The Limerick Magazine July 2016 Issue10 - Limerick2020 Special Edition

free 2016 magazine issue 10 J u ly

ISSN - 2009-8650

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Welcome

T O th e lime ric k m aga z i ne The Limerick Magazine is a fun and informative monthly free-sheet keeping you up to date with what is happening in Limerick City and County, with reviews, event listings, interviews, men and women’s fashion, lively opinion and interesting articles to get you talking.

Publisher - Fusion Media - 74 O’Connell Street Limerick - 061-597627

Editor in Chief Michelle Costello Email -michelle@fusionmedia.ie Phone - 061-597627 Editor - Kayleigh Ziolo Email - kayleigh@fusionmedia.ie Phone - 061-597627 Photography - Tarmo Tulit Email - photography@fusionmedia.ie Phone - 061-597627 Graphic Designer - Paul Geaney Email - paul@fusionmedia.ie Phone - 061-597627 Advertising - Fusion Media Email - advertising@fusionmedia.ie Phone - 061-597627

TL M c o n tr ibu to r s : Derek Mulcahy Sintija Zorge Sophie Butler Katie O’Brien Laura McNamara Ken Coleman Nigel Dugdale Bríana Walsh David Cuddihy Shauna Lindsay Maíread Collins Sarah Talty

Hazel Ryan Sheehan

Kaur Ellermae Sophie Butler

demonstrates an ambition, pride, energy and unified plan to further harness the vibrancy seen in 2014 whilst showcasing Limerick as a creative city that can drive an economic and social renaissance of the region. We have been short-listed for this prestigious title of European Capital of Culture in 2020 and we are all working together to make this a reality.

As part of the bidding process for European Capital of Culture 2020, a cultural programme celebrating the richness and diversity of cultures in Europe has been conceived and designed. The progamme is of international quality and integrity which demonstrates the ambition and imagination for Limerick that will have a resonating legacy.

During this process programmers, creatives, culture makers, local groups and organisations

Tarmo Tulit

the culture of Limerick and our inhabitants experiences, dreams and aspirations.

Darren Ryan

02

region is working towards a new vision for Limerick and its future. The Limerick2020 bid

came together to work on this daunting task, designing a programme which is reflective of

Oliver Smith

This magazine is designed to provide information to our readers. It is provided with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged to render any type of legal or any other kind of professional advice.

The content of each article is the sole expression and opinion of its author, and not necessarily that of the publisher. No warranties or guarantees are expressed or implied by the publisher’s choice to include any of the content in this volume. Neither the publisher nor the individual author(s) shall be liable for any physical, psychological, emotional, financial, or commercial damages, including, but not limited to, special, incidental, consequential or other damages. Our views and rights are the same: You are responsible for your own choices, actions, and results.

Limerick’s bid for European Capital of Culture in 2020 comes at a time when the city and

P h o to g r a ph er s : Shane Serrano

This is a free magazine. You are free to give it away (in unmodified form) to whomever you wish. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

Michel l e Cost el l o edit or in chief

Jane Butler O’Halloran

In this edition of The Limerick Magazine, we want to show you some of the faces behind Limerick’s offering and we hope that you too, will get involved and be part of it. It is about

Eoghan Lyons

creating belonging in our communities and by working together we create a better place

COVER – Shane Serrano

World.

to live. It is Limericks time, as we re-imagine and structure our place in Europe and the

You too can get involved, simply by using the hashtag #Limerick2020 or by visiting www.limerick2020.ie

Luimneach Abu!

Michelle Costello

www @thelimerickmagazine

@limerickonline

@TheLimerickMagazine

www.thelimerickmagazine.com

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

We’ve got so much to show the world.

Proud Supporter of Limerick’s Bid for European Capital of Culture 2020

crescentshoppingcentre.ie

@Crescent_SC

03

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

TLM contributors Editor’s Note We are absolutely thrilled to present to you our special

Limerick 2020 July issue! The coming together of everyone

from the artistic community and beyond has truly opened our eyes to what our great little city can achieve. Limerick has

TARM O T U LIT

K ay l e i gh Z i o l o

taken giant leaps and bounds over the past few years, and who’d

have thought it all would begin with a giant Granny wandering the streets?

Win or lose on July 15th, we have all gained so much from

Limerick’s cultural awakening. So let’s continue to celebrate all that’s been achieved, and look forward to a very bright and colourful future...

S h an e S erran o

Kayleigh Ziolo

Brían a Wals h

Ken Coleman

S arah Talt y

si n t i j a z o r ge

N i ge l D u gda l e

Jane Butler

H a z e l Rya n Sh e e h a n

S h au n a Lin d s ay

Darren Ryan

04

pA U L ge a n e y

Dav i d C u d d i h y

E o gh a n Lyo n s

K at i e O ' B r i e n

K au r El l ermae

L au ra McNamara

Ol iver Smit h

sop hie bu lter

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

05

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

06

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Opinion: LIMERICK 2020

“Limerick is a major city in the Republic of Ireland, set in

We all have our own take on what culture is, we have

Do you know what the 304 is or have you ever bought

old town is known for the medieval-era St. Mary’s

those. Historically “culture” is something we associate

you answered yes to any of the above then you know

Munster province in the south of the country. Its compact

Cathedral and St. John’s square, lined with Georgian

townhouses. Standing along the River Shannon, the

13th-century King John’s Castle is one of the city’s most recognizable sites.”

Culture: 1)

the arts and other manifestations of human

2)

the ideas, customs, and social behaviour of a

intellectual achievement regarded collectively particular people or society.

our own preconceived images and we tend to stick to

with the upper classes and the well-to-do folk in society and, being Irish, we don’t really like anyone or

anything which is above their stations, do we? Most

of us will automatically think of “being cultured” as being those who partakes in gallery exhibitions,

fireworks, we watched movies in the park, at times we

even got so excited we fought about the very notion of who had more culture and who was entitled to partake

in culture. Looking back, 2014 City of Culture was so very special. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could do it

all again? Wouldn’t it be nice to once again have the whole country looking at our little city and being jealous of what we have?

and every single person in the city has their own list.

Culture 2020. Right now we stand face to face with

further from the truth - culture is open to us all, it’s all around us, and we are culture.

a theatre or attending a gallery (although we do have

an abandoned warehouse. We went to shows, we had

which make Limerick what it is today, I’m sure each

those who are “uncultured”. In reality we couldn’t be

at length over a port and looks down their noses at

relieving herself in the middle of O'Connell Street, themselves around a suspended swimming pool in

Limerick culture. These are just some of the things

Over the next couple of weeks we will find out if

Limerick is a place where each and every single one of

we were in awe of scantily clad women flinging

Limerick, you get Limerick and you are a part of

attends the theatre, discusses paintings and poetry

Back in 2014 we had the opportunity to bathe in culture. We revelled at the sight of a giant Granny

periwinkles outside Penneys on a warm Saturday? If

us can engage in culture without ever setting foot in

some amazing ones, so I would recommend giving

them a go!). Without even realising, we are actually

surrounded by culture and our daily actions are

engrained and dictated by a unique form of culture, Limerick culture. The city is our stage and we are all performers in this 365 day long show. Have you ever devoured a bag of Donkey’s or salivated over the

Chicken Hut gravy after a night out? Do you drop all responsibilities and run to the Locke Bar at the first glimpse of sunshine? Have you sat in the People's Park of a sunny day and let the world pass you by?

Did you ever go to a gig in Dolans or stroll through the Milk Market on a Saturday morning? Have you

ever waited for someone outside Todds or seen a sulky flying up William Street?

we have what it takes to be European Capital of Galway and the Three Sisters (Kilkenny, Waterford &

Wexford), and we know only one can walk away with the prize. One thing for sure, we’re a competitive crew

here in Limerick and we simply don’t like losing, but how do we ensure a win? So far a hugely competent

team have done mammoth groundwork on putting

the Limerick bid together, now it is our turn to support them and show Europe what Limerick is all

about. We need to “like” culture, “share” culture, “tag” culture. We need to put our best foot forward and

show Europe we are a fiercely proud race of people

who are immensely proud of their city, the good

points, the bad points and the in-between points.

We need to trust the people who know what they are doing, follow their lead and above all engage in the conversation and remember that we are Limerick and We Are Culture. We are the little city who can!

What are your favourite Limerickisms?

Tell us @limerickonline #limerick2020 Article by: David Cuddihy

Illustration by: Ken Coleman

07

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

C iti ze ns of L imerick Andrew Cybossky

In 2009 Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital, was the

All the other seasons are the same. I like nature here,

in Austria. Fast-forward to 2016 to meet Andrew

find it difficult at all to fit in even though he didn’t

European Capital of Culture, together with Linz

Cybossky, a native of Vilnius, who has been living in Limerick for the past ten years.

Andrew highlights surprising similarities between Limerick and Vilnius and is eager to see Limerick become European Capital of Culture 2020.

“I came to Ireland maybe about 10 years ago and my plans were to visit my friends for two weeks. I was

after finishing school in fashion studies and my plans were to visit my friends and then find a job. I really

for me it’s like home. I feel the same.” Andrew didn’t

His second video focuses on the heritage of the

Andrew is currently a student in Limerick Institute of

This stop-motion project lists all the European

with his English language skills.

Technology studying multimedia, programming and design. As part of his coursework Andrew produced

two brilliant short videos. The first is a news report style video showing why Limerick should be Capital

of Culture in 2020. The video highlights Limerick’s

multicultural society with an emphasis on Russian Europeans living here.

Speaking about this project, Andrew says, “I think

Maybe we have a colder winter, but the rain is the

different cultures here together. I did this project

same as Lithuania.

08

Union.”

have any English. He has come a long way since then

liked it here! Ireland is very similar to Lithuania, the

weather is totally similar, except for summertime.

In Lithuania there is a mix of cultures from the Soviet

for Limerick it is very interesting to have all these

with the Russian school because my first language is Russian.

various European Capitals of Culture.

Capitals of Culture starting with Athens in 1985.

It took 800 pictures and a long time to put together, moving the blocks for every photo.

“When Vilnius was the capital in 2009 I was in Ireland, but I visited my family back home for two

weeks and I got a taste of the atmosphere; it was amazing. I hope Limerick 2020 will be the same. You

have such experience and time to create this and it should be something amazing.”

Article by: Bríana Walsh

Photography by: Oliver Smith

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

C i t i z e ns of Limerick Dor is Ryan

Doris Ryan, Cub Leader with St. Oliver Plunkett

Born on Mulgrave Street and educated in Limerick,

In her view, if Limerick won the bid it would be of

something new. “ I’ve done several courses over

2020 would bring great tourism to the region, the

calligraphy.” Doris is currently taking Irish classes in

a great success. It might bring the community that bit

Doris’s love of education means she is always learning

great benefit to the community. “I think Limerick

the years from car maintenance to computers and

people would go out of their way to make sure it was

St. Mary’s Community Action centre.

closer together. I would like to see events that would

I also walked the Camino (a pilgrimage in Spain) last

Doris is happy to see things happening in Limerick,

where everyone would go and stand and listen and

atrocious!” Doris Ryan is certainly one for keeping

publicity for our city. Hopefully 2020 will be another

walks in the city, think of our own little walk here

25th Scout Troup

“I’m a housewife, a cub leader, I do line dancing, set dancing, salsa dancing, I’m a Eucharistic Minister for almost 20 years in St. Nicholas’ parish.

involve loads of people. There could be music in a park

“I think it brings more people together and it’s great

dance if they wish. Or walks, there are some beautiful

great year for us.”

in Shannon Banks.” Limerick certainly has a bright

grandchildren but what keeps her the busiest is the

It would seem good things are already happening

better place to live, grow and learn.

Scout Group based in Shannon Banks. Her husband

people are a generous people, they rally around one

Article by: Bríana Walsh

year - 120 kilometres over five days, the weather was active. Married to Michael for 44 years, Doris

has raised four children in Corbally and has nine 80-100 children involved in the St. Oliver Plunkett Michael, a group leader, has worked with the scouts for the last 28 years. “I love the outdoors” she says.

thanks to community leaders like Doris. “Limerick another. Limerick got a lot of bad publicity over the

future ahead with people like Doris making the city a

Photography by: Oliver Smith

years but community leaders, be they in the scouts, the GAA or other sports, are doing more for the youth, intervening before they can be led astray.

In the scouts we have great leaders and a lot of the parents are involved as well.”

09

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Ci t i z e ns of L imerick Northside Misfits Community Drama Group Northside Misfits began life when Karen Fitzgibbon,

As one of Limerick2020’s projects, Northside

who works with the Limerick and Clare Education

Misfists were recently invited to the Manchester Day

and Training Board (LCETB) began a small drama

Parade, to be part of preparations for Walk the Plank

group at the request of some members of Northside

production, alongside another Limerick based aerial

Family Resource Centre. The interest grew and not

dance group Fidget Feet. “It was an AMAZING

long after, the group began writing and staging its

experience,” says Karen. “Seeing this hive of activity as

own performances with the backing of LCETB.

various community and art groups worked feverishly

“The group is made up of some exceptionally talented

to paint, sew costumes and get ready for the parade. It

actors and writers. The name Misfits came about and

was wonderful to watch all these different community

stuck as the people who are part of it; they are really

groups, children and adults, working together to

diverse, of all ages and experiences and probably

help each other create something so special. That

wouldn’t mix in any other situation in life! But it

community spirit is very familiar to Northside Misfits.

really works, they really connect and get along, there’s

“There is a huge amount of mutual support amongst

always laughter when the group is together. When

all the community groups in Northside and beyond.

Misfits first began, it was a matter of ‘just giving it

They all come to every one of our performances and

a go’ for many of our members, now they wouldn’t

we all support each other.”

miss a session and are travelling to Manchester to perform!”

In

2014

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo Northside

Misfits

applied

for

a

Compassionate Communities seed grant to stage a piece of theatre that would highlight the importance

of thinking, talking and sharing our thoughts about

the end of life. taLK, Think Ahead Limerick. “TaLK

came about from an idea for a story that one of the group members had when walking past University Hospital Limerick. She saw a woman sitting alone

at the bus stop crying. It made her wonder what kind

of bad news she had received that day. Conversations took place within the group and we explored the idea that during these difficult periods, when people are

diagnosed with cancer or another debilitating illness, it’s often easier to talk to strangers about it than our own families, who are so close to it. Sharing with

10

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit people we don’t know, like a stranger at the bus stop

can be oddly comforting, so the idea formed from

there. The play cuts between the scenes at the bus stop and within the hospital, where things rub along in

a repetitive and gently humorous kind of way – we see the same conversations take place over and over

between the porter and cleaner.” Northside Misfits

are not afraid to tackle some of the more difficult

subjects in life, and it seems to resonate very well with audiences. “We’ve had such a great reaction from audiences at taLK, it really seems to strike a chord

and people recognise the situations from their own experiences.”

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

11

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

a rti s t Pro file Darren Sha n The Master of Horror The infamous horror writer has just completed his long series, Zombie, and is currently working on an entirely new series of books for release next year.

Outside the depths of the city, hidden beneath the

By his early teens, Darren was writing in his spare

If you keep going for it you will never fail - even if you

walls sits the Master of Horror in his spooky lair. Or

published. Called Ayuamarca, later republished as

that you will be published and it’s normally more than

hills, across the dark damp fields and over the stony rather, in reality: nestled in the village of Pallaskenry, County Limerick, overlooking a beautiful view of the River Shannon, sits an artistically unique abode

where you can find multimillion selling horror author

Darren O’Shaughnessy, more commonly known as Darren Shan.

Born in London to parents from Pallaskenry, Darren moved back to Limerick at the age of six, and his

time. By his early twenties, he had his first book

Procession of the Dead, it was the first of a trilogy for adults and enjoyed some success. Darren also started

Darren’s trust in his ability paid off, and Cirque du

Children’s Literature as part of his degree. This was to

and the first of a 12-book series called The Saga of

something he always wanted to do and he had studied be the start of great things, as he was writing the book

that shot him to fame, Cirque du Freak. But it was far from instant success.

“I remember the day my agent rang to say all twenty

The older he got the more this love grew, as did his

the same time. ‘Sorry Darren, no one wants to publish

commitment to nurture it.

“As I got older, the love of storytelling stayed with me.

I realised that I wasn’t going to be a footballer, a rock

star or an astronaut but I thought I could be a writer.”

We have all been kids with dreams, but most of us

lose sight of that dream throughout our turbulent adolescence and the reality of adulthood. Darren

a hope.”

writing a children’s book during this time. It was

relationship with writing had already begun. As his

mother was a teacher, he was always writing stories.

haven’t been published yet, there is always the hope

publishers had turned the book down. It was all at

your work.’…Everyone in the UK said it was no good and there would be a huge backlash against it. There

had never been books like it for children; it was so very dark, so morbid. So I went for a walk around

here and I said there is either one of two things here.

Either all the experts are right and I should give up or

they are all wrong and I’ve to hang in there and prove myself. I decided I was right…and I was.”

Freak became an international award winning book

Darren Shan. This was only the beginning - Cirque du Freak then hit the big screen.

“The biggest highlight for me in all my years of writing

I have to say was the day that my agent rang me to say

we’d sold the rights to Cirque du Freak, back in 1997 or ‘98 because it meant I could come off the dole. You know you see in these cheesy movies where you will get an actor or artist and they get their big break and

they punch the air or kick their heels up? That’s the

only time I’ve ever done that because it meant for the next year or two at least I’d make minimum wage and financially justify myself to people and say ‘look

I wasn’t deluded’…and I’d be able to afford to write full time. ”

never swayed from his plan to be a writer.

After endless hours of work completing his book,

Lots of people wait for their ‘big break’ in the creative

“I was determined. I used to drive my parents mad

seem like to natural thing to do would have been to

with exceptional perseverance who wasn’t waiting on

because they were delighted I had a goal but I never really was an exceptional student or anything. I spent more time reading and wasn’t interested in other

careers or in doing something that was going to make me money.”

12

and not one but twenty publishers say no, it would consider throwing in the towel, or putting the pen down as the case may be. “You’ve got to have that leap of faith. You’ve really got to believe in yourself. Hope that you are not deluded but really go for it. There is

nothing worse than giving up, because you are always going to know inside your head you have failed.

profession but Darren clearly stood out as someone anyone or anything to get him where he wanted to

be. That being said, he did feel a certain level of luck was involved.

“You often hear writers talking about lucky breaks and

things and it always seems crazy that luck is involved but it very often can be.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

13

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

If Cirque du Freak had been three years earlier, my

“The books were reaching children that don’t normally

The creative process will vary from person to person,

Cirque du Freak. Because he had got started with

to think mine are - that aren’t just about the gore and

is someone who has been writing since he was very

agent might very likely have had a different read of Harry Potter, he had got into the mind-set and into the mould and fought for Cirque du Freak.”

As someone who had read his books as a teenager, I

delighted in the fact that I got to talk to the man who first brought horror into my life many moons ago. I

wondered why this genre appealed to him and why his books continue to be so successful with children.

“I started writing a book that I think I would have enjoyed reading when I was 10, 11, maybe 12 years of

read and they’ll read good horror books - which I like grittiness but actually trying to get children thinking

about the world and their place in it and how they

“You have got to do it. Every writer gets those

it, and it’s become very popular since then.”

or any point and there are huge gaps in between them.

Horror is a springboard into that and they’ve realised

Having started writing within this genre before getting into children’s literature, Darren explained the different themes between his adult and children’s books.

“My adult books explore more moral grey areas. In

vampires, a kid who gets buried alive and has to fake

things happen but it’s about children overcoming

his own death and leave his parents. These were all

things that appealed to me so I just wrote for myself.”

Horror isn’t exactly a genre that springs to mind when we think of child readers and understandably

obstacles presented themselves when it came to getting the books on the shelves.

“Publishers have realised their mistakes and that kids

do like horror. Now there are parents who are happy to let their children read horror, whereas that was

it first came out because they were really concerned.

The following year they nominated it for the book of the year award.”

Darren Shan lets his young readers explore a side

of fantasy and horror that they are naturally curious about.

The main issue that runs through every one of my

children’s series is that you can overcome anything in life, whereas in my adult books things can be a lot

idea and let it take you in some interesting directions.

There are no magical secrets. The more you write, the more you learn, the better you get.”

wonder how international fame hadn’t resulted in

so much of our talent abroad, why had Darren not got sucked into the vortex of emigration?

bleaker. I think it’s good for children to have hope.

“Pallaskenry and Limerick is where my home is. I’ve

despair about the state of the world and I think it’s

to travel a lot and I go to London a lot so I have a flat

By the time we get to adult stage, a lot of us start to

important to explore that; to look at society and the

darker aspects of the human psyche. For the children, I try and put a bit of light in there.”

who have sold lots of books but not enough to give up authors out there.

“To write a good story takes a lot of time and a lot of work. You’ve got to get experience of life; you’ve got to see people interacting and so on. You can’t muck

out War and Peace in 15 minutes (laughs). Most

writers don’t start to mature until they are older. Your

goal should be to write the best books you can tell,

the best stories you can and see where that gets you.

Sometimes there will be a market for what you write and sometimes there won’t. I was lucky I came along

at a time when there was a market for vampires and demons five years earlier or later there might not have been.

14

that zone and the more likely you are to pick up an

another country stealing our original gemstone. With

the day job. I asked what advice he had for aspiring

really nervous. W.H. Smith refused to stock it when

write. The more writing you do the more you get into

these huge obstacles that are put in their path.

were suitable for children, parents had to view that

when Cirque du Freak came out publishers were really,

I find that the way to kick off those creative juices is to

Demons and darkness aside, I couldn’t help but

According to Darren, there are many writers out there

horror books weren’t suitable for children. I remember

moments of inspiration but they can come at any time

my children’s books there is always hope. Lots of bad

another thing back in the day. It was sort of a Catch 22: Because there weren’t horror books available that

young.

deal with day to day life and relationships.

age. What would have thrilled me, what would have

excited me then? So I put in circus freaks, I put in

but I was eager to know how Darren’s worked as he

been very lucky. I’ve been all around the world, I get there but this is home for me. This is where I live my

life. It’s great to go off and see the world but this is

where I come back to. I realised as I starting travelling

the world and seeing different places, there is nowhere

really that can offer me anything that I cannot get in Limerick. I’ve never really seriously thought of

anywhere else but here. When the sun shines there is nowhere like it. What does he think of the prospect

of European Capital of Culture? “We’ve already seen

how a big cultural event can bring everyone together.

Events like this stir the collective imagination - before 2014 people couldn’t understand, they were asking

what’s the point spending money on things like this, why are we doing this? Yet now they are still talking about it two years later. It shows just how communal the arts can be, how it can bring all kinds of new

things into the city. People can see the benefits now and it’s great that people are getting behind it.”

Article by: Mairéad Collins & Kayleigh Ziolo Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

15

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Poetry from Stanzas

Rachel Armstrong “I am a box labelled with a smile.”

Originally from Mayo, Rachel has been living in

Limerick for five years. She is a music teacher and likes to make nerdy t-shirts.

Stanzas 3D

What instruments do you play?

It would be easier to say what instruments I don’t play!

I play piano mostly. I’m a singer. I play trad music so I

play flute, tin whistle, bodhrán and a little bit of fiddle Poetry goes 3D in an exciting new project for Limerick2020 and you won’t need to wear

any silly glasses! No longer confined to print, Stanzas will literally have poetry climbing the walls of Limerick City.

Eight poets from Stanzas, a poetry and prose writing group, have been commissioned to

write poems for Limerick2020. Stanzas encourages the development of young literary

talent through regular meetings and events. This diverse group of writers includes

Melanie White, Aoife Deegan Donnelan, Emer Hayes, Caleb Brennan, RG Allen, Rachel Armstrong, Shane Vaughan and Nina O’Donovan. Quotes from their selected

poems will soon adorn mystery locations around the city, creating an interactive poetry trail. Stanzas will paint the town with poetry so keep your eyes peeled, you never know where poetry might be on the prowl!

Once you hunt down and find a quote, get involved and let everyone know. Share your

pictures on Instagram (@Limerick2020), Twitter (@Limerick2020) or on Facebook, then hop on to the Limerick2020 website where you can read the entire poem. The first

poet and poem to be featured will appear on the website on 7th July. Check the website

regularly to hear more about the Stanzas’ poets and what makes them tick and write.

Check out the poetry trail map here if you are having trouble tracking down the elusive quotes. You can also find the trail map on the website from 1st July - follow the clues on the trail and see Limerick from a poetic angle. This is a really exciting new venture pulling poetry out of the pages on to the streets that inspired and shaped our poets.

In July 2016 Stanzas will hold their second Festival of Writing: A Weekend of Words (#WoW). Find out more at stanzas.ie/festival

and a little bit of harp. If it’s an instrument you can

bet I will try to play it. I love the guitar but I haven’t mastered it. I’ve fallen in love with the ukulele; it's very cute sounding.

What poem is your quote from?

I Am A Box is the name of the poem. Nice and simple.

What was your inspiration for this poem?

The theme of the Stanzas meet at the time was

identity. I found it kind of interesting because I’m an introvert masquerading as an extrovert. In realised I have a lot more acquaintances than friends, so the poem is based on what would actually happen if

people took the time to get to know the introvert me rather than the extrovert.

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever written?

The dietary information for a restaurant; I have serious allergies.

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?

A lollipop with a scorpion in it. I’m going to point out I didn’t eat the scorpion but I was incredibly aware of the scorpion the entire time. I kept thinking “Please

don’t wake up, please don’t wake up, please don’t wake up.”

16

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

What are your favourite things about Limerick?

Regarding your poem, if you are the box, are you

but it manages to retain the feel of a town, just like

No.

Limerick is a weird city in that it is definitely a city

a really big one. I like that there’s always stuff to do,

from Amazon?

there’s always live music on. There’s always someone

Why are you labelled with a smile, are you not

things. I like there are lots of places where you can sit

Labelling with a smile is easier than being happy all

going around asking you to get involved with different down and have a chat; I’m a very chatty person. I find Micky Martins’ fantastic for that.

happy?

the time.

Is there a cat in you?

No, I’m not Schrodinger’s box.

Well that answers my next question, moving on,

Does the smile matter?

Sometimes.

What are your hopes, fears, plans for the future?

Getting a real person job. Learning how to drive.

Hope or fear?

Both. I reversed the car the other day without taking

out anyone or parts of the house, which is impressive.

I’ve never crashed a car. I’ve been in the process of

learning how to drive on and off for the past 4 years.

I’m a really nervous driver. Cars feel very powerful.

what is in the box?

Nuts.

17

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Melanie White “He wouldn’t love her as a pussycat” Tell me a little bit about yourself.

What’s the weirdest thing you ever ate?

about 20 years. I live in Clare. I’m kind of an all-

not to try them. I remember being at a stopover in

I’m most passionate about at the moment. I’m also

didn’t know what they were because the menu was in

I’m from England originally, I’ve been here for

I remember seeing fried cockroaches and deciding

round creative person. Writing seems to be the thing

the airport, in Turkey and I was trying things and I

involved in in plays and theatre; I paint. I make

Turkish.

enactment.

Who is your favourite person?

Your relationship with Limerick?

choose one over the other.

in for various events; poetry would be a big part of it.

Your favourite place?

costumes for theatre and historical costumes for re-

I have an artistic relationship with Limerick as I come

I’m involved in theatre, plays and things like that so I’m often in town for rehearsals and performances.

I would like to say one of my children, but I can’t

India.

Why India?

What is your inspiration behind your quote and

There’s something about the completely different

That’s the punchline of the poem. That poem is The

capitalist mentality you have here. People in India

metaphorical tiger. There’s this man who is obsessed

different mind-sets and it’s refreshing. Despite all the

catches the tiger, tames it, puts it in a cage and then by

it is something we seem to be missing here.

and it’s a metaphor for a man doing the same thing

What would be your biggest fear?

your poem?

culture I find really exciting. Being away from the

Tigress. The whole story of the poem is that it is a

have a different way of looking at the world and

with the tiger in the wilderness and he goes out and

poverty there the people have a light in their eyes and

the time it becomes tame he doesn’t love it anymore

to a woman. He meets a woman who is wild and free

War. War on my doorstep.

all away.

I was hoping for spiders or something like that.

and by the time he is finished with her he takes that

I kind of like spiders, they are kind of cool. If you

look at them, dangling from a thread spinning a web, I think they are amazing. Can you imagine trying to knit while being upside down on a trapeze and they can do that naturally? They are really graceful.

18

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Hopes and dreams for the future?

At the moment I’m quite focused on writing. I seem

to go with what I feel most passionate about at the moment and writing seems to be the biggest pull. I guess to keep doing that. I would like to get some

work published. I’m working on a novel so I would like to get that work published. To also bring out a book of poetry at some point.

Which do you prefer poetry or prose?

They are really different, I don’t think I could choose

one or the other. There is something about getting in

to that whole world of the novel exploring characters and the world whereas poetry can be really concise

and something really small. I do a lot of spoken word

poetry, performance; I have a background in acting. I really enjoy performing poetry. I learn all my poems

off. I realised recently that I say yes to everything I’ve been asked to do creatively and it’s brought me

in these really weird directions that I never thought I would do. I just made 26 medieval costumes for a

production of King Lear, I never thought I would be doing this!

19

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Shane Vaughan “Sing a song about rain like it’s the first time I’ve heard the lyrics”

Who are you? Where are you from? What are you doing?

I am Shane, I’m from Dooradoyle, Limerick. In the last four years I’ve been up and down a bit between

Limerick and Cork for work. I do a bit of part-time

living between the two cities. It has its own challenges but also its own rewards, as everything has. What do

I do? Mostly writing, the most part being poetry, stories, plays. I had a play on last year and it raised

funds for the Cork Simon Community; it was all about homelessness. Anything to do with words. I love words. I love the English language.

Where do you find your inspirations, for your poetry or for this poem in particular?

That particular poem is an investigation into when you meet someone and you fall madly in love with

them and you bear your whole soul to them and you tell each other all of your secrets, and then you break

up and then you meet someone else and you bear your soul to them and tell each other all of your secrets and then you break up, and how the process of bearing

yourself and repairing yourself impacts on the body physically. The idea of trepanning is when you open up yourself to someone you literally cut a hole into

yourself to let them in. The idea of scabbing then is repairing that process again and how often can you

do that until the wound is a scar. That’s the idea. A lot of my poetry is about relationships and how people interact with one another, especially through the medium of love. I would call myself a love poet.

What’s your favourite song about rain?

There’s a great song by a guy called Hashfinger. The

song is called B5. He’s mad. He remixes loads of old songs and turns them into mad electronic pieces. I

wouldn’t say it’s my favourite song but I would say it really hit me deeply. There is a repeating lyric in

it, “the sound of rain, upon my window frame,” and it does that for a while. Every time I listen to it I

imagine myself looking out at rain on the window coming down and all that stereotypical artsy stuff.

20

Why do you want to hear a song about rain like it’s

Is the rain happy or sad?

That particular line from the poem is kind of harking

the thing.

you can take what happens to you in life in two ways:

Do you prefer the sun or the rain?

I’m miserable, or you can sing in the rain. Every time

when I’m in it.

situation it’s like the first time. You’re not forcing

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever written?

good thing, not because you have to.

young boys who go on a hunt for spiders, put them in

Are you a fan of Wet Wet Wet?

violence present in most childhood experiences. I’m

the first time you’ve heard the lyrics?

towards “I’m singing in the rain” and it’s this idea that One it’s raining and I’m stuck in it and I’m wet and

you accept and allow yourself to be happy in a negative happiness you’re choosing it. Be happy because it’s a

The rain itself is ambiguous; how you interpret it is

I like the rain when I’m looking at it, I like the sun

I’ve written a story about spiders in a bottle, about two bottles of 7Up and freeze them. So a homage to the

No.

a happy person I swear! I like to bore holes in my

Do you think Ireland is wet enough already?

writing.

head and capture spiders. Don’t judge a writer on his

Ireland is very wet, especially Limerick. I think we are the rainiest place in Ireland. Something like 330 days

of rain a year? I don’t understand why we haven’t built a dome yet. Like the Milk Market, let’s do that for the city. Let’s be the tented city.

Except for today when it is ironically sunny.

Exactly, it’s laughing at us.

Article by: Bríana Walsh

Photography by: Oliver Smith

THOMO

IDGE ND BR

N IC H

4

O

LA

S ST

RU

TL

AN

D

BR

ID

GE

.

S

A

R

S

F

IE

L

D B

R

ID

1

3 G

E

2

R

ID

G

ST

.

RO

E

CH

5 ES

6

RE

ET

ST

RE

ET

AL

LO

CA

M

TH

ER

IN

E

ST

.

O’

B

L

ET

.

N

CI

RE

ST

CE

ST

ST

M

O

AS

AM

HA

N

M

LI

CK

N

O

L

A

EL

H

N

S

ST

E

IL

WI

R

TH

N

H

CO

T

EE

T

W

W

ST

RE

ET

8 7

1

‘It will rise with the moon’ - Emer Hayes

2

‘The old/new vintage attack’ - Aoife Deegan Donnellan

3

‘Walking the streets with some new love’ - Caleb Brennan

4

‘A storm of thoughts A river of revolution’ - RG Allen

5

‘I am a box Labelled with a smile’ - Rachel Armstrong

6

‘Please give me the soft of you’ - Nina O’Donovan

7

‘He wouldn’t love her as a pussycat’ - Mel White

8

‘Sing a song about rain like it’s the first time I’ve heard the lyrics’ - Shane Vaughan

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Cr e ati v e s in Limerick

Javi BuronGarcia is a lecturer of Architecture at UL and founder of Fab Lab Limerick. He talks to us about the web app created by his own practice colaborativa.eu, CreativesInLimerick, which maps the creative community of Limerick.

Tell us a bit about your background…

How did you create Creatives In Limerick?

What do you think defines a creative?

2008 and Fab Lab Limerick founder and director

building reactivation through creative communities.

we launch the website in a different city we have a

I am a lecturer in the School of Architecture UL since since 2013. But Creatives In Limerick is actually a

project by my own practice Colaborativa.eu, which I run together with Magda Sanchez Mora. We are a

design, technology and social action agency working between Spain and Ireland to develop tools and

strategies for reactivating public space through the creative and cultural sector.

In Cordoba we manage an independent cultural space located in former abandoned public building.

We are also interested in developing low cost building

systems like domenico.cc which can be used by communities to self build their own collective spaces.

22

We created it out of necessity, researching public The public administration in Cordoba asked us if the city had enough people working on the creative sector to promote such type of projects.

At that moment we realised how hard it was to get precise data about the local creative and cultural sector because there are a lot of micro companies, sole

traders and part time workers who can’t be tracked using traditional methods like chamber of commerce

records. It’s very important to have precise and real

information in order to create effective policies or strategies.

That’s a very hard question. Normally every time lot of angry emails saying you are not including this

category. What’s creative for me is a very wide range.

If I applied my concept of creatives, a teacher in any discipline would be a creative, or someone who

practiced sport. So if I used my definition it wouldn’t have any purpose because it would just incorporate

every single person in Limerick. In the case of Creatives In Limerick we need to be very precise in our definition.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

We are using the European definition’s categories and

sub categories of a creative. That’s the reason there are some categories and not others. We are using these

categories to make sure we can relate with other cities and relate this mapping to other European national policies.

What is the aim of Creatives In Limerick?

The aim of the tool was to map the creative cultural

sector of a region by using a crowd sourcing approach.

In order to map even the smallest activities we made a selection of the best known companies and projects and developed a simple way in which any creative and cultural initiative can add itself to the visualisation.

There is no curatorial process. In each city there we work together with a local creative – in Limerick we

are working with Gimena Blanco and Aidan Kelleher, who take care of double checking that the information is accurate.

What other cities are using the tool?

Cordoba, Spain. Navarra, Spain. Pescara, Italy. Now

we are working with Donegal Local Enterprise Office

to bring it to Donegal and also we are in conversations with Las Palmas, Spain and Strasbourg, France.

Why choose Limerick and these other locations?

We don’t choose the cities. It’s a very organic process.

If someone is interested in being a local creative, monitoring the website, then we present the project

to them. If they’re still interested we will prepare

the website for them. There’s no master plan and no

business model behind it, which is very important. I’ve been involved with technology for a while now. In the

last few years I’ve perceived that when you talk about websites and software everybody immediately thinks about venture capital, big investment, taking over the

world. Yes that’s a possibility. But the Internet is a very

diverse ecosystem. You have for-profit companies; you need to have not-for-profit projects.

It needs to be diverse otherwise the Internet will become a very boring place.

So when people ask about that we say no we are not interested, it’s a research tool that we created to

understand the local creative sector in our city better.

Other people have asked us to replicate the tool in

their city and because they have a motivation or an interest we are happy to help.

Are you open to others building on the tool?

At first we thought that we would release the tool

and the data as open source: we are big advocates of this movement but finally we decided not to open the tool itself but the data only. There are millions of extra

functionalities that we could add but we want to keep the project as simple as possible. If someone else wants

to develop new functionalities or new visualisations they can use our API to tap directly to the database and access all the data, except email addresses.

Who should add their names to Creatives In Limerick and why should they do it?

Basically anyone that is part of the categories can add

themselves. Each person has their own motivation, maybe it’s that you’re just getting started, you see it as a good place to promote your small practice or you’re now part of the Limerick2020 spirit and you want to be part of the representation. Or maybe you want to better understand how the sector is formed, and

use it for more of a research interest. I think that’s an interesting path for the project; that it could be used to identify a niche of opportunities.

Article By: Sarah Talty

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

23

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

T r oy St u d io s Interview with Mike Cantwell, Innovate Limerick

Cast your mind back to the excitement of Limerick City of Culture 2014 – beneath the noise, the colour and fanfare of the many outstanding events of that year, some very important seeds were being planted for the future of art and culture in the city.

One of these seeds was Troy Studios, Ireland’s new international film studio, which now resides in the old Dell site in Castletroy. From murmurs and rumblings, to the

confirmation that an agreement with the founders and directors of Troy Studios had been reached, to the expected completion of the studio conversion due in the coming months, we have all been following the story closely.

So, where did it all begin? TLM met with Mike Cantwell to find out what went on ‘behind the scenes’…

24

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Back in 2014, Limerick City and County Council

the start was the strong willingness on both sides to

Even at this stage, with the negotiations done,

partnerships company set up to drive innovation,

councillors, City of Culture committee, Conn Murray,

out, nothing was certain. “Once we’d entered an

established Innovate Limerick, a public private

and as Mike puts it “to act as a catalyst. We work

on special projects of innovation and regeneration,

including those lined out in the Limerick 2030 plan.”

And it was Innovate Limerick, and Mike himself who were in talks with the directors of Troy Studios from the very start.

“The directors of Troy came to visit Limerick during

2014 City of Culture, specifically to look at potential

see it through. From the Limerick side all the city

all were very instrumental with their willingness to

make it happen. We looked at what was required from

our side, and in July the council decided that the best option would be to buy the site from its owner Peter Noonan, and then lease it out to Troy Studios. We negotiated and they entered into the lease. So that’s

our role – Troy Studios are tenants of Limerick City and County Council.”

space for the new studio. During their time here we

That said - Innovate Limerick is not just limited to

site, and another on the edge of the county near Clare.

very unique and special tenants, Mike and the team

showed them three sites – LEDP, the former Dell We were very interested in developing a partnership

with them – and they were in turn very interested in

working with us. I followed up those conversations with an email in January 2015, and they came back

to say that they were considering the Dell site and would like another look. What followed then was a

lot of meetings both here and in Dublin to see how

we could make this happen. What stood out from

a typical landlord role. Due to the nature of these have been working very closely with Troy Studios on the designs, layout and costings of the entire studio project. “The design was ready at inception – Siun Ni Raghallaigh, the CEO of Ardmore and Troy Studio

Director, would have done a lot of actual design and layout. It had to be done at that early stage, we all needed to have an idea of cost, how it was going to work, what would and wouldn’t be possible.”

the lease entered and designs and cost all laid

agreement, expressions of interest for Troy Studios came in from Cork, Galway, and elsewhere.” What

was it that really clinched it for Limerick? Mike cites a number of factors, starting with the structure of the building itself. Before we enter the meeting room

at LEDP, Mike shows me the work going on in the centre, which is host to a number of tenants, and will

be accommodating many more. For scale: LEDP is

around 35,000 sq ft of space. Troy Studios is 340,000 sq ft in total, “70,000 of which is high bay 15m to the eaves”. Mike explains that the height of this space

was the clincher for Limerick and the Dell site. “It was an efficient, cost effective space. That’s what made the building so attractive to them; this was the ace

up our sleeve.” Why did this excite the directors of

Troy so much? “The height allows for two storey stages, in film making everything is about efficiency

– if filmmakers can build double deck sound stages or sets, it allows for more efficient filming. So right

now we have 70,000 sq ft of 15m to the eaves space divided into three film sets – two at 16/17,000, other at 35,000.

25

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

In just one project we’ve doubled the movie making

It is our ambition and hope that we will be able to

Piquant Media, who have also played a key role in

size of Ardmore, so it’s a serious piece of national

by the year 2020. With the city potentially also being

develop the brand identity. The final concept selected

capacity of entire country. Troy Studios is twice the infrastructure.”

There seems to be a real buzz around filmmaking in Ireland, from successful short films, to ground

breaking animation studios, right up to huge Hollywood franchise Star Wars. The demand certainly is there for film in Ireland, why does Mike

train up crews staffed by people from the Midwest

European Capital of Culture that year, the impact

would be substantial on city on whole number of levels. You might be surprised to find out that have

Kevin McInerney and Aislinn McGrath.

As

of creative opportunity.”

benefits to the hospitality and tourism sectors. “Once

Having Troy Studios here brings a whole other level

It seems apt that Granny was based there at the site

for spaces to film. World demand for content is rising

where the journey began for Limerick’s revival.

every year – there was over 300 hours of content

(pictured) was by LSAD students Tara Sheehan,

more artists per head of population than Galway.

think that is? “The fact is Ardmore is booked up for

the next three years. There is globally a huge demand

the Limerick2020 bid, worked closely with Sian to

and learned to walk before City of Culture 2014, it’s

well

as

regeneration

and

employment

opportunities, there will of course be enormous filming starts they will need accommodation for

crews, and holidayers will of course be attracted to stay nearby because hey, you never know who you might see on the streets!”

commissioned by Netflix alone – that’s just one

“That’s true, and the opportunities for local workers

There are many big tasks ahead for Troy Studios,

and TV series’ on phones, the appetite is growing at

workings of a film studio you need everything

and other collaborator Mike believes they are very

company. In the digital age people are looking at film

substantial rate, and it’s growing faster than space is.

Ireland happens to be particularly attractive in part due to the tax breaks companies get here. There was

a shortage of quality space in Ireland, and specifically with Troy Studios coming here to the Dell site; this is most cost effective way of filling that void.”

60% of the work to convert the site into a fully

functioning international film studio is now complete.

It has been reported that a major filming project is already set to begin in 2016. So I ask the million

dollar question: Can Mike tell us what will be filmed

there? “I’d love to know myself! Right now for Troy

it’s a bit of a two edge sword. We are working on the

basis that studio will be complete in August 2016, and the programme is on course. But like with any production, people are not going to commit 100%

to the location until it is 100% complete. So at the moment I don’t know. What I do know is that there are indeed a number of expressions of interest to film there in progress.” And of course, the work on

Troy Studios won’t stop with the conversion of the site. “The immediate challenge once film productions

are firmed up will be to provide crews. That’s why

training programmes are another major priority right now, we have many skilled people in the area but we don’t have a history of filmmaking at this scale.

created by the studio are limitless. For day to day

from makeup artists and costume designers to post

production and digital animation, to architects, engineers, carpenters

and

plumbers. Innovate

Limerick will have a key role in building new training

and job opportunities to areas of regeneration in Limerick. It will be a real benefit to regeneration areas and beyond, as the range and type of skills

required to operate a film studio will be attractive to people from across regenerate areas, into the county and rural districts. We’ve been working closely with

Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, Screen Ireland, the Irish Film Board, UL and LIT in planning training programmes to covert people with

trades to allow them to work in film industry.” So, it

cannot be underestimated just how many employment opportunities Troy Studios will provide. “Limerick has been doing very well attracting IT companies and the like into the city but this is different level all

together. It will allow people to bring their skills and

talents to a whole new area of creativity. Filmmaking is creative at its heart and at the heart of a city we need

to have arts and culture, the city needs to have a soul.”

Already local people are being involved in the creative process, with Troy Studio directors working alongside

local company Piquant Media and LSAD to create their brand identity. Director Siun Ni Raghallaigh

said at the unveiling that Troy will “become a part of the fabric of Limerick” and that they were “delighted

to have the opportunity to partner with LSAD and local talent.”

26

but from his experience working with the directors achievable. “Already we have had small sign of what is

to come – at the end of June we had the international training programme Screen Leaders happening here

in Limerick, attended by international film makers, all because we have an international film studio right here. The future is very exciting.”

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

27

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Bi d B ook P ro jects Limerick 2020 Bid Book #belonging What’s in the bid book?

The bid book for Limerick’s designation as European Capital of Culture 2020 will soon be available on line. It consists of 100 pages of seven chapters that answer the questions set out in the call by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht that adhere to rules of the competition set down by European Union initiative ‘European Capital of Culture’.

The concept which underpins Limerick’s European

Capital of Culture programme for 2020 is Belonging.

Few words have become more meaningful in

The following are just a sample of the diverse and rich projects included in the final Bid Book…

Europe today. As we rise to the challenge of our

Limerick Sings

by embracing multiplicity we can create a sense of

choral festival run collaboratively by UCH and

own understanding of belonging; we know that

Belonging. This concept comes at a time when the

city and region are working towards a new vision for

Limerick. The bid demonstrates an ambition, pride, energy and unified plan to further harness the vibrancy seen in 2014, showcasing Limerick as a creative city

that can drive an economic and social renaissance of

Limerick Sings is already an annual non-competitive Campus Life Services in the University of Limerick.

The festival extends a warm welcome to choirs of all

traditions and nationalities for a sociable weekend of

collaboration, performance and of course singing in spectacular venues throughout Limerick.

It has since grown into an energetic independent

year-round organisation with a focus on national and international young filmmakers spanning the primary and secondary age groups.

Fresh Film is a member of The Youth Cinema Network

(YCN), an informal collective of youth film festivals across

Europe and further afield, the festival has responded

to the democratisation of filmmaking which has lead to more young people than ever making films and moving image content.

a region.

In 2020 the festival will have incorporated a number of

Fresh Film Festival are planning to establish an annual

As part of the bidding process for European Capital

These include the Limerick 2020 Youth Choir, with

and raise the profile of young filmmakers all over the

of Culture 2020, Limerick2020 has created a cultural

programme celebrating the richness and diversity of

cultures in Europe. The programme is of international

quality and integrity which demonstrates the ambition

and imagination for Limerick as an international city, and it will have a resonating legacy.

So how does one go about creating a programme that

major additions to the already extensive programme. members from each of the 27 member countries of the EU, a large scale public event called Big Sings

which will see an extensive collaboration host the

alike to engage with interesting spaces and venues

to share their views, opinions and stories, with little or

Choral Trail which will invite audiences and choirs throughout the city.

local groups and organisations came together to work

Irish schools video competition run as part of the

is reflective of the culture of Limerick, its inhabitants’ experiences, and the dreams and aspirations they hold dear as they reimagine their place in Europe and the world.

28

in venues.

Like the Nouvelle Vague, there is now a new wave of

Global Young Filmmakers Day

on this daunting task, designing a programme which

world, through screenings and events, both online and

Limerick 2020 Proms in Thomond Park, and a new

demonstrates this ambition and imagination? During

this process programmers, creatives, culture makers ,

Global Young Filmmakers Day that will celebrate

The Fresh Film Festival was founded in 1997 as an programme of events for the Limerick Film Festival.

young, digital DIY filmmakers, using moving image no money.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

29

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

As the technologies to make better looking, better

together in a spirit of creativity and celebration at key

widely available globally, the standard of films being

scene’s ability to affirm belonging through a common

sounding films become more affordable and more

made by young people is improving dramatically, making youth film festivals very current and exciting.

Bands Beyond Borders

Bands Beyond Borders is the Military Tattoo’s tearaway progeny, passionate about music and highly trained, but rebellious and unruly. This is a threeyear development programme building towards an

international event in Limerick in 2020 celebrating the 50th anniversary of the International Band

civic events. Combining this with the band music

experience this project extends to audiences and collaborators alike in a spirit of experimentation and musical celebration.

A series of participative path-ways, some spanning

three years, others three minutes, will invest in the

long term musical development of the city region.

Occupying the virtual, public and aural space it will

seek to explore, experiment, and innovate within an atmosphere of creative collaboration.

Parade. Founded upon Limerick’s own annual

The World Recipe Exchange

bands, the programme is inspired by the tradition’s

large sprinkling of solidarity, the World Recipe

International Band Parade and heritage of marching origin in the ancient world when travelling musicians, unconstrained by geographical borders, were brought

Serving up a feast of tastes and experiences with a Exchange is an extensive programme of food events celebrating the diverse local and immigrant/New Irish culinary traditions of Limerick.

While eating and celebrating is a great way to bring people together, develop friendships and build intercultural awareness, food is a significant

aspect of belonging and feeling at home. This

project aims to address the ever present issue of belonging and integration in today’s world. The multicultural menu will include pop-up restaurant

events, ‘invite your neighbour’ dinners, tours of ethnic

food stores, workshops run by migrants and locals, entrepreneurship training for migrants, and research on food policy culminating is the recently established annual food festival, Culture and Chips.

In an exciting move it will be piloted in Limerick on

the 12th of July as part of a programme of events to welcome the Jury to Limerick and showcase the city’s ambition, imagination and capacity to deliver what will be an incredible year of cultural celebration and innovation.

Article by: Limerick 2020

Photography by: Shane Serrano

30

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

31

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

32

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

I NTE RV I EW: S ue Ann F o le y Chair of the JP McManus Fund Sue Ann Foley, daughter of philanthropist JP McManus has been a huge supporter of Limerick. The JP McManus Benevolent Fund aims to support local community initiatives and non-profit organisations throughout the

Mid-West of Ireland. Valued at â‚Ź40 million, the Fund is managed as a sole entity, independent of any existing programmes sponsored by Mr McManus. We chat to Sue Ann Foley about the Fund, the local community and why Limerick deserves to win European Capital of Culture in 2020.

How did you come to chair the JP McManus Fund?

What have you learned about the needs of local

What initiatives supported by the Fund are you

for seven years. In addition to this, I was involved

Funding

We were thrilled to support the Team Limerick

I have been a Director of the JP McManus Foundation

in the distribution of the funds from the 2010 JP McManus Pro Am. From my experience working with

both, which were diverse in nature, I was fortunate

to gain considerable knowledge about the needs and requirements of various organisations and charities in the Mid-West. As a result, I felt I was well placed to form a rounded Committee who were dedicated to

progressing meaningful improvements in the MidWest and in particular, throughout Limerick.

What drives you to make a difference in the local community?

I have always felt struck by the amount of worthy

people and projects over the years? needs

vary

greatly

throughout

our

community: for some communities, an improvement

in hospital equipment, hospice care or other such health initiatives is paramount, while for others, a better equipped sports club or community centre

makes the difference. I have found time and again

there are wonderful people in local communities who give their time, without thought and without

prejudice, to improve the lives of those in their society.

They work tirelessly to improve life for those who may not have a voice. The Benevolent Fund assists these

charities and organisations with their development and capital projects.

causes in our region, from community based projects,

Why was the JP McManus Benevolent Fund set up,

a committee, we strive to make Limerick a vibrant

and Mid-West projects in particular?

healthcare, education to local infrastructure.

As

place to live and work, with the best possible facilities for those who live here. Our committee has family of varying ages and interests, and together it has been our intention to distribute funds to a diverse range

of projects and as a direct result, our hope is we all benefit from a better Mid-West.

and why is it so important for you to fund Limerick

As we didn't run the Pro Am in 2015, a family decision was taken to set up a fund, similar in size to what was raised from the 2010 Pro Am. The primary

aim of this fund is to continue to improve services for

most proud of?

Clean-Up (TLC) campaign since its inception in 2015. This initiative has seen almost 24,000 people

come out on Good Friday morning litter picking, brushing and cleaning their areas. The biggest

achievement of this project was the manner through

which neighbours re engaged for the common good and improved our localities for everyone's benefit. My father is particularly passionate about TLC due to its

all-inclusive nature and the fact that it has captured the imagination of so many people throughout the

city and county. Those who could not litter pick gathered in community halls, county-wide to provide

refreshments for those who did. It also helped to

engage a diverse range of volunteers groups, including schools, families, community, youth and residential

groups, sports clubs and charities thus instilling pride

of place in countless young people. On a larger scale, it engendered civic pride in employees of Limerick based companies.

those in the Mid-West. It has a distinct difference,

The spirit of community, the neighbourliness, fun and

registered charity, which enabled us to reach a wider

and we hope this continues to develop.

however, in that applicants are not required to be a

range of organisations and charities that may not

friendship have been so much a part of this initiative

have previously received funding from the Pro-Am tournaments.

33

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

How do you decide who to donate money to?

We have a very clear and succinct application process.

Our application form can be downloaded from our

website, jpmcmanusfund.ie. Once the requirements on the application form are satisfied, we bring the submission to the committee for deliberation. These

submissions are then assessed depending on needs, user numbers and sustainability as well as other criteria.

Why does Limerick deserve to win European

Capital of Culture? How important would

European Capital of Culture be for the projects and initiatives you support in Limerick and surrounding areas?

The Fund supported the Limerick City of Culture 2014 which was a phenomenal time for the city’s

diverse, vibrant and creative cultural sectors. The

‘feel good’ factor and increased sense of pride of place were tangible over the course of the year and we were delighted to be part of it.

Based on this experience, Limerick’s bid for European

Capital of Culture in 2020 comes at a perfect time when everyone is working towards a new vision for Limerick and its future. We have supported a number

of organisations and projects who will benefit as well

as contribute to the success of this cultural programme namely, St John’s Brass Band, Irish Chamber

Orchestra, Trad Time, Children’s Ark School and Music Generation. We have also decided to host the

golf Pro Am in 2020 to support Limerick’s bid and if successful, we hope the tournament will be one of the

key calendar events during the celebrations that year.

Article by: Michelle Costello & Sarah Talty Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

34

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

tbutler@webprint.ie

35

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine

Fashion

Education, Jan O’Sullivan last September at the iconic Merriman House.

The Fashion Incubator provides studio and retail space for approximately 100 fashion students and

graduates. The primary aim of the centre is retain

and nurture fashion design graduates in Limerick and create employment. This launch only proves that the growth of the fashion industry in Limerick is continuing to go from strength to strength.

Speaking about the Fashion Incubator in Limerick, Acting Head of LSAD James Greenslade said, “The incubator provides supports for designers in residence

and career development for all students, both past and present. It will be a place to collaborate. Our vision is to make Limerick a creative hothouse, not just for fashion, which we are very well known for, but all aspects of design and fine art.”

Anne Melinn, Head of the Fashion Department “ Every day there’s a real sense that students really always

want to be here. You can arrive at 8am and find them waiting outside the door to go in. They have a strong work ethic, and a love for the school and what they do.”

Fashion is something that is forever changing and

evolving. James Greenslade Acting Head of Limerick

School of Art and Design acknowledges the incredible

work ethic and passion LSAD’s students possess, keeping up with this fast paced industry.

James took over the position of Acting Head in 2014

after former head Mike Fitzpatrick became CEO of Limerick City of Culture. Since taking up the position

James has concentrated on promoting the amazing

talent and hard work of LSAD’s students in Limerick

and beyond. He’s delighted in the changes he’s seen around the city since the bid for European City of

Culture 2020. “It brought about a sea of change, not

just in the way Limerick people see art and design, but also how they see themselves. It touched everyone

in some way – all areas came together. It was quite simply magical to see everyone work with a common

ambition and realise what they could contribute to the image of the city.”

Limerick’s status as a centre for fashion was boosted

last year by the launch of a Fashion Incubator in

the city centre. The International Fashion Incubator

Limerick was launched by then Minister for

at LSAD tells us a bit about what LSAD is about

and what to expect if you intend to study a course in fashion.

“There is no signature of LSAD, and that’s what we

try to do; we try to encourage and help individual style flourish. There is no housing of a cloned signature

from here; it’s just the work ethos, dedication and commitment we try to instil. We are constantly

involving ourselves in competitions and collaborating with people that will feed back into the course.

“It’s great how the course has developed throughout

the years – it started off as a domestic science course

in the old St. Anne’s building and then it became City and Guilds, and from there it took legs and became

what it is today. The ethos of the course is hard work, discipline, meet deadlines and ethos.”

36

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

What sets LSAD’s fashion course apart, Anne thinks,

is that all of the staff are from the industry, they are in tune with the reality of the real world, the students can actually do everything themselves and there is an all-round education.

Over the years LSAD has produced many successful

graduates including Joanne Hynes, Úna Burke, Natalie B Coleman and Danielle Romeril. Even as a

casual fashion observer you might have heard of Úna Burke. Her work has been exhibited in over twenty

countries throughout Europe, Asia, USA and the Middle East. In the short six years since getting her Masters in Fashion Artefact her pieces have already developed a strong celebrity following around the

world. Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Madonna and Heidi

Klum are among a few that have worn her pieces. Úna

also designed for the two latest Hunger Games Films.

Despite this Úna keeps her feet planted firmly on the

ground, saying that she had been so busy over the past few years she didn’t really have time to reflect on this

incredible achievement, thinking of them as ordinary

clients. But after a while she found herself thinking, “This is actually really big and I better wake up and appreciate this right now because it’s my only life.”

Úna thinks back on her time in LSAD as probably

more stressful than it had to be. Not because she didn’t enjoy the work or get on well, but because then she

wasn’t really aware of all the different opportunities

studying fashion afforded you. She felt that if she failed as a fashion designer, she was a failure. “At the

time there were not as many options as are presented

now. Going into fashion and thinking, “if I’m not a

Limerick’s fashion scene is one that has continued to

really tough, because that is what a lot of people feel

and students graduating every year from the LSAD,

good fashion designer there is no future for me” is

grow year after year and with all the local talent here

like. Whereas now there is an awareness of things like

it’s sure to continue.

fashion journalism. There’s so many branches, if you’re

Article by: Sarah Talty

fashion styling, fashion admin, fashion photography, good at one aspect of the fashion course you can now go on and specialise in other things.”

37

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li me rick magazine

Travel Rijeka 2020

With Limerick City currently bidding for a spot as co-host of European Capital of Culture 2020, it’s the ideal time to check out the other already-selected capital of culture has to offer. Located in the rapidly growing tourist destination of Croatia, the city of Rijeka has recently won the bid for European Capital of Culture 2020. To the north of the country and located near what has been quaintly dubbed the Balkan Riviera, Rijeka is situated by the course of Rječina River, and is Croatia’s third largest city and the country’s principal seaport.

Rijeka 2020’s success was not only down to all of the

Port of Diversity also creates a narrative on Rijeka’s

Those involved in the city’s bid for Rijeka 2020

received as a result of their impressive programme

deeply woven into the historical identity of the city,

the city was recognised as a culturally rich location.

fascinating features that the city has to offer, but was ‘Port of Diversity’, a book based on three pillars which are Water, Work and Migration. The book explores

all of the historical and culturally unique elements of the city, as well as highlighting what is to come in the future.

particularities, history and present values that are

while also reflecting the multiculturalism, diversity and openness of Europe.

While Rijeka displayed an impressive bid for the title

by showcasing their heritage and interesting past, it

was also highlighted how the city has a number of plans for the future.

38

showed an extraordinary effort in making sure that Rijeka 2020 promises a plethora of dynamic activities

and vibrant events that will certainly be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

The city is rich in ancient beauties, from striking

monuments to exquisite buildings, as well as social

hotspots and an inviting atmosphere throughout the area. If culture is what you’re after, Korzo is certainly

one spot which is a definite must see. Korzo is the main promenade, showcasing the true beauty that

Rijeka offers throughout pedestrianised streets

that display scenic buildings, exquisite architectural structures, historical monuments and most notably

the picturesque terraces where you can relax in the ambience of the city.

Korzo is where most of the biggest tourist attractions

are located, with the street filled with enticing walkways and shops, including the stunning city tower

of Gradski Toran, a spot Rijeka is most commonly

recognised by. You can also do a two-hour walking tour along here to explore every corner of the city and get an authentic insight into the area’s prominent features.

There’s also the Mercato Central di Rijeka by the sea

shore, which has been described as being the soul of

The beaches in Rijeka are numerous. Close to the city centre is Pećine, which houses beautiful beaches on

the eastern side of Rijeka’s coast and even includes a dog beach. You can also escape from the lively crowds

to the Molo Longo sea side walkway, and view the town’s natural elements. There are plenty of beaches easily accessible and within walking distance of the city centre.

With Croatia’s Mediterranean climate, visits between

spring and autumn are recommended as being the

best times for getting the most out of the weather, although the winter months promise beautiful advent

events too. From walking tours to relaxed days in the

town, Rijeka has you covered on providing some of the best tourist activities all year round.

Rijeka is a city with an incredibly unusual past, and

you can find out more about this history in the City Museum of Rijeka, where visitors can experience unique exhibitions, as well as taking a trip to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, where

the city, where food producers and traders of all crafts

you’re guaranteed beautiful pieces of visual work.

There is very much an element of the artisan heritage

rock, a feature that is cherished and has a very special

gather, and it is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Part of the city's identity is music music, especially

which evidently exists in the city.

place in the hearts and minds of Rijeka’s inhabitants.

Rijeka is filled with a myriad of things to do and

occasion in the city, with musicians travelling from

beautiful Trsat Castle. Located 138 metres above sea

theatre are also strongholds in the city, as tourists are

Rječina River that runs through the city. Revived as a

National Theatre to experience Croatian theatre at its

The music festival RI Rock has been a long running

see, no matter where your interests lie. There’s the

all over the globe to play at the event. Literature and

level, the castle is a superb lookout over the stunning

encouraged to take a trip to the Ivan pl. Zajc Croatian

multipurpose venue, the castle offers a host of events

finest.

including open-air concerts, theatre performances and a visual art gallery.

This is not unlike St. Vitus’ Cathedral, which is an

elevated area built in the Middle Ages dedicated to Rijeka’s patron Saint and protector of the city, and

displays a Baroque architectural structure that has attracted a vast amount of visitors. These tourist

hotspots are easily reached and considered to be integral parts of your holiday experience in Rijeka.

If you’re looking to take a break from traveling around

the city, there are a variety of relaxing activities at hand.

While Rijeka’s history and heritage are undoubtedly

extraordinary assets to the city, it is exciting to see how the area is growing and expanding. The eccentricities of the cultural dynamics from music to art also make

for a strongpoint in Rijeka’s confirmed European Capital of Culture bid, and this promises to grow and advance between now and then.

Article by: Laura McNamara

Photography by: www.visitrijeka.eu

39

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

C u lt ure a n d Chips Culture & Chips Takes To The Streets for July 12th This year Culture & Chips Takes To The Streets

in a one of a kind street party in conjunction with Limerick 2020, the likes of which Limerick has never seen before.

On Tuesday July 12th, the jury for the European

Capital of Culture bid will visit the city and they’re going to get one hell of a Limerick welcome.

Daniel O’Connell’s whole block on upper O’Connell

Street between Hartstonge Street and Barrington Street (the area known as The Crescent in the Georgian Quarter) will become party central as Culture & Chips Takes To The Streets from noon until evening.

The same people, who brought the Spiegeltent to

Limerick in 2014 and 2015, are cooking up something very special this year, taking the party to the streets for a one-day block party Limerick will never forget.

The entire block will be closed off to traffic and will metamorphose into a day-long spud-tacular cultural

spectacle as performers and artists combine with

cooking demos, Limerick local food and drinks stalls, an edible garden and so much more to truly offer an event for the senses like no other.

40

Oh and there will be chips, of course there will be chips.

Patricia Roberts, part of the festival committee, explains,

“This

year

we’re

doing

something

completely different. Yes Culture and Chips is back, but it’s nothing like you remember. Our niche festival legacy lives on in a really unique event this July in conjunction with Limerick 2020 as Culture & Chips Takes To The Streets. And, of course, we will have

chips. Chips are for everybody, they are all inclusive, and we all love them. Capturing that has been the essence of our events. We are back bigger and better

with a sensational event this year. Mark Tuesday 12th July in your diary now, book the day off work, make a lunch date with your friends – just don’t miss it!”

Keep your eyes peeled on Facebook, Twitter and www.cultureandchips.com

for

updates

#cultureandchips2016 #takestothestreets Photography by: Shane Serrano

under

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine

Behind theFood Canteen Tipperary man Paul Willams opened his healthy fast food café in Limerick in 2012 and since then The Canteen

has thrived, riding the wave of awareness around eating healthier. The small café is quirky and modern, with

blackboard menus and and iPad behind the counter instead of the typical till computer. We stopped in to chat to Paul and learn about the thinking behind his business.

How did you get started in the food industry?

What makes the Canteen stand out from other

Most of our customers would be regulars - about

Engineering. I really didn’t like the course, it had

Canteen is about healthy fast food, real fast food. We

We have our coffee customers who come in the

I went to college in Waterford and did Civil lots of maths in it. I ended up dropping out and

started working in a pizzeria restaurant in Waterford.

I really liked the buzz of the industry and working with food so I stayed there for a year or two and then studied Culinary Arts in Dublin. After I finished I

had an internship in France, worked in a few good restaurants in London, then I ended up working at

the Fat Duck for a while. I came back to Ireland and lectured in Shannon Hotel College for a couple

of years doing food and wine and cooking. Then, I decided to open here.

Was it always a dream you had, to open your own business?

I think it was, yes. My father had his own business, so maybe I always had that drive. When I worked in

the pizzeria in Waterford I enjoyed the kind of buzz

of running the place and meeting customers everyday.

cafes in Limerick?

buy organic when we can - organic milk, organic lamb and beef and halloumi, and we source locally so it’s

not just health food; it’s real food. We’ve been open

morning, our lunchtime customers and our afternoon customers.

four years now so there’s definitely a market for it.

What do you think of Limerick’s food culture?

Canteen opened around the time of the trend when

to West Cork, where you’ve loads of locals and food

There are a few other healthy cafes in Limerick, but people realised you can eat healthy everyday. Before that it was just sandwich bars.

You said you’ve worked all over Europe, why open your café in Limerick?

I ended up in Limerick because of working at the

Shannon Hotel College. I’m from Tipperary myself

It’s getting there! It wouldn’t be that strong compared producers and loads of markets on. The Milk Market is good and I think there’s a good base there, but there’s still a lot to be done. A lot of my stuff comes

from Offaly and Tipperary, besides from one or two small producers in County Limerick itself. I’d like to see more.

so it’s not too far from home. Plus, when I opened

You mentioned your ingredients are locally sourced,

is a cheap city to do business in. I think it’s a very

For one, it helps the economy. If the local economy is

four years ago it was cheap to do so, because Limerick good place for entrepreneurs to come.

Can you define healthy fast food?

Well anything can be fast food as long as long as it’s fast! Most of the people who come in here are working and they’re in and out; they have 10-15 minutes in the

morning and they’ve half an hour at lunch. All the lunch boxes come with a little salad and wholegrain

couscous or wholegrain rice, with really good Irish chicken, organic lamb or good Irish pork.

42

70-80% of our customers would come in every day.

why is this important to you?

strong then our business is going to be strong. I think

the better Ireland does, the better we do. Ireland has some of the best ingredients in the world.

Article by: Sarah Talty

Photography by: Eoghan Lyons

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

43

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine

Food RAINBOW CAKE Rainbows have been symbols of hope and change for years. We chased them as kids, expecting to find the

allusive pot of gold at the end. We still look for them after the storms, admiring their beauty and all those colours working together in harmony.

This cake is about happiness, peace and love. It doesn’t matter if you don’t like cake, you don’t have to have any. But there are some folk out there who really like

cake, and who are you to deny them a slice? Cakes don’t care who you love, they just want you to enjoy it. Cake understands that love is love. No matter what year, time period or alternate universe you are living in, love is love.

This cake is the perfect party or celebration cake.

Baked, layered, standing tall and proud, this cake was made for momentous occasions. While it may look

ordinary and boring on the outside, one cut reveals all the colours of happiness and delight. It’s quite clearly FABULOUS!

44

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

NOTES: • To make the cake using 7/8 inch pans, the standard size ones most folk will have, you will need to double the ingredients.

• You will also need to double the vanilla buttercream recipe.

• Make sure you use Gel Food Colours (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet (optional))

• Bake Time - 20-30 minutes plus cooling and decoration time • Pan Size - 5-inch round baking pans (or see notes) • Serving Size - 6-8 people

as they will give you the brightest colours, without tainting the mixture or changing the taste like liquid food colour would.

What you need

Rainbow Layer Cake

•110g of room temperature butter

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degree C, 350 F or Gas Mark 4.

• 225g caster sugar

• 150g self raising flour

• 125g plain/cream flour

• Half a teaspoon of baking powder • 2 large free range eggs

• 2 teaspoons of vanilla (I use vanilla bean paste, but extract or essence is fine)

• 125ml of whole, full fat or buttermilk.

• Rainbow gel food colours (available in bigger supermarkets or bake shops)

Optional Decoration:

2. Line your cake pans with parchment or grease with a cake release spray. Have enough on hand to reuse your tins for the next colour layer. (Unless you are lucky to have 5/6 of the same size pans!!)

3. Cream your butter and sugar until light, fluffy and pale.

4. Add in an egg, one at a time until the yolks have been incorporated.

5. Dry whisk or sieve all your flours and the baking powder together.

6. Add the vanilla to your milk.

7. Add half your dry ingredients to the butter/sugar/egg combo and then half the wet. Mix until combined and repeat. Be careful not to over mix here. You want the layers to stay light and fluffy.

8. Divide your mixture into 5/6 bowls and colour each one with the rainbow colours food gel. Transfer your coloured batter to the baking pans.

9. Bake for 20-30 minutes depending on how thick your layers are. You will know the cakes layers are done when you they have slightly come away from the sides, the tops will spring back when touched lightly or a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clear.

•100g chocolate

10. Allow the cooked cakes to cool slightly before taking them out of the pan. Wrap them in cling film while they

•100g White Chocolate

are still warm to help them stay moist until you use them.

•Yellow/OrangeFood Colouring

11. Rinse out your pan before popping the next coloured batter into it.

Very Vanilla Buttercream

Putting it all together:

• 225g soft, room temperature unsalted butter

1. Place the purple layer of cake on a cake board. Spread about 1/4 cup of buttercream on top. Repeat with blue,

• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

2. Use about 1/2 a cup of buttercream for the crumb coat of the cake. Let chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

• 500g sifted icing sugar • 60ml milk

• Food colourings of your choice!

green, yellow, orange and red.

Once chilled, coat the cake with another layer of buttercream.

3. Decorate to heart’s desire and serve!

1. Pop the butter in the microwave for a few seconds

to really soften it, but do not melt it.Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on high until it is very soft and pale.

2. Add in the icing sugar a few cups at a time alternating with a tablespoon of milk.

3. Add the vanilla bean and mix it until light and fluffy. The longer you mix it, the whiter it will be.

Article by: Hazel Ryan Sheehan Image by: Tarmo Tulit

45

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

The li meri c k magazine

Drinks SUMMER FRUITS

Fruit Syrup 1 cup of Granulated sugar 1 cup of water

1 1/2 cup of fruit (fruit should be preferably cleaned, cored, peeled and cut into small pieces)

Method: Bring the water, fruit and sugar to boil. Turn down

the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for at least

20 - 25 minutes or until the fruit is really tender and falls apart. Remove from the heat and pour through a

very fine sieve. Cool properly and refrigerate. If they are properly sealed and stored, they will last for weeks

(mine ‘miraculously’ disappear after few days though).

The variety of fruit you could use: raspberries,

blackberries, rhubarb, blueberries, cherries, peaches, strawberries, oranges etc. You could also mix the fruit

to make different flavour combinations - raspberries and cherries, blueberries and rhubarb and so on.

Me and my family are totally hooked on those syrups, no more store bought sodas or cordials. We are making all our own fruit sodas and lemonades. Test it, taste it, love it!

Article by: Kaur Ellermae

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

47

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li me rick magazine

Food Flex your Mussels!

Research shows that while many of us eat mussels when dining out in a restaurant or on holiday, fewer of us have tried to cook mussels at home. So why not

Flex your Mussels? Why not try Garlic Flavoured

Mussels as a delicious treat. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare. So go on, Flex your Mussels!

Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter

•4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste • 1 lemon, zested

•2 cups white wine

•freshly ground black pepper to taste

•2 pounds mussels, cleaned and debearded •1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley •2 slices bread, grilled

• 2 lemon wedges for garnish

Directions 1.Melt butter in a large stock pot over medium heat.

Add garlic and let sizzle for about 30 seconds. Season

with red pepper flakes and lemon zest, stirring for about 45 seconds.

2.Quickly pour in wine into the pan and season with

black pepper. Bring sauce to a boil, stir in mussels, and cover immediately. Shake pot and let boil for 1 minute.

3.Stir mussels, replace cover, and let boil for 2 more

minutes. The shells will begin to open. Stir in parsley, cover pot, and cook until all shells are open, 1 to 3 minutes.

4.Serve with grilled bread and lemon wedge.

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

48

........ KITCHEN, WINE BAR & COFFEE HOUSE ........

"Come Hungry, Leave Happy - from Breakfast to Bedtime"

Voted Ireland's top 10 Brunch Spots Live music every Thursday, Friday & Saturday night With Barista trained coffee experts to make the tastiest cup of coffee

Feeding Times Breakfast 8am - 11:50am

Lunch 12.15 - 4pm

Sat Brunch 8am - 4pm Sun Brunch 10am - 4pm

Wine & Tapas Thur to Sat 5pm - 10pm

Where to Find Us Come say hello 10 Bedford Row, Limerick

Give us a tinkle +353 61 597 668

Drop us a mail hello@thebuttery.ie

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

L imeri ck F es tival s

Make a Move

Limerick city’s hip hop festival is probably the most

uniquely ‘Limerick’ festival we have going. Make a

Move is now in its fifth year, and each year artists take part in workshops and performances exploring

all the artistic aspects involved in hip hop culture, from music and dance to urban art. Hip hop is at its heart a culture of revolution, and with each year the festival itself becomes more revolutionary and more

ambitious. This year is no exception: over the weekend of 1st-3rd July we can expect to see fierce up and coming musical talent in gigs and workshops, dance

on the streets, DJs, culture talks and much, much

more. There will be one day workshops for ages 9-13.

Other workshops will take place exploring the themes of activism, resistance, and making a difference, and the role of lyricism in empowerment. The Saturday All-Dayer, Dolans, will see 15 acts perform in Dolans

and the Kasbah Social Club, including Same D4ence, mynameisjOhn, God Knows, This Side Up and Skratchlords. Sunday sees the Riverside Paint Jam bring even more colour to our streets, while the One

Record, One Story panel event returns with a group of guests sharing a story and record that reminds them of a particular Limerick location.

50

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Askeaton Arts Festival Co. Limerick

Artists from across the world come to live and work

in the tiny medieval town of Askeaton, Co. Limerick throughout July as part of the annual festival Welcome

to The Neighbourhood. A series of events will take

place, while the artists work will be completed in the community, giving the public unique access to projects

in progress, seeing the artistic process happening on their very doorsteps in and around some of the town’s

most well known haunts. The work often makes use of everyday features of the town’s landscape, including

Twohig’s SuperValu’s rolling LED ticker, whose text

was changed to lines from Paddy Cronin’s Home Wasn't Built in A Day and Roger Moran’s The Wildfowler, by Limerick artist Steve Maher in 2014.

The artistic community of Askeaton and West Limerick is very active in the wider European and

international

arts

community.

Askeaton

Contemporary Arts run an exchange programme with Tottenham Hale International Studios. Members of ACA have worked and exhibited across Europe and

beyond, including Seanie Barron, who carves beautiful

stick sculptures and whose work has recently travelled to Dublin and London.

This year's Welcome to the Neighbourhood artists

Pig ‘N’ Porter Tag Rugby Festival

Ramon Kassam, and David Bestué of Barcelona.

It all started as a party thrown by the thirds team at

include Fiona Marron from Dublin, Limerick's Along with many other visitors, they will be joined

by Alan Counihan of Kilkenny, Catalina Lozano of Bogota, Filip Van Dingenen from Brussels and

Jorge Satorre from Mexico, Limerick’s Liz Ryan

and Martyn Turner, cartoonist for The Irish Times, each of whom are developing new artworks as part

of an ongoing state centenary programme titled The Askeaton Commune.

The Askeaton Commune is a series of new

commissions to coincide with the centenary of the

Easter Rising and the founding of the Irish State.

The programme aims to emphasise the pursuit of

cultural equality and egalitarianism within the social infrastructures we now inhabit. The full Welcome to the Neighbourhood programme has recently been

announced and can be found at www.askeatonarts. com

Pig ‘N’ Porter started back in 2002 with just 12 teams. the Old Crescent Rugby Club to celebrate becoming All Ireland Champions. Now, it welcomes teams from

all over the globe and is considered the world’s largest tag rugby event. The three day festival is held at the

Old Crescent RFC and Crescent College Dooradoyle.

While thousands come for the tag rugby, many others

come for the food, music and party atmosphere. The entire event runs thanks to community volunteers and

local sponsors. The first day is the registration party

for all competing teams. There will be an incredible buzz around the city that evening as the visiting teams

come to stay in Limerick hotels. The following day it’s the big event – a full day of tag rugby, followed by the after party. Sunday as you might expect is all about

the recovery and again there will be food and music to sooth the body and mind. Pig and Porter is a fun filled

family festival with plenty of children’s entertainment

too. Last but not least, we have to mention the iconic pig on a spit and barbecue that gives the event half of its name – that alone is worth dropping in for!

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

51

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

bu s ine ss profile: Kevin Kenny, Operations Director Clancourt Group Tell us the story of The Crescent Shopping Centre development and upgrade, what have been the keys to its success?

Clancourt have owned and developed the Crescent

Shopping Centre since day one. My father, Charlie, was the original developer of the Shopping Centre

which opened in 1973. The Crescent was developed in harsh economic times at the beginning of the oil

crisis. It was actually designed in the shape of St. Brigid’s Cross with four malls connecting into a central concourse which is still there today. Not all the

anchors were there as they are now; close to opening, one pulled out but Charlie managed to replace them

in time for opening. Shaws were there initially and

later what is now the Penneys unit was constructed.

In the late 1990s a 12-Screen Omniplex Cinema was

opened. This was followed by the development of County Hall on the site. Then in 2002 the extension Limerick2020 sponsor Clancourt Group, which owns and operates the Crescent Shopping Centre, Limerick, was founded by Kevin Kenny’s father Charlie Kenny. Kevin tells us about the family business, the history of the Crescent Shopping Centre and their commitment to the development of Limerick City.

of the Garryowen Mall, Phase one, opened. This allowed us attract more fashion retailers as well as

a mix of other retailers over a period of time. Then came Phases two and three: The malls were improved and we provided glass barrelled roof lights providing

Tell us about your background in business and

What are the central aims and ethos of Clancourt

natural daylight to this extended mall, an underground

I trained as a Chartered Accountant in KPMG when

investing in a property?

Mall, opened in 2006. This extension provided units

Properties” – as a developer we are looking at sites

and also increased the quantum of underground car

a commercial developer focusing on office and retail

of the art community-based playground was opened

We are long term investors, focussed on quality,

In 2016, we received planning permission for a major

properties that our clients and customers will always

43-year old part of the shopping centre. We want

and with its playground and state of the art facilities

older part of the centre look and feel as attractive to

community outlet even during the recent downturn.

does. The customer is at the heart of everything we do

Clancourt Group?

I left college. After nearly a year’s work experience in a

real estate lending bank called EuroHypo in London, I returned to work in our family owned business Clancourt Group. I initially worked in the Property

Management side of the business while learning the

ropes on the development side of the business. So, after 14 years here with Clancourt, I have a blend of financial, banking and hands-on development

background, and I lead much of the development and

asset management work with the Senior Management Team. We work closely as a group and deliver projects together.

Group? What is the first thing you look for when

car park, and a seven-unit extension of the Garryowen

Generally, we like to invest in “Best in Class

for Next, Zara, H&M, River Island to name a few

where we can deliver the best quality product. We are

parking available to customers. In 2014, a large state

space. We do not operate in the residential market.

in the shopping centre.

specification and location.

We want to provide

investment in refurbishing Phase one – the now

have a demand for, even in difficult economic times,

to change the dynamic of the centre to have the

we think that the Crescent has been an important

customers and occupiers as perhaps the newer part to provide best in class occupiers and retailers within the scheme.

52

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

How do you see the future development of Limerick

It was a unifying force under the Limerick banner

Do you have a business mantra? What keeps you

heading?

with the rest of their community. Limerick 2020 is

I have no particular personal business mantra. At

retail business, what direction is it currently I think the future of Limerick retail is very positive.

We in Clancourt are very committed to Limerick and

Limerick retail. The City and County Council have some very good ideas for a long-term strategy and

for many aspects of society to partake in and enjoy only going to be bigger, better and stronger and a

great opportunity for Limerick to set its mark on an international stage with a strong cultural identity.

are working towards that. A number of initiatives

What

The Council also take a holistic view on the entire

development and retail?

have been put in place in the City that are very useful.

Limerick retail landscape, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the Mid-West region. A critical

mass is required in Limerick City centre and unified

thinking by both retailers and the council can help draw customers and ensure that they have the best overall experience in retailing in what is a great city with much opportunity and history.

Tell us about the decision to become involved with Limerick2020 - How important do you think it is for a city to have a strong cultural identity?

Really our involvement with Limerick 2020 is a follow

impact

do

you

think

Limerick2020

would have on Limerick commercial property

By highlighting Limerick’s strong cultural and community identity, Limerick 2020 is certain to

attract interest from domestic and international retailers and commercial property developers as the city and county continues to recover. The Limerick

2030 strategy from the City and County Council provides a road map for this and the profile that

Limerick 2020 will bring can form a key element of this. Overall, Limerick 2020 is a great opportunity

success that it was a no brainer for us to continue to

Looking at it from a family business that is going

in Limerick are doing.

With the Crescent playing an integral part in the development of Limerick over the years we felt that

we in the private sector needed to come out and

support Limerick 2020, to demonstrate the potential benefits for Limerick and provide some financial and

moral support. It is critical for any city and area to have a cultural identity – it brings all aspects of a society together as we saw in 2014, culminating with Granny’s tour of the city.

as always seeking to improve what we have by working hard in an open an honest manner to achieve

results for the longer term. We take a long term view of our projects and as demonstrated in our continued development of the Crescent Shopping Centre, we

work closely with local community and officials to ensure a mutually beneficial outcome. Like all things

that are worthwhile, it takes a lot of hard work, long hours and dedication and a good team of people

working with you to achieve what we are happy with.

I am very much driven now by the concept of working

hard to provide for my family, as my father did for us.

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo

community, people and atmosphere.

Who are your biggest business inspirations and

support the good work that Mike and Sheila and all

Clancourt, our philosophy can be simply summarised

to showcase the best of Limerick and its wonderful

on from our decision to get involved in the Limerick National City of Culture 2014. This was such a huge

moving forward?

why?

as long as ours, which was founded by my father, I

would have to say he is a business inspiration of mine.

Achieving as much as he did over the years, surviving many recessions, having foresight that others did not have including the concept of the Crescent Shopping

Centre and developing it at a time perhaps when

others would have failed with the economic conditions.

We admire his hard work, his attributes of honesty, integrity and hard work which he ingrained on my

and my colleagues. He also ensured that the ethos of

the business went beyond simply making money to knowing that we have a role to play in society; hence our role in supporting charitable endeavours, and

social and cultural activities across the country are in no small part attributable to him.

53

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

bu s iness Building a city Limerick 2030 Economic and Spatial Plan

Alongside Limerick2020, even more ambitious plans are being made to put Limerick on the international map for investment, and to transform the economy and city centre as we know it.

The Limerick 2030 plan can be forgiven for fading

into the background behind the artistic fun and frolics

that have dominated so much of the conversation over these last few months, but we should be as excited about this as we are about our cultural Renaissance.

54

So what is the Economic and Spatial Plan? The blueprint for transforming the city is actually divided

into three main areas – Economic Strategy, Spatial Strategy and a Marketing Plan. 2030 was launched

back in 2013, and €250 million euro was earmarked for investment into “a once in a generation plan to guide the economic, social and physical renaissance of

Limerick city centre, the wider county and Mid-West region.”

This is all part of a wider and more ambitious

€750m Limerick Project to deliver improved economic infrastructure including new third level

educational facilities, new Port facilities along the Shannon Estuary, and new infrastructure at Shannon International Airport over the course of two decades.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Economic Strategy

The economic aspect of the plan will focus on ways

to capture investment, will support innovation, new enterprises and startups, as well as further capitalising on what we already have – recognising and harnessing the strengths of our three major

educational institutions, our flourishing IT sector

and technological hubs. The overarching aim is to

continue to see Limerick in a broader, European context. The conversations among councillors and

business representatives of Limerick have moved

on from ways we can compete on a national level.

While it is still important to look to our respected city neighbours, Limerick2020 is all about putting Limerick on the map as ‘a vibrant, competitive and creative European city.’

Spatial Strategy

The Spatial Strategy will completely change the look of the city centre. A major part of these developments is the Opera Centre, a strategic site which Limerick

City and County Council put up for expressions of interest in re-developing the 50,000 sq ft area. It is expected that development will bring 300 construction

job opportunities, while the developed site will be host

to a mix of office, education, residential and retail uses, and has the potential to create up to 5000 employment

opportunities over the coming years. Additional, but

by no means more minimal spatial projects include a complete overhaul of the riverside, the creation of

The Limerick Cultural Centre destination building, restoration of the Georgian Quarter, and the transformation of O’Connell, Catherine and Henry Streets.

Marketing Strategy

To really showcase Limerick as a competitive European city, the message has to fit. There are two main strands to the new marketing approach, one to

rebrand and sell the city’s burgeoning new identity, and also to challenge the misconceptions that remain in public conscience. It’s safe to say that enormous efforts and strides have been taken by all who live in

and are proud of the city to challenge false assertions about the city – much of this can be said to be an organic, voluntary effort to market the city as we now see it.

The marketing strategy will continue to build on this,

Current developments

forward-looking city with an edge in industry, culture,

currently underway are the revamp of Colbert Station.

highlighting a resilient, ambitious and attractive and leisure and sport.

Discussions are continuing to take place about the best approach to the details of each strand of the plans. One that attracted a particular polarisation of

views was the building of a new walkway bridge across the Shannon, with many feeling that resources could

Projects under the Limerick 2030 umbrella that are

Many more have been given the go ahead or are at key decision stages, such as the plans for the Hanging

Gardens site. After a few ‘false dawns’, according to Dr Pat Daly, director of services for economic

planning, works are expected to begin at the site on Henry Street this September.

be put to better use, and that the bridge would be to

Take a good mental picture of Limerick as it is now,

goes to illustrate just how much of a living, breathing

coming years. The ‘potential’ often referred to is fast

the detriment of the aesthetics of the water front. This

blueprint Limerick 2030 really is, and while there may be only slight evidence physical evidence as yet of project work underway so far, the engagement of so

many people in the future of their city is a vital part of

the puzzle. As has been the case with Limerick2020,

for it is set to evolve and change dramatically over the becoming a reality.

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo

Images by: Carr Cotter & Naessens Architects

the conversation remains open; to the council’s credit

it recognises the importance of the view of its multiple communities. Limerick is not a place where plans for the future are all conceived behind closed doors, with

seemingly cursory public consultations that appear to

allow little room for opposition or suggestion. While there may be some frustration at the time it takes for

developments to reach key milestones as a result, the openness is something we should celebrate.

55

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Family Fun Family Sum mer Days Out Limerick is a fantastic place to spend the summer. Not only is the Treaty City a hive of dynamic and entertaining activities, but is also just a stone’s throw from many exciting events and days out in the surrounding areas.

Here’s a list of lively summer trips sure to engage the whole family!

Stonehall Visitor Farm

Lahinch and Liscannor

Limerick Pride Parade

just 15 minutes from Limerick City. Set in the

mandatory day out to the beach. Lahinch, County

from Monday 11th July and will finish with a parade

This fabulous family friendly pet farm is located magnificent Curragh Chase Forest Park in Kilcornan

Co. Limerick, it is home to a wide selection of

beautiful animals such as peacocks, pigs, rabbits, owls, llamas and many more. In addition there is a play area toys, ride on go carts and bouncy castle for children of

all ages to amuse themselves. Be sure to bring a picnic

to munch on after your leisurely walk around the farm as there are numerous seating areas located within the

grounds to take advantage of. In July and August the

farm is open seven days a week from 11am to 6pm.

Entrance fees for adults and children are 8.00 while children under 18 months are free.

Cratloe Woods

Cratloe Woods is just a 15 minute drive from Limerick City. Here the whole family can spend a

relaxing day exploring the forest, enjoying the scenic views and immersing themselves in the beauty of nature! Following your hike through the woods you

can unwind and enjoy a picnic in the plentiful seating areas. There is also a well-equipped and modern playground available for toddlers and children to keep them entertained.

56

The summer would not be the summer without the Clare is one of the most popular beaches in the

area and is less than an hour’s drive from Limerick City. When you are finished relaxing on the beach

Lahinch and Liscannor (right beside Lahinch) have many other activities for all the family. Some of these

include the aquarium, the playground and Moher Hill Pet Farm. There is also a wide range of pubs and restaurants to choose from to prevent the dreaded

hanger. Lahinch is my own family holiday destination this summer and we will be staying at the amazing Lahinch Golf and Leisure Hotel.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

A trip to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is less than

a 15 minute drive from Limerick City. Here the

whole family can experience the 15th century castle, a reconstructed village and a walled garden. Guided tours are also available. Unique and entertaining

medieval castle banquets are held on a regular basis The park has also recently acquired a selection of new

animals, a new woodland fairy trail and a new and improved coffee shop.

This year’s Limerick Pride Festival will take place

on Saturday 16th July. The parade will start at 2.30pm at City Hall and will continue onto O’ Connell

Street at 3pm. This colourful parade is sure to be a fun and dynamic way to spend the afternoon with all

the family. Following the parade I plan to visit the People's Park and enjoy a coffee in the café while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and allowing the kids to run riot in the playground

Hunt Museum Kids Arts and Crafts Days

The Hunt Museum is located in Limerick City

Centre on Rutland Street. The kids arts and crafts club runs every month, and it is a great opportunity

for parents and children aged between 4 and 8 years to get express their creativity. This is a free monthly

event so booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

This summer the craft sessions will take place on Sunday July 3rd and Sunday August 7th.

Article by: Jane Butler O’Halloran Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

57

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Health & Wellbeing With health and fitness instructor Sintija Zorge

Sun health

Use Aloe Vera – inside and out

of really feeling that warm, sunny glow on our skin,

we can feel very dehydrated. If you are lying out to

For much of last month we have had the pleasure

and it has reminded us again how beautiful Ireland is when the weather is so good.

The sun has the strong and positive power to improve

our mood and provide energy, but it is important to

remember to be smart about it, as it can also increase the risk of skin disease. It is always worth reminding ourselves of how to take care of our skin when we are out in the sun. Here are some of my top tips for safe sun health and maintaining a beautiful glow.

First and foremost, always use a good sunscreen.

No matter what is your skin type - whether it is dark,

medium or light - sun UV rays can damage your skin.

To protect it, choose the right sun cream for you that will reflect radiation and protect you from the sunburn.

There is such a huge variety of sun protection creams out there so choice can be confusing. Equally confusing

is the amount of research there has been to find out if

they are as effective as they say. Unfortunately many

After sunbathing, our skin can get very dry and

Stay hydrated, healthy and safe!

catch some rays don’t skip the aftersun, and hydrate

Article by: Sintija Zorge

naturally with plenty of water. One of the best and natural products that can be found is Aloe Vera. You

can apply it as a cream and consume it as a drink.

Aloe Vera is very effective to keep your skin and body

healthy due to its nutritional benefits. It is also very good to heal sunburn, cuts and grazes.

Eat carrots for extra protection

Lastly, I am sure you have heard that eating carrots will help your skin in the sun and aid a tan, and it is true

because carrots are packed full of carotenoids, which

have been proven to help reduce sunburn intensity.

Carotenoids can also be found in other red coloured

vegetables and fruits such as paprika, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and apricots.

To keep that nice tan for little longer make sure that you consume vitamin B12 in your diet. B12 can

be found in soya products, nuts, eggs, sea food and poultry.

have failed to meet expectations, as when some of

Other foods and drinks that have been found to

SPF as claimed.

antioxidants that stop genetic damage to skin cells

them were tested they were found to not have a high

My advice is to choose the sunscreen with at least SPF

30, apply it at least one hour before going outdoors, and always reapply if going in and out of water. And never use tanning oils – even though they contain SPF it is too low to be safely effective in sunny weather.

58

help protect us in the sun include green tea, with exposed to UV light. Citrus fruits contain limonene, which can help lower the risk of skin cancer. Spinach and other dark leafy greens are good sources of the

antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which halted cell

growth prompted by UV light in some animal studies.

Finally salmon is packed with Omega 3 fatty acids to guard against sunburn and DNA changes.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

59

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li me rick magazine The Healing Power of Creativity

How can we harness the power of creativity to heal

Preventative rocks, they call them. Rather than just

that art therapies can help people with conditions such

perhaps we could be looking at a way to neutralise the

ourselves? We’ve already seen compelling evidence as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Practitioners have also used complementary creative therapies for

people suffering from depression for many decades.

But what about our everyday health? Should creativity be something we should harness as part of our general self-care, both as individuals and as a society? Have

you ever thought about creativity being able to heal whole communities of people?

Abbot Mark Patrick Hedermen believes that the arts and creative pursuits should be present at every

calling meetings to discuss the problem at large, negativity around it. Bring in a group of community artists, get them to paint the rocks and turn them into

characters, dinosaurs for the children, anything that’s

bright and fun. Set up a community music event and call it the Preventative Rock Festival. Creating things

unites us, and unity is the most powerful force. Look at the way the country united in celebration after Ireland reached the last 16 in the Euros – we can have that kind of atmosphere every day by making creativity part of our everyday activity.

opportunity, to heal the ills that affect us in day to

Creativity can be a catalyst, the enzyme to change our

little corner of paradise away that invites people of all

of potential for Limerick to lead the way in that, to

day life. Mark Patrick is Abbot of Glenstal Abbey, a persuasions to take time out there for peaceful and

spiritual reflection. The monks of Glenstal Abbey

follow the Rule of St Benedict, with prayer and liturgical celebration combining with managing a

boarding school for boys, a farm, and a guest house.

Benedictine worship emphasises beauty and harmony, which is often explored through creative pursuits.

Creativity fills the hostile, tranquil spaces between us.

We can fill those spaces with taste, sound, colour.

Take, for example, areas that are plagued by social disorder. There are many barriers that form. Roads with enormous unsightly rocks placed in the middle of them to stop joyriders.

society and culture. And there is an enormous amount

be an example to the entire world. The sheer amount

of artists and creative people we have here, who are willing to bring art onto the street and into the lives

of all living here. Once the art scene was seen as elite, controlled, but creativity belongs to all of us. We can take it back, make room in our lives to contribute, to give people access and be part of making something

really special for the community, no matter what it is – theatre, painting, music.

Creativity can heal our city. It brings us together, allows time for thought and reflection, and makes

us look at our world and surrounding differently.

It’s a form of meditation. It drives us to contribute something to others – we create so we can share and give to others, and in turn that generosity of spirit lifts our own.

60

The trouble is, creativity is lacking in so many areas of our lives. It starts with our education system the way that much of our education works means that children are only using a small part of their mind - once the

school curriculum takes over the creativity dies.

Children are naturally creative – being creative allows us to process information that has been relayed, it’s

how we really understand the world at large. Young people also need to have a connection to nature –

our lives are increasingly technology dominated and

urban. We need to find ways to reconnect with the natural environment, and art allows us to take in our

surroundings, to find tranquil, natural spaces in which to pursue and concentrate our minds on aesthetics.

And it can reach us even in the darkest places, at the darkest times. Music in a waiting room in a

cancer unit in hospital can provide comfort, fill that frightening space in one’s mind, provide a prompt

for conversation with others in the room. Creativity

brings us together, and the more spaces it fills in our lives the happier and healthier we all can be.

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo

Photography by: Shane Serrano

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Discov e ri n g the Pas t Limerick’s Marching Band Tradition

Boherbuoy Band Limerick 1925. Established 1850

Limerick has a long tradition of successful civilian

The Limerick bands seemed to be well-organised

As the nineteenth century passed, the Catholic

connections, mainly because Limerick was a garrison

the employment by some of them of a competent

self-awareness which developed into popular support

marching bands. A lot of bands initially had army

town and recruitment of locals was not an unusual

occurrence in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The style of playing, the music played, uniforms and

instrumentation up to present times are very similar to those of the army bands, mainly because men who

had been in the army brought back their knowledge

and instruments and played a prominent part in forming bands in their locality.

The civilian bands came to the fore with the

beginnings of the temperance movement in the 1830s. They began to have a major role in the social and musical life of the city. Local newspapers report parishes such as St Mary’s, St John’s and St Munchin’s as all having temperance societies and bands.

with accounts published in local newspapers showing

bandmaster, purchase of instruments and rent of practice rooms. These bands were initially fife and drum bands as these instruments were financially

easier to procure, but most bands later moved towards brass and reed instrumentation. The pipe band

tradition became more prominent in the city from the 1920s with the formation of the Irish Free State.

Pipes and politics

As the sporting clubs and organisations of later times were not established in Limerick until the

1880s, membership of musical bands from the 1830s onwards gave the working classes in Limerick an

associational possibility that did not exist for many in the earlier nineteenth century.

population in Limerick began to have a growing for nationalist constitutional politics. This meant

that public gatherings and processions became more

commonplace. While the temperance movement

clearly had an input into setting up and facilitating

bands with practice rooms and instruments, it did not take long for the bands to find channels other than local temperance soirées to express their

musical prowess. While the bands were non-sectarian

in principle, in practice temperance became a predominately Catholic movement, closely associated with the repeal/nationalist cause. The repeal of the

Act of Union became a major concern for Daniel

O’Connell and fellow Irish members of parliament, encouraging people to participate in social and

political reform movements. Critical to these public

processions was the presence of marching bands, and

this led in turn to an increased demand for civilian bands.

62

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Music and bands, through playing rousing national

airs at rallies and large gatherings, helped those advocating repeal of the Union. Some bands later developed different political affiliations. This led

to rivalries between the city bands often becoming violent affairs, with reported damage to band halls and physical confrontations.

In the late 1880s both national and local competitions (band contests) gave bands a medium to express their

musical prowess. Newspaper research conveys that band contests were prominent during the periods

1880s to 1930s. These contests were well organised

affairs and became a central feature for many bands.

Many contests took place in open air venues such

as the Markets Field with large attendances often in the thousands. This could also be considered the

blue ribbon period for bands especially in regard to improved musical standards. The guidelines set

for performance techniques and rules for contest

CBS Pipe Band Limerick St Patricks Day 1963.

participation were set in place by a national contest committee in the 1880s. These competitions were also used as a method to get members practising

and reach a high musical standard. With contests becoming more organised in the late 1800s, bands

from all over Ireland would compete in competition.

By practicing, they honed their new-found skills in music to be confident in performing before

audiences and competing against their peers. It was

not uncommon for rivalries to develop between local bands in competition, especially those with different political alignments.

Band legacies

The musical repertoire of the Limerick bands is

extensive and the conductors and bandmasters have left a legacy of champion bands which enhanced

local pride in their achievements. Limerick bands

are still successful in both national and international competitions and competing to very high standards.

Procuring and maintaining instruments was a major

While many bands in the city have disbanded over the

nineteenth century onwards. Many bands acquired

Limerick is fortunate to still have brass and reed, fife

concern for all working class bands from the midinstruments through door-to-door collections and the results of these collections were published in local newspapers. Some bands ran dances in their band

rooms with band members providing the music. This sociability in turn facilitated the way in which the bands were funded.

By obtaining skills such as playing an instrument

and learning the theory of music this opened up

opportunity’s for band members to earn remuneration.

This could be achieved by playing in dance bands

last two centuries others have survived since the 1850s. and drum and pipe bands based in various parts of

the city. Where once the bands were male bastions, the addition of female members and musical tuition

for young people has enhanced the bands and assured their futures. These bands have become a treasure in

the historical landscape of what is an ancient city hopefully will entertain the citizens of Limerick and those further afield for many years to come.

Article by: Derek Mulcahy

and also becoming a tutor such as a bandmaster of

a band. From the 1890s it was not uncommon for bandmasters of bands in Limerick to be teaching and

conducting bands in neighbouring counties as well as nationally. The dance show bands up to the 1970s had many local marching bandsmen in their ranks.

63

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li me rick magazine The Limerick Connection: Ruth Negga

Over the years Limerick has been home to many great actors. In recent years, the film industry in general has been booming in Limerick with Troy Studios edging closer to its opening date. Limerick actors have also been doing the city and county proud while working overseas and one particularly notable example of this is Ruth Negga.

Ever since Ruth Negga first appeared in RTÉ’s Love/

Ruth Negga has recently been living it up in France

other film and TV show since, such as E4’s Misfits,

Cannes Film Festival. The film tells the real-life story

Hate as Rosie in 2010, she’s been popping up in every

12 Years a Slave and World War Z. More recently, she has become a recurring character in Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D as Raina and appears in the film Warcraft directed by son of David Bowie, Duncan Jones. She’s really becoming one to watch.

where one of her films, Loving, premiered at the of the US Supreme Court case of Loving v. Virginia

which eventually led to the invalidation of the laws prohibiting interracial marriage. Ruth is already

receiving Oscar buzz for her role as Mildred Loving in the film for a possible lead actress nomination.

Ruth Negga was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in

Last year at the Academy Awards, Irish talents

has spent the majority of her life here in Limerick

by the way things are going already, next year will be

1982 to an Ethiopian father and an Irish mother. She having moved to her mother’s home country at the age of four. Ruth went on to receive her BA in Acting Studies from Trinity College, Dublin after training

in the Samuel Beckett Centre. She then moved again

at the age of 24, this time to London to pursue her career in acting. She’s lived there ever since but still occasionally pops over to Limerick to see her family.

64

received a record number of nominations and judging

no different. If Ruth Negga is nominated she will be

the first woman from Limerick to be nominated for an Oscar, with Richard Harris being the only other

native who has ever been nominated. And if she wins, she’ll be the first person from Limerick to ever win an Academy Award.

Article by: Sophie Butler

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

65

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Opinion: The Granny Effect

It was a perfectly sunny morning on Friday 5th

Trying to put into words the magic that took place in

So what is the legacy that Granny’s visit has left us?

September 2014. For some weeks previous all the talk

Limerick over that weekend is very difficult.

I believe we have proved we are no longer a city that

of a giant marionette that would take to our streets

I followed Granny’s every move over her three-day

proved it can throw an all-inclusive party right in the

profound effect Granny who have on our people, our

visited our city centre. I saw children wait with wide-

many who had written it off. The young children who

presented.

stories of complete strangers buying each other ice

There was an eerie sense of tranquillity in the city that

signs on shop fronts apologising for having run out

making Granny’s visit a success is not dissimilar to

anticipation as I left my house in Pennywell and made

walked past. I witnessed a unique event organised by

European Capital of Culture in 2020. In this instance

in Limerick was of the impending visit to Limerick

allows negative mindsets to be the zeitgeist. Limerick

for a three-day spectacle. Little did the city realise the

visit. I watched as hundreds of thousands of people

heart of the city. Limerick re-entered the hearts of

sense of place and the endless possibilities our future

eyed anticipation as Granny turned a corner. I heard

experienced the event have never forgotten it.

cream as the carnival atmosphere took hold. I saw

In some senses what we achieved in Limerick in

morning. I was filled with a huge sense of nervous

of stock. I saw grown adults weep as our Granny

the challenge now faced in successfully bidding for

my way towards the Sexton St train station depot

a magnificent team.

we have most of our citizens now backing the bid and

Passing St John’s Cathedral, there was little or no

Something happened in our city that weekend has

stage. Whatever comes to pass over the next few weeks

Fitzpatrick, the then director of Limerick’s year as

much more than just our Granny. The visit of Royal

lifetime place where our city and its stakeholders are

point for the event it seemed the only people there

about showcasing our city in a way that dazzled.

we are. What we may not realise is that the focus on

little or no representation from the general public.

in September 2014 we were invited to reimagine

in bringing this sense of renewed vision to the fore.

I spotted the Limerick City and County Council

of Limerick city and county seemed to come out

The work that has gone into bidding for European

in a way that suggested he was feeling just as I was. I

ourselves to be swept away on a magical journey

conversations about what we, as citizens, want our

where the Giant’s journey was set to commence.

wishing the team the very best as we enter the final

traffic on the road until a cyclist went by. It was Mike

changed us forever. What our city achieved was

I believe that Limerick now finds itself in a once in a

National City of Culture. Arriving at the starting

de Luxe was about people, place and pride. It was

full of belief, full of energy and full of pride for who

were all wearing some form of official vests. There was

Limerick proved itself to be a giant. On that weekend

culture over recent years has played an enormous role

Limerick. As the word spread each and every citizen

CEO, Conn Murray. We acknowledged each other

and experience this magnificent event. We allowed

Capital of Culture 2020 has opened many new

deeply wanted in my heart and soul for this event to

through the heart of our city.

city to become in the future. Whether we win the

deliver the indescribable magic it had done for many

We watched as thousands of visitors to our city were

Limerick’s Giant journey did not end in 2014. It is a

asleep in her bed as she was escorted into Limerick.

we never see. We looked around and asked what

one that is destined to lead us to a wonderful place.

out of nowhere there seemed to be thousands of

encouraged our children to embrace our Granny and

Article by: Nigel Dugdale

walk ever seen in our city.

giant of the future.

run smoothly, to be embraced by the public and to

other cities around the world. Granny arrived, fast

awed by what they saw. We saw parts of our city

Then she opened her eyes and things changed. From

we would like our city to be in years to come. We

people in that station depot ready to walk the greatest

to play their own part in helping Limerick become a

66

bid or not is immaterial. What we have proved is that path we will continue to tread for years to come and

Photography by:Tarmo Tulit

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine Cou nty Limerick Youth Theatre Act ing Out 100!

This project gave both theatre groups a chance to

learn more about their country’s own history as

well as learn and explore another country’s history.

Communicating through the Internet, they discussed the various themes this project raised about the two

countries’ historic pasts. The young Limerick and

Finnish people involved in the project also got the chance to meet and work closely with other teenagers

from different cultures in a creative environment, which was a unique opportunity in itself.

Founded in 1996, the County Limerick Youth Theatre was established by Limerick County Council Arts Office, an ensemble for young people who are interested in drama and theatre. The County

Limerick Youth Theatre is a mixed gender, non-profit

organisation which is run by a voluntary committee.

The County Limerick Youth Theatre Art’s Facilitator

Fiona Quinn facilitates workshops and directs Acting Out 100! is the name given to an Erasmus+

The County Limerick Youth Theatre started working

Limerick and Finnish Theatre company. 15 members

used the ‘Rescue at Knocklong’ as a starting point to

members of the Finnish Youth Theatre company,

a cast of over 20 characters, and is a participative arts

respective components, producing two pieces of

cast in re-creating a village community in 1919. The

Finland’s 1917 Independence. The theatre pieces

the 15th May, in Knocklong Co. Limerick, as part

which is especially relevant now as the centaury

County Limerick Youth Theatre and the Finnish

2016 and 2017.

the visiting delegation in Brussels in June of this year.

funded collaborative project bringing together a

on the themes of 1916 in January. The members

from the County Limerick Youth Theatre and 15

devise the piece of theatre. Acting Out 100! features

Loimann teatteri, came together to work on their

piece, with the local community invited to assist the

theatre about Ireland’s 1916 Easter Rising and

Irish theatre piece was first performed from 13th to

focused on the independence of the two countries,

of Limerick’s European Capital of Culture 2020 bid.

independence celebrations of both countries occur in

youth theatre both performed their productions for

68

productions. In the past 20 years the County Limerick Youth Theatre has grown from four members to four groups of membership.

Members range in ages from 7 year olds to 18+ and are divided into groups. 7-12 year olds form the DynaLyts, 13-18 year olds form the Co Lyt and 18+

are The Leading Lyts. The County Limerick Youth Theatre also runs an outreach programme, working

with Limerick schools and community groups. The

County Limerick Youth Theatre is also a member of The National Association of Youth Drama in

Ireland. NAYD, established in 1980, supports the development of youth theatre in Ireland.

This trans-national project isn’t the first time the

County Limerick Youth Theatre has become involved

with the Finnish Loimaa teatteri youth theatre group.

In 2011 they participated in a Finnish exchange, where 20 members of the group came over to Ireland

and then in 2012 23 of the County Limerick Youth Theatre members travelled over to Finland.

In 2013 the youth theatre groups had two exchanges where together they devised and performed a play

in primary schools in Ireland. Then together they

adapted the play for Finnish audiences and all travelled to Finland to perform the play there for secondary schools.

The aim of the project was to tackle the stereotypes associated with today’s youth. The County Limerick

Youth Theatre believe that these kind of trans-

national projects are important because by interacting with another culturally different youth theatre group it increases the participants’ awareness of identity and citizenship.

The aim of the transnational projects is to increase the participants’ self-esteem and bring them to the

point where they see themselves as agents of social change in a European context. The pieces of theatre the two youth theatre groups create together also portray young people in a positive light and show the challenges that they face.

The County Limerick Youth Theatre also believes

that these projects are important because they help its participants to see and explore how two different

cultures of teenagers react to and deal with current

issues relating to young people. As well as Finland the youth theatre has also worked with other European

partners in Austria, Lithuania, Spain, Bulgaria, France, Denmark and Slovakia.

Article by: Sarah Talty

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

L imeri ck ’s M u s ic L e gacy Fox Jaw – Ghost’s Parade. (2014) Limerick’s legacy is embedded in the music that we create. Right

through the 80s and the 90s, and even the decades preceding, Limerick was a pool of creatives and artists writing and performing their own unique sounds.

Influenced by bands like The Beatles, Queen, The Smiths, The

Who, The Cure, The Clash, The Doors, soul music, rock music,

The second album of the Limerick quintet, Ghost’s Parade is a beefy, dark rock album

that twists and turns almost in an effort to remain uncommitted to any particular genre.

The album drips with old school rock vibes, with brooding basslines and guitars that incite visions of an elaborate circus, Fox Jaw create a story of mystery, and there’s a thrill

that comes from their sound. Bearing influence from bands like Nirvana, Foo Fighters, and the Grammy award winning duo Royal Blood; Fox Jaw’s growling, dark sound is a rollercoaster you won’t want to get off.

and just any music that they could get their hands on, nearly every

person at the time was in a band. Limerick has always been and, from where I stand, will always be an incredible diverse city full of sound, poetry, and art. The legacy has been forged and solidified

by those who simply played the piano in the local pub on a Friday night, the keys stained with beer, and those who now stand on

stage in front of thousands at this summer’s biggest festivals. To get a sense of how the landscape of Limerick music stands today, check out these four artists and their works.

Aphex Twin – Syro (2014) Born in Limerick, but raised in Cornwall, Richard David James A.K.A Aphex Twin

is to this day one of the most influential electronic music producers of his generation.

Receiving praise from everyone from Daft Punk, to John Frusciante (formerly of The

Red Hot Chilli Peppers), and even having Thom Yorke cite him as his greatest influence, Aphex Twin’s legacy carries across genres.

His 2014 album, Syro, was his first record under the name “Aphex Twin” since 2001, and in an interview with Q back in November 2014, James comments that this album is “as poppy as it’s going to get”. Syro received widespread praise and admiration and went on to win a Grammy award for Best Dance/Electronic Album in 2015.

70

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Hermitage Green – Save Your Soul. (2016) The debut album of one of Limerick’s biggest bands to date, Save Your Soul is a blend of folk, trad, and a healthy dose of rock ‘n roll. Speaking with guitarist Dan Murphy before

the album's release last March, he defines the album as “a mixed bag”, one with “some big pop tracks, there’s a couple of darker, more acoustic ones, there’s one or two ballads and we’ve kind of pushed into the rock area as well”.

Sonically, the album is a solid representation of where the band are in their music careers. A powerful collection of songs, varying across different genres, the album caters for more than just one type of audience. This year Hermitage Green are set to make waves. “We’re going to grab that one by the scruff of the neck, it’ll be good fun”.

Now Open from: 6.30am Mon - Fri / 7am Sat - Sun

Coffee

Muffins

Pastries

Salads

Sandwiches

Wraps

Cranberries – No Need to Argue. (1994) Cranberries’ most successful album, released back in 1994, No Need to Argue has sold

over 17 million copies worldwide, with many tracks from the record featuring in movies like Clueless (1995). Arguably the most recognised Limerick group ever, Cranberries

dominated the 90s charts and their grungy sound and powerful lyrics spearheaded a revolution in the way we think about how music can impact us as a community.

71 Raheen Roundabout, Raheen Limerick 061 487 487 | southcourthotel.com

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

T h e li merick magazine

Music Legacies: Sound Out and The Pigtown Fling

Long before Limerick2020, before it was even

Sound Out and The Pigtown Fling is a unique City of

The project focused on using indigenous sources,

Culture 2014, one aspect of our cultural landscape

all that is great on the contemporary indie-music

project enhancing music production and development

envisioned that Limerick would be National City of was undergoing a renaissance. Local music bands seemed to be popping up all over the place, and small

locally-owned bars were transforming into music

venues where new local talent was given a platform to showcase this bubbling musical energy.

72

Culture legacy project curated in Limerick to capture

scene. The project brought together a team of over 60 musicians, engineers, songwriters and documentary

makers on a music journey the scale of which has never before been seen in the city.

materials and partners to produce a legacy program

through real time collaborations and skill sharing.

From concept to production, engineering to mixing everything about Sound Out is Limerick through and

through. Music artists who reflect the broad spectrum

of Limerick’s music tapestry were selected: Limerick people who work with, live and breathe music.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

The outcome was the creation of a body of work that

The project’s legacy was to be the creation of a lasting

Devereux highlights the massive potential that

city, to show the wider music industry that Limerick

to work with local engineers, producers and students

of writing and producing music of this kind. “All the

put the focus on the musical energy that exists in our has a dynamic, professional and vibrant music scene.

The project was produced by Noel Hogan from the

Cranberries in collaboration with Music Generation.

infrastructure that would allow musicians to continue

through partnerships with LIT, UL, Learning Hub and Music Generation.

Along with Creative Director Dr. John Greenwood

For Noel Hogan one of the most surprising aspects of

musical genres to create 18 new tracks.

has encountered. “You hope things will run smoothly

the team paired over 40 local artists from varying

This resultant body of work will represent the edginess that is championed in Limerick arts and culture and will be based on the themes of diversity and fusion.

Musical artists with diverse backgrounds were requested to submit new pieces of work and the initial stages of the project’s development carefully considered

gender,

age,

instrumentation

the project has been the fluidity and professionalism he

in studio but they tend not to,” he says. “This project has been nothing but relaxed and smooth. Every day you would look forward to coming to studio.

By 6pm you realise the day has flown by. If every day

in studio could be like that in the world of professional recording it would be amazing.”

and

So what is the reason for such a renaissance of the

range of musical skillsets to collaborate on a project

lecturer in Sociology at the University of Limerick

experience. The Sound Out project allowed a diverse

with Limerick at its heart, and musicians of all types were able to make lifelong connections.

Noel Hogan said at the time: “The fact that we have curated this project made us wish we could have

included many more of the submitted pieces than

what we could realistically cope with. The quality of

Limerick indie-music scene? Eoin Devereux, senior is part of the project team. “If you go back to the 60s to rhythm and blues band and right through to the

present day you will find there has always been really

interesting musical activity going on in Limerick city.

A lot of it may have been underground but it was always there,” he says.

exists in Limerick in terms of creating an industry elements are already there. The difference now is the

coming together of many individual elements such

as the development of technology, Limerick2020 and so on. Like-minded people are coming together

and the sum is greater than the parts”, he says. The

presentation of Sound Out, The Pigtown Fling was presented by high profile guest presenters including compere Paul McCloone (DJ, Today FM and lead singer in The Undertones).

Across the cultural sector in Limerick dots are continuing to be joined. A confidence has emerged

that puts us in a very exciting place. Limerick has

always had a music scene. Now something is different.

The potential for our city to shine internationally is

real. Sound Out & the Pigtown Fling was the first major stage of bringing our musical talent to a new level.

Article by: Nigel Dugdale

Photography by: Darren Ryan

what was submitted was very, very good. Choosing the final 18 tracks that would go forward to production was very difficult. What are doing in the recording studio is immensely exciting.”

73

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine

Fashion

I’m also asked about my makeup on a daily basis so

I'm going to give you guys the low-down on what I've been wearing on my face.

Wool hat €24.99

Bralet €17.99

with Shauna Lindsay Brows: On my brows I've been using my favourite

I'm currently abroad in California for two months,

product by Anatasia Beverly Hills, Chocolate

spending one month in San Francisco, a weekend in Las Vegas, and one month in LA. San Fran is coming

to an end and I've just returned from a weekend of

DipBrow Pomade. Get it, it's amazing. You'll never Long Vest Cardi €17.99

madness in Vegas, but I'm looking forward to my final

Eyes: I forgot to bring eyeshadow with me on this

month in LA.

trip, so I picked up the super adorable CoverGirl TruNaked Goldens Pallette in a drugstore over here

While in Vegas I attended EDC (Electric Daisy

for v12 and so far I'm really impressed with the

Carnival). It was absolutely insane to see thousands

pigments.

upon thousands of people travel through a desert and

party their asses off for their love of music and it was a night I certainly won't forget.

Shorts €12.99

Mascara: The best ever, Estée Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Mascara.

I've received so many questions on my Instagram

Bronzer: I love my bronzer and personally my absolute

asking about my outfit so I’ve put together an easy

favourite is Estée Lauders Bronze Goddess in Shade

one-shop guide. You can get this entire look from

04 Dark. This applies onto the skin so beautifully. No

H&M and it’s the perfect combination of hippy-chic for any concert or festival.

look back. Thank me later.

streaks, no marks, no muddy looking face.

Lace up shoes €49.99

Lipliner: I've found the new love of my life and its NYX LipLiner in SugarGlass, a must for nude lip lovers!

74

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT FROM €995 + vat

FULL PACKAGES AVAILABLE INCLUDING CONTENT CREATION & COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY INVEST IN YOUR BUSINESS

WWW.FUSIONMEDIA.IE - INFO@FUSIONMEDIA.IE - 061-597627

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

T h e li meri c k magazine

Beauty review The Otto Clinic PRP Facial Review I was looking to rejuvenate my skin and in my research

The experience was at first a little scary, but it was

I don't think I'd ever contemplate cutting my face

Street in Limerick City. I spoke to founder, Ita

professional and immediately put me at ease. Ita told

technologies I think are the way to the future of how

Vampire Facial or PRP Facial would be perfect for

hear. She said my skin was good but could be made

The Otto Clinic is, in fact, the longest practising

a minimally invasive process that helps to improve

first to introduce it in 2006, with hundreds of happy

hour session involved drawing blood, spinning it in

I came across The Otto Clinic based in Barrington

fantastic. The team at The Otto Clinic are very

Murphy of The Otto Clinic who suggested the

me what I needed to hear and not what I wanted to

my skin, so I thought why not?

better. The vampire facial could correct all that, as it's

clinic of this technique in Ireland, having been the

the skin's texture and reduce pore size. The one-

customers over the past 10 years.

this high tech machine to separate out the platelets,

The Vampire Facelift is a procedure that involves

with some deep heat to boost the collagen. I always

create platelet-rich plasma (PRP), then re-injecting

invasive procedures. So when I had heard about

This is a revolutionary treatment which harvests your

growth factors and cell renewal I was totally on board.

Platelets contain a high content of “growth factors”

wasn't so bad either. I was supposed to go to an event

skin. Studies have shown this technique to be highly

a little puffy. The next day, I was slightly puffy and

burns.

camouflaged by a fedora, a layer of foundation, and

Upon injection into the skin, platelets release their

subsided. After that? Ridiculously soft and glowing

proliferate, in turn stimulating repair, increasing

my fiancé commented on how great my skin looked

the growth factors contained in the plasma boost

I am so thrilled with the results already, after four

production results in new skin cells being formed

I'll see my full results 3 to 6 months as the regeneration

Ultimately this creates a tightening effect on the

of course I want to look as youthful as I feel (within

injecting the platelets into the grooves, and finishing

withdrawing a patient's own blood, processing it to

look for technologically advanced and the least

it to erase wrinkles and create a more youthful look.

using plasma and my own blood products to enhance

own blood platelets to combat the signs of ageing.

I wasn't phased by the process, and the aftermath

– proteins that help to heal injured tissue or damaged

after the facial but decided to skip it as my face was

effective in the treatment of skin wounds, particularly

still a little red but it wasn't anything that couldn't be red lipstick! By the second day, puffiness and redness

growth factors which trigger surrounding cells to

skin, my make-up went on smoother than ever. Even

volume and rejuvenating the skin. Most importantly,

and he had no idea I even had a vampire facial!

collagen production – the stimulation of collagen

weeks. I've seen improvement right away. Ultimately

and therefore an improvement in skin elasticity.

of the skin takes time. I’m not shy about my age but

treated area and enables patients to achieve a more

reason).

beautiful, youthful skin.

76

and lifting, but this and other new cutting-edge we combat the signs of aging.

I won’t lie, there was some minor pain, but it was well

worth it! The staff were excellent, very friendly and

accommodating. To anyone out there who wants to look their best, especially if you are getting married

soon, I would suggest a consultation with Ita and her team.

You can find out more by visit www.theottoclinic.ie or by calling 061-317678

Article by: Michelle Costello

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

77

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine

Beauty review Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush - Debenhams: €89

Bobbi Brown Instant Confidence Stick - (launching soon)

You’ve probably heard of the famous Clarsonic, but Clinique have brought out

The hype is certainly building around this product as it is not available in

System Purifying Cleansing Brush is an innovative sonic facial cleansing

and wrinkles for a smoother, more crease free look. The weightless, breathable

unique sonic movement of the brush offers a thorough yet gentle cleansing;

product can be used to prep skin for flawless makeup application, or can

tip of the brush is designed to target the T-zone and other problem areas.

Suitable for all skin types, it works over time to absorb any excess oils on the

Zoella Beauty Sweet Inspirations Range - Superdrug: €6.35 - € 15.95

Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush - Debenhams: €89

The Sweet inspirations range is the latest addition to the ever-growing

You’ve probably heard of the famous Clarsonic, but Clinique have brought out

The range comprises of 8 products smelling of sweet macaroons with its

System Purifying Cleansing Brush is an innovative sonic facial cleansing

Available in stores since early June, the range includes everything from Body

unique sonic movement of the brush offers a thorough yet gentle cleansing;

their answer to the award winning sonic cleansing brush. The Clinique Sonic

Ireland yet. This magic eraser is designed to instantly blur the look of fine lines

brush that works with your cleanser to create your best skin possible. The

colourless lightweight formula ensures it glides on easily and effortlessly. The

softly lifting make-up and dirt that normal cleansing might miss. The angle

be used throughout the day to touch up any furrows that begin to appear. skin and control shine.

Zoella Beauty line and seems to be her most sought after collection yet.

their answer to the award winning sonic cleansing brush. The Clinique Sonic

beautiful pastel packaging inspired by French patisserie style wrapping.

brush that works with your cleanser to create your best skin possible. The

Mists (pictured above) to make up bags and bath bombs.

softly lifting make-up and dirt that normal cleansing might miss. The angle

78

tip of the brush is designed to target the T-zone and other problem areas.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Urban Decay – Alice Through the Looking Glass

Cocoa Brown

When Disney teams up with one of the top global make up brands, it usually

Cocoa Brown is the tanning brand that just keeps on giving. This summer

Inspired by Disney’s Alice Through the Looking Glass, this limited-edition

from tanning products, Cocoa Brown have branched into the hair care world

makes for a match made in heaven and this collaboration is no different. collection is every Disney or Urban Decay fans fantasy…

is no different as six new products launched recently. Widening the range launching their very own kind to hair range.

Alice Through the Looking Glass Pallet - Debenhams - €49

Rose Gold Goddess Oil & Kind Range – Penneys – from €11.95

This exquisite palette is the sequel to the iconic Alice in Wonderland Book

We’ve all heard of the Golden Goddess oil at this stage and now Cocoa Brown

divided into five columns with each column inspired by specific characters from

Available the end of July, this on trend, dry body oil has to live up to the

of Shadows pallet, which was so highly rated by beauty experts. The pallet is the movie, Alice, Mad Hatter, The Red Queen, The White Queen and Time.

The packaging of the palette features vibrant, kaleidoscopic artwork containing flowers and 3D butterflies and also includes several quotes from the film. The

luxe palette is full of surprises and is quickly turning into a cult beauty product.

have brought out a limited edition rose gold version of their famous dry oil. expectations of the regular Golden Goddess which has been wowing beauty

experts since its release last year. The shampoo and conditioner are designed to be kind to coloured hair, sensitive scalp and hair extensions. The shower gel was designed with a PH level that is kind to tan and allows an even fade.

Alice Through the Looking Glass Lipsticks - Debenhams - €19.50

Tan Wipes – cloud10beauty.com - €3.50

Urban Decay, renowned for their colour intensity, carried through the theme of

Although there are already quite a few tanning wipes on the market, owner of

the same five characters all pack a unique punch. ‘Alice’ is a nude lipstick with

generally turned out ‘orange’. The packet contains twenty tanning wipes, which

the palette to a range of lipsticks. The collection featuring five shades inspired by a subtle pink tone. Just like the character the ‘Mad Hatter’ this lipstick is an

eccentric shimmery purple, while Mirana provides a deep berry shade. Of course the Red Queen-inspired lipstick is a deadly matte red, while Time probably the most unique in the range is a navy blue with silver shimmer. Urban Decay is the perfect brand to transform the movie and world of Alice through the looking glass into a collection.

Cocoa Brown, Marissa Carter, cited that the majority were hard to apply and can be used on both the face and body to create a more natural glow that will last up to five days.

Article by – Katie O’Brien

79

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

The Essentials

H o me: Ga r den Dé cor

This is a great time to use essential tools as an

accessories, from pots for your plants to the watering can that nurtures them. They’ll also give your home a

truly authentic feel, showing you’re an expert when it comes to all things garden-related.

The garden: the great outdoor utopia that we try to make the most of when the sun is shining on our glorious little island. In the summer months, your garden can sometimes become something

of an extra room in your home. It’s rare that we get the opportunity in Ireland to embrace the sunshine in the open air, but when the chance comes knocking this is the time to get your creative juices going. This doesn’t mean that you have to tear your garden apart and hire a landscape

gardener, because the thoughts of that would put you off going outside altogether. Instead, why not opt for simple items to give your garden a bright and welcoming feel. This can be achieved

easily, from pops of colour in plants, to the patterns on the pots that support them, cute and quirky knick-knacks can all add a lovely personal touch to this outdoor space. These wouldn’t be

Zink Watering Can Tiger - €4

complete without your essentials too of course, such as a table and chairs to invite your friends around to show off your fun garden surroundings.

Bucket with Handle and Butterflies Tiger - €3

Yellow Summer Fun Bird House Dotcomgiftshop - €19.95

80

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Lighting

Quirky Accessories

Dining in the Great Outdoors

Imagine this: the sun is setting and it’s starting to

It doesn’t matter if it’s indoors or outdoors, every

What’s the point in having your garden decorated

In a garden environment, there is an exciting chance

environment around you? You don’t just want your

colours to edgy statues. Another great idea is taking

use too. When your garden becomes an extra room in

in the house to fill with flowers and hang up outside.

relax in, so these items are perfect for accomplishing

get dark, and you’re looking to settle down for the evening with some time for yourself. This is when

you switch on your twinkling lights that hang on the garden fence, and light some candles on the table. You

are guaranteed relaxation, and will be ensured to feel comfortable in your surroundings.

room needs a personal touch with cute accessories.

and revamped if you can’t sit back and enjoy the

to play around with so many things, from energetic

garden to look nice, you want to be able to put it to

any of your old vases or anything lying around unused

your home, it’s nice to have as a place to escape to and

Individuality is always something fun to achieve.

that.

Wood Heart Deco

Dotcomgiftshop - €19.95

Harvey Norman - €2.90

Fruit Drinks Dispenser

Bird Cage Tea Light Holder

Sitting Buddha

Dotcomgiftshop - €19.95

Harvey Norman - €39.90

Palm Leaf Outdoor Cushion

Glass Lanterns

Hanging Beach Huts

French Iron Cafe Chair

Set Of 10 Dress Up Dolly Paper Party Lights

Tiger - €2

Next - €14.50

Next - €38

Next - €20.50

Dotcomgiftshop - €95

Article by: Laura McNamara

81

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Literature Author Interview: R.B. Kelly Edge of Heaven

R.B Kelly is a screenwriter and author of the forthcoming sci-fi novel Edge of Heaven. Rachael has been writing since she was young and her debut novel promises to be huge this summer. The book catapults readers into a future dystopia, with a chain of events that will guarantee to have you on the edge of your seat.

Tell us a little about yourself?

What were the main inspirations for this book?

You began writing Edge of Heaven at the age of 15,

spells of living and working abroad, it looks like I’m

a teenager and suddenly having a vivid image of a city

find the process of writing this book for such a long

long as I can remember and seem to have spent most

from, but it stuck with me and a story gradually began

without actually committing to writing for a living.

My father has always been interested in speculative

later studied for and achieved a PhD in film theory.

favourite author), and then he gave me my first Sci-

lecturer when my PhD was awarded, but unfortunately

major effect on the stories I wanted to tell. Elton was

had to reassess and I decided, with some help from

for the immediate future; he was interested in how

and forge a career as an actual writer. In addition to

next couple of generations, and his predictions really

had a feature length screenplay optioned by a local

world in which there are cities built on top of cities,

husband and our two cats.

outgrow this planet, I started to think of Creo, where

I was born and raised in Belfast, and, despite several

I remember being in the back seat of my dad’s car as

settled there again for now. I’ve been writing for as

that was built in two layers. I’ve no idea where it came

of my career trying to find ways of writing for a living

to coalesce around it.

¬¬ I trained as a journalist about ten years ago, and

fiction: he gave me my first Terry Pratchett book (my

I’d planned to go into academia as a researcher and

Fi novel, Ben Elton’s This Other Eden, and it had a

I graduated at a bad time for academic job¬seekers. I

looking at the sort of world we might be building

my wonderful mother, to stop prevaricating and try

the decisions of the early 90s might impact on the

publishing Edge of Heaven this summer, I’ve recently

resonated with me. I was already writing about a

production company. I live in Holywood with my

and I was interested in the way we’re starting to

the action of Edge of Heaven takes place, as a kind of

really badly patched - together solution that someone

came up with on the fly to answer a pressing problem.

82

and 22 years on it is being published. How did you period of time?

I spent long periods away from it, which helped!

Certain characters and themes in earlier drafts

interested me and I wanted to explore them in other novels, so I did, and I’m hoping that I’ll have a chance

to revisit and revise those other novels now that Edge is being published.

Looking back, I know that the draft I completed at

the age of 15 was objectively not very good, but it was the first grown¬up novel (with swearing and sex!)

that I'd ever attempted, so I felt as though it was my transition into adult writing. Maybe that's why I kept

coming back to it. It's lucky, really, that I've had the

full 22 years to edit and redraft and generally just mess about with it. That time has allowed me to get all

kinds of feedback from a lot of very generous people, and it’s also allowed me to grow and experiment and practice as a writer.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

The representation of dystopian worlds has become

extremely popular in the world of film and literature.

What is it that interests you about this particular feature?

It might sound strange, but I've never thought of Edge of Heaven as dystopian. I can see why it is, and

I don't have any problem with it being categorised as

such, but to me, Edge is about characters just getting on with things in a world that makes perfect sense to

them, because it's familiar and known, and the things that feel dystopian to us are just business as usual to them. I think that someone from the late nineteenth

century or early twentieth, transported to the current day, would find our society dystopian, and possibly for many of the same reasons we think we've got it better than our ancestors.

They might moan about their lot and feel like life has

dealt them a bad hand, but there's nothing inherently evil about the world they live in, the ruling regime is just the usual dysfunctional mixture of bright-eyed

idealists, worn-down pragmatists and opportunists lining their pockets, and there's been no great

apocalyptic event that's happened to fundamentally

change the rules of life on Earth. So, despite all the problems of their future society, they’d almost certainly think they have it better than us.

What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced in writing this book?

Available technology has changed almost beyond recognition during the course of writing Edge of

Heaven. When I started, it was the early nineties and the internet was hardly on anyone’s radar, much

less smart phones or even mobile phones. This meant

that some of the conceptions of advanced futuristic technology that I had during the initial drafts became

more accurately referred to as “current technology that’s available right now.”

This is the biggest problem, I suppose, when it comes

What is the ultimate goal you’d like to achieve in

currently available tech and that changes rapidly in

I would love to see Edge adapted for screen, but,

Over the past 22 years, I’ve had the chance to revise

writing fanfiction about it. That would be really

has changed more times than I can count but give

an extent that they’re inspired to start writing their

to writing about the future: best guesses are based on

your career as a writer?

ways we can’t even conceive of at the time of writing.

ultimately, I’ll know I’ve done my job if people start

and amend with changes to technology the timeline

exciting; to see people engage with my world to such

it another twenty years who knows where we’ll be?

own stories about it.

the best efforts of some very intelligent people, and

Edge of Heaven is published by Liberties Press June

I’m also still very shaky on quantum theory, despite

I think the future’s probably going to be built on quantum theory, so that’s been challenging.

10th 2016.

Article by: Laura McNamara

Is there any important advice you would give to somebody looking to follow in your footsteps?

Just keep writing. Write the book that you want to write, because you’re going to need to love and believe

in it. It can be a long and dispiriting road, so write for the love of writing, and any success you have in publishing will be the icing on the cake.

83

Limerick Film

Streetlights Streetlights is a new short three minute film by award winning Limerick

filmmaker Jay Red starring Limerick’s own talented actors Liam O’Brien, Graham Gill, Ethan Cassley and produced by Nigel Shinnors. Streetlights

made it into the Top 10 of 1228 entries in the world’s biggest short film

competition My Rode Reel 2016. This is the second year Jay has consecutively reached the top ten. Jay Red is a Writer/Director from the Northside of Limerick city. In 2015 his short three minute film The Snowmans Gift was voted into 12th place of 1098 entries in the world’s biggest short film

competition, MyRodeReel. Since then, Jay has won a national short film

competition for highlighting positive mental health awareness with his short film Who Cares which tells the story of a young girl who struggles to come to

terms over her brothers bereavement. Jay recently went on to get shortlisted in the Hotpress Write Here Write Now writing competition for his short story Blacks Dogs Irish. Now he plans to go even further with Streetlights.

The My Rode Reel competition is an international competition where the standard

of filmmaking is extremely high and has world respected judges such as Shane

Hurlburt who lensed Terminator Salvation and Need for Speed, Philip Bloom, one of the godfathers that pioneered DSLR filmmaking and also Rodney Charters who worked on Dallas, Rosswell and Nash Bridges.

Streetlights is a film which follows the story of a man with a photographic memory

who psychologically reflects on his own traumatic past. The film has been highly praised by Fair City’s Tony Tormey (Paul Brennan) and has been screened in the Odeon cinema in Limerick. Jay Red says, “Streetlights and the team behind it

represent Limerick and Ireland on a global scale showing the world how we tell stories, what we can do as filmmakers and proudly represent where we are from

– Limerick!” Look out for the film on the My Rode Reel website and follow its progress on Facebook.

Experience award winning locally sourced produce by our Executive Chef Tom Flavin & team

PRIVATE DINING

in the heart of the City the Rooftop City View Suite a chic &

cosmopolitan space with breath-taking views for up to 100 guests the real WOW factor!

THE TERRACE BAR

The riverside Terrace Bar an informal & relaxing space to enjoy the fantastic views of Limerick Group menus available

THE RIVER RESTAURANT

Experience a truly special dining experience overlooking the magnificent River Shannon. An emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce.

Dinner Menus from €24.95 T:061 421800 E: events@strandlimerick.ie

www.strandlimerick.ie

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Th e li merick magazine Period Dramas: The Ones to Watch From book adaptations to award winning television shows, people are loving the buzz of period dramas. With so many to choose from, it is difficult to distinguish between the brilliantly executed, and the disastrously bad. The

great thing about period dramas is that while they are mostly fictitious tales, they are loosely based on true elements that were real in our history, and always promise some level of accuracies and factual events. If you yourself enjoy escaping to a time long gone to get in on the latest dramas from Victorian England, or even further back to when raging wars destroyed our lands, then this list has got you covered.

Downton Abbey

Pride and Prejudice

Okay, so this is probably the most obvious option out of all the possible

This academy award winning 2005 film starring Keira Knightley and

awards along with a long list of other accolades, this has a huge fan base

novel of the same title. This particular period movie is set during the

period drama television shows. Having won a number of Golden Globe

and great cast, including the likes of Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter and Maggie Smith. The plot is set in 1912, after the sinking of the Titanic, where the heir to Lord Grantham’s marvellous home of

Downton Abbey is killed, which leaves a modernist cousin next in line for the inheritance. The newly appointed heir, Matthew Crawley, moves in with the family alongside his domineering and sly mother, which

causes quite the stir on the estate. With family brawls and subplots in the servants lives, this Georgian set drama is a must watch.

Matthew Macfadyen is one of the best adaptations of the Jane Austen ‘Regency Period’ in the 1800s, a time where literature, societal issues

and politics were central, especially in the lives of young women. You’re probably familiar with the story, seeing as the novel is one of the most famous pieces of classic literature of all time but if you’re not, here’s the

lowdown: Elizabeth Bennett is one of the five Bennett daughters dealing with issues of manners and morality. When Elizabeth meets the wealthy

Mr Darcy, sparks fly when the pair’s personalities clash, with Elizabeth being a smart and stubborn girl, and Mr Darcy being something of an

ignorant mystery. It’s the classic storyline where girl meets boy, and well, you can guess the rest.

86

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Jane Eyre Originally a novel published in 1847, this is a story of deceit and loneliness, centring on the title character, Jane Eyre. Jane is an orphaned girl who

lives with her aunt, Mrs Reed and her cousins, but isn’t treated very

fairly. After attending an institute for orphans, Jane becomes an excellent

student, embodying all the required traits of a Victorian England woman.

When she becomes a governess at a house called Thornfield, she discovers

that the master of the house, Mr Rochester is hiding a terrible secret.

The movie, like the book, is riddled with gothic undertones, adding extra suspense to the plot. It stars Michael Fassbender and Mia Wasikowska in the lead roles, and it stays very true to the book.

Atonement It’s safe to say that Keira Knightley is the queen of period dramas. Starring alongside James McAvoy and Saoirse Ronan, this is yet another film

based on a critically acclaimed novel of the same name, written by Ian McEwan. It is set across a significant number of years, when world war

two was ripping the world to shreds. The story is based on one horrible misunderstanding, when a younger sibling misinterprets a love affair

between her older sister Cecilia and the housekeeper Robbie, tearing the

young lovers’ lives apart. It won an Oscar for Best Original Score at the

80th Academy Awards, and is a guaranteed tear-jerker, so have the tissues at the ready.

Article by: Laura McNamara

87

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

L imeri ck Pride L G B T I Fe stival 2 0 1 6 11th July - 17th July After the parade the crowds will head to the Hunt

Museum for PrideFest 2016, a showcase of local LGBT culture in a lavish marquee at the museum

gardens with host Paul Ryder. Limerick actor, director and playwright, Myles Breen will be holding his annual tea dance. Then it’s time to dance the

night away at the legendary Climax Party at Dolan’s Warehouse.

As well as the usual display of colour and vibrancy, there will be a message of education and support for

all members of the LGBTI community and their

families. Support meetings will be held during the week for youth, adult and trans groups and there

will be free drop in HIV testing at GOSHH on Wednesday and Thursday of Pride week.

Other highlights of the week include: Pride Wedding Show - Wednesday 13th July. Entry

is free and anyone looking to book a stand can email Sharon at sharon@sharonmcmeel.ie or call 086

The countdown is on to the city’s most iconic festival

The annual Limerick LGBTI Pride Parade, Saturday

LGTBI Festival.

making its way at 2.30pm up O’Connell Street, across

Limerick LGBTI Pride events co-ordinator Louise

Park and returning to City Hall.There will be a rainbow

As part of their Weekend of Words Stanzas are calling

festival a celebration for everyone in Limerick. Last

O’Connell Street. Make sure you wear your rainbow

Lane. To sign up email stanzas.limerick@gmail.com.

July 16th will be a gathering at City Hall at 1.30pm,

8524800.

Mallow Street to Henry Street, past Arthurs Quay

Stanzas LGBTI Poetry event - 1pm Friday 15th July.

McCormack said, “We want to make this year’s

balloon release once the parade passes Debenhams on

on LGBTI writers to recite their work outside Lucky

year the minority were supported by the majority

colours for the theme #UnitedColoursofLimerick

of unity, equality and empowerment, Limerick Pride

in the Marriage Equality Referendum. This July, I

Prideful Recovery Event - Sunday 17th June, held at

personally want to join with them and celebrate this

GOSHH, 18 Davis Street from 1pm to 5pm.

almost all of the events have no charge and are open

Photography by: Johnny Baynes iLoveLimerick.com

progressive change in our society. For that reason, to every person who wants to attend.”

88

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

89

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE EVENT GUIDE CURATOR'S CHOICE FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: GERRY DAVIS

SUMMER CARNIVAL - CREATIVE CAMP

LIMERICK PRIDE FESTIVAL 2016

Monday 4th - Friday 8th July; 10am – 3pm

Friday 1st July - Sunday 31st July

Irish World Academy Building, UL, Castletroy,

Wednesday 13th - Sunday 17th July Limerick City

The Hunt Museum, Custom House, Rutland Street,

Limerick

THOMOND SWIM 2016

FUTURE ARTIST MAKERS - SUMMER BOOTCAMP

Saturday 2nd July; 4:45pm

Monday 4th - Friday 15th July

THE LEMON SUCKERS

BOOK LAUNCH WITH ROISIN MEANEY

FOYNES AIR SHOW

Saturday 2nd July; 11pm

Tuesday 5th July; 6.30pm

Sunday 17th July @ 3pm

Limerick City

O'Callaghan Strand Limerick

Dolans Pub & Warehouse, Dock Road, Limerick

DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS Saturday 2nd July @ 12pm

The Hunt Museum, Custom House, Rutland Street, Limerick City

FOOT SOLUTIONS ' LIMERICK FC GOLF CLASSIC

Fab Lab Limerick, 7 Rutland Street, Limerick

O'Mahony's Booksellers, 120 O’Connell Street, Limerick

BROCON - GAMING AND ANIME CONVENTION Friday 8th - Sunday 10th July

University of Limerick Castletroy Limerick

LEO STANNARD

LOUGH GUR MOONSHOT AND EVENING WITH ASTRONAUT AL WORDEN Saturday 16th July; 6.30pm - 10pm

Limerick Strand Hotel, Ennis Road, Limerick City Centre

Foynes Harbour, Foynes, Co. Limerick

TWILIGHT RACING - WITH MUSIC BY JOHNNY BRADY Thursday 21st July, 5.30pm

Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, Patrickswell

MEITHEAL Friday 22nd July; 8pm

Sunday 3rd July and Monday 4th July

Friday 8th July 20:00-23:55

FAMILY FUN DAY AT LIMERICK RACECOURSE

PIG 'N' PORTER INTERNATIONAL TAG RUGBY FESTIVAL

TOMMY EMMANUEL LIVE AT THE LIME TREE THEATRE

Sunday 3rd July @ 2.30pm

Saturday 9th July

Sunday 24th July 19:00-23:00

BUALADH BOS SUMMER CAMP 2016 WEEK 1

BASIC MARKETING PRINCIPLES

AUGUST WELLS

Tuesdays 12th July to 16th August; 10am - 1pm

Monday 4th - Friday 8th July; 9:30am – 3:30pm

Maldron Hotel, John Carew Link Road, Roxboro,

Thursday 28th July 21:00-23:30

Ballykisteen, Tipperary.

Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, Patrickswell

Lime Tree Theatre, Mary Immaculate College, Courtbrack Avenue, Limerick

90

Upstairs at Dolans 3-4 Dock Road Limerick

Categories: Festival/Special Event, Sports Festival,

Limerick

Lime Tree Theatre, Mary Immaculate College, Courtbrack Avenue, Limerick

Lime Tree Theatre, Courtbrack Avenue Limerick

Kasbah Social Club 3-4 Dock Road Limerick

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Follow u s on Face book & Twitte r for more daily e v e nt lis ting s

IRISH YOUTH GUI TAR ORCHESTRA WITH THE LOS ANGELES GUITAR QUARTET

DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS

Friday 29th July, 8pm

Limerick City

Saturday 6th August; 12pm

The Hunt Museum, Custom House, Rutland Street,

St Mary's Cathedral, Bridge Street, Limerick City

LIMERICK’S GOT TALENT

BEAST OF BALLYHOURA ADVENTURE RACE

Lime Tree Theatre, Courtbrack Avenue Limerick

Saturday 30th - Sunday 31st July

Ballyhoura HQ, Kilfinane, Co. Limerick

ABSOLUTELYFAB LES VINTAGE & RETRO REVIVAL FAIR Sunday 31st July, 2pm-6pm

Saturday 6th August; 8pm

FUSION DANCE FEST 2016 Monday 8th - Saturday 13th August

LIT Millennium Theatre, Moylish Park, Limerick

VIVALDI MOZART PAGANINI Thursday 11 August; 8pm

Castletroy Park Hotel, Dublin Road, Limerick

St Mary's Cathedral, Bridge Street, Limerick City

DESIGNER MINDS – PRIMARY SCIENCE, DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY NEWCASTLE WEST SUMMER CAMP

IMELDA MAY LIVE AT THE CASTLE

Tuesday 2nd - Friday 5th August; 10am - 2pm

Desmond Complex, Gortboy, Newcastle West, Co Limerick

SUMMER ART CAMPS AT LIMERICK PRINTMAKERS - 13-17YRS

Saturday 13th August; 7pm

King Johns Castle, Kings Island, Limerick City

BAD REPUTATION IRELAND PRESENTS SICK OF IT ALL Tuesday 16th August, 2016; 8pm – 11:55pm

Dolan’s Warehouse 3-4 Dock Road, Limerick

Tuesday 2nd - Friday 5th August; 10.30am - 3pm

SEODA SHOWS PROUDLY PRESENTS GUN OUTFIT

Square, Limerick City

Tuesday 16th August; 9pm

Limerick Printmakers, Bridgeland House, 3 Johns

DICK VALENTINE Friday 5th August @ 9pm

Dolans Pub & Warehouse, Dock Road, Limerick

Dolans Pub & Warehouse, Dock Road, Limerick

MIRIAM LAMBERT PUPPETEER PRESENTS THE THREE LITTLE PIGS HUFF AND PUFF.

CURRAGHCHASE 10K RUN/WALK 2016 Sunday 21st August; 12pm

Kilcornan Community Centre, Kilcornan, Co. Limerick.

THE DAMNED Thursday 25th August; 8pm

Dolans Pub & Warehouse, Dock Road, Limerick

BBQ FIESTA Friday 26th August @ 7pm

Clarion Hotel, Steamboat Quay, Limerick

MUNGRET MUSIC FESTIVAL Friday 26th - Sunday 28th August

Mungret St Pauls GAA, Mungret, Co Limerick

LIMERICK AGRICULTURAL SHOW 2016 Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th August.

Limerick Racecourse, Greenmount Park, Patrickswell

RACE AROUND IRELAND Monday 29th - Wednesday 30th August; 6pm Passing Through Limerick City

LLOYD COLE PROUDLY PRESENTED BY SEODA SHOWS Wednesday 31st August; 9pm

Dolans Pub & Warehouse, Dock Road, Limerick

Saturday 20th August; 3pm

Friars Gate Theatre, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick

91

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

THank you letter from the Limerick 2020 Team Thank you.

To everyone who contributed to the Limerick2020 bid, we want to express our gratitude for your contribution no matter how big or small. From the businesses that showed their support with a Limerick2020 graphic in the window to those wearing Limerick2020 badges and pins we say thank you. You made the campaign both visible and personal with your proud support of our efforts.

To the kitchen table conversations where together we gleaned insights into the electrifying potential of this opportunity. Thank you to all those from across Ireland and Europe that helped. This process

has opened our eyes to what being part of Europe means and also developed a new understanding of Limerick as a European City.

To those who took time, no matter how little, out of their daily lives to volunteer at events and to volunteer their services, we thank you. This bid would not be possible without this generous and hands-on support.

To Limerick City and County Council whose unwavering support of our efforts to develop

Limerick’s arts and culture scene and in turn make Limerick a better place to live, to work and to learn in, we say thank you.

To everyone on the bid team, who worked day in and day out pushing to keep the momentum and the excitement going to the final bell, giving more than we ever asked for, we thank you for your efforts.

Finally, to the people of Limerick, from young to old, and especially to the newly arrived who have come to live in this proud city on the banks of the River Shannon, we thank you for investing in

Limerick’s success. Your participation at festivals and events proves how much Limerick people

need and love culture. Each and every one of you helped to create the unique wonderful spirit of

our city. No matter whether Limerick wins or loses the European Capital of Culture 2020 bid, Limerick has set out on a journey of adventure.

So thank you, from the bottom of our hearts for getting behind the bid.

Mike Fitzpatrick, Director Limerick2020 Bid Team

92

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

93

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

Closing Time 1 0 min ute s with…LI A M GA LV I N Outgoing mAYOR OF LIMERICK CITY AND COUNTY Occupation: Councillor and outgoing Mayor of the City and County of Limerick

Can you share one fact about yourself?

I’m big into GAA and used to play for Father Casey’s

I receive phone calls throughout the day on various issues, there will be foreign nationals being brought into City Hall, I might have a launch or event to open, and so on.

Club in my hometown of Abbeyfeale.

Do you have any hidden or lesser known talents?

What motivates you in the morning?

more before the last 12 months, and I hope to take it

I’m motivated by the amount of people who are out there making valuable contributions to their

community. I’ve come into contact with the work of

many volunteers who care for elderly and disabled people, staff who work on care homes and hospital

departments. Also local authorities – they work hard

for their communities and I believe they deserve our support.

What do you never leave home without?

Well, as Mayor the one thing I’ve had to make sure I

remember is my chain! (laughs). But on a serious note, I cannot function without my diary and iPad, they

both map out my day and on the rare times I have left without either of them it’s been tough.

How would you sum up your life in 5 words?

Incredibly busy, but very rewarding.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I start my day with my secretary who deserves a

great deal of credit because I couldn’t get through the day without her. I sit with her for about an hour and we run through my bookings, appointments and functions as well as other day to day business.

94

Not really, but I do like to cycle. I used to do it a lot up again properly when I have a bit more time. I hope to take part in more local charity cycles – I cycled in the event for Zoe Scannell in Abbeyfeale, and there

are charity cycles taking place there and in Newcastle West that I will definitely be signing up for.

As a child what did you want to be growing up?

Growing up on a farm of course meant I wanted to

be a farmer. Then as I started to get a bit older I was exposed to politics, particularly by my father who

was very politically engaged. From the moment I entered politics I wanted to do as much as I could and strive for the top roles where I could really make a

difference, so my ambition was to become Mayor, and now I would definitely like a shot at the Dail.

What is your favourite quote?

It has to be the line from John F Kennedy: ‘Ask not

what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’ There is always more we can do for ourselves and those around us.

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

What is the most recent book you have read?

I recently read AP McCoy’s biography. He’s the top

jockey of our time. I was fortunate enough to attend

his retirement celebrations hosted by JP MacManus, which was fantastic and I bought the book soon

afterwards. It’s a brilliant read and I’d recommend it to anyone who is interested in horse racing.

Are you superstitious, do you have any rituals or good luck charms?

No, not really. I consider myself pretty lucky to be able

to get up and go to work every day anyway – when you see people who can’t do that you realise there is no need to complain or wish for much more.

Who is the person you most admire and why?

Not a single person, but all the people who volunteer their time for their community, such as the coaches who look after local sports team, particularly the

underage groups, that should be acknowledged much more.

Describe your ideal day off in Limerick:

As a sports lover I love nothing more than heading to Thomond Park for a Munster Rugby match day

with a group from home, and mingle with the fans

on either side. Equally the Gaelic Grounds for the county matches – we have some great sports facilities in the city and when the weather is fine you couldn’t ask for much more.

Article by: Kayleigh Ziolo

Photography by: Tarmo Tulit

95

THE LIMERICK MAGAZINE

96