texas to rekindle the fire of the past, with three of the original members, Billy Carrigan, Martin Coughlan, and Frank O’Brien on stage with John Bermingham, Frank Salmon, James Rice, Adrian Jackson, Billy Barron, and Margaret Nolan. A Reel to Reel evening always throws up a surprise or two! 9

RSAG

11 Aug | 9.30pm | Billy Byrne’s | €10 A storm of sound and an eruption of percussion mixed with hypnotic tunes and visuals. Since it’s conception in 2008 musical juggernaut, Rarely Seen Above Ground has taken his tour de force, one man show of sound, visuals and incendiary rhythm and samples to captured audiences around the world. Known to his friends as Jeremy Hickey, R.S.A.G has gained a reputation not only as one of Europe’s most impressive drummers but as a celebrated producer and a talented showman. R.S.A.G continues to gather momentum, since the early days when he picked up a Choice Music Prize nomination, he has pressed two celebrated LP’s, secured billings on the most enviable festivals in both Europe and America and made multiple international TV appearances along the way. As well as all that Hickey’s undeniable talent behind a kit has led to some very impressive collaborations from Justice’s, Grammy Award winning Xavier de Rosnay, Parisian electronic outfit Bot’Ox to Ireland’s own charismatic ringleader Jerry Fish. Recently, Hickey has been busy putting the finishing touches to his eagerly awaited new album due out later this year.

Arreglos String Quartet

13 Aug | 6.30pm | St. Lukes General Hospital | Free The Arreglos string quartet started playing together about a year ago. Each member is an experienced musician from a different European country. They wanted to play a different kind of music for string quartet so they started looking for arrangements of their favourite tunes. Arreglos means ‘arrangements’ in Spanish. When they can’t find an existing arrangement, they write their own. The end result is an eclectic mix of all types and styles of music, from tango, waltzes, gypsy jazz and klezmer, to film, musicals, and well-loved songs. This quartet will get your feet tapping. Come and hear them at St Luke’s hospital on 13th of August.

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THERE IS A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT A Celebration of Willie Meighan with

Yorkston / Thorne / Khan, The Lost Brothers & Malojian

15 Aug | 7.30pm | St Canice’s Cathedral Kilkenny | €25 Willie Meighan, the much-loved proprietor of Rollercoaster Records and a key figure in the city’s live music scene, passed away in November last year. For this special tribute concert the Festival brings together three talented acts, whose careers Willie championed in Kilkenny, for a night of celebration. Yorkston/Thorne/Khan takes three musicians, Scottish singer-songwriter (James Yorkston), English jazz bassist (Jon Thorne) and Indian classical sarangi player (Suhail Yusuf Khan), and blends them into one startlingly original sound that celebrates music’s ability to transcend boundaries. Lost Brothers Oisin Leech and Mark McCausland have been writing and recording together for more than a decade. Their delicate harmonies and the fragile beauty of their songs have drawn comparisons with Simon and Garfunkel and Bonnie Prince Billy. Over the last few years Malojian (aka Stevie Scullion) has released four acclaimed albums ranging from laidback acoustic to trippy psychedelia, working with a series of musical legends including Steve Albini and Teenage Fanclub’s Gerry Love. Duration 2 hrs approx. Presented in association with Rollercoaster Records and Kilkenny Arts Festival Tickets available from Rollercoaster Records & Kilkenny Arts Festival / www.kilkennyarts.ie 11

James McDonald

17 Aug | 7.30pm | The Home Rule Club | €10 James McDonald  is a classical guitarist who graduated from Waterford Institute of Technology with a BA in Music. Under the tutelage of Michael O’Toole he was awarded first place in the Féis Ceoil Senior Classical Guitar Bach Competition 2018, Senior Classical Guitar Competition 2017 and was also awarded the Bridget Doolan award in 2017. Solo and chamber performance venues include the National Concert Hall, St Mary’s Cathedral in Limerick, and Black Abbey Church in Kilkenny.

WAGNU with special guest Kelly & Doyle

17 Aug | 8.15pm | Brewery Corner | €5 WAGNU is a musical exploration into the recesses of the human psyche. Combining their musical knowledge and general sense of entitlement into a show for the masses. You will be affected on aural and visual planes. Kelly & Doyle hate Neutral Milk Hotel, but love arts and craft. Expect to be overwhelmed and overjoyed. First 20 tickets get a free pint of O’Hara’s Irish Craft Beer.

Frankenstein Bolts

17 Aug | Ryan’s Bar| 10.30pm | €10 In August 2017, Frankenstein Bolts released their ambitious second album Aglow & Spark to a rapturous media reception. The two-minute pop nugget ‘Anatomic Major’, accompanied by a simple but clever video shot by Comerford, received widespread radio and online exposure and was also included on the official Spotify playlist ‘A Breath Of Fresh Eire’. These critical plaudits were followed by an extensive festival campaign – Electric Picnic, Vantastival, Castlepalooza, Hard Working Class Heroes – culminating in two packed shows (one of them a live Eir stream) at Other Voices in Dingle. “Will there be a better, smoother radio-friendly album released by an Irish band this year?” - Tony Clayton-Lea, The Irish Times Tickets available from Rollercoaster Records 12

Dr. Mindflip’s Emotional Menagerie

18 Aug | 8pm | Brewery Corner (upstairs) | €12 Come one, come all, to bask in this collection of curiosities! A very special night where you’re invited to bring your wonderful, weird self out to play (costumes *very much* admired, but not required), against a visual background celebrating your unique emotional landscapes, all in aid of local mental health charities. For the very first time in Kilkenny, Dr. Mindflip shake-up their unique cocktail of avant-garde pop with the hip-swirling sounds of Auxiliary Phoenix Trio’s fusion of jazz and hip-hop. Chased down with potent sets from our special guest DJs, we have the perfect recipe to tickle the most musically curious tastebuds… YOU are invited to contribute photos, drawings, videos, and words on the theme of ‘my emotional / mental world’ at www.drmindflip.com/akafringe18 Tickets €12 - in support of local mental health charities. Arrive early - the first 20 people will receive a free pint of O’Hara’s, a quest for the night, and our artists will be available to transform you...

Festival of Early Irish Harp

18 & 19 Aug | 9:30am – 6:45pm Coláiste Pobail Osraí The Historical Harp Society of Ireland A unique festival dedicated to the ancient Irish harp, played for 800+ years until it died out in the early nineteenth century. Concerts, lectures, workshops, players’ sessions & masterclasses. You may never have heard the early Irish harp before, though its image is on the euro coin and on all official Irish documents. This rare, rather special Irish harp – strung in brass wire – is very different to its modern, nylon-strung counterpart. It is now being rediscovered and its beauty is attracting people to it from Ireland and from all around the world, many of whom meet in Kilkenny at Scoil na gCláirseach—Festival of Early Irish Harp each August. Continues on until: 20th August, 9:30am - 5:15pm Adult: €15 Child: €5 Concession: €10 To book contact info@irishharp.org Suitable for Children under 12

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Freddy Walsh & James McDonald

18 Aug | 7.30pm | The Home Rule Club | €10 Freddy Walsh is a guitarist currently based in Dublin. He holds a Master’s degree in Performance & Musicology from NUI Maynooth, and a BA in Music from Waterford I.T. In 2014, he won first place in the senior classical guitar competition in the Feis Ceoil, becoming the first WIT student to do so. James McDonald is a classical guitarist who graduated from Waterford Institute of Technology with a BA in Music. Solo and chamber performance venues include the National Concert Hall, St Mary’s Cathedral in Limerick, and Black Abbey Church in Kilkenny. Freddy and James have sought exciting new works by Irish composers for two guitars. The duo recently performed in Belfast as part of Moving on Music and Contemporary Music Centre’s “Emerging Artist Programme”. In May, they premiered five new compositions by members of the Irish Composers Collective in the Octagonal room of the Irish Georgian Society.

Rural Tour

THEATRE KATS Theatre Group presents Waking Cúin by Aoibhin Murphy

9-11 Aug | 8pm | Cleere’s Bar & Theatre John Cleary has been waking for weeks. His house is a funeral home and his family the constant mourners. His daughter Caroline returns back from the cacophony of New York to the quietness of Cúin for his long anticipated funeral. But it becomes clear that there are many other things unburied in this family’s past. Following the lives of three Irish women, governed by Maisie, the sardonic matriarch; Waking Cúin is a dark and witty portrayal of rural Irish family life full of comedy, blazing rows and touching family moments. The show is written by Aoibhín Murphy and directed by Dee Gibney.

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Mend & Makedo Theatre Company presents Letters in the Post

10 Aug | 6pm | The Coach House Café at Shankill Castle, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny | €5 Mend and Makedo Theatre Company presents Letters in the Post, a play about love and relationships, the imperfections and the mysteries. A balance of laughter and sadness make it a human and life affirming story. The Coach House Café is located in the 170-year-old stableyard at Shankill Castle. It serves artisan tea and coffee and fresh, simple food made with local and organic ingredients. The show is written and directed by Angela Keogh. Duration 45 mins approx.

The Merchant of Venice

10 & 11 Aug | 7.30pm | Rothe House The Merchant of Venice is William Shakespeare’s classic 16th-century play in which a merchant must default on a large loan provided by a Jewish moneylender. The setting for this Shakespearean classic is Ireland’s number one Tudor Merchant house Rothe House. Don’t miss this version of one of Shakespeare’s classics plays in unique surroundings.

The God Who Hated Women

14 & 15 Aug | 6.30pm | Brewery | €10/€7 Surprising, fiery, and entertaining, two performances draws out the threads that tie women’s movements together in different eras and cultures and challenges the audience to think about the relevance of these ideas to their own lives and times. Elizabeth Power writer, feminist activist, introduces 5000 years of women’s matriarchal beliefs and practice. A series of embroidered tapestries are presented and explored by Marja Almqvist from The Yarn School using the ideas of Olympe de Gouges (1748-1793), a woman inspired by the Enlightenment, who died during the French revolution for her belief in justice for women in A Short History of Feminism. Q & A to follow. Duration 60 mins approx.

Nuala Roche presents State of Suspension

14-16 Aug | 1.15pm | Cleere’s Bar & Theatre | €5 Following the success of her AKA 2017 onewoman show Bridie (long-listed for Stewart Parker & Zebbies Theatre Writing awards), Nuala Roche presents new Irish writing for the stage.  State of Suspension is a series of short monologues by Irish women, each of whom is poised on the cusp of a decision that will change the course of her life. Performed by Kilkenny actresses in the intimate setting of Cleere’s Theatre (express lunch menu available). Running Time is 40 minutes

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Women Together

16 Aug | 9pm | Ryan’s Bar €5 suggested donation A night of comedy, music, and poetry by the women of Kilkenny, for the women of Kilkenny. This event is a fundraiser to support local women’s charities. Please join us for our second edition of this wonderful event hosted by Sandrine Dunlop and Niamh Moroney, featuring top class comedians, poets, writers, and gifted musicians to create a night of beautiful intimate entertainment with women centre stage! Humans & animals of all genders welcome.

Dreamstuff Youth Theatre presents AARRGGHH!!

17 – 18 Aug | 7.30pm | St. Canices Neighbourhood Hall, Butts Green AARRGGHH!! Is a show devised by the students of Dreamstuff Youth Theatre, Kilkenny’s hottest, newest, youngest yet somehow oldest youth theatre company. The acclaimed youth theatre company were first formed in 2000 and have given rise to some of Kilkenny’s hottest theatre talent over the years. Now, back on the stage with a bang, the performance is semi-improvised and features “teen language” throughout, so be warned you might hear a “fuck”. Don’t miss Kilkenny’s most notorious, irreverent and creative youth theatre outfit in action. Tickets: no tickets, donations on exit only. Seats are limited to 40 per night and can be reserved by contacting info@dreamstuff.ie

Cult Theatre presents All My Sons

See website for dates | 8pm Medieval Mile Museum Cult Theatre return with a two-night run of Arthur Miller’s classic All My Sons, a story that tells the tale of war, love, and loss through the backdrop of a suburban American backyard. Cult Theatre are an up and coming Kilkenny theatre collective, having previously produced sold-out shows of Twelve Angry Men and Reservoir Dogs, and this production will not disappoint. 16

2 Aug | 8pm | Cleere’s Bar and Theatre On the night, a host of emerging writers will perform and present spoken word prose and poetry, snippets (flakes) of life stories in the cosy surroundings of Cleere’s Theatre. Not to be missed.

Book & Coin Fair

4 Aug | 10.30am to 5.30pm | The Club House Hotel | €2 Booksellers from all over Ireland and locally will display with their interesting antiquarian, historical and varied selection of books, journals, newspapers, maps, prints and ephemera. Something for everybody especially the avid collector and bibliophile. Adm. €2 – to Carlow/Kilkenny Home Care Team

Kilkenny International Literary Festival

LITERATURE / SPOKEN WORD

Flakes of Life

4 Aug | 7.30pm | The Pembroke Hotel | €14 / €12 For bookings phone: 086 1252912 or email: kilfestival@gmail.com Kilkenny International Literary Festival at Pembroke Hotel, brings you two Irish authors, writing about families, love, loss and life. Michèle Forbes, born in Belfast, is ‘a writer who is not afraid to address the so-called ordinary lives of real human beings.’ – John Banville. Her first novel Ghost Moth was shortlisted for Newcomer of The Year at the Irish Book Awards and for First Book Award at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Her short stories have received both the Bryan MacMahon and the Michael McLaverty Awards. Her second novel Edith & Oliver and was chosen as a Sunday Times Book of the Year.

Peter Cunningham is an award-winning Irish novelist and newspaper columnist from Waterford, and his first thriller, Noble Lord was released in 1986. He is best known for the historical novels, beginning with  Tapes of the River Delta, which have been widely acclaimed. Consequences of the Heart was shortlisted for the Listowel Writer’s Prize;  The Sea and the Silence  won the prestigious Prix de l’Europe. The Taoiseach  was a controversial bestseller, whilst  Capital Sins, for which Cunningham was described by the Irish Times newspaper as ‘the Hemmingway of the Celtic Tiger’, was a satire set in the Irish economic meltdown. The Trout is his most recent novel. He is a member of Aosdána. 17

Rural Tour

Poetry in Motion

4 Aug | 11am & 3pm | Ring A Link Bus Stop at The Parade | €10 The pastoral, ancient land of County Kilkenny lends itself to poetry, music and verse. Join us for this unique AKA curated fringe event where we take you on a tour to places of heritage interest in the County where local poets will read from their work and we may even hear the odd song, evoked by the land. Our final stop will bring us to the beautiful Fennelly’s of Callan for tea and buns. Bus departs & returns to The Parade, Kilkenny. Ticket includes tea & buns at Fennelly’s of Callan. Tickets available from Rollercoaster Records / on the day from the driver! Duration 120 mins approx.

Jim Maher Story Teller & SeannchaÍ

8 & 15 Aug | 8pm | The Club House Hotel | Free Jim is a storyteller based in Kilkenny in the Sunny South East of Ireland. From very early on he has had a fascination for things “Cultural and Humorous”. In all of his shows, both of these features are incorporated in a very unique and entertaining way. His act, which combines traditional music with master storytelling, has been entertaining audiences both at home and abroad for many years.

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Rural Event

Pauline O’Connell - You Cannot Climb a Hedge

10 Aug | 7pm | Castlewarren Village Artist Pauline O’Connell will premiere ‘You Cannot Climb a Hedge’ a new ‘cine-poem’ film project at The Community Field near Castlewarren village in Co. Kilkenny. Working in collaboration with The Castlewarren Cultural Development Group this research was supported by The Arts Council AIC Bursary Award managed by Create – the national development agency for collaborative arts and Kilkenny County Council Arts Office. Drawing upon ‘the rural’ as myth: the countryside as offering an antidote to the urban through its physical and moral attributes, the three-screen installation reflects on the changing rural identity. Where socalled ‘natural’ boundaries become allegories for how we relate to and engage with our surrounding landscape - prompting questions about where the ‘old’ rural - as myth and ‘new’ rural - as multiple, fragmented and contradictory, or ‘pos-trural’ meet.

‘The Grail – The Legend’ - Book Launch

FOOD

12 Aug | 3pm | Marshall Suite Conference Room - River Court Hotel The Author – Robert Barry was born and raised in Kilkenny City. He has spent over two decades working in both the engineering and legal fields. Whilst working and living in London, Robert found and used the Holy Grail, the most sought-after artefact of the last two millennia. For the first time in almost two thousand years Robert’s work reveals the truth about the Grail and its creator Yeshua, more commonly known as The Christ. In the Truth, Robert recounts what is generally known about the life of Jesus Christ and in particular the week leading up to his crucifixion. He unravels the mystery surrounding Jesus’s words and actions and the reason for his ultimate sacrifice. Join us at any time between 3pm – 6pm. Refreshment, sandwiches and live music are provided.

Street Food Sessions & Tunes

5 Aug | 7.30pm – 10.30pm | The Yard Café Bula Bus presents a night of tacos by El pocho and tunes by the se7en” collective in the cool ‘Yard Cafe’. Tasty Mexican street food delights served from 7.30pm. BYOB

Chilli Penguin

3, 4, 10 & 11 Aug | 6pm-10pm | The Pumphouse Chilli Penguin returns to its native Kilkenny after eight months travelling around the UK & Northern Ireland feeding the cast & crew of Game of Thrones. Join top class chef Alice Heafey and her band of merry Penguins for a delicious Mexican themed menu of meaty, vegetarian, and vegan friendly food (all allergies catered for). Good quality locally sourced ingredients served with a smile at an affordable price. How could you go wrong?

BBQ & Movie Nights on The Terrace at Newpark Hotel

6, 8, 13 & 15 Aug | BBQ 6pm // Movie 8pm Newpark Hotel, Castlecomer Rd, | €26.50/€13.50 Join us this summer on The Terrace at the Newpark Hotel for our Family BBQ & Movie Nights! These nights will be taking place every Monday & Wednesday throughout August. Start time for BBQ is 6pm and the Movie will take place from 8pm. This includes: BBQ + Dessert, Tea/ Coffee and Movie + Popcorn. Check out Newpark Hotel’s Facebook event page for weekly updates of which movies will be shown. Booking is essential to guarantee a spot, simply call 056 77 60515 or email events@newparkhotel.com

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Cakes, Cakes, Cakes!

WORKSHOPS

7 – 16 Aug | Kilkenny Cookery School, 5-6 Regency Court, Friary St The title says it all. A variety of childrens workshops taking place over a 3 day period. All classes are hands-on. The children cook together in small groups with kids of their own age. They have fun learning basic cooking and baking skills. We aim to create a learning environment that is enjoyable, comfortable and safe for all children who attend, from tots to teens. Novelty cake making to all things chocolate to sweet and savoury or enjoy a bit of everything! A class all about making delicious desserts, learning new techniques and enjoying working with others. Lots of techniques to be learned in each class and have fun as you learn! A Bit of Everything 7-9 Aug | 10am – 12pm | Age 6+ | €60 per person Novelty Cake 7-9 Aug | 1-4pm | Age 10+ | €100 per person Chocolate!!! 14-16 Aug | 10am-12pm | Age 6+ | €60 per person Sweet and Savoury 14-16 Aug | 1pm-4pm | Age 10+ | €100 per person To book call Mary on : 087 953 3870 www.kilkennycookeryschool.com

Introduction to Digital Photography

18 Aug | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | Rothe House & Gardens, Parliament St, Kilkenny | €2 This workshop will help you move away from auto mode, providing tips and tricks through practical examples. Participants should bring their own digital camera for photographing in Rothe House gardens. Not suitable for children under 12 Further Information: 0567722893 reception@rothehouse.com | www.rothehouse.com

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Luan Parle Songwriting & Performance Workshop

13 & 14 Aug | 5.30pm – 9pm | Workbench Bank of Ireland Kilkenny | €35 Join Meteor Award-winning singer/songwriter Luan Parle for a 2 day songwriting & performance workshop open to all ages & suitable for all levels. Times of the event are as follows: 5.30pm - 7.00pm (11 - 17 years) 7.30pm - 9.00pm (Over 18s). Having had numerous hits & accolades & written with some of the world’s most successful Grammy award-winning songwriters & producers, Luan who is a director of IASCA (Irish Association of Songwriters, Composers & Authors) has been bringing her songwriting & performance workshops to musicians & songwriters of all ages for over 10 years. Whether you are new to song writing, or you have already written songs but would like to have a better grounding in the basics, this workshop will help you to develop your creative ideas and turn them into finished songs. Book your place by e-mailing: luanparleworkshop@gmail.com.

CoderDojo - Champion Training

18 Aug | 10am - 4pm | SOLD OUT Workbench at Bank of Ireland SECOND DATE TBA - CHECK WEBSITE The CoderDojo Foundation offer youth workers the opportunity to join in the mission to give every child access to learn programming and digital making. This curated in person CoderDojo Champion Training is aimed at those who wish to work as mentors. Kindred are delighted to bring this unique opportunity to Kilkenny. Tickets are free, but places are limited, so be sure to book on Eventbrite: www.tinyurl.com/akacoderdojo

Guided Tour of Dunmore Caves

Kilkenny Great War Memorial

12 Aug | 3pm | Platform 1, Mac Donagh Train Station, Kilkenny – Streets of Kilkenny The stories of the past are woven in stone as the unveiling of the Kilkenny Great War Memorial takes place on platform 1 of the Kilkenny Train Station. The Kilkenny Train Station to the Cities streets are set to be transformed to 1918. Join the rambling theatre production as life and times of 1918 are revisited with soldiers returning to Platform 1 only to be greeted by their wives, family, friends and loved ones and follow the commemorations through the Cities streets. Following the formal ceremony and wreath laying the St. Patricks Brass and Reed Band will perform with the Deenside Minstrels and lead one and all on a parade through Kilkenny, ending in the Peace Park. The unveiling of the Kilkenny Great War Memorial at Platform 1 will honor the memory of the 3,200 Kilkenny men and women who served in World War 1.

18 Aug | 11am – 4pm | OPW - Dunmore Caves, Ballyfoyle, Co. Kilkenny | Free Free guided tours of Dunmore Caves. Consisting of a series of chambers formed over millions of years, the caves contain some of the finest calcite formations in any Irish caves. Suitable for Children under 12 Wheelchair Access (Partial) Car Parking Available Further Information 0567767726 | dunmorecaves@opw.ie

HERITAGE

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Guided Heritage Tour of Jerpoint Park

18 Aug | 10:30am – 11:30am | Free 19 Aug | 2:30pm - 3:30pm | Free Jerpoint Park, Co. Kilkenny Guided Heritage Tour of the footprints of a deserted 12th Century Medieval Town called Newtown Jerpoint plus the Tomb Effigy of Saint Nicholas. Suitable for Children under 12 Further Information: 0866061449 info@jerpointpark.com | www.jerpointpark.com

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Kilkenny Famine Experience Talk with Dr. Jonny Geber

19 Aug |4pm-5.30pm | MacDonagh Junction | Free Dr. Jonny Geber and Lauren Meckel, MA will visit from University of Otago, New Zealand to present their on-going research into the Kilkenny Famine Victims. Dr. Jonny Geber, biological anthropologist has spent over ten years researching the experience of poverty and social marginalisation in 19th c. Kilkenny. This has been informed by minute books from the Kilkenny Union Workhouse and examining over 970 human remains discovered on the site in Kilkenny in 2005. Lauren Meckel, a PhD candidate in the at the University of Otago is researching and how this anthropology helps to inform us about the experience of poverty and injustice in society today. Admission Free | Booking essential contact info@macdonaghjunction.com Suitable for Children under 12 Further Information: (056) 7777600 www.macdonaghjunction.com

Guided Tours of Kells Priory

18 & 19 Aug | 10am – 3:30pm | Kells Priory, Kells, Co. Kilkenny | Free Enjoy a free guided tour of Ireland’s largest enclosed ecclesiastical site! Hear about the Norman lords and Augustinian Priors of Kells and see some beautiful sculpture. This is an outdoors site so appropriate footwear must be worn. Please follow the advice on the safety signs at the site. Not suitable for Children under 12 Further Information : 056 77 677 26 Email : dunmorecaves@opw.ie

Kilkenny City Scenes

18 Aug | 10am – 1:30pm County Library, John’s Quay | Free A Collection of images of Kilkenny City dating from the early to mid-twentieth century. Suitable for Children under 12 Further Information: 0567794174 citylibrary@kilkennylibrary.ie www.kilkennylibrary.ie

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10-19 Aug | 9.30am – 5.00pm Daily Kilkenny Castle Following very successful exhibitions in Kilkenny Castle in 2015 and 2016, Mary returns to the Castle this year with her vibrant optimistic paintings. She displays diverse themes such as flowers and music in acrylic mixed media and colourful oil paintings of still life and local scenes. Among the local places where her paintings can be found are Kilkenny Golf Club, St. Luke’s Hospital and as far afield as London, Australia and USA. Mary is a local self-taught artist and has exhibited at Kilkenny Arts week for a number of years.

Tony Oakey – Daydreams

10-19 Aug | 11am – 5pm Daily Clubhouse Hotel Tony Oakey, a full-time artist from South Kilkenny, returns to The Clubhouse Hotel this year with DAYDREAMS, an exhibition of paintings inspired by the fantastic Irish landscape. This exciting and colourful collection of paintings explores the beautiful countryside and rugged shores of The Copper Coast and The Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re looking for something different then it’s worth the climb upstairs, to see turquoise seas and purple skies flow like mercury through Oakey’s mind. Set sail for the stars and let Tony’s crazy imagination bring you on a surreal journey to familiar places where there are no rules, reasons, or explanations. Tony’s work can be viewed at his SanPitz Studio in Piltown, throughout the year. 

VISUAL ART

M H Hickey - Mezzanine Corridor

Jade Butler - Floral Encounters

9-19 Aug | 10am-5pm | 3 John’s Bridge Jade Butler is continuing a very successful year as a featured artist in conjunction with the gallery at 3 John’s Bridge. Having been selected for the prestigious RHA Annual Exhibition, Jade’s work is currently showing in Dublin. She has also exhibited in solo shows at the Old Market House Art Centre, Dungarvan and at K-Fest Arts Festival. An artist in the ascendant.

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Micro/Macro

3-19 Aug | 10am – 6pm Daily Watergate Theatre Micro/Macro is a collaborative art installation by the ceramicist Liselott Olofsson and the painter/ sculptor Larry Fogg, both based in Kilkenny. The work is largely about the nature of collaboration, of the possibility of a unity shared by two separate working methods: it explores the differences of aesthetic and aim in two art practices, as well as the manner in which the practices can find ways to converge: how they can react to one another, how the dynamism between the two can function to render the work as a single art piece. This is why Olofsson and Fogg have chosen an installation as their first collaboration. The subject of the piece, within the context of a work of abstract art, becomes the relationship between the two practices. Micro/Macro is as much about the processes as it is about their manifestation.

Blackwatch Studio Exhibition Of Works

4, 5, 18 & 19 Aug | 10am - 5pm Blackwatch Studio, Freneystown Blackwatch Studio will open to the public for two weekends over the course of Kilkenny Arts Week for people to view their studio. There will be an exhibition of works by the group of artists who meet here on a regular basis.

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False Hoods - Masks on film by visual artist threadstories

11 -19 Aug | 10.30am – 6pm Daily Kilkenny Arts Office, 5 Dean Street The synergy between textiles and film, especially movement to convey meaning is an ongoing strand of inquiry and exploration. threadstories is questioning how the erosion of personal privacy online effects how we view and portray ourselves. Over-exposed, to what end? Official opening: 1pm Saturday 11th August

Deep Meaning - Film Screening

11 Aug | 7.30pm | The Hole in the Wall A showcase of the independent animated, feature film made here in Kilkenny by Alan Power. It stars an all-female cast: Rosey Hayes, Maeve Moran, Caoimhe Murphy, Aisling Kavanagh, Muireann Kavanagh, Katie McKenna, Emer Tobin and Emma Grogan. Deep Meaning aka: Neglect, Hate & Self Shame is about a young woman, suffering from loneliness, who attempts to create a beautiful, meaningful opera with the help of her talking teddy bear. Duration 51 mins approx. “It’s a crowd-funded labour of love that explores the darker side of the emotions we experience,” ★★★★ - Jack Gibbs, UK Film Review

How It Is

9-19 Aug | 10am-5pm | 3 John’s Bridge Laurence O’Toole is a mid-career artist living and working in Bagenalstown, Carlow. He is a realist painter with a surreal narrative. This narrative deals with many aspects of human nature. Why we do what we do and why we don’t. There can be a strong presence of nature to portray the meaning or sometimes soften and accompany the viewer, as they delve deeper into the piece. He has been in many shows, both here and abroad and has held many solo shows in Ireland and the States. He is currently showing in Royal Hibernian Academy, Dublin and in the Carlow arts festival, Eisge. His work is in many prominent collections, including the OPW and is a regular addition to the Royal Ulster academy annual show.

Our Unusual Guest

2 - 17 Aug | 10:30am - 3:30pm Daily Ossory Youth An ‘Unusual Guest’ appears at the door. He’s cautiously welcomed in. But who is he and what does he want? Young people from throughout Kilkenny were gathered to invent characters fitting the theme of “The Unusual Guest”. The original story, outlined by children’s author Ciara Gavin, served as inspiration for Ossory Youth’s Art Groups. They embellished and illustrated the text and went on to create their characters in 3D, all of which feature in this unusual and enthralling exhibition. Find out the visitor’s secrets and delve into the minds of Kilkenny’s creative teenagers. Opening night is 2nd August at 6pm, all welcome.

Southeast Woodturners

10-19 Aug | 10am – 5pm Daily Ormonde College The Southeast Woodturners will host their fantastic exhibition again this year. There will be a sale of all types of wood turned items for the 27th year in succession. This is a unique opportunity to view and buy top class wood art at very reasonable prices.

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Art Exhibition in The Friary Hall

10-19 Aug | 10.30am – 6pm Daily | Friary Hall This is an exhibition of recent art works by local artists Mary Gaine, Sheila Foley and Frances Walsh. This exhibition includes a variety of subjects through watercolours, oils, acrylics, mixed media and mosaics

Kersty Evans - Views of Kilkenny (as it could be)

2-19 Aug | 10am – 5pm Daily See Website for Venue An exhibition of paintings, drawings and prints by Kersty Evans. Views of Kilkenny in its beauty as it could be (should be) without the chrome and concrete or unsightly signs. The exhibition also offers glimpses of Kilkenny as it might have been a long time ago.

The Improbable End of Owly

Pop-up Surprise Day & Location For the first time, AKA is delighted to welcome Dr. Mindflip’s The Improbable End of Owly, an interactive multimedia art installation like no other. Step inside a 1960’s caravan transformed into an 18th century stagecoach with a unique ‘choose your own adventure’ experience inside. The game’s central character is Owly, a half-man half-owl aristocrat who fulfils all the stereotypes of the cruel, old fashioned, landed gentry. Steer Owly through his last day on earth: your choices will decide his fate. This quirky, fun and immersive audio-visual experience, with lighting and smoke effects can be played by 3-4 at a time, and lasts for 10-15 minutes. Keep your eyes peeled throughout the festival… Owly’s stagecoach will be appearing at a secret location for a limited time only!

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Kilkenny Art Gallery

20 July – 19 Aug | 10am – 5pm Daily 3 Johns Bridge The pop-up Kilkenny Art Gallery is again located at 3 Johns Bridge, beside Tynans Bridge House Bar. Showing paintings and sculptures by some of Kilkenny’s foremost artists as well as several from further afield. Exhibiting artists include Ani Mollereau, Ross Stewart, Graham Carew, Karen Scannell, Brock Butler, Kate Beagan, Billy Moore, Eoghan O’Driscoll, Brian O’Loughlin, Julie Moorhouse, Janet Brabazon and many others yet to be confirmed.

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HERITAGE

10-19 Aug | 10am – 6pm Daily The Bridge Pottery, Burnchurch, Co. Kilkenny HERITAGE is an exhibition that both marks the twentieth anniversary of Edgar Campden’s death and celebrates the important influence his great talent has on his son Mark’s life and work. Edgar’s work is of the highest standard but is rarely seen. There are a few pieces in museums in the UK and internationally. The last exhibition of his work was in the UK in the late 1980s, after which he came to live and work in Kilkenny before his untimely death in 1998. This is a great opportunity for people with an interest in craftsmanship across different media to witness Edgar’s exceptional talent. Mark’s work, creativity and work ethic, have been strongly influenced by his father’s legacy. From his earliest childhood play alongside his father to the enduring inspiration that continues to this day. This exhibition will show, side by side, work by both father and son.

Peter Scroope - Croí na Cré

11-18 Aug | 1pm - 6pm Daily Williams Lane, O’Loughlin Road Exhibition of Porcelain work by ceramic artist Peter Scroope at his studio at Williams Lane, beside MacDonagh Junction. Sculptural Vessels and Textured Platters where Art and Function meet. Peters work has been shown in The National Craft Gallery of Ireland, Fine Art and International Craft and Interior Shows. Contemporary and fresh, the strength of his work lies in its simplicity. “Scroope’s exquisite porcelain vessels.” - Aidan Dunne The Irish Times. Williams Lane is at the Railway Bridge on O’Loughlin Road, a couple of minutes stroll from John St. (Tel 086 3743731)

Kilkenny Potters Market Oliver’s Kilkenny - A Retrospective

9-18 Aug | 10am – 5.30 Daily Maria of Kilkenny, 94 High Street A photographic exhibition with a selection of some of Oliver’s favourite scenes of Kilkenny.

11-12 Aug | 10am - 4pm Daily | The Parade Visit The Parade right in the heart of the City for a potters market, showcasing and selling a wide variety of different pottery and ceramics handmade by potters from all around Ireland. This is a great opportunity to meet the makers and talk to them about how they create their work. 27

KCAT Studio Artists

8 - 19 Aug | St. Lukes General Hospital A group show of Open Studio Artists from KCAT (Kilkenny Collective for Arts Talent). Sixteen pieces by sixteen artists, some of whom have been developing their practise for many years while others, for only a short while. The work on show is diverse in theme and technique, full of colour, vibrancy and individuality. An encounter with an absorbing collection promised. The opening will take place on August 8th at 12 noon. All welcome.

Daithí Óh Uallacháin

9-19 Aug | 12pm-10pm Daily Henderson’s Lounge (The Parade Bar) An exhibition of paintings and drawings from renowned local artist Daithí Óh Uallacháin. Daithí was born in Kilkenny City in 1956. Educated locally in the CBS and Vocational School. He went on to study Fine Art in NCAD and on scholarship in the University of Minnesota, America. Daithí has been working as a full-time artist since and has exhibited extensively.

A Journey Through Wellness

9 & 10 Aug | 10am-4pm Daily | The Old Auxiliary Hospital & Garden, Wolfe Tone St An exhibition of recent works by the various artists in residency at the Old Auxiliary Hospital. Explore and wander throughout the creative spaces and meet the artists in residence. This year’s exhibition will show the diverse range of styles and creativity and indeed the materials used to personify such a journey through creativity to Wellness. The inspiring setting at the Old Auxiliary Hospital acts as an outlet to Wellness as artists blend powerful messages into the art of making through watercolours, oils, acrylics, mixed media and mosaics.

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Julie Cusack & Anthony Donohoe Talking In Paint

9-19 Aug | 11am-4pm Lavistown House, Lavistown Talking In Paint’ is an evolving conversation between artists Julie Cusack and Anthony O’Donoghue. The artists worked both side by side and collaboratively to produce a series of works exploring abstraction specifically through colour and gesture

SELF MADE - a mixed media exhibition

Atmosphere by Eoghan O’Driscoll

(Exhibition of Paintings and Book Launch) 9-19 Aug | Langton’s Tea Room, John Street Free Atmosphere is a collection of paintings by local artist Eoghan O’Driscoll. Eoghan is one of Kilkenny’s most prolific and well known artists and writers. He returns this year after a sell-out exhibition at last years AKA Fringe. Eoghan will also be launching “The Book of Cuckoo” – a collection of poems and images which will be for sale at the exhibition. This exhibition and book will be launched by Tony Strickland at 6pm on the 9th of August.

11,12, 18 & 19 Aug | 12pm – 5pm | Open Circle Community Arts, High Hayes (off John’s Green) An exhibition of mixed media from women involved in the 2018 Open Circle Arts programme, developed from the groups engagement at Open Circle with artists Julie Cusack, Julie Moorhouse, Artist Threadstories and Saturio Alonso. Open Circle Arts is a community arts programme, based in Kilkenny City open to women from all walks of life living in Co Kilkenny. The launch is on Friday 10th of August.

Ormonde College Art and Crafts

Schwatschke

13-19 Aug | 11am – 12pm Daily The Home Rule Club A series of new caricature paintings exhibited in the lovely surroundings of The Home Rule Club.

10-19 Aug | 10am-4pm Daily Ormonde College A wonderful variety of art and crafts featuring well known local artists and crafts people will be on show in Ormonde College. Lots of interesting handmade items including paintings, pottery, origami, woodwork, photography, feltwork, cards, jewellery, crochet and much more. Take time out and wander on up to Ormonde Road, you will be glad you did. 29

FORM Craft Exhibition

10-19 Aug | 10am – 7pm Daily | The Berkeley Suite, Pembroke Hotel FORM is a multi-disciplinary craft group hailing from Kilkenny’s neighbouring County Carlow. The Arts Festival has become a regular fixture in their exhibition calendar and one which is always very well received as it caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. FORM’s ethos is to design and make high quality craft and this is evident in the textiles, ceramics, jewellery and stone carving on show.

MADE in Kilkenny

11-19 Aug | 10am – 5pm | Butler House MADE celebrating Kilkenny’s Craft Culture 2018 marks the 10th Made in Kilkenny Arts Festival exhibition and the European Year of Culture and Heritage. This show is an appreciation of our Culture and Heritage and promotes its contemporary relevance through the work we exhibit. Each member is using traditional craft techniques which have been passed on from master to apprentice for generations, we also each embrace new technologies in a growing market, finding our niche in a fast moving world. This exhibition informs the viewer of the importance of our heritage, highlights traditional skills, shows the quality of production and design of handmade contemporary items.

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The Kilkenny Photographic Society Annual Exhibition

10-19 Aug | 10am – 6pm | MacDonagh Junction The Kilkenny Photographic Society will hold its 35th Exhibition this year. The KPS is a group of photographers whose skills range from the amateur to professional. There will be over 50 photographers showing a diverse range of images. Also on display will be our winning prints from competitions during 2017 & 2018. The exhibition will be based in MacDonagh Junction - located opposite Dunne’s Stores in the vacated Stonehouse Book shop. The exhibition will run from 10th-19th August. Opening Hours Monday - Wednesday & Saturday : 10am-6pm Thursday - Friday : 10am-9pm Sunday : 12pm-6pm

Blackstack Studio

12-19 Aug | 10am-5pm | Blackstack Studio Blackstack Studio will again be opening its doors throughout the AKA Fringe Festival. The 2018 Blackstack Studio Exhibition will showcase the newest prints by all members from Saturday 12th to Saturday 19th August and in addition, the 2018 Box Set will be officially launched.  This year they’re planning a very special city wide launch with the chance for one person to win a complete 2018 Box Set. All this plus dozens of prints, artist books and other contemporary art to browse, and the chance to meet the members and see the studio.

The Blackbird Gallery

3-19 Aug | 10am – 5pm Daily The Blackbird Gallery, Rothe House In its new location of Rothe House, the Blackbird Gallery, Kilkenny’s only permanent commercial space, presents a show celebrating the diversity of Ireland’s contemporary visual artists featuring the works of 39 Irish artists including Valerie Walshe, Dermot McNevin, DF Cassidy, Selma McCormick and many more. The show is open from 1st August to 30th August. www.theblackbirdgallery.ie

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Lightgift by Mark Garry

Kaya Brennan - Recent Works

Danny Lahart Photography

The Restless by Sarah McEvoy

13 - 19th | Open Daily St Luke’s General Hospital This site-specific artwork was funded entirely by the National Percent for Art Scheme. The artist described the artwork as an “attempt to marry empathy and spectacle, subtly transforming this architectural setting. Using colour and light to create a positive situation in a way that is both dynamic and assessable.” Mark Garry is known for his part in the representation of Ireland in the Venice Biennale in 2005. This artwork will be opened at 4pm on the 13th of August. All are welcome, this event is followed by Arreglos String Quartet at 5pm. Both are free.

3 -19 Aug | 10am-8pm | 1 William St A debut photographic exhibition for local and Kilkenny native Danny Lahart. A selection of images showcasing the true beauty of Kilkenny from a different angle. “I see photography as just like life, in that, sometimes you just have to take a step back and look at things a little differently to see whats really in front of you” - Wander and explore Danny Lahart’ much anticipated collection of photos of Kilkenny City and County during this years AKA Fringe Festival. 32

9-19 Aug | 10am - 4pm See Website for Venue Kaya Brennan’s practice is rooted in photography and printmaking. She graduated from Crawford College of Art and Design in 2017. Following from that the was awarded a six month studio residency in the Limerick Printmakers. During studying for her degree, she earned a scholarship to Oaxaca, Mexico, teaching art within the community. Her work is a mixed media, modern approach to traditional techniques such as lithography and analogue photography.

9-19 Aug | 10am-6pm | The Town Hall A collection of paintings and life drawings by Sarah McEvoy. A native of Kilkenny, Sarah has had a lifelong interest in art, primarily occupied by the colours and mystery of landscape, both at home and abroad. Through her studies and work as a physiotherapist she has also developed an interest in the anatomy and expression of the human body. This collection explores movement and growth through both media.

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Unhindered - KCAT Studio Artists

Art Exhibition at Shankill Castle

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Bernadette Kiely

Nancy Paton Art

9-16 Aug | 9am-6pm Daily (Closed Weekends) County Hall, Kilkenny Artists living in Ireland who are working in supported studio settings curated by KCAT Studio Artists exhibit their works during the festival. Unhindered is an exhibition of contemporary art which will be showcased in KCAT Arts Centre in Callan. Organisations represented include: Arts Ability (Wexford), DAV (Dublin), GASP (Cork), KCAT Studio (Kilkenny), Luisne Art Project (Mayo), Mayfield Arts Centre (Cork) and (Dulick Centre (Clare).

Open Studio by Appointment 13-17 Aug | The Quay, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny Bernadette Kiely is represented by Taylor Galleries, 16 Kildare Street Dublin, and is also a member of Aos Dana. Book an appointment to visit The Artist’s Studio on: 087 2925426.

9 – 19 Aug | 10am-5pm Daily Shankill Castle, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny An exhibition of paintings, prints, installations and performances in the castle, stable yard and gardens. A unique cultural experience set in the Kilkenny countryside, offering one and all an opportunity to explore and wander the grounds and enjoy the creativity showcased at Shankill Castle. A selection of work from the Shankill Castle international artists’ residency programme will also be displayed. For more information see: www.shankillcastle.com Directions: Exit 7 on M9

10-19 Aug | 11am – 4pm Daily Grennan Mill Clothing, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny A selection of colourful and playful oil paintings by artist Nancy Paton taking place in Grennan Mill in Thomastown.

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Grennan Mill Craft School

10-19 Aug | 10am - 6pm | Island Mill, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny Grennan Mill Craft School is once again honoured to host an eclectic variety of exhibitions throughout the converted grain lofts of the Island Mill. This year they are delighted to welcome Jackie Sheehan, Ceramics Ireland, Theresa Kelly, Ed Forristal & Filament Fibre Artists. The five individual exhibitions each show an exciting new range of work by all artists in a wide variety of media and disciplines in Mixed Media, Ceramics, Contemporary Carrickmacross Lace, Wood & Textiles / Ceramics.

Thomastown Creative Arts Festival

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10-19 Aug | 10am – 5pm Daily | Thomastown, Co Kilkenny Thomastown Creative Arts Festival showcases Thomastown’s long history as a hub of creative diversity. Join the Thomastonians for art exhibitions at multiple local galleries. In addition, local artists will open their studios to the public during the Festival and shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants provide additional exhibition spaces. The festival also features the 2018 Art of Upcycling installations. These are installations created from upcycled material. They are created by community groups under the guidance of local artists. The festival is supported by the Thomastown Community Network and part funded by the Kilkenny County Arts Council.

Thomastown Art of Upcycling

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10 – 19 Aug | 2pm-4pm Daily | Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny Installation Flora and Its Seeds is the 2018 theme of the Thomastown Art of Upcycling. The Art of Upcycling showcases creative ways to upcycle waste material. This year features multiple creative, upcycled installations located throughout the town. These installations are being created by community groups working under the guidance of local artists and will be exhibited during the Thomastown Creative Arts Festival. The Art of Upcycling sprang from the 2017 Installation Flora in Thomastown. It educates the public on environmental concerns, highlighting recycling and waste reduction awareness, by presenting a myriad of creative ideas to upcycle waste. The project is supported by the Thomastown Community Network and generously funded by the Kilkenny County Council Waste Prevention Programme.

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Beauty Must Bear A Pinch

9-19 Aug | 9am - 4.30pm Daily | Watergarden Gallery, Thomastown A group exhibition by INEX artists Nick Bayne, Gay Brabazon, Bonnie Kavanagh, Serena Kitt, Deborah Hewson, Marie Morrow, Philib Mac an Bhaird, Aibhinn O’Dea, Mags O Dea (RIP), and Mette Sofie Roche, curated by Beth O’Halloran, opens on 9th August and run until 19th September. The artists in the INEX collective met while attending NCAD. They have come together for this exhibition in a communal howl to call our distracted selves back to now. An acute awareness of the urgency to be present to this moment chimes with the Japanese aesthetic, wabi-sabi – a celebration of the fleeting, the fading and the imperfect. Through photography, painting, fiber and 3-D work, the artists ask us to engage with the clarity of mind that was employed in the work’s making.

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Debra Bowden - SOLAS

9-19 Aug | 11am – 6pm Daily The Berkeley Gallery, Mill Street, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny. This exhibition of new work entitled SOLAS by Debra Bowden is inspired by LIGHT. Bowden carves, paints and collages woodblocks to depict light on the landscape. The re-occurring theme of the Japanese primordial sign of the circle is portrayed in the form of the moon and the sun. Debra has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions both nationally and internationally including; Japan, China, USA, Scotland and Holland. Her work is held in the public collections of The Office of Public Works; The Japanese Embassy, Dublin and The Irish Embassy, Tokyo and in the private collections of The Japanese Ambassador’s Residence, Dublin; Italian Ambassador’s Residence, Dublin; Ireland, UK, France, Germany and Australia. Opening is Sunday 12th of August at 3pm.

UNTITLED Bennettsbridge Art Group - Annual Exhibition

10-19 Aug | 11am – 5pm Daily | Community Hall, Bennettsbridge Bennettsbridge Art Group will be staging their annual exhibition as part of this years AKA. This years show is called UNTITLED. It will have its official opening on Friday 10th August at 7pm in Bennettsbridge.

Rural Event

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BALLYKEEFFE AMPHITHEATRE

Marty Mone

4 Aug | 7pm | €15 Having shot to fame with his smash hit The Diff in 2014, Marty Mone’s star has continued to rise. Marty’s fun, unique style has gained this agricultural contractor and trucker-turned singer and songwriter a legion of fans all over Ireland and the UK, where he regularly gigs with his own band. His debut album, also entitled Hit the Diff, became one of Ireland’s best-selling independent releases.

Little Green Cars

MID-SUMMER EVENTS

11 Aug | 7pm | €25 Little Green Cars were still in their teens when they were spotted and signed to Glassnote and recorded their widely-acclaimed 2013 debut Absolute Zero with producer Markus Dravs. That album changed their lives, taking the five former school friends on tour everywhere from Europe and Australia to Russia and the States, which they criss-crossed six times in three years. Now all in their early 20s, Little Green Cars are both a different band and the same five friends who met every Sunday aged 15 in singer Stevie Appleby’s garden shed to start writing songs.

Off the Ground Theatre Company presents Sinbad The Sailor

17 Aug | 5.30pm | A: €17 C: €14 U21: €7 Join Off the Ground Theatre this summer as they step back in time for a spectacle of storytelling, setting sail on the greatest voyage of all time! When Sinbad hears tell of the legendary Solomon’s Reef, prophesied to hold all the lost treasures of the Earth, the temptation proves too great. The adventurer joins up with a cut-throat crew, travelling to the ends of the world to find their fame and fortune.

Hudson Taylor

18 Aug | 7pm | €25 Brothers Harry and Alfie Hudson-Taylor make up this dynamic duo known for their fresh, folky style. The Dubliners have been a hit on the Irish music scene since forming in 2011, and their debut album. Singing for Strangers, which included the popular single Chasing Rubies, went to number three in the Irish charts. Hudson Taylor are making waves across Europe, and their current tour sees them play the UK, Germany and Spain.

Tickets available at: Eventbrite, O’Connor’s Kilmanagh, Kilkenny Book Centre and Rollercoaster Records. See website for further information: www.ballykeeffeamphitheatre.com Facilities: Parking | Bar facilities for most evening events | Toilets on site | Venue is wheelchair accessible

WITH Phillipa Bayliss, Fanny Lam Christie, Elizabeth Cope, Phoebe Cope McCosh, Reuben Cope, Mark Cullen, Izzy Dyson, Becky Emmet- Booth, Lesley Fennell, Annabella Forbes, Susan Gardner, Donal Gordon, Catherine Greene, Evan Lawler, Gillian Lawler, Michael Lawler, Robin Lawler, Sofia Lawler, Vanessa Locatelli, Jessica Lott, Shannon Lucas Westrum, Brian Maguire, Alice Maher, Mungo McCosh, Daisy Millner, Etienne Millner, Mary Millner, Mick O’Dea, Pam Patterson, Liam Roberts, Heather Tobin

Shankill Castle, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny Tel: 087137 7982 | 059 972 6145 www.shankillcastle.com

SHANKILL CASTLE

RECITAL • INSTALLATION • FILM • SCULPTURE • PAINTING POETRY • NOVEL • ETCHING • SINGING • PHYSICS

EVENTS SCHEDULE For Visual Art please see individual listings

DATE

EVENT

LOCATION

02-Aug 03-Aug 3, 4, 10 & 11 Aug 04-Aug 04-Aug 04-Aug 04-Aug 04-Aug 05-Aug 05-Aug 05-Aug 6, 8, 13 & 15 Aug 7 – 16 Aug 8 & 15 Aug 09-Aug 09-Aug 9-11 Aug 10 & 11 Aug 10-Aug 10-Aug 10-Aug 10-Aug 10-Aug 11-Aug 11-Aug 11-Aug 11-Aug 10 & 11 Aug 11-Aug 12-Aug 12-Aug 13-Aug 13 & 14 Aug 14 & 15 Aug 14-16 Aug 15-Aug 16-Aug 17 – 18 Aug 17-Aug 17-Aug 17-Aug 18-Aug 18-Aug 18-Aug 18-Aug 18-Aug 18-Aug 18 & 19 Aug 18-Aug 19-Aug 18 & 19 Aug 19-Aug See Website 18-Aug 18-Aug 19-Aug 18 & 19 Aug 19-Aug

Flakes of Life Arborist (full Band) with special guest Robyn G. Shiels Chilli Penguin John Murry & The Dark Matter Sound & Vision presents Parts Unknown Book & Coin Fair Kilkenny International Literary Festival Poetry in Motion Mick Hanly, Shane Joyce, SOLA & Roy Thompson Songwriters Sunday with Richie Healy & Friends Street Food Sessions & Tunes BBQ & Movie Nights on The Cakes, Cakes, Cakes! Jim Maher Story Teller & SeannchaÍ Hedge Schools Pierce Turner Waking Cúin The Merchant of Venice You Cannot Climb a Hedge Letters in the Post ¡NO! with special guests Rigmarole Reel to Reel Richie Healy, Elise Ramsbottom,Ger Moloney + guests Rock Against Racism MOOT Present a night of Noise John Blek The Midnight Union Band James McDonald RSAG ‘The Grail – The Legend’ - Book Launch Kilkenny Great War Memorial Arreglos String Quartet Luan Parle Songwriting & Performance Workshop The God Who Hated Women State of Suspension There is a Light That Never Goes Out Women Together AARRGGHH!! James McDonald WAGNU with special guest Kelly & Doyle Frankeinstein Bolts Dr. Mindflip’s Emotional Menagerie Introduction to Digital Photography CoderDojo - Champion Training Guided Tour of Dunmore Caves Kilkenny City Scenes Guided Heritage Tour of Jerpoint Park Festival of Early Irish Harp Freddy Walsh & James McDonald Guided Heritage Tour of Jerpoint Park Free Guided Tours of Kells Priory Kilkenny Famine Experience Talk with Dr. Jonny Geber All My Sons Kilkenny City Scenes Guided Heritage Tour of Jerpoint Park Guided Heritage Tour of Jerpoint Park Guided Tours of Kells Priory Kilkenny Famine Experience Talk with Dr. Jonny Geber

Cleere’s Bar & Theatre Cleere’ Bar & Theatre The Pumphouse Ryan’s Bar Brewery Corner The Club House Hotel The Pembroke Hotel Bus leaves from The Parade Hackett’s Lounge Lenehan’s Bar The Yard Café Newpark Hotel Kilkenny Cookery School The Club House Hotel The Tholsel (City Hall) The Hole In The Wall Cleere’s Bar & Theatre Rothe House Castlewarren Village Shankill Castle, Paulstown Ryan’s Bar Paris Texas Hackett’s Lounge St. Canices Community Hall Brewery Corner Ryan’s Bar Ryan’s Bar Ryan’s Bar Billy Byrne’s Kilkenny River Court Hotel MacDonagh Train Station St. Lukes General Hospital Workbench at Bank of Ireland Brewery Corner Cleere’s Bar & Theatre St Canice’s Cathedral Ryan’s Bar St. Canices Neighbourhood Hall The Home Rule Club Brewery Corner Ryan’s Bar Brewery Corner Rothe House & Gardens Workbench at Bank of Ireland Dunmore Caves County Library, John’s Quay Jerpoint Park, Co. Kilkenny Coláiste Pobail Osraí The Home Rule Club Jerpoint Park, Co. Kilkenny Kells Priory, Kells Mac Donagh Junction Medieval Mile Museum County Library, John’s Quay Jerpoint Park, Co. Kilkenny Jerpoint Park, Co. Kilkenny Kells Priory, Kells MacDonagh Junction

TIME 8pm 9pm 6-10pm 9pm 9pm 10.30am - 5.30pm 7.30pm 11am & 3pm 9pm 7pm 7.30pm 6pm

PRICE

€15 €2 €14/12 €10 €5 €26.50/€13.50 €60-€100 8pm Free 7pm €15 9.30pm €20 8pm 7.30pm 7pm 6pm €5 8.30pm €10 10pm Free 7.30pm 12pm-8pm 8.30pm €5 9pm €10 10.30pm Free 7.30pm 9.30pm €10 3pm 3pm Free 6.30pm Free 5.30pm – 9pm €35 6.30pm €10/€7 1.15pm €5 7.30pm €25 9pm €5 7.30pm 7.30pm €10 8.15pm €5 8.30pm €10 8.30pm €12 3:30pm €2 10am - 4pm SOLD OUT 11am – 4pm Free 10am – 1:30pm Free 10:30am – 11:30am Free 9:30am – 6:45pm €15/€10/€5 7.30pm €10 2:30pm - 3:30pm Free 10am – 3:30pm Free 4pm-5.30pm Free 8pm Free 10am – 1:30pm Free 10:30am – 11:30am Free 2:30pm - 3:30pm Free 10am – 3:30pm Free 4pm-5.30pm Free