Go Rail magazine Winter 2015

Colin Farrell DEC 2015 - FEB 2016 • VOL:05 ISSUE:04

The Second Coming Of The Irish Superstar

Kevin Barry

The Writer Who’s Re-Imagined John Lennon

Daniella Moyles

Sitting Pretty At The Celebrity Table

Corrs The Return of The

• W E

A R E

F A M I L Y •

Remembering the Rising SPECIAL PREVIEW

In the

heart of the city where the shops

are so pretty

Discover a world of fashion, footwear, cafĂŠs and gift shops at the shopping center of Dublin.

So why not visit the heart of the city today and bring a little home. Just look for the iconic dome.

The Shopping Centre of Dublin

CONTENTS

D E C 2 01 5 – FE B 2 01 6

Volume 05 // Issue 04

Sharon Corr

020 I N T E R V I E W O N PAG E . . .

8 Go For It A round-up of events taking place around the country

16 Train News Up-to-date train news from Iarnód Éireann

20 The Corrs Sharon Corr on why the folk-pop hitmakers decided to reunite

24 Rising Commemorations A look at some of the events and activities taking place in 2016 as Ireland commemorates the Easter Rising

30 My Favourite Journey Spin South West’s Nessa McGann on why she enjoys travelling up and down to Dublin from Limerick

32 Lenny Abrahamson Already firmly established as a leading

arthouse director, the Irish filmmaker is now enjoying serious Oscar buzz Stateside for his intense new drama, Room

one-man literary sensation talks about his latest novel, Beatlebone, in which he transports John Lennon to the wild Irish west of the ’70s

36 Sport

46 Go Places

One of the most decorated names in horse racing, Willie Mullins, talks about the challenges at the top and his ambitions for 2016

Our guide to one of North America’s most multi-cultural cities, Toronto, which boasts world class restaurants and nightlife

38 Colin Farrell

Go Rail joins Spin 1038’s Daniella Moyles for a tasty meal in Super Miss Sue’s

Having battled his demons in the past, the exHollywood hellraiser discusses his acclaimed new movie, The Lobster

40 Matt Berry & Arthur Mathews

50 Celebrity Table 56 Go Business Stuart Clark reports on the continuing success of Ireland’s craft beer industry

The creators of the award-winning sitcom Toast Of London talk to Colm O’Regan about real-life inspirations and welcoming one of TV’s biggest stars into the fold

58 Fashion

42 Kevin Barry

Our pick of the best current music, DVD and book releases

Fresh from winning the Goldsmiths Prize, the

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Roe McDermott looks at the key trends this winter

62 Go Review

Credits DEC 2015- FEB 2016

Volume 05 // Issue 04 Máirin Sheehy

COMMISSIONING EDITOR

Roisin Dwyer

CONTRIBUTORS

Stuart Clark Craig Fitzpatrick Peter McNally Anne Sexton Roe McDermott Colm O'Regan Daina Goldfinger Alene Bouranova Olaf Tyaransen

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Hot Press 13 Trinity Street Dublin 2

DESIGN

David Keane David Stanley

STUDIO MANAGER

David Keane

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Boylan’s Print

GROUP AD MANAGER

Trish Murphy

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Damien Doran

PUBLISHER

Niall Stokes

GO RAIL IS PUBLISHED FOR IARNRÓD ÉIREANN BY:

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LETTERS

The Editor, Go Rail Magazine, 13 Trinity St Dublin 2

While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine is correct, the publishers cannot accept any responsibilities for errors. The views contained in this magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Iarnród Éireann.

All material © Osnovina 2015.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction of material without permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited.

Liberty, Equality and Fraternity Image: National Library of Ireland

MANAGING EDITOR

Editor's Message

The shell of the GPO on Sackville Street, (now O’Connell Street) Dublin after the Easter Rising, 1916.

NOW, THOSE IDEALS ARE WELL WORTH CELEBRATING, AS WE LOOK AHEAD TO THE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 1916 RISING...

T

ime flies. Only a whisper ago, we were still clinging on to the last remnants of summer.

Now we are on the final count-down to the shortest day of the year. Soon, that moment will come when it behoves us to say thanks, and to celebrate the humble fact that we have survived another year. And on December 31st, as the bells chime and fireworks snap, crackle and pop into the night sky, all over the English speaking world at least, people will sing together. “Should old acquaintance be forgot…” we will ask, as we say goodbye to the old, and usher in a new year…

Not just any old new year, either. 2016 is the 100th Anniversary of the Irish rebellion of Easter 1916, which changed the course of history on this island irrevocably. The rebellion itself failed.

But the response of the British government to what happened, by any standards, was ferocious. In all, sixteen individuals – immortalised in William Butler Yeats’ poem 'Sixteen Dead Men' – were executed for the part that they played in the Rising.

But Yeats’ most powerful statement on what happened over the course of that storied weekend in April, and in its aftermath, was contained in his landmark poem, 'Easter 1916'.

It is a work of timeless resonance, which bequeathed to the English language some of its most memorable phrases. “Too long a sacrifice,” the fourth verse begins, “can make a stone of the heart.” It is a brilliant summation of one of the indestructible truths of human experience. And the poet writes movingly about the cathartic effect of what had originally seemed like a bedraggled military adventure. “I write it out in verse,” the poet states, before going on to immortalise at least some of those who were in the vanguard of the action. “MacDonagh and MacBride/ And Connolly and Pearse/ Now and in time to be/ Wherever green is worn/ Are changed, changed utterly/ A terrible beauty is born…”

But how terrible was that strange beauty, really? That is one of the questions that we will all try to tease out over the coming twelve months. And make no mistake, we will not be short of opportunities to look back; learn a little bit more about Ireland as it was in the First World War period during which the Rising took place; reflect on the huge sacrifices that were made by those who fought and died for the idea of an independent Irish republic – and on the copious mistakes that were made

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by British and Irish alike, as London tried to work out ways of relinquishing its hold on most of the island of Ireland and Dublin set about the process of establishing the new Free State.

All over the country, events are being planned that will allow people to become more familiar with their own local stories, as well as the larger national picture. We have previewed at least some of these in the current issue of Go Rail. There is no doubt that the centenary of the Rising has become a somewhat more complicated event than might have seemed likely, when the 50th Anniversary was celebrated in 1966. Then the narrative was a relatively straightforward one: the Rebellion of 1916 and the Proclamation of the Irish Republic which was made over that Easter weekend was effectively the trigger for the foundation of the Irish State, of which we were all intensely proud.

That narrative, which in effect took the philosophy behind physical force Republicanism entirely at face value, has since been challenged not just by historians, but also by what happened on the ground here since the outbreak of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. And so the emphasis in the programme of official celebrations is now on developing a greater understanding of the shared history of all the people on the island of Ireland.

The State’s Programme for 2016 will embrace seven separate, but over-lapping strands: State Ceremonial; Historical Reflection; Youth and Imagination; Cultural Expression; Community Participation; Global and Diaspora; and An Teanga Beo (the living language).

And it will encompass themes of understanding and reconciliation, as well as reaching out to the new Irish, many of whom know little or nothing about the origins of the Irish State. Against a backdrop of wider global unrest, it seems all the more important for us, as a nation and a people, to celebrate the universal values of the Republican ideal, as immortalised in the national motto of France, established following the revolution of 1789, when the leaders of Le Republique called for liberté, égalité, fraternité.

2016 promises to be a fascinating year...

Máirin Sheehy, Editor

GO FOR IT A R U N D O W N O F W H AT ’ S H O T & H A P P E N I N G

by Peter McNally & ???

Once More With Feeling…

Are we all getting a little spoilt? Has Irish fans’ appetite for success been sated by winning the Six Nations twice in a row? Hell, no. We want that third one so badly it hurts.

We are, of course, living through the Golden Age of Irish rugby, and even the disappointment of the recent World Cup doesn’t alter the reality that Ireland are now very much the acknowledged kingpins of the Northern Hemisphere. That said, reputations will count for nothing when it all kicks off, and every game will be a titanic battle.

The last two years have seen Ireland claim the crown in nail-biting fashion on the final day’s combat. 2014 witnessed longtime talisman Brian O’Driscoll’s triumphant send-off, as Ireland pulled

off the unthinkable by going to Paris and scalping the French on home soil. But the drama of 2015 surpassed even that, with Ireland, Wales and England all in contention for the title on a final day of preposterous drama which went down to the dying seconds.

Now, the challenge is to make it three in a row.

Under Joe Schmidt’s astute guidance, there’s no reason to doubt that Ireland are more than capable of it. England are narrow favourites with the bookies, perhaps surprisingly in view of their abject failure as hosts of the recent World Cup, limping out tamely in the first round: Wales and France also will expect to mount a serious challenge. Scotland must be taken more seriously

For best value fares on all intercity services check out irishrail.ie

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than at any point in the last few years, having emerged from the World Cup with their reputation hugely enhanced, while Italy retain the capacity to give anyone a serious battle on a once-off basis while lacking the firepower or discipline to entertain realistic hopes of winning the whole thing.

Ireland’s party will get started on February 7 at the Aviva, with Wales providing the opposition, and a good start – as ever – is absolutely essential, with testing trips to Paris and London swiftly to follow. But this Irish team doesn’t accept defeat lightly, and that's even accounting for their humiliating World Cup reversal to Argentina. Dare we suggest a Grand Slam, winning all five games?

Who would rule it out?

All will be revealed this spring.

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A Green Christmas

Trad-ing Places

If things get a bit frosty this Christmas shopping season, the iconic glass dome of Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre will provide some welcome shelter. Conveniently located next to the greenery of Stephen’s Green Park, many of Dublin’s top tourist destinations, and with over a hundred outlets containing the latest high street fashions and boutique and international brands, it’s a one-stop destination for those looking to avoid the busy yuletide streets. A Dublin landmark for the past 26 years, the spectacular Victorian–style greenhouse is packed full of uniquely Irish treasures like Waterford Crystal, Newbridge Silver, art, antiques and jewellery. And, when shopper’s fatigue inevitably sets in, there are ample resting spots from which you can marvel at the historic architecture and bountiful mouthwatering eateries to help recharge the batteries.

The mighty folk trio of Liam O Maonlai (voice/piano), Kevin Burke (fiddle) and Tim Edey (guitar/melodeon) join forces for a nationwide tour in the New Year, commencing January 26. Their whistle-stop jaunt includes stop-offs at Ennis, Wexford ,Cork and Newbridge. For those who like their traditional music delivered passionately and with glittering intelligence… it’s a must see! full details at musicnetwork.ie

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Julie Andrews at Dublin Film Festival

Need To Know...

WHERE: Cinemas around Dublin WHEN: Feb 18 - 28 NEAREST STATION: Connolly & Heuston

A Little Flick Of What You Fancy Over the past 13 years, The Dublin International Film Festival has become Ireland’s premier movie event. The starstudded affair regularly hosts the Irish premieres of major international and homegrown films and has been known to attract A-list attendees like Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Al Pacino, Julie Andrews, Daniel Day-Lewis and U2.

To establish a special focus on Irish cinema, the festival inaugurated The Irish Talent Spotlight to profile exceptional new and established talent working in all areas of the Irish film industry. For 10 days the festival will take over Dublin’s city centre cinemas, including the IFI, The Lighthouse, Cineworld and the Savoy for a celebration of the silver screen that concludes with the prestigious Volta Awards

Trad For It!

The Lost Brothers

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TradFest Temple Bar January 27–31 Since 2005 The Temple Bar TradFest has been the capital’s biggest showcase of Irish and international folk music.

This year’s event is sure to build on previous successes, with events taking place in some of Dublin’s most historic venues, such as City Hall, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle, which will host the TradFest Folk and Trad Gala concerts. The line-up is already packed with the best of Irish talent, including Duke Special, Ciaran Lavery, Luka Bloom, The Stunning, The Lost Brothers, and a special evening celebrating the 40–year career of Foster and Allen. The festival will also commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the 1916 Rising in song, music and poetry, culminating in a performance of a new Requiem For 1916 composed by Odhrán Ó Casaide.

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Our exhibitions will be open over the festive season: 10am - 5pm, Tuesday 29 to Thursday 31 December 2015

A WORLD CLASS VISITOR EXPERIENCE KIDS GO FREE!

COME LATER IN THE DAY TO SEE THE CLIFFS IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT

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The Coronas

KINGDOM COME John Spillane

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN Need To Know...

WHERE: Dublin WHEN: Dec 30 - Jan 1 NEAREST STATION: Connolly & Heuston

Dublin will be ringing in the New Year in style yet again with a joyous citywide celebration of Ireland’s arts and culture courtesy of The New Year’s Festival Dublin. A vibrant spectrum of events will take over the city’s streets and venues, culminating in the huge Three Countdown Concert in 3Arena.

Surrounding this, the Music Trail will bring you to some unique locations and some of the city’s best-loved venues, while the dazzling light installations, music and performers of the stunning Procession of Light will illuminate the streets. In addition to this, returning attractions include the NYF Food Village and the Spoken Word festival. Once the celebrations die down you can begin the New Year on a positive note with Resolution Day on January 1, which includes a 5k fun run, an outdoor cinema, and Proclamation; a night of talks in Christ Church Cathedral on the subject of mental health.

The 17th Gathering Traditional Festival Killarney – February 17–21 Some of Ireland’s leading traditional musicians descend on Killarney’s INEC for what promises to be an early spring shindig to remember.

In addition to top-class performers (last year’s headliners included John Spillane, Donagh Hennessy, Pauline Scanlon and Eilish Kennedy), the festival will also feature extensive workshops, ceilis, family-friendly evenings and pub sessions. There’s the added bonus that Killarney is easily accessible by train, with the railway station bang in the middle of the beautiful downtown area.

And while Kerry may have been well beaten in this year’s All Ireland Football Final, fortunately there’s more to the Kingdom than sport, with the Gathering serving as an early-year jewel in its crown.

THE KIDS WINTER ARE ALRIGHT WONDERLAND

Volunteers of the Third Tipperary Brigade during the war

Keith Barry

RDS Primary Schools Science Fair – January 7–9 The biggest Primary Schools Science Fair yet will take place both at the RDS, alongside the Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, and also in Limerick at Mary Immaculate College.

Rather than a competition like the Young Scientists, the Fair is about participation and developing students’ core scientific skills.

Open for students from fourth to sixth class, the registration deadline has now passed – but students can still attend the events in both Limerick and Dublin and witness for themselves the enthusiasm young Irish people are showing for science and engineering.

Rebel Yell Revolution 1916 Exhibition – The Ambassador The 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising is celebrated in a variety of ways through the year, with an exhibition in Dublin one of the longer-running commemorations. The Ambassador will make for a suitable location. Not only is it literally a stone’s throw from the GPO, on the steps of which Padraig Pearse read the original proclamation – the former theatre and ice-rink was the scene of several mass meetings by the Irish Volunteers and also served as backdrop for the famous picture of British soldiers posing with the captured flag of the newly-declared republic. Featured in the exhibition will be 500 artefacts, including uniforms, weapons, correspondence – and even an actual door handle from the GPO.

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Waterford City, Nov 20–Dec 23.

Waterford’s annual Winterval festival sees Christmas take over the coastal town for a month of fun seasonal events. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill holiday bazaar; events take place all over the city, from the Viking Settlement at the historic Greyfriars French Church to the stunning winter garden on Millenium Plaza. Family-friendly happenings like the Christmas carousel and weekly storytelling will keep the kiddos happy, while late night shows and club events provide a more grown-up kind of fun. Visit winterval.ie for a full calendar of events.

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Imelda May

Kerry Gold Glow For It Christmas at INEC, Killarney It’s all happening at Killarney INEC this Christmas. The soulful Swing Cats rock the venue on December 17, while December 28 welcomes Red Hurley for a Christmas Cabaret.

Also performing Yuletide favourites and more, Brendan Shine will grace the room the following evening. And on New Year’s Eve, a proper extravaganza will be on the cards as Imelda May is joined by Damien Dempsey and newcomers Hudson Taylor. Check inec.ie for more info.

Glow - A Cork Christmas Celebration – Bishop Lucey Park, Cork, Nov 27– Dec 20 GLOW is a family-oriented festival that everyone can enjoy. Presented by the City Council, it transforms Cork into a city of lights: spectacular displays in Bishop Lucey Park accompany Friday holiday markets, Christmas choirs, and Ireland’s tallest Ferris Wheel. The festival also features special events and shopping promotions; visit christmasincork.ie for a list of events and discounts.

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Winter's Coming Winter Solstice at Newgrange – December 21 Ireland’s pagan heritage is still alive and well - a trip to Newgrange this December will confirm that. Every year, hundreds gather at the ancient passage tomb to celebrate the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice. The sunrise on Winter Solstice fills the passage tomb with pure golden light; revelers lucky enough to be inside the chamber bear witness to an extraordinary sight. Winter Solstice occurs on December 21.

While it’s too late to enter to win a spot inside the chamber, anyone and everyone is welcome to greet the sun outside. New Age drums and flags encouraged.

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The Roots and (below) Mark Ronson

Whiskey Business Need To Know...

WHERE: Oliver Plunkett St, Cork WHEN: All Week NEAREST STATION: Kent Station, Cork

Frisky Irish Whiskey Bar @ The Oliver Plunkett The Oliver Plunkett is a traditional Irish pub, located on Oliver Plunkett Street in Cork City. If you’re looking for great live music seven nights a week, this is the place to be! Expect the finest traditional music, best pints of Guinness, a great old-world atmosphere and the most laid-back, charming bar staff in south-west Ireland.

The real gem of the Plunkett, however, is The Frisky Irish Whiskey Bar, a whiskey lover’s dream. The trained staff will be able to help you find the right whiskey for your taste from their extensive collection. Food is served daily with a wide variety of locally sourced, freshly prepared dishes available from morning til night. They also play host to a commemorative West Cork Railway Model which circles the bar at regular intervals throughout the day.

Al Porter:catch him in panto this Christmas FREEZIN’: THE STORY OF THE SNOW QUEEN – The Olympia, Dec 18–Jan 10 Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a blockrocking panto and this year it’s the story of the Snow Queen that receives the ‘oh no he isn’t’ treatment. Comedian Al Porter leads the cast in what promises to be a typically sumptuous and enjoyable Olympia pantomime, which will appeal to fans of Frozen and those who enjoy an ice time in general. Freezin’: The Story of the Snow Queen takes on Disney mega-hit Frozen (which takes on Hans Christian Andersen classic The Snow Queen), but in an entirely Irish fashion. Porter plays her majesty Lolly Polly.

Aged only 21, this will be his 11th year appearing in panto.

Porter’s turn in Freezin’ will feature plenty of singing, dancing, and “letting go” for the whole family to enjoy. Visit olympiatheatre.ie for tickets and information.

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CHAMPIONS OF THE WORLD

Dine In Dublin – Dublin City, February 20–29 Dublin is building a reputation as one of Europe’s culinary capitals.

Building on its enhanced standing with foodies, Dine In Dublin will promote some of the great dining to be had in the city centre, with restaurants showcasing their wares with special offers and one-off events. Participating eateries will run the gamut from barbecue to 'new Irish' cuisine to casual bar dining – and everything in between.

Check dineindublin.ie for more info.

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T R A I N news

Train to Paris Highlights Role of Rail In Fighting Climate Change The COP21 climate change conference in Paris saw the international railway sector highlight how train travel can help reduce carbon emissions.

UIC (Union International de Chemins de Fer) is the worldwide professional association representing the railway sector and promoting rail transport, of which Iarnród Éireann is a member. To highlight the role rail can play in making the planet’s transport more sustainable, UIC organised Train to Paris: a synchronised network of trains which arrived in Paris from across Asia and Europe, for COP21, the United Nations Climate Change Conference at the end of November. The campaign involved railways from around the world, with trains arriving in Paris from across Asia and Europe, and some originating from Mongolia, Russia and China.

Did you know rail transport can help protect the climate by: • Reducing CO2 emissions: on average, a journey by train emits three to 10 times less CO2 than the equivalent journey by road or air.

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• Reducing greenhouse-gas emissions: rail represents 9% of transport worldwide, but produces only 3% of total transport-sector greenhouse-gas emissions.

• Increasing the share of renewable energy source in the energy mix used to power trains: wind, solar, hydroelectric, etc.

Transport alone is causing about one quarter of global CO2-emissions, and the projections made by international bodies see a tremendous increase in emissions over the coming decades, particularly in China, India, Russia and other emerging economies.

It is not possible to achieve the goals set at COP21 without action to reduce transport emissions.

The aim of the "Train to Paris" campaign is to raise awareness of the important role of sustainable transport, and low carbon rail transport, in the solution to both climate change mitigation and adaptation.

You’re supporting low carbon transport by being on board with us today, and you can learn more and follow the campaign at traintoparis.org

TRAINSPOTTING

COURT ORDERS CLEANUP BY GRAFFITI VANDALS Two graffiti vandals who were caught damaging trains in Inchicore rail works as part of a sting operation by Iarnród Éireann have been ordered to head back to the scene of the crime to clean-up future graffiti attacks.

David O’Hara of Raheny and Ricardo Albert of Cork were also required to pay compensation to an assaulted security officer by Dublin District Court.

It was an early success for Iarnród Éireann’s campaign to tackle graffiti on its trains and network, with over €250,000 worth of damage caused to trains alone in graffiti attacks so far this year. Security personnel were monitoring an area and apprehended the two, with Albert kicking a member of security personnel in the head as he attempted to flee the scene.

He pleaded guilty to assault at Dublin District Court. O’Hara entered a guilty plea for trespass.

A spokesperson for Iarnród Éireann said “the ‘defence’ by these two vandals that this was an ‘artistic project’ was rightly rejected. Graffiti is not art; it is vandalism. Assault and trespass are not art, they involve putting other human beings and their own lives at risk. We look forward to welcoming Mr O’Hara and Mr Albert to Inchicore over the next six months to help repair the damage caused by other graffiti vandals. We welcome the seriousness with which the court treated these acts of vandalism and intend to continue our efforts to prevent, apprehend and prosecute graffiti attacks.”

Enhanced Enterprise Customers on the Belfast Enterprise service have been getting their initial taste of a new standard of service, now that the first Enterprise train to benefit from a €17.3 million (£12.2 million) train upgrade programme is back in service.

The Enterprise refurbishment programme has been financed through the European Union’s INTERREG IVA Programme, which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) with support from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) in Ireland, and Northern Ireland’s Department for Regional Development. The full fleet will re-enter service in the coming weeks.

Customers Will Benefit From: • Transformation of the interior of the train, including seating; power sockets at every seat; plush carpets; new tables and lightings; new signage • Improved catering area and Enterprise Menu, with table service in the dining car for Enterprise Class (standard) passengers, and waiter service for Enterprise Plus • New on-board systems, including audio-visual passenger information; new public address system; enhanced CCTV; new Train Management system; and an electronic seat reservation system from early 2016 • A modern new look with a stylish livery and a

transformation of the interior of the train Work is also complete on investment in the Drogheda Viaduct, a key part of the route. In receipt of €6 million/£4.3 million worth of funding under the EU’s INTERREG IVA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), the project will ensure that existing journey times on the Dublin-Belfast railway line are maintained.

A significant refurbishment, the project has involved the installation of a new drainage system to capture and remove rainwater, steelwork repairs to replace sections of the bridge’s steel infrastructure and the relaying of track work over the viaduct itself.

Designed by Irish civil engineer Sir John MacNeill, construction of the viaduct was originally completed in 1855 and at the time was considered to be one of the wonders of the age. It is an icon of the town of Drogheda, and of Irish civil engineering.

Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail was the lead partner for the delivery of the refurbishment project, which will now ensure the safe and efficient operation of the railway line.

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FOLLOW THE BOYS IN GREEN TO FRANCE! There’s a huge summer of sport ahead, and the highlight will see both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland compete in Euro 2016. It’s the first time both teams will participate at a major tournament, and they’re also joined by Wales and England to add to the atmosphere.

No sooner had they qualified of course than air fares to France shot up, so why not travel overland? Rosslare Europort has a range of options directly to France from Irish Ferries and Stena Line. Visit http://rosslareeuroport.irishrail. ie/ to find out more.

You can also pick up an InterRail pass to suit your journeys through France, whether you’re going for one match or following the full campaign. Visit the InterRail section of our website www.irishrail.ie – they start from three-day one-country passes, or – if you’re superconfident that you’ll need a pass all the way to the final – book the InterRail monthly pass.

And practice some essential phrases. Like: olé olé olé!

T R A I N news Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe TD presents award to Anthony Monaghan, Station Manager, Dundalk and Martin Dullaghan, Dundalk Station

Movember On Track A 30-strong team of Iarnród Éireann staff showed their support for Movember this year.

Dundalk is Ireland’s Best Station!

Dundalk’s Clarke Station has been named Overall Best Train Station in Ireland at the annual Iarnród Éireann Best Station Awards.

Dundalk Station plays a key role in both the commuter town itself and the surrounding area. The busy commuter and Belfast Enterprise stop serves over a thousand customers every day, and the staff were commended for their customer service and pride in their station at the recent Iarnród Éireann Best Station Awards.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe was on hand to present the Dundalk team with the Overall Best Station prize. Dundalk Station also is home to a beautiful railway museum that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

David Franks, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann said: “Winning the title of Best Station in Ireland is a high honour and I congratulate Anthony Monaghan, Martin Dullaghan and all the staff who work so hard to give our customers a positive experience as they pass through the station every day. Our customers are the most important part of our business, so it is fitting that they should choose the winner of the Best Station Awards.”

The winners are chosen by public vote, with almost 4,000 customers rating their stations as part of this year’s awards, by Customer Information, Station Appearance and Staff Helpfulness.

Anthony and Martin collected the award on behalf of Dundalk, along with District Manager Tom Ayres. The magnificent crystal locomotive trophy was presented to the team and it will adorn Dundalk Station throughout the next year.

Regional winners Dundalk also collected the title of Best Leinster Station, beating off competition from fellow

nominees Mullingar and Carlow.

Munster saw Millstreet taking the top title this year. Brian Gardiner and Michael Mullane were proud to pick up the award. Mallow and Templemore stations were highly commended by customers.

Westport was once again victorious in the Connacht category, and station manager Anne Elliot was delighted to pick up their award.

Ballina and Dromod were highly commended in the category.

In the Commuter category, overall winners last year, Hazelhatch, took the top award, with Patricia Bermingham and Joe Brophy on hand to collect the prize. Balbriggan and Arklow, meanwhile, were also highly commended in the Commuter category.

The Best DART station for 2015 was Malahide, with special mention going to the beautiful garden, which is maintained by the local community. Mark Jolley collected the award for Malahide, which saw off southside competition from Dun Laoghaoire and Sandycove & Glasthule.

Customer Service Award In addition to regional winners, a special award was presented at the ceremony. Dromod Station collected the special crystal steam locomotive trophy for Best Customer Service. As a key station on the Sligo line, it provides customer care of the highest standards. Customers recognised this in the voting, giving top marks to Dromod for customer service. David Cunningham and all the staff at Dromod were commended for their excellent service to all those who pass through the station; they always have a friendly smile and a helpful word, knowing many of the commuters by name.

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Iarnród Éireann's support for Movember – the annual drive to raise funds for men's health issues, including fighting cancer and mental health problems – put us on track as part of a global movement. Over five million have joined the movement since 2003, raising €469m and funding over 1,000 projects that focus on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity.

Gender is one of the strongest and most consistent predictors of health and life expectancy. For men, this is not good news.

On average, across the world, men die six years earlier than women.

Moreover, mental health affects men more than women: three quarters of suicides are by men. The World Health Organisation estimates that 510,000 men die from suicide globally each year. That’s one every minute.

The impact of prostate and testicular cancer on lives is substantial, with prostate cancer being the second most common cancer in men worldwide. The number of cases is expected to almost double to 1.7 million by 2030.

This is exactly why the Movember Foundation focuses on men’s health. And it's why Mo Bros and Mo Sistas from across the globe become a united voice every Movember, bringing vital funding and attention to the hidden men’s health crisis.

The Movember Foundation engages men and women, businesses, sporting groups, community organisations, governments, health policy makers and healthcare providers in an effort to reduce the current gender inequality in health outcomes.

Plans for DART Every 10 Minutes Announced

TRAINSPOTTING

A major DART service expansion is planned for early 2016. This service enhancement, in response to continuing passenger growth, is the highlight of draft 2016 schedules for Connolly routes.

PASSENGER GROWTH ACCELERATING

Ann Graham, Chief Executive, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe TD and Jim Meade, Director of Railway Operations, Iarnród Éireann

Major changes to Connolly services in response to increases in customer demand include: • DART weekday 10-minute frequency: A major increase in weekday DART frequency from every 15 minutes to every 10 minutes all day.

• DART weekday earlier start time: The first DART services are proposed to operate at 05.50 from Malahide (currently 06.30), 06.00 from Howth (currently 06.05), and 05.35 from Bray (currently 05.40) • DART weekend frequency: A consistent schedule every 15 minutes on Saturday, and every 20 minutes on Sunday, eliminating some existing schedule gaps.

• Extra express morning peak service from Dundalk/Drogheda: as the existing morning Belfast Enterprise service will now serve Dundalk at the earlier time of 07.30hrs and Drogheda at 07.54hrs, a new express service is proposed to depart Dundalk at

07.55hrs, serving Drogheda at 08.20hrs.

• Increased frequency for Dundalk: This peak service is one of three new services in each direction daily for Dundalk on weekdays.

• Dublin/Belfast Enterprise changes: a revised Dublin/ Belfast Enterprise schedule will see a more even interval between services, resulting in some significant changes to departure times.

• Departure time changes on all Connolly routes: while the above are the more significant changes, Iarnród Éireann advises all customers on all Connolly routes to view the draft schedules, as many services will see departure time changes, or changes to stopping patterns of individual trains which may affect their journeys.

The draft schedules were developed with the National Transport Authority, and final changes arising from public consultation and implementation are subject to the approval of the Authority.

The enhanced services proposed follow passenger growth over the past two years, with Iarnród Éireann passenger numbers building on growth which saw journeys increase from 36.7 million in 2013 to 37.8 million in 2014, with 5% growth recorded so far this year across all services. DART growth is greater still, up 8% so far in 2015.

Comments and concerns received from customers will be examined to identify major issues and improvements suggested. Iarnród Éireann will endeavour to implement customers’ suggestions where possible.

Suggested alterations which cannot be implemented at this timetable change will be retained in a database for consideration at future timetable reviews. It is then intended to implement the new schedule, incorporating customer feedback where possible, and subject to the approval of the National Transport Authority, early in the New Year.

It is intended that the move to a DART service every 10 minutes at weekdays would be the first phase in a programme of DART service expansion which would also include further weekend service expansion.

Draft schedule revisions for Heuston routes will be published early in the New Year for implementation in Spring 2016.

Best Wishes For The Season Dear Customers, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you! On behalf of everyone in Iarnród Éireann, thank you for travelling with us in 2015 and we look forward to welcoming you on board in 2016.

We have an exciting year ahead as we continue to work to give you the best possible service. Already, a number of major projects are underway which we hope you will benefit from in the year ahead. These include: • Expanded DART frequency with a service every 10

minutes planned from early 2016 • The opening of the Phoenix Park Tunnel for regular commuter rail services, giving customers on the commuter routes into Heuston the option of travelling directly to stations between Connolly and Grand Canal Dock also.

• The fully refurbished Enterprise fleet will be back in service, meaning Dublin Belfast customers will have a transformed experience on board.

• The first benefits of our major Customer First programme to transform our booking, ticketing, and customer engagement systems will be delivered • We will commemorate the centenary of the 1916

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Rising with special displays and events in the 15 stations around our network named after the leaders of the Rising.

• We will continue to provide a range of offers and promotions to give you the best possible value when travelling with Iarnród Éireann.

We look forward to delivering these and other improvements, and to being your travel mode of choice for leisure, commuting, business, family, sporting and musical events and more.

David Franks, Chief Executive

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T H E C O R R S A R E B A C K – A N D T H I S T I M E I T ’ S RE A L LY P E R S O N A L ONE OF THE BIGGEST STORIES IN IRISH MUSIC THROUGH THE ’90S, THE CORRS HAVE REFORMED. THE INSPIRATION FOR THEIR NEW ALBUM WAS PARTICULARLY POIGNANT, THEY TELL OLAF TYARANSEN.

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he Corrs reunion happened out of the blue - and with little expectation, recalls the band’s Sharon Corr.

“In September Caroline did a ring round of us all just to say, ‘Not really any pressure but would we be interested in doing something together… whatever that would be’. She was organic about it and like, ‘Do we feel like doing this?’, ‘Does everybody want to do this?’; and we all were interested. Pretty much everybody came on board straight away.”

2015 will always be remembered as a bittersweet year by all four surviving members of the Corr family. Having prematurely lost their beloved mother, Jean, back in 1999, their equally adored father, Gerry, passed away in April following a short illness. His death was partly what inspired Sharon, Andrea, Caroline and Jim to finally reunite their megasuccessful family band after a near 11-year hiatus.

Mindful of the inevitable record company interest in a reunion, they deliberately kept the pressure off themselves. “It was nice, because we did it really under the radar,” reflects Sharon. “We totally dictated it ourselves and we didn’t draw any attention to it, just in case it didn’t feel right. We didn’t tell any record companies. And basically what we did was, we sort of tasked each other with writing, and then we brought all our ideas into a tiny little studio in London. We just tried it out to see if the chemistry was still there.”

Thankfully, their creative click was more or less instantaneous. “It kind of predetermined itself from day one,” notes Sharon. “I mean, Jim had this lovely piece on piano which became ‘Strange Romance’, and it was immediate, the magic was there between the four of us. We could feel that we were enjoying it. So we kept going, and then we realised we’re

not just writing – we’re actually producing and recording this. We told the record company about six months later, when we had a body of work behind us and something to show.”

Had the band never played together at private family gatherings over the last decade?

“No, I mean not as a four-piece we haven’t at all,” explains Sharon. “The only thing we did do was Jim joined me a couple of times when I was out on tour [promoting my solo album], and Caroline did, too. And then the first time that we actually played together before this was when our dad passed away. We played for him at his funeral mass, so that was the strangest feeling ever, but we knew he would have wanted it. So that was the first time we played together as a four-piece in ten years.”

They played their official comeback gig in Hyde Park in September. All four Corrs are now parents themselves, and the show was the very first time their offspring had seen them all on stage together.

“We did that show for BBC Radio 2,” says Sharon. “And yeah, that was the first time the kids had seen The Corrs on stage. I have to say that is part of the reason behind it, because it’s strange that you would have children and they would never see you do this.

“We toured together all over the world for 20 years, so it’s great for the kids to see us happy doing it. Personally I feel it’s important for your kids to see you expressing yourself outside of what you do for them. I think it’s a very positive influence on their lives.”

The Corrs have just released their sixth album, White Light, their first major release since 2005’s Home. Although the title track is a tribute to the late Amy Winehouse, inspired by Asif Kapadia’s recent Amy documentary, they never actually met the tragic singer.

“We didn’t,” acknowledges Sharon. “I mean, she was a pretty amazing person. What a vocalist. So ahead of her time, so talented… but obviously not built to cope with this industry.

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The glare was dreadful for her. Andrea had been to the film, and Caroline had started writing this piece, and we started working it in the studio. Andrea looked at the lyrics she had written on her phone while she was watching the film.

“Something that had stuck with her was what Tony Bennett said – ‘You’ve gotta live long enough to learn how to live’. Sometimes things seem so incredibly important when you’re younger that when you look back when you’re older, you realise that, well, I really didn’t need to spend as much time worrying about that or take that as seriously. If Amy had been able to take some more time, perhaps she might have gotten through, but she was a bright light and she burned fast.”

First coming to prominence in the mid-’90s, despite their international fame and celebrity, The Corrs themselves never had to deal with the same level of media intrusion.

“I don’t think we ever in our career experienced what Amy did,” Sharon reflects.

“Even when we were younger, the tabloid press was not as prevalent, and there wasn’t that sort of intrusion into private lives. It was not really the done thing for the vast majority of our early career. It was something that crept in later, this whole paparazzi thing, trying to catch you outside the nightclub and so on.

“I don’t believe we gave them much ammunition to be honest. We probably weren’t interesting enough with the little side stories and the sort of sensational stuff that they need to feed that big beast. So I think Amy came at a tougher time. It was becoming increasingly acceptable to go through your rubbish, and even now that’s even changing again because of all the inquiries. I just don’t really see us having gone through what she did.

“I do believe though that because we are four, and she was one, that she was more vulnerable.

We would have had the ability of bolstering each other if we were feeling it too much. We

barry mccall

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Natasha Bedingfield

Andrea Corr at The Corrs’ secret gig at the Ruby Sessions

Amy Winehouse

could go ‘Don’t worry about that’ or ‘Don’t go to that place’, or ‘Don’t be seen there because that’s where they hang out’. It’s a sad story.”

While the band wrote and composed most of the songs themselves, there are a couple of co-writes on White Light. One of these, ‘Kiss of Life’, was written with Natasha Bedingfield.

How did that come about?

“Well, it’s actually sort of a three-way write,” says Sharon. “We wanted to work with John Shanks and we asked him to produce some of the record. I think he produced seven tracks on the album. We’d worked with him many years ago on ‘Dreams’ and on ‘When I Sleep’, so we knew him and we knew that we’d get on well.

We’d been following his career, and he went on to do pretty amazing stuff.

“So when we were agreeing to do the album together, we agreed to do some co-writes with him. He also co-writes with Natasha Bedingfield and another girl called Lisa Anne Cunningham. He co-writes with many people all the time, and he brought in the early idea of this track that he’d worked on with Natasha.

Andrea actually wrote all the lyrics on that track, and then we worked the song to a different place.”

They’ll be touring the album internationally next year, but the promo has already begun. As we speak, they’ve just returned from doing a

Sharon Corr at The Corrs’ secret gig at the Ruby Sessions

TV show in Paris. So how was the mood there?

“It’s low,” sighs Sharon. “It’s very tangible the feeling. We were very glad to be there, I have to say. We passed the memorial site on the way back from the TV show we did that night, and it just kind of shocks your heart for a second.

It’s deeply bewildering that that could happen.

That it could be done to music fans, to people going out to cafés, to people just… it’s a real strike at society and a way of life. It was very, very sad, we could see our old record company very hurt by it, personally knowing people there.

“We’ve played the Batalcan, I remember the gig very well. We did it in May many years ago, around ‘97. It was one of the earlier Corrs gigs.

It’s a rite of passage, that venue, for every band.

What’s happened is absolutely horrible. It’s so wrong on every level that this could be done in the name of a god. It’s not in the Koran, so I don’t know where these guys come from, and I’m not going to go down the political or religious route on this, but it’s just wrong.

The day we were leaving Paris, the whole memorial service was happening. It’s really heart-breaking and they’re afraid. They don’t know what’s coming next, and nor do any of us really.”

Given that they’ll be spending most of next year living in each other’s pockets on the road,

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are The Corrs planning a family get-together this Christmas? Or will they all be separately doing their own things?

“Well, a little bit of both actually,” Sharon laughs. “I think Andrea and Caroline may be together a little bit before Christmas and then I think Caroline and myself, and possibly Jim, will get our kids together after Christmas for a little holiday. I’m looking forward to it, we’re doing a lot of promotion at the moment and enjoying every minute. We’re all very excited and enjoying being back and working together.

It’s very positive. And we need some time out then, because we start rehearsing for the tour on the 4th of January… so a little bit of rest and recuperation and then we’ll get into rehearsing.”

Does Sharon Corr have a New Year’s resolution?

“Just to live in the moment as much as possible,” she says. “Especially in times like these, just to be in the moment and to cherish all the beautiful moments, and to not miss them. I’ve been doing that so much since we lost Dad. I’ve had this extra sense of, ‘OK, these are the moments you will regret missing’, because you’re grieving or thinking about something else or whatever it is. So I want to live in the moment. That’s my resolution.”

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R E V O L U T I O N In 2016, Ireland will celebrate the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising, an event that was one of the defining moments of Irish history – and which set in motion the developments that would ultimately lead to Irish Independence.

The shell of the GPO on Sackville Street, (now O’Connell Street) Dublin after the Easter Rising, 1916. Image: National Library of Ireland

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he Easter Rising began on Easter Monday 1916 with the reading of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic at the GPO, in O’Connell Street, in the centre of Dublin, by the aspiring poet, teacher and revolutionary, Padraig Pearse.

Fittingly then, the historic Georgian façade of that crucial site will be centrally important to the celebrations which are planned for the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising, which take place next year. A detail from the building will be emblazoned on a dramatic set of commemorative coins, while the building itself will become home to a brand new immersive exhibition, dedicated to the history of the Rising.

The exhibition is just one of many fascinating contributions to a voluminous calendar of events that will take place all over Ireland, to celebrate Irish independence and the lives, and sacrifices, of those who fought so hard to achieve it.

Under the themes of Remembering, Reconciling, Presenting, Imagining and Celebrating, the Centenary Programme intends to proudly commemorate Ireland’s past, as well as the country’s present and future, in a manner that will engage those at home and abroad, with a little help here and there from some of our small nation’s best and brightest!

Ahead of the festivities, Go Rail here brings you a selection of highlights from what is sure to be an exciting year, as we celebrate the inter-connected ideas of freedom, independence and sovereignty, that were so important to the Proclamation.

In Living History

Still a hub of activity on Dublin’s busy main thoroughfare of O’Connell Street, the iconic Georgian home of An Post at the GPO is inextricably linked with the events of the 1916 Rising. The building was dramatically commandeered by the Rebel Army and served as the headquarters for the leaders of the uprising. It was from under its portico that Padraig Pearse first read out the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, declaring Ireland a sovereign and independent Republic. In truth, the Republic envisioned

by Pearse and his cohorts only finally came into being in 1948. But the seeds had been sown in O’Connell Street, on that fateful Easter weekend. While all but the facade of the GPO was destroyed during the Rising, An Post’s copy of the proclamation survived and has been displayed in the An Post Museum at the GPO ever since.

Now, as part of the programme to celebrate the centenary of the Easter Rising, a brand new immersive exhibition and visitor experience entitled GPO: Witness History is set to open in March 2016, located in a €7 million centre in the inner courtyard of the GPO. Created by An Post and managed by Shannon Heritage, GPO: Witness History aims to bring history to life, using cutting edge technology and many previously unseen authentic historical artefacts to tell the story of the foundation of the State.

The centrepiece is sure to be the semicircular audio-visual space that will place

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visitors inside the GPO during the five days for which it was both the military command centre and the seat of the Provisional Irish Government. An action-packed attraction that will appeal to visitors of all ages, interests and nationalities, GPO: Witness History will provide a close-up look at real life in Dublin city, across Ireland and the wider world at the time of the 1916 Rising.

The new centre will also include a café overlooking the historic courtyard of the GPO and a gift shop.

For more information visit gpowitnesshistory.ie.

Hit The Books

The unparalleled collections that are housed in the National Library of Ireland represent an incredible resource for those interested in expanding their knowledge of Ireland in 1916. To mark the centenary of the Rising, the Library is embarking on a major digitisation project that will see original documents and photographs relating to the seven signatories of the 1916 Proclamation (Éamonn Ceannt, Thomas Clark, James Connolly, Seán MacDiarmada, Thomas MacDonagh, Padraig Pearse and Joseph Plunkett) made available to the public through the NLI website. This magnificent resource will complement the NLI’s already established 1916 web-portal, The 1916 Rising: Personalities and Perspectives, an in-depth online exhibition of material that draws on the Library’s rich holdings of books, newspapers, photographs, drawings, proclamations and manuscripts.

In addition to these online resources, the NLI will also run a number of ‘collecting days’ during which people can submit personal material connected to 1916. At the National Photographic Archive, meanwhile, from February 2016 onwards, a landmark photographic exhibition, entitled simply Rising, will transport visitors back to the sights and sounds of 1916, and there will be an opportunity to explore your own personal connection to the Rising in Tracing Your Ancestors in the Revolutionary Period, a week-long series of events that will allow visitors to explore their family history between the years 1912–1922.

For full details on the NLI’s exciting 1916 programme of events, visit nli.ie.

Two Of A Coin

The Central Bank of Ireland is planning to release commemorative and circulating coins to mark the centenary of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, in two beautiful designs.

In January 2016, the Central Bank will release 4.5 million commemorative €2 coins into general circulation, to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. This will be the first time that Ireland has issued its own commemorative €2 circulation coin.

The design for this coin, superbly executed by Emmet Mullins, was chosen following a competition that saw 52 Irish and international designers submit proposals, based on the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, which was read by Patrick Pearse outside the GPO on April 24, 1916.

This is the first circulating €2 coin of its type produced by the Central Bank. Brigid

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An immersive GPO exhibit, and (right) two of the commemorative coins

Lanigan, of the Central Bank’s Collector Coin Unit, has described it as “a huge achievement to put out our own commemorative circulating coin.”

Another excellent design, by artist Michael Guilfoyle, was also chosen and will be produced as a set of silver and gold proof coins. These collector coins are struck by BH Mayer Mint in Germany, using a special, highquality minting process and will also feature a selection of key phrases from the Proclamation.

These coins come in presentation boxes with certificates of authentication, and will be available for purchase from March 2016.

Both the circulating and commemorative coins feature depictions of the statue of Hibernia, the historic personification of Ireland, on top of the GPO in Dublin, which became the headquarters of the provisional government during the Rising.

“The fact that Hibernia is an element common to both designs was a wonderful coincidence,” Brigid reflects. “They were both strong designs that related effectively back to the GPO and its association with the Easter Rising and the reading of the Proclamation.”

State Of The Art

Announcing the Arts Council’s exciting programme to commemorate the 1916 Rising, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather

Humphreys TD, made some interesting observations about the importance of culture and the arts in Ireland at the time. “The arts and culture were an essential element of the movement that led to the events of the 1916 Rising,” the Minister observed, “with the Gaelic and Literary revivals helping to inspire a new generation. It is vital, therefore, that the arts are central to the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme.”

Nine major art projects have been commissioned to commemorate the centenary, selected from an open call that received over 250 submissions.

These include Future Histories

by Niamh Murphy and Áine Phillips, a dawn-to-dusk live art and video event at Kilmainham Gaol; The Casement Project, a stage performance, dance festival and academic symposium about Roger Casement; The Souvenir Shop, a city centre shop created by Rita Duffy, filled with foodstuffs, goods and medicines with images of the 1916 Rising and its heroes, woven into everyday things; plus much more.

In addition to these nine commissioned works, a special bursary will be offered to 16 emerging artists; arts events will be brought to communities across Ireland; and a televised concert of a specially commissioned piece by Shaun Davey and Paul Muldoon, featuring dozens of the nation’s best choirs, will be broadcast on television.

More details and a full list of

commissioned work can be found at artscouncil. ie/Ireland2016.

Imagining Home

A selection of Ireland’s most renowned musicians, writers, thinkers and acclaimed international artists are all set to gather at the National Concert Hall for seven themed concerts, to mark Ireland’s centenary as an independent Republic.

Among them are some of the nation’s most important artists, with hugely successful musicians like Paul Brady, Glen Hansard and Maura O’Connell set to rub shoulders with Ireland’s literary leading lights Anne Enright, John Banville, Kevin Barry and Paul Muldoon.

The themes of the concerts – America; England; Into Europe; On Revolution; The Literary Imagination; This Is Ireland; and Out Of Tradition – have been selected to explore Ireland’s cultural journey over the past 100 years, its place in the world today and its shared future.

Alongside performances of works by seminal Irish artists like Samuel Beckett and John

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Field, and celebrations of Irish traditional music and our rich literary heritage alike, there will also be a world premiere of a new commission, Casement/ Conrad, Conrad

by Colm Toibin and acclaimed composer Donnacha Dennehy, which will be performed by The Crash Ensemble.

Minister of State at the department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, heralded the Imagining Home series as an event that “will allow us to enjoy the wealth of artistic and creative talent for which Ireland is known globally.” He also said that it will provide, “a special opportunity to raise further international awareness of Ireland and celebrate Ireland as a nation of strong creativity and artistic excellence.”

And so say all of us...

To see the amazing list of artists involved visit nch.ie/Online/ Imagining-Home-News.

Our National Treasures

Over 15,000 iconic objects, many on display for the first time, will form the basis of a major new exhibition called Proclaiming A Republic: The 1916 Rising in the National Museum of Ireland at Collins Barracks. The dramatic events of Easter Week are to be explored through the stories of civilians, rebels, and the leaders of

The GPO as it stands today

“The Rising commemorations will take place all around the globe”

1916 over the coming 12 months.

The programme will also include a 1916 Online Learning Resource aimed at primary and post-primary students, which will include key objects from the Proclaiming A Republic exhibition, like the shirt worn by James Connolly during Easter Week, surrender notes from the leaders and medical bottles used in City Hall.

In addition to talks, tours and re-enactments, the Museum of

the Rising, and this flagship event is just one part of a huge public engagement programme the four locations of the National Museum have planned to commemorate

January:

Decorative Arts and History will also enter newly commissioned significant works into the Who Do We Think We Are? Exploring Collective Identities exhibition.

They will welcome Dermot Bolger as poet-in-residence for a six-month period between February and July 2016, in a role which will include holding writing workshops, in addition to a programme of public events with Bolger in conversation with a range of speakers.

At the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Archaeology, Roger Casement, the Humanitarian will consider the humanitarian and scientific work of the “father of 20th century human rights investigations”, Irish nationalist Roger Casement.

The Museum of Archaeology will also host a series of monthly talks reviewing findings from recent archaeological research in Ireland and Europe relating to the Easter 1916 Rising, the War of Independence, the Civil War and the First World War. In Mayo, the Museum of Country Life is developing a multi-dimensional programme that will look at how the lives of people throughout rural Ireland were affected by the 1916 Rising, its aftermath and World War 1.

Visit museum.ie for more details.

March:

€2 Coin Card / €2 Bookmark €2 Cased High Quality Proof Coin 2016 Annual Mint Set (all 9 2016 coins) 2016 High Quality Proof Coin Set

€6 €15 €25 €80

Enquiries: coinsets@centralbank.ie

€15 Silver Coin €50 Gold Coin (¼ ounce) Double Set: €50 Gold Coin and €15 Silver Coin €100 Gold Coin (½ ounce)

www.centralbank.ie

How to order: Telephone: 1890 307 607 Post: download our order form at centralbank.ie Collection: purchase from our Dame Street offices (Mon-Fri, 10:00-15:30, excl. public holidays)

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€45 €375 €420 €730

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Together Standing Tall

As part of the 2016 commemorations, in a show of national solidarity and pride, local authorities the length and breath of the island will be delivering initiatives relevant to each particular county, with the emphasis very much on ground-up local community involvement. Lectures, exhibitions, commemorative events, tours, flag ceremonies, historic re-enactments and commissioned tributes will all play their part in a very full, year-long programme.

The centrepiece events in Dublin will be held, not surprisingly, over Easter weekend, which runs from Friday, March 25 to Monday, March 28. On Easter Saturday, a State reception is expected to attract up to 5,000 relatives of those who were involved during Easter week 1916. The main parade will take place on Easter Sunday, from Dublin Castle to Parnell Square.

In Cork, a short film will be screened, on the final days of Thomas Kent, after whom Kent Station is called. There will also be an exhibition entitled Ancestral Connections: Roots To The Rising 2016, which will take place in UCC. In neighbouring Kerry, the Kerry County Museum will host Sir Roger Casement: A Revolutionary Journey, covering his landing in Banna and its national and international impact.

In Wexford, there will be ceremonies to commemorate Michael O’Hanrahan, who was a New Ross-born Irish Volunteer in 1916, who was executed in Dublin. There will also be Public 1916 Walking Tours, with a tour guide presenting the history of the 1916 Rising in Enniscorthy, at the locations where these events unfolded.

In Carlow, the Carlow County Museum will be staging a firstfloor exhibition entitled Rebellion.

Cavan will host a conference entitled Cavan and the Rising, taking place at Johnston Central Library (with a lecture on Francis Sheehy-Skeffington by his granddaughter, Micheline SheehySkeffington).

In Kilkenny, the role of women in 1916 will be celebrated, in the first week of March 2016, through a series of lectures and displays.

Also, Thomas MacDonagh Week will be held, marking the centenary of MacDonagh’s death by execution on May 3, 1916.

In the mid-west, Limerick will hold commemorative events for Limerick men Con Colbert and Edward Daly – two of the sixteen leaders executed after the Rising.

In Donegal, the Rising will be remembered under five Themes for Ireland 2016 – namely,

An order to occupy bulidings on Moore Street, sent by James Connolly. Part of the National Library’s collection

Remember, Reconcile, Imagine, Present and Celebrate.

For more information on all these events and more, log onto Ireland.ie.

A Global Celebration

Far from being merely a national event, 2016’s Rising commemorations will reach out all around the globe. Celebrations of Ireland’s independence will take place in territories as farflung as Dubai, Sydney and Argentina – illustrating how wide Ireland’s influence has spread and how well-loved the story of Ireland’s dramatic rise to freedom is internationally.

Dubai will host a series of cultural events at The Madinat Theatre, including performances of plays by Sean O’Casey, Irish dancing, traditional Irish music, and singing and poetry centred on the last letters of the leaders of the 1916 Rising.

In Sydney, a series of performances of O’Casey’s classic The Plough and the Stars will take

place during the 2016 St. Padraig’s Day festival; and in Buenos Aires the Irish Embassy will hold schools essay and art competitions, intended to encourage reflection and engagement with the story of the Easter Rising and Irish-Argentine relations.

In Paris the International Beckett Festival will run for the entire month of March and include a special focus on the 1916 Rising.

London’s renowned Wigmore Hall will host a concert, featuring Irish classical musicians and singers showcasing the Irish contribution to classical music.

Meanwhile in New York, NYU will present a series of public events that will culminate in a major academic conference in April, which will explore the relationship between America and 1916, and will involve over 20 academic speakers from Ireland and across the United States. Similarly a series of international academic events called Reframing 1916

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will visit universities around the world in countries like Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Argentina, the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic.

The University of Notre Dame in Indiana has commissioned a three-part television documentary on the Rising, as well as a feature film that will premiere at the college, before being exhibited in Chicago and Atlanta. It will finally arrive in Dublin, whence it will be live screened to a number of locations around the world. This is just another example of the vital relationship which has existed between Ireland and America and which will be celebrated in extravagant style at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington DC throughout a three-week festival of Irish arts and culture, entitled Ireland 100: Celebrating a Century of Irish Arts and Culture.

It will run from May 16 to June 5, 2016.

GO DESTINATION:

Limerick-Cork

Hail, Hail, Rock 'n Rail Spin South West's Nessa McGann on the train journey that makes her turn warm and fuzzy inside.

“The best thing about travelling by train is the fact that you can totally relax. You can have a refreshing break... and wind down on the way home.”

L

imerick native Nessa McGann knows a thing or two about music radio. In fact, it’s been her working life since she began volunteering for the campus station as a student at Cork’s UCC where she studied Philosophy and English.

She later worked for both RTE and Lyric FM covering news and various freelance items while for eight years she ran a student radio station called Wired FM. She has been in her current role as programme director for the Limerick based youth station, Spin South West since it launched in 2007.

“We’re very much a music and entertainment station so a lot of the work I do involves finding new music, checking out new bands and trying to predict what’s going to be number one long before it comes out,” she explains. So I get to watch a lot of music videos on YouTube which is always good. And then you’re dealing with presenters, DJs, producers and social media editors trying to curate content which will appeal to those aged 15 to 34 and who live in work in the South West. They’re a really fun group our audience and you have to do them justice in terms of what you offer. They’re forward thinking, they like to know what’s going on and we

have to reflect that.

Nessa has also produced several documentaries for local and community radio and delivered academic papers on Irish independent radio at European and Australian radio conferences and festivals. Indeed her MA (Research) in 2003 was on the role of women in the management of independent Radio in Ireland. Her job these days, not surprisingly, involves a lot of travel – mainly up and down to Dublin and rail is her first choice of transport.

“I love it,” she enthuses. “I love the fact that I can use the Wi-Fi which means I can get some work done if I feel like it. I also love the fact that you tend to meet some very interesting people on the train and talk to them if you want to. I usually end up having great chats on train journeys.”

She first started taking the train regularly while a student at UCC and recalls those days fondly. “I went from Limerick’s Colbert Station to Kent Station in Cork – via Limerick Junction, of course. I still associate Kent with those student days. I remember when I was working in Holland for the summer and coming home for my 21st, taking the plane to Dublin then the train down to Cork meeting my then boyfriend who is now my husband. Ironically we now live quite close to Limerick Junction, so it’s my local station which is great as it’s an hour to Cork and just an hour and a half to Dublin.”

With three young children to look

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after she combines a hectic working schedule with a busy home life, as she reflects. “That’s why the train is brilliant for me as I can drop the kids to school at five to nine and I can make a meeting in Dun Laoghaire for 11.30am which is fantastic when you think about it. A neighbour of mine works in Dublin every day and he gets the train from Limerick Junction every morning at around 7am or so. In fact he tells me there’s a whole group of them doing exactly the same thing and they have great craic on the journey. He said it’s almost like a social club or like getting the bus home from school with your friends” She’s also a big fan of international rail travel and uses light rail and subways when she can. “Whether it’s the Tube in London the T in Boston or the trams in Amsterdam and in Dublin of course. It’s such a great way of getting around and seeing a city.

I love places like Paddington Station in London or anywhere with those big high-ceiling buildings. I remember being in Bonn in German and seeing trains going all over Europe – to Spain and to Italy and elsewhere and experiencing that whole feeling of movement and freedom.

“I suppose the best thing about travelling by train is the fact that you can totally relax. You can have a refreshing break when you have to go somewhere important and you can then wind down on the way home.”

Given her day job where she is surrounded by music does she find the time to indulge in her own personal musical choices?

“Chart music and pop music is what I work with but house music and dance music, as well as bands like The Stone Roses, The Charlatans and even EMF would have been the music I listened to in my teens and college years. When I need to detox a little I would play something like J J Cale, or Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue. I have a record player and CD player in my bedroom and I have a wall of vinyl at home including a lot of opera records which I’ve inherited. In the car I would often flick around some other music radio stations to hear what they’re playing.”

Live music is another of her favourtie pastimes and she has done her fair share of festivals in her time.

“I’ve been to the Electric Picnic a lot over the years and I used to go to all the Oxygen’s and I’ve been to Indiependence. There’s plenty of good live music locally; we’ve Hozier and Kodaline coming up in the NEC in Killarney and there’s always lots of stuff happening in Dolans in Limerick which is just a brilliant live music venue.”

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D I R E C T I O N HAVING ESTABLISHED HIMSELF AS A LEADING ARTHOUSE DIRECTOR WITH THE LIKES OF WHAT RICHARD DID AND FRANK, IRISH FILMMAKER LENNY ABRAHAMSON IS NOW ENJOYING SERIOUS OSCAR BUZZ STATESIDE THANKS TO HIS INTENSE NEW DRAMA, ROOM. HE CHATS TO ROE MCDERMOTT

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imes they are a-changing.

Once upon a time, I would regularly bump into director Lenny Abrahamson wandering around Dublin city, but now that he’s become the critically acclaimed director of internationally successful films like What Richard Did, Frank and the upcoming drama Room, he’s much harder to get hold of.

So much so that upon discovering he was staying in the absurdly swanky hotel where I was interviewing another actor, we couldn’t even co-ordinate a cup of tea amidst his hectic schedule of screenings and press interviews.

Lenny Abrahamson has officially “made it” in Hollywood.

Not that he’s letting it go to his head, he tells me when we finally talk a few weeks after our missed connection, right after his latest film Room, based on Emma Donoghue’s novel, is released in the States to rave reviews and instant Oscar buzz. Travelling back and forth to LA every two weeks, Abrahamson says that the surreal nature of the city isn’t for him.

“I quite like being here for short periods,” he explains, “but I could not live here, because I’m weak. I would totally get caught up in the ‘Who’s up and who’s down’ of it all. It’s hard not to, it’s such an industry place. There’s a ladder-climbing paradigm that I think would kill me.”

The director also occasionally pines for some peace and quiet, admitting that while the attention and acclaim is lovely, he misses having “absolutely nothing to do, which I think is the most creative space to be in.”

Not that he’s lacking for projects or inspiration. Though across the pond Lenny may be known for his stirring dramas (“It’s funny when people in the States introduce me, it’s so clear that they think What Richard

Did is the first film I’ve ever made”), his work on Garage, Adam and Paul and Frank has shown that he can perfectly navigate social realism as well as quirky, offbeat comedy.And now he seems determined to conquer every genre possible.

Currently on his slate is an adaptation of Sarah Waters’ ghostly novel The Little Stranger, “which is really about class and class resentment, although it’s dressed up as a poltergeist story.” He’s also developing a story about Emile Griffith, who “was amazing. He was a black gay boxer in the 1950s and ‘60s in New York, and killed an opponent who taunted him about being gay. It’s absolutely extraordinary – it’s at that amazing nexus of race and sexuality and politics, because it was during the Cuban missile crisis, which plays a big part in it.

“I’m co-writing the story, based on a biography by Donald McRae which is really good. And then I’m working on a civil war story too, so there’s lots going on – but I really want to write something low-key based in Ireland. Just finding the time to do that will be hard, it’s been a crazy couple of months.”

Abrahamson should probably have anticipated the craziness. Room is a stunning adaptation of a truly remarkable story, with a premise that demands attention. Very loosely inspired by the Josef Fritzl case, Donoghue’s book tells the story of five-year-old Jack and his Ma, who was kidnapped as a teen and has been held captive in a 10x10 shed for seven years.

Told from the child’s perspective, the novel was simultaneously heart-wrenching and terrifying. Donoghue herself wrote the screenplay for the film, which has a twopart structure, examining the world the two characters have created within their tiny prison, and then exploring the world beyond.

Thrilling, emotive and deeply moving, it’s a cinematic triumph, and one Abrahamson knew

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he had to make after reading the opening pages of Donoghue’s novel.

“It was a total experience for me both as a reader and a filmmaker,” he reflects. “I knew the book was about a mother and son being trapped in a room, having been abducted, but I didn’t know it was from the kid’s point of view. Once I sussed that out, I had two parallel experiences, one of which was the reader’s experience, and then the parent’s experience, which is so intense. My little boy Max was nearly four at the time, so I could see him in the story – that strange and gorgeous little optimism the child has, and that openness and vulnerability.

“Kids are unaware of how fragile it all is.

That chimed with me. But I could also see it as a film, see them in the room and imagine how it would feel. I could imagine how it would be true to the miserable confining feel of the space, but also beautiful, which was the key.”

Abrahamson decided to be proactive and wrote a letter to Donoghue, pitching his vision for the film – and also, he admits, slyly indicating that no-one else would be able to adapt her book with as much emotional authenticity as he could.

“It was a long, very well-written spoiler for other people’s pitches, he laughs. “I spent years in the world of academia, so I’m used to writing essays and getting thoughts down, and expressing complicated ideas in ways that are compelling to read. I threw all of that into this letter. I wanted Emma to understand that I really got her novel, and then to talk to her about what film is good at doing, and the native expressive means that film has at its disposal.”

Abrahamson laughs mischievously. “And then I threw in a ‘By the way, here’s what other people will say and they’re wrong!’”

The director’s sly technique of poisoning other people’s pitches clearly worked, as Donoghue heard many a proposal over

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Jack Reynor in What Richard Did, and (inset top to bottom) Room and Michael Fassbender in Frank

the next two years, but kept returning to Abrahamson’s vision, finally agreeing to collaborate with him. So began one of the filmmaker’s most testing challenges to date, as he was confronted with bringing a hugely beloved and bestselling novel to the screen under intense scrutiny.

Indeed, even Barack Obama had been photographed with the book, so imagine messing that up. But he also had to find and then work with his lead child actor, Jacob Tremblay, upon whom the entire success of the film rests. Abrahamson admits that his parenting skills came in handy while working with the seven-year-old, something even Jacob picked up on.

“Jake uses that line now, he says, ‘Well Lenny’s a Dad – he understands kids really well so he’s really nice.’ But then he also says that I sound like the leprechaun from the Lucky Charms ad!”

The film is also remarkable in that it defies the conventions of the modern thriller. While modern pop culture has an obsession with celebrating and even fetishising the villainous characters – think Walt in Breaking Bad, Moriarty in Sherlock, the lead in Hannibal – both Abrahamson and Donoghue were determined not to trick the audience into empathising with the kidnapper, dubbed Old Nick.

“He’s just a failure of the highest order,” says

the director. “One of things that me and Emma spoke about was wanting to tell the story from the POV of the mother and son, not the kidnapper. So often you get these stories where the villain is the protagonist, whereas Old Nick is a nothing, a terrible blank. In a way, there are elements of a awful marriage in the story – you have this guy who feels hard done by and unappreciated, but who is in fact the jailor and the destroyer. And then you have this woman who has to pretend to be grateful for this pathetic life she’s been give.”

The movie is generating serious awards buzz, and thanks to the star-power of both Frank, which starred Michael Fassbender, and Room which also stars William H. Macy and Joan Allen, Abrahamson is getting mainstream recognition of the kind he’s enjoyed for years on the arthouse circuit. Looking back over his career, he muses that the shift “does does feel a little bit different.”

“It normalises very quickly, like everything in life,” he considers, “but it’s like I have this invisible, Access-All-Areas pass at the moment, where I can just kind of wander in and talk to anybody I want in the studios. But what’s constant about it is that I’m still working with Ed Guiney [producer of Room and Frank and the head of Element Pictures.] All of this stuff is with Ed and we’re entering that new space together, which feels important. But it is interesting, it’s really intriguing just from

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a sociological level to be around all this stuff at this time of year in LA, the premieres and Q&As. “It’s nice to know what that’s like, even if that’s not your primary goal as a filmmaker, because you spend so much time outside it.

And now I can get things made that are bigger, and there are more people who want to be in them. So it does feel different, and I haven’t hit any dark spots – yet!”

In spite of the high demand for his work in the States and the exciting path his career is taking, the father of two is nothing short of definitive when he reassures me that he’d never leave Ireland permanently.

“Look, there’s a lot about it that drives me absolutely crazy,” he acknowledges, “but I feel very rooted in Ireland. I’m very much a homebird in some weird way. I’m totally connected to the strange, dysfunctional, selfparodying attitude that we have in Ireland. In America, I’m always the funniest person in the room, and the person who can drink the most – and I don’t even drink that much! I just love the culture in Ireland. And we’re still messed up in so many ways, but there’s a kindness to the psyche that is so important. And I love Ireland physically too, it’s so beautiful. I can’t see myself living anywhere else.”

Room opens on January 15

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hile GoRail is decidedly full of the festive spirit, it’s a different story in Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow, at the stables of Willie Mullins. That’s not to say that the affable 59-year-old isn’t his usual gregarious self, but when you’re a Champion Trainer, there’s a lot more than mince pies and sherry to think about.

“It’s our busiest time of the year,” he explains.

“It’s tough, especially when most people are going off to parties and maybe enjoying a lie-in or two. But when you’re busy, it means your horses are running well and things are going alright. It’s when you’re not busy that you need to worry!”

Looking at the operation of which Mullins is at the helm, you can’t help but think that life is always busy. A reputation as one of the finest trainers on the planet means he’s always in demand – the National Hunt Champion Trainer for a decade and counting doesn’t get too much downtime – and especially when there’s dozens of horses that need his full attention on a daily basis.

“When I was starting out, I don’t think anyone could comprehend the idea of a jump yard this size,” he says. “At that time, a big yard would have had 60 horses – a far cry from 140-plus.”

Needless to say, it’s a bit much for one man, even one as decorated as Willie. To that end, a team of around 60 people are key to everything running smoothly.

“I see the horses twice a day; out on the gallops in the morning, and then in the evenings. But the important part is talking to my staff, both those who ride the horses in the mornings and those who are feeding them and looking after them. I expect my staff to know everything about the horse, and be able to report back to me.”

Interestingly, it’s still a set-up that relies heavily on the human eye and traditional methods, while other sports move towards

O N E O F TH E MOST DECOR ATED NA ME S IN NOTHI N G SH ORT OF A GIA NT IN THE SP ORT .

W ITH AC TION , H E TA L K S TO COL M O’ REGA N TH E F U TURE OF HIS OPER ATION S, A N D M O NTH S A H E A D .

new approaches. Now that every rugby player worth his salt has heart-rate monitors and GPS trackers for even a light training session, is technology not becoming a part of horse racing in the same way?

“It’s creeping in,” Willie admits, “but I’m not convinced we’d see the benefit here. After trialling those things, I was happy to go without for the time being. To use that would need a whole new section of my team, costing a huge amount of money, and I don’t think it would be worth it for now.”

Indeed, looking at other sports has been instructive in trusting his instincts.

“Rugby has embraced those things more than most, and Leinster have been forerunners in it.

But then you look at the season they’ve had so far, and they’re back to square one. And those are athletes that can talk back to you and tell you how they’re getting on; we’re dealing with athletes who can’t do that, but they talk in different ways, and we can see it. I can see the benefits for a younger guy, or someone with less experience with horses, but I decided against it.”

Indeed, there’s good reason Willie might stick with what works. Having been an amateur jockey of some repute, riding largely for his father who was a trainer before him, a lifetime in the sport has given him a leg-up on the opposition.

“You’re learning every day you’re in this game,” he reflects, “and I always knew I wanted to so something with horses. I was looking at other jobs – racecourse management, or stud management – but training was the one that took.”

And when it comes time for the torch to be passed, there’s a ready-made replacement already alongside in the form of his son.

Currently riding for his father – and doing a mighty fine job of it, too – Patrick looks set to keep the Mullins dynasty in charge for some time to come.

“Patrick is very keen, and I think he’d be a natural,” Willie proudly states. “He’s obviously doing very well riding at the moment, and he’ll continue to enjoy that for as long as his weight allows, but after that I think he’ll certainly be

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HORSE R ACIN G, W IL L IE M ULLINS IS A HE A D OF A FE STIV E SE A S O N PACK E D AB OUT TH E CHA L L EN GE S AT THE TOP, HIS HOPE S FOR THE WE E K S AND

well-placed to move into training.”

Another natural fit at Mullins’ yard is the second half of a combination to give bookies nightmares. While the trainer has achieved spectacular successes over the last ten years – his unprecedented Cheltenham triumphs are especially worthy of mention – there’s been one man on board for a large number of them.

“We’ve been very fortunate with our jockeys, and Ruby Walsh has been the biggest help of all,” Willie reports. “It’s very nice to have a guy like that, who started with us from school. His first year here he was leading amateur, and he was a champion once he turned professional too. It comes naturally to him.”

Willie laughs when Go Rail asks if there’s a tell-tale sign of a jockey’s potential.

“Race-riding ability is fairly evident from the start; fellas who know where they are, and where the winning post is. It’s just knowing how to get to the line before the other guys – and some people never get that!”

Of course, horse racing is something that crowds here always seem to ‘get’. The sport has always been close to the hearts of the Irish public, and never more than throughout the festive period which is, as usual, jam-packed with race meetings.

“Everybody knows somebody involved in the sport,” Willie points out. “If it’s not a cousin or a family member, it’s a friend or someone close-by. But it’s a good way of socialising and it’s always a fun day out. Going to a racetrack at Christmas-time is a pretty great way to enjoy it.”

And that’s exactly where Willie will be enjoying much of the festive season himself, with appointments in Limerick and Leopardstown chief on his to-do list. If Go Rail were to find a euro down the back of the couch, which of his charges would make for the safest investment?

“I’ve never won the Lexus at Leopardstown, though we’ve finished second about five times,” grins Mullins. “It’d be nice to win that, and hopefully Nichols Canyon might win the Ryanair Hurdle as well.”

If recent history is anything to go by, expect to see Willie in the winners’ enclosure early and often.

Willie Mullins and (below) Faugheen, Winner Of The Champion Hurdle with Maureen & Jackie Mullins, John Codd, Patrick and Willie Mullins

RIDING S OF COMFORT & JOY Jingling bells signal the start of the busiest period on the racing calendar – we’ve picked out three of the meetings not to be missed in the coming weeks.

LEOPARDSTOWN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL December 26 - 29 Combining the best of National Hunt racing with the warmest of festive atmospheres, the first of the Super 7 series is a perennial highlight of the calendar. The card is packed with Grade 1 races, though special mention must go to the Lexus Chase. In 2003, three-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Best Mate set the place abuzz when he won the race in great style, while Beef Or Salmon is also a three-time winner. The Paddy Power Dial-a-Bet Chase is another contest worthy of mention, with it having been won twice by Papillon, Moscow Flyer and Big Zeb. LIMERICK CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL December 26 – 29 Few tracks in the country can match the fun and hospitality offered on Shannonside, where enthusiasts from near and far gather for the post-Christmas renewal. The racing is always guaranteed to be top-notch – with the Shannon Airport Novice Chase a particular highlight – but there’s also plenty to enjoy off the track. Sunday (27) sees the fashionable females out in force for the Most Stylish Lady Competition, while Tuesday (29) is the perfect day for the whole family, as free entertainment will keep even the youngest fans full of festive glee.

BHP INSURANCE IRISH CHAMPION HURDLE Leopardstown, January 25 A key fixture on the road to Cheltenham, the day is headlined by one of Ireland’s blue-riband events in jump racing. Last year, it was the legendary Hurricane Fly who claimed the spoils for the wildly prolific Mullins/Walsh combination, though there’s a new field of challengers now fighting it out to replace the recently-retired four-time champ in the winner’s enclosure. With a handful of other graded races – and all the fun and games that come with an event like this – it promises to be an incredible day at the Dublin racecourse.

For more info go to goracing.ie

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HE’S LEFT HIS HOLLYWOOD-HELLRAISER DAYS BEHIND AND BEEN SOBER FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW — AND AN OLDER, WISER COLIN FARRELL IS PUTTING IN POWERHOUSE PERFORMANCES. HERE, HE DISCUSSES HIS LATEST VENTURE, THE LOBSTER, WITH ROE MCDERMOTT.

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olin Farrell used to be known as a serious party animal, but the Dublin-born actor has been clean and sober for several years now. Today the fresh-faced 39-year-old says that if he had to choose to be a different animal, he’d prefer to be a creature of the feathered variety.

“I’d have to be skyborne, man,” he laughs, in a luxury suite in Dublin’s Intercontinental Hotel.

“I’d want to be a seagull or a bald eagle – an apex predator, a creature of flight.”

The character he plays in his new movie has different ideas. The first English-language feature by talented young Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, The Lobster – an absurdist sci-fi satire about relationships, set in a dystopian near future – is undoubtedly the weirdest and most surreal film to have been released in recent years. Heading up a cast that includes Rachel Weisz, Jessica Barden, Ben Whishaw and John C. Reilly, Farrell plays David, a somewhat joyless and gone-to-seed architect whose wife has recently dumped him (hence the joylessness).

According to the societal rules of ‘The City’, all single people are taken to ‘The Hotel’ where they are obliged to find a matching mate within 45 days. If they fail to pair-up with a suitable partner, they are transformed into an animal of their choice and sent off into ‘The Woods’. David has already specified that should he fail to meet someone suitable within the allocated time, he’d like to be changed into a lobster.

The manageress of ‘The Hotel’ (a strikingly severe Olivia Colman) approves of David’s choice: most people want to be dogs – which is why there’s so many dogs in the world.

She reminds him that his choice will dictate how easily he will find a partner in his next incarnation: “After all, a wolf and a penguin

can’t be together, or a camel and a hippo,” she points out. “That would be absurd.”

While the entire concept sounds laughably ludicrous, The Lobster is actually quite brilliant – brutal, compelling and thought-provoking. It’s certainly a strange film for the star to choose.

“It’s a very strange film for anybody to do” he observes. “In the anthology of my work, it’s not as obvious a creative place for me to find myself.”

Of course, Farrell could do with a cinematic hit. Despite generally glowing reviews for his role as troubled cop Ray Velcoro in the second season of HBO’s True Detective, his movie career hasn’t exactly been setting the world alight the way it used to. Having originally shot to fame as the handsome young star of such movies as Phone Booth, S.W.A.T. and Minority Report, and winning a Golden Globe in 2009 for his role in Martin McDonagh’s dark comedy In Bruges, some of his more recent offerings – A New York’s Winter Tale, Total Recall, Ondine – have been fairly poorly received by critics.

While it’s unlikely to be a box office smash, The Lobster could well change that. Farrell famously donned a fat suit and bald wig for Horrible Bosses, but he put on a real 40lb to play the role of David.

How did he manage that? “Just got it into me!” he laughs. “Burgers for breakfast, pizza for lunch, and desserts, and never pass a milkshake shop without stopping in. Just eat as much as possible.”

How long to take it off again? “Two months in, two months out. Eight weeks each end – a complete reversal. It didn’t feel great. It’s a bit shocking! But, as I said, it was a short-lived thing.”

It was quite some commitment for a lowbudget indie movie...

“I don’t know,” he muses. “I think it behoves you to treat small indie films with as much seriousness and dedication. At times they ask more of both those things than the bigger,

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lighter fare that has to reach a more common denominator or a broader ocean of people.”

Losing the weight so quickly proved a challenge, but it had to be done. “I had a thing to do, a very particular photoshoot that I had to be really in shape for, about eight or nine weeks after we wrapped, otherwise I would have taken more time. But it was fine. I’m disciplined in that way, but there’s a thin line between discipline and madness when it comes to that kind of stuff.”

While it can be viewed on many levels, The Lobster – which won the Jury Prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival – is primarily a satire about modern relationships. Although the father of two young boys, Farrell has been single for the last few years. He says that wasn’t a deciding factor in why he took on the role.

“Not really, it’s just good work,” he shrugs.

“You will, at times, find yourself drawn to things, even unconsciously, something you recognise. For sure.”

Above all else, The Lobster is very, very funny.

Is he more comfortable doing comedy?

“I wouldn’t say so, because this didn’t feel like comedy,” he says. “If I was doing a comedy with Will Ferrell, that would feel like comedy. When I did Horrible Bosses a few years ago, that felt like comedy. That was broad. This didn’t feel like comedy, even though there is humour in it, in the same way that In Bruges didn’t feel like comedy.

“Because there’s very high stakes, there’s a lot of dramatic dynamics going on, there’s characters that are in pain, regardless of how much or how little they know of the pain that they are actually in,” he continues. “Then through that absurdity, through that black hole of experience and the flickering of redemptions on the periphery, comedy comes out. Obviously True Detective was the furthest thing from comedy a person could ever do. I don’t know if there’s a genre I’m more or less comfortable in than any others, but it’s nice to mix it up.”

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T O A S T MATT BERRY AND ARTHUR MATHEWS ARE THE PAIR BEHIND THE AWARD-WINNING TOAST OF LONDON. THEY TALK TO COLM O’REGAN ABOUT REAL-LIFE INSPIRATIONS, WRITING WHILE APART, AND WELCOMING ONE OF TV’S BIGGEST STARS INTO THE FOLD

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att Berry possesses one of the most distinctive voices in television; a booming baritone that would put many the opera singer to shame.

It’s one of the trademarks of Steven Toast, the title character of his hit show Toast Of London, so when GoRail heads to meet the star – along with co-creator Arthur Mathews – we’re tempted to pack a pair of earplugs.

It turns out, though, that the intelligent, softly-spoken Berry could scarcely be less like his comic creation – and thank goodness for that.

“I’ve never liked him, as a character,” Matt admits, as we take a seat in Dublin’s Brooks Hotel. “I mean, he’s not meant to be likeable; he’s all the awful things I’ve come across doing this job. If there is a sense of connection, then I think it’s feeling sorry for him, as opposed to actually liking him. He’s always getting beaten up, told he’s not going anywhere, and you can’t help but have some sort of sympathy.”

The show, currently finishing its third series, has been lauded from on high by critics and viewers alike, charmed by its quirky characters and lawless scope. Matt earned a BAFTA for Best Comedy Actor, and the Channel 4 show also scooped the Golden Rose award in Berlin, widely regarded as the ultimate prize for any television show on the planet. This Christmas, even the literary world is in the sights of the pair, as they’ve recently published Toast On Toast, a faux-autobiography telling the life story of the larger-than-life character.

Matt says the outline of the down-on-hisluck actor was clear in his mind long before he teamed up with Arthur – half of the creative force behind Father Ted – to bring it to life.

His outlandish adventures, and misadventures, are set in an equally outlandish version of London, which Arthur reveals is key to the show’s structure.

“To use an overused word, it’s a bit surreal,” he explains. “You can bend things to put in the moon landing, or Bob Monkhouse, because there simply aren’t any rules.”

Matt continues, “The Soho of the ’60s and ’70s obviously doesn’t exist anymore, but for the purposes of the show it does. We made it stretch, so that we could fit in any ideas, rather than having a defined world where some thins wouldn’t look right.”

The whimsical element of the show is in part down to the fact that its writers are working from opposite sides of the Irish Sea. While Matt is based in the UK, Arthur continues to call Ireland home.

“If we were in the room together, I think it would dilute our ideas,” Matt suggests.

“There’d certainly be more opportunity to talk the other person out of something. There was an exorcism in the second series, for instance, of which Arthur wanted absolutely no part.”

“That was good for me in the end, though,” Arthur concedes. “Very therapeutic…”

On the mention of therapy, it seems reasonable to ask Matt how much of a release the show provides. Far from the RADA-trained thespian he portrays, the fine art graduate virtually stumbled onto the screen, and his show takes few prisoners in sending up some of his acting colleagues.

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“It’s not making light of acting,” he insists, “so much as writing what I know about. The character is very closely based on the worst qualities I’ve experienced with other actors – but it’s never too obvious, it seems, and that’s the weirdest thing I’ve found. You could do an impersonation of someone, and absolutely nail it, and they never notice. They always figure it’s someone else.”

When it comes to guest appearances on the show, though, there’s a long list of stars who simply couldn’t be mistaken for anyone else queueing up for a piece of Toast. This season sees Brian Blessed appear as the equallyboisterous father of the ham actor, while they also welcome bonafide television royalty in the shape of Don Draper himself, Jon Hamm.

“We’re massive Mad Men fans,” Arthur says, “so having Hamm on the set was a massive thrill. But I actually only saw the last episode recently; there was an incredible moment on set, when I had to warn Jon Hamm himself not to tell me how it ended!”

And while the conclusion of that iconic series gets a definitive thumbs-up – Arthur having since caught up on his viewing – efforts to discover how Steven Toast might make his exit are unsuccessful, as the pair admit it’s something to which they’ve given little or no thought.

“I’m sure we can do another series,” Arthur asserts. “But we never get commissioned for more than one series at a time. There’s certainly enough material left over, but we’ll have to wait and see. I’ve only ever done three series of anything, so it would be nice to do a fourth series.”

We wait in hope…

kathrin baumbach

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G O

F E A T U R E

M A K I N G

N O

BONES ABOUT IT AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR KEVIN BARRY HAS JUST PUBLISHED HIS SECOND NOVEL, BEATLEBONE. FRESH FROM WINNING THE GOLDSMITHS PRIZE, THE ONE-MAN LITERARY SENSATION TALKED TO STUART CLARK ABOUT HOW HE TRANSPORTED JOHN LENNON TO THE WILD IRISH WEST OF THE ’70S, IRVINE WELSH, RODDY DOYLE AND HIPPY COMMUNES.

K

evin Barry spent four years assembling his new novel, Beatlebone, which makes him Usain Bolt compared to Donna Tartt, but is longer than the combined time lavished on its predecessor, City Of Bohane, and his two short story collections, There Are Little Kingdoms and Dark Lies The Island.

There was the natural pressure of literary critics on both sides of the Atlantic waiting to see if the promising rookie could step up to the major league, and the self-created one of making Beatlebone’s main protagonist John Lennon. It took over a hundred rewrites for Barry, who’s renowned for his dialogue, to get the Fabbest of the Four’s voice just right. Once nailed, he was able to tell the fantastical tale of Lennon attempting in 1978 to reach the island he owned in Clew Bay, County Mayo, for a spot of screaming therapy. His driver-cum-fixer is Cornelius O’Grady, the cutest of hoors with a turn of phrase that Flann O’Brien would be proud of.

When he met Go Rail, Barry freely admited that this was the first time the pressures of writing really got to him.

“Yeah, I started in this kind of glow of glee thinking, ‘What an amazing idea. How come nobody has done this before?’ Inside of two or three weeks, that had changed to, ‘This is excruciatingly difficult!’ I lost count of the number of times I came out of the shed I write in going, ‘That’s it, I’m not doing this!’

When it started to work for me was when I gave him the sidekick, Cornelius O’Grady. The central comedy of the book is that Cornelius is a legend in this place and John is just tagging along with him in the van.”

There’s definitely scope for a standalone Cornelius tome. Go Rail points out to Barry

that he really made a rod for his own back fictionalising somebody that pretty much everyone of our age remembers in a very specific way. If they don’t buy into his Lennon they don’t buy into the story, period.

The Sligo-based author admits: “Yeah, that’s why the dialogue was so difficult because we all know his voice. He was very complicated and not an easy character. Ultimately, I love him. The book is totally written out of fandom and devotion. I was always the Church of John when it came to The Beatles. We do know at that time in the ’70s he was blocked and wasn’t really recording or writing. He was kind of too happy. Everything was working out with the marriage and the new kid and his visa difficulties had ended. And, of course, he had no songs.”

Go Rail reminds Barry that Paul McCartney released ‘Give Ireland Back To The Irish’ as a response to Bloody Sunday and Lennon allegedly met with and gave money to the IRA. Barry nods and says: “He clearly sympathised at a time when it was potentially career suicide, in Britain anyway, to do so. He was apparently very generous when it came to a number of radical causes. What was nice is that when Beatlebone was nearly done, I read this book by a photographer close to him in New York who said that around ’77/’78 he did start to make weird little solo trips out into the world. He went to Japan on his own and – this is very poignant – booked himself into a hotel room for the first time. He almost didn’t know how to do it. He got on a ferry in some Japanese city and realised, ‘They don’t know me.’ It kind of retrospectively qualified Beatlebone for me. ‘Wow, maybe he did come back to Ireland!’ If you were out in County Mayo some morning in 1987 and saw a guy in the square with a dog that looked like Brian Wilson, the last thing you’d think is, ‘It’s Brian Wilson!’”

Go Rail comments that it would be pretty

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remarkable to see a dog in County Mayo, at any time of the day, that looks like Brian Wilson and laughter ensues.

We then ask Barry if he is actively trying to avoid being bracketed with the likes of Martin Amis.

“I used to love bringing Martin Amis down a peg or two when I was a journalist reviewing books! I have a horror of repeating myself. I try to keep it fresh and interesting for myself as much as any reader. The idea for Beatlebone came from cycling round Clew Bay during the summer and wondering, ‘Which of those little islands did John Lennon own?’”

Interestingly, a lot of the Beatlebone reviews have focused on the author deciding – 175pages in – to put the novel on ‘hold’ and offer a first-person explanation as to why he wrote it.

“I wouldn’t have gotten away with it if this was my first novel,” admits Barry. “At a subconscious level I was thinking, ‘I won a couple of prizes, I can get away with something weird now.’ It came about by accident. I’d scratched all these notes on the backs of envelopes and beermats which I, one day, decided to gather together in a fancy notebook I’d bought. As I did so, I noticed these nice paragraphs were forming and thought, ‘This is a really nice way of telling the story. Wouldn’t it be fun to walk out of this tall tale and, 8,000 words later, walk back in again having qualified it?’ I wanted to show the workings.

It’s very clear to me that the essay bit in the middle is the emotional heart of the novel, but I wasn’t so sure reviewers would see it that way. I’m not one of those writers who pretends to not read reviews. I read them all, so the fact that most of them have been positive has gladdened my heart!”

The Guardian included the Limerick-born Barry in a ‘New Irish Literary Boom’ piece that also namechecked the likes of Colin Barrett, Sara Baume, Mary Costello, Eimear McBride, Donal Ryan and Paul Murray. Go Rail asks

kathrin baumbach

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G O

F E A T U R E graham keogh

Kevin Barry and (inset) his book Beatlebone

Barry if he feels like a member of a Hibernian Bloomsbury Set. “It doesn’t feel very Bloomsbury Set when I’m up in a shed in Sligo! What’s evident is that a lot of first and second books are coming out.

There’s a lot of interest, which hasn’t always been the case. I’ve been appointed to a sort of grandfatherly role; they mention me very kindly. Ireland’s literary reputation is really based on three writers in the first-half of the 20th Century – Joyce, Beckett and O’Brien.

What they had in common was that they were completely prepared to go mental on the page. They weren’t writing with any kind of commercial intent, they were just doing it for writing’s sake. It’d be nice to think that some of that will creep back in.”

Has Barry’s heart been gladdened by Irvine Welsh and Roddy Doyle saying embarrassingly nice things about him?

“I wasn’t embarrassed in the least! I’ve met Irvine just a couple of times and he’s the loveliest guy on the planet. Complete pussycat but I don’t know him well. The thing with Ireland is that it’s a small literary culture, so you meet a lot of people again and again. I don’t go to book launches every week because I live in Sligo, but it’s fun when I do. What I really admire about Doyle is his work ethic.

I have a guilt complex because I didn’t work hard in my twenties and was 37 before a slim volume of stories appeared. I’m pretty dedicated now about going to the shed seven days a week.”

As our interview draws to a close, Go Rail enquires if he has acquired any celebrity readers along the way.

“Oh man, have I got a beauty for you! I was just told that Mr. Donald Fagen of Steely Dan is a fan. He’s been passing my book around and bought tickets for the reading I’m doing in a few weeks time in New York. It makes all the hard work worth it!”

Barry is on record as saying that his dream job is being in a smoky room with other writers sweating out an episode of something like The Wire.

“You know what, I have an awful fear that the Golden Age of American TV has been and gone. Over the summer I re-watched all of The Wire, the last episode of which is eight years old, and thought, ‘Nothing has been this good since.’ There are a couple of short films and hopefully there’ll be a City Of Bohane film or series, but it requires both luck and patience.

Far, far fewer books make it to screen than are optioned. I saw an interview with Nick Hornby the other day about Brooklyn, which took years to make. I know people who are solely screenwriters and work on stuff than more often than not gets binned. I couldn’t do that. On the plus side, Irish film has improved a lot from what it was. The publishing world is starting to mirror the music industry in that you have different projects with different publishers – some of them major, some of them indie. There are very few career novelists these days writing book after book. I’m keen to

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mix it up by doing scripts and radio plays. Not only is it a pragmatic thing to earn you a living, but it also keeps you fresh and opens you up to new ways of working. I’m definitely a better short story writer having done a radio play, for instance.”

There’s also an ‘audible audio edition’ of Beatlebone coming out.

“Yep, in time for the lucrative – I hope! – Christmas market. It’s six hours 40 minutes of me wittering away. Ration yourself to an hour after dinner every day and you’ll get a week out of it. I have this theory that because we’re online so much, we’ve become very flitty and impatient readers. You’ve got 10 great books beside the bed, but are looking at your phone instead. We’re moving into an era where we want to have stories told to us as much as we want to read them, which explains the success of podcasts and audio books.”

Bob Geldof has said that his memories of the decade in which Beatlebone is set are all monochrome. Was ’70s Limerick similarly lacking in colour?

“Traditionally when the west of Ireland’s presented in literature it’s all about the farm and the small town, but actually in the ’70s and ’80s it was full of freaks. There were screamers and streakers and polyamorous communes and they really improved the place. There is definitely a radical history of Western Ireland waiting to be written.”

We know just the man to do it!

Music Industry Xplained.

Get Ahead in the Music Industry.

The MIX Course (Music Industry Xplained) is for those seeking careers in the music industry or music media.

Brought to you by Hot Press, the course is aimed at those who want to succeed in music, management, media, publicity, promotion, publishing, record labels and lots more.

Perhaps you’re a musician who wants to maximise your income? Want to manage a band? Want to work in PR or the media? Or do you simply want to find out more about the business? If so, read on...

MIX is a 13-week, lecture based course (one each week) by top professional exponents of the Irish and international music industry.

Lecturers For 2015 Included: Jackie Hayden (Journalist) Mark Crossingham (Universal Music Ireland) Stephen Lindsey (Publisher) Duan Stokes (Chief Operating Officer, hotpress.com) Nessa McGann (Program Director, SPIN South West)

Paul Walsh Edison Waters (Music Manager) Stevo Berube (Berube Communications) Steve Averill (AMP Visual) Nick Seymour (Crowded House)

Key Areas Covered Include:

Starts Feb 2nd 2016.

Limited Places Available Call Now To Secure Yours!

Record Companies/Music Marketing/ Publicity/Image Development/The Independent Route/Record Production/ Songwriting/Music Publishing/Music Online/Radio/Working With The Media/ Management/Finance/Touring & Distribution/Publishing/

For More Info or to Secure Your Place: Contact: Louise Zayed

(01) 241 1500 louise@hotpress.ie

www.hotpress.com/mix

G O P L A C E S

City

SLICKER

It is one of North America's most multi-cultural cities, with world class restaurants and nightlife. Plus, a comparatively strong euro means there's never been a better moment to visit Toronto. Daina Goldfinger reports.

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G O P L A C E S

O

verlooking Lake Ontario, Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with half of the population born outside of Canada. A bustling metropolis, there is something for everyone in this eclectic Canadian gem. From sampling different flavours of food, to hitting up the most anticipated gigs and venues, to getting cultured at the city’s most well-respected museums, or even escaping to the nearby Niagara Falls, this cosmopolitan hub has heaps to offer.

Niagara Falls: this stunning vista straddles Canada's border with the US

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The euro is considerably stronger than the Canadian dollar – good news for Irish visitors.

But bear in mind that Toronto has blistering cold winters: the temperatures can fall to -30 degrees. To avoid the snow and freezing cold temperatures it is better to visit from April to September. During these months, the weather changes between moderate rainfall and scorching heat and, during July and August, can hit highs of 32 degrees.

It is a fairly easy city to get around. You can hop on the subway, a streetcar or a bus for just €2 one way. Visitors, of course, can always take a cab, but be careful! The drivers in Toronto are known for taking passengers the long way around. Even as a Toronto native myself, there have been many times when I have had to alert the driver to take another route to avoid paying an unnecessarily expensive fare.

Being Canada’s business capital, Toronto is frequently referred to as a ‘Canadian New York City’. Each area in the urban centre is different, and they attract a mix of both locals and tourists. My personal favourite areas to explore are Queen Street West and Kensington Market. I love strolling along Toronto’s Graffiti Alley, which is located in between Queen Street and Richmond Street. The splashes of colour and creative street art make you ponder the artist’s original inspiration, and is also a beautiful backdrops for photos. In Kensington Market the inviting atmosphere of the colourful storefronts and murals will entice you to become absorbed in the city’s one-ofa-kind neighbourhood, and to sit down for a beer while you chat with locals.

After perusing the city’s diverse areas, definitely pay tribute to the iconic CN Tower and visit Canada’s largest museum, the Royal Ontario Museum. If you climb to the top of the CN Tower, you can see a beautiful panoramic view of Toronto. For an amazing and surreal (although quite pricey) date night, make a reservation at the 360 Restaurant in the CN Tower. While you are eating your scrumptious meal, the floor revolves around to give you a full view of the entirety of the city from up above. For dinner options, I personally recommend the parsley-encrusted sea bass – it is simply divine.

Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum is comprised of a plethora of enlightening and informative exhibits on natural world history. Most recently, featured exhibits have illustrated the volcanic city of Pompeii, in addition to Mexico’s history of clothing and culture. Check out the ROM’s Friday Night Live event if you are looking for a different night out. It begins at 7pm and drinks are served, along with live performances at the museum. Get there early though, as the queues are normally around the corner.

On the other hand, if you are looking for something that is just a little more Canadian, then catch a hockey or a baseball game.

Hockey season is during the winter months

G O P L A C E S

RECOMMENDED

Windsor Arms Hotel

Restaurants: Poutini’s House of Poutine 1112 Queen Street West Toronto, ON, M6J 1H9 +1(647)342-3732 Sample the Canadian delicacy of poutine, which is comprised of crispy French fries, topped with meaty gravy and mozzarella cheese curds. The restaurant offers a variety of other poutine dishes, including servings with pulled pork, bacon and veggies.

La Carnita 501 College Street Toronto, ON, M6G 1A5 +1(416)964-1555 Find some of the best tacos in the city at La Carnita. Relatively inexpensive, this Mexican restaurant offers chicken, beef, veggie and lobster tacos. Get some caramel covered churros after for desert, and your tummy will be left thoroughly satisfied.

Budget: Big Fat Burrito 285 Augusta Avenue Toronto, ON, M5T 2M1 +1(416)913-7487 Located in Kensington market, these scrumptious burritos are stuffed to the brim with rice, beans, meat and veggies.

From €4.85, indulge in the delicious and savoury meal while you walk around the neighbourhood’s creative corners.

Ice-hockey (above) is a national religion. (Below) The stunning exterior of the Royal Ontario Museum

and, if you can get tickets, it is a great night out. Impassioned Toronto Maple Leaf fans adorn the stands with their blue and white attire, supporting the city’s team. If you are more interested in travelling during the summer months, however, then a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game would be your best bet. Last time I was at a game, the Blue Jays won and sent the crowd into patriotic hysterics.

Buy a beer and some popcorn while you are there!

If the busy city life is not to your liking, then take a trip to the beautiful Niagara Falls. Just an hour and a half outside of the city, Niagara Falls straddles the border

between Canada and the United States, and was designated as a National Heritage Area in 2008.

Use the discount website Groupon to find amazing deals on hotels in the surrounding area. If you plan ahead, you may be able to get a room, with dinner and breakfast included at a fantastic price.

As a city, Toronto has a plethora to offer in terms of attractions, restaurants, music and sites of natural beauty. Catch a gig at one of the local concert halls any night of the week, and enjoy the city’s international cuisine. Once you have become immersed in the urban Canadian metropolis, you may never want to return home.

Buna’s Kitchen 388 Richmond Street West #5B Toronto, ON, M5V 3P1 +1(647)344-8112 This amazing European-style restaurant offers delicious food and is extremely reasonable. Get a soup and salad combo for just €4 or a fully stacked mouth-

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watering sandwich for a mere €6.25.

Accommodation: Windsor Arms Hotel 18 St. Thomas Street Toronto, ON, M5S 3E7 +1(416)971-9666 This beautifully opulent fivestar hotel is located in one of the most upmarket areas in Toronto in the Bloor / Yorkville neighbourhood. Its stunning suites will make you feel like royalty and you can also relax at the hotel’s gorgeous pool and spa. Indulge in some delicious pastries during their very popular ‘afternoon tea experience’, or enjoy gourmet cuisine at their in-house restaurant.

Mid Range: Isabella Hotel & Suites 556 Sherbourne Street Toronto, ON, M4X 1L4 +1(416)922-2203 This trendy space is moderately priced and located in the heart of downtown Toronto. With a complimentary breakfast each morning and access to cable television and internet, the hotel is within walking distance of many of the city’s restaurants and shops.

Budget: Canadiana Backpackers Inn 42 Widmer Street Toronto, ON, M5X 2E9 +1(416)598-8940 The hostel is one of the best and most affordably-priced in Toronto. Offering free breakfast and activity nights, guests can choose to participate in city pub crawls, dinner nights and various day trips.

G O E A T

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You Spin Me Right Round, Baby.

RIGHT ROUND Spin 1038 breakfast show co-host Daniella Moyles tells Go Rail about her impressive radio career, her interview nightmares and why she found modelling tough – all over a tasty meal in Super Miss Sue's.

“C

an I have a chip?” ask Daniella Moyles. “I’ve been eyeing them up and your tartare sauce.”

w o rd s pho tos

a n n e

kat h r i n

s e xt on

baumb a c h

I don’t blame her. Super Miss Sue’s Cervi fries are regarded as some of the best in the city and that’s quite a compliment given the Irish love of the humble chip. The restaurant’s main attraction is its wonderful seafood and Daniella is a big fan of fish. The Spin 1038 radio presenter has gone for the crab bruschetta with avocado, pink grapefruit and fennel; I have chosen an old favourite — battered cod with crushed peas, tartare sauce and fries. To begin we order six of Super Miss Sue’s oysters — two of the Carlingford, two of the Achill Sound Pacific oysters, and two natives, which are the restaurant’s oyster of the week. The oysters are served with lemon, tabasco and Ponzu vinegar, a traditional Japanese sauce.

“I’ve never tried Ponzu before,” says Daniella.

“It’s unreal. Delish! I was down in Galway on the weekend and you can buy oysters fresh from the sea. When they open them up, seawater is pouring out of them. I’m a big fan of oysters and I ate loads of them, trying them with different sauces but my friend was so freaked out by the whole thing.”

Food has long been a large part of Daniella Moyles’ life. Her father is a former chef; Daniella helped design the menu of one of Ireland’s first “clean eating” cafés — The Breakfast Club at Yogism in the George’s Street Arcade; and she enjoys cooking herself.

“I have a certain style of cooking that perhaps my boyfriend doesn’t appreciate!” she laughs. “I don’t use many sauces or creams. He may think it’s a bit plain. I like to think it’s healthy.”

Daniella first came to notice as one of Ireland’s most popular models and her rise to breakfast show presenter on Spin 1038, along with co-host Cormac Moore, can justly be

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described as meteoric.

“I started working on a voluntary radio station, Frq FM. I used to put the mics up and my mouth would go dry – I couldn’t talk. But I slowly got better. When TX was still Phantom I did some interning there. Then a job came up. Myself and Cormac had never met before.

We were paired up by the programme director at iRadio where we got our first job offer. We met three days before we went on air. Luckily we really clicked. Cormac is very funny and that made me relax. We were able to have the craic together. We weren’t very good at channelling that into something people would want to listen to, but we were on at night so it didn’t matter as much and it made us grow a lot.”

Daniella and Cormac were on iRadio for six months before moving to Spin 1038.

“We got offered the evening time show on Spin, so we went from doing 9pm until midnight to doing 7 until 9. We did that for six months and then the breakfast show became free in Spin and they asked us if we’d like to do it. I never expected to get a breakfast show so quickly, which is a lot of responsibility.

Somebody who I admire a lot and whose show I enjoy is Ray Foley, and to be on at the same time and in the same building, it felt so premature. I felt overwhelmed. I would tell myself, ‘It’s different audiences.’ I had to talk logic into myself.”

The first month on the show was the hardest, she explains.

“I was definitely trying too hard. People can sense if you’re nervous and not relaxed and they so perspective so they know if you are being real. I realised that people will forgive you mistakes if you’re being real. Whereas if you are trying too hard to be cool, or funny, or anything you’re not, people can tell straight away.”

Any disastrous mistakes yet?

“Thankfully not! We’ve had a few bloopers, pushing the wrong button on the desk or a slip of the tongue where the wrong word almost came out, but nothing that has gotten us called into the boss’s office,” she laughs.

“I was doing an interview recently with Rory O’Neill, you know, Panti, who was in to promote his new movie, Queen of Ireland. We were asking him about the possibility of him running for president, which is very topical at the moment because he is such a national

G

O

E

A

T

A MATTER OF TASTE Stuart Clark Brings You The Latest Foodie News

Worth shelling out for: Crab Bruschetta (above) and Oysters

The Damage Super Miss Sue’s speciality is fish, but there are options for those who do not delight in our ocean’s abundance. To begin we shared six oysters. The Carlingford oysters are €2 each; the Achill Sound Pacific oysters are €2.80; and the price of the oyster of the week changes depending on what’s on offer.

Daniella ordered the crab bruschetta with avocado, pink grapefruit and fennel (€10) and the lettuce heart (€4). This is a healthy option but one that certainly doesn’t feel like a compromise as the creamy avocado and piquant grapefruit perfectly complemented the crab. I had the battered cod with crushed peas, tartare sauce and Cervi fries (€16). This is a large portion for lunch and a perfect choice for anyone with a big appetite.

Super Miss Sue has an extensive range of wines to choose from and many options, including prosecco, are available by the glass. Prices start at a very reasonable €6.50.

S U PE R M I SS SUE \ 2 -3 DR U RY ST R E E T, D U B L I N 2.

PH ONE \ +353 1 679 9 009.

S UPE R M I SSS U E .CO M

Sea-ing is believing: Aqua in Howth

No Place Like Home

treasure. Just as he was giving his answer, which was a real moment in the interview, somebody walked in and ruined it! Stuff like that really kills me.”

Since she has taken over the Spin 1038 breakfast show Daniella hasn’t had much time for modelling.

“When I started in radio I was doing both, but I had different hours. I was working nights in iRadio but I had my whole day free. Now that I am working on the breakfast show in the mornings it is a much bigger commitment and a much bigger show. The hours conflict with modelling because a lot of modelling happens in the morning with early call times. I have a great relationships with the guys in Brown Thomas and I love doing their shows because it is an experience to wear those clothes and walk their runway. I miss it in that I wish I had enjoyed it more when I was doing it” The lack of stability — and unpredictable wages — made Daniella nervous, she explains.

“It’s hard on your selfconfidence. Some weeks I wouldn’t be working for five days and you’d see other girls working and wonder ‘What’s wrong with me?’ There’s not enough money in it in Ireland. If you want to make a living you have to go abroad and it is a very different scene to what you’d be used to in Ireland. Here it’s lovely — everyone is like family and really friendly. I’m sure it is not like that in Paris or New York because it is so cutthroat with so many models. I never for a second considered leaving Ireland. I love Dublin. When I was modelling I was always looking for a way out. I wish I had enjoyed it more — but would I go back to it? No way!”

Being firmly of the too many cookbooks is never enough persuasion, we were all sorts of excited when Trish Deseine’s Home: Recipes From Ireland popped into the Go Rail letterbox.

Belfast-born but Paris-based, she’s managed to extract top secret recipes from the likes of Tankardstown House, Kai, Loam and Harry’s Shack, the insanely good fish place in Portstewart.

Picking a favourite is impossible, so we’ve narrowed it down to four - Mussels in Cider with Apples, Mutton Pot Roast with Onions & Carrots, Guinness Rarebit and Baked Apples with Porter Cake Crumbs & Whiskey Custard. It’s a large format, 346-page monster which will revolutionise the way you eat in 2016!

Xmas Spirit There was much celebrating down Waterford way last month when Thin Gin won ‘Best Gin’ at the prestigious Irish Whiskey Awards, beating off stiff competition from a dozen rivals.

“This is an amazing result for a gin that’s only just out!” enthuses Thin Gin’s Timmy Ryan. “We didn’t dare to dream that it would be chosen out of so many Irish gins, especially in a blind taste test.”

Marvellous with tonic and as the key component in a Tom Collins - is it just us that’s getting thirsty? - Thin Gin is a real labour of love for Timmy and partner Nichola Beresford who says, “Yesterday I went from hand filling, hand labelling and hand sealing bottles to being the delivery boy

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and merchandiser. Since winning the award it’s been 5am to midnight working days, but we’re delighted!”

There will be even more Whiskey Awards competition to fend off next year, with the arrival this month of Bertha’s Revenge Irish Milk Gin, distilled with much love by the folks at Ballyvolane House in Fermoy.

That’s Crafty Operating out of a gorgeous Kilkenny farmhouse, the Inistioge Food. Co.’s Denis Molloy and Anneliese Duffy have come up with the brilliant idea of using Bru Brewery Cream Stout and Metalman Craft Pale Ale to create a fantastic series of Craft Beer Marinades with extra oomph.

Pop your choice of meet, fish or seafood in the oven bag, and simply cook away. Available in Cajun, Smokey, Italian, Thai and Cider Moroccan varieties, they’re the perfect stocking-filler for the exotic food lover in your life. inistiogefoodco.com .

Room With A View Fabulous food, equally impressive views and top service... located on historic Howth Pier just a lobster claw’s throw from the seagoing local fleet, Aqua really does have it all!

Not to be missed if you’re in Dublin, there’s extra enticement to visit with the chance of winning a free lunch on them!

Enter at aqua.ie/GoRail and see aqua.ie to discover what they’re currently rustling up in the kitchen.

G O H E A LT H Fruit boost your immune system and aid digestion

Staying Healthy this

Bio-Kult supplements: a fantastic source of "good" bacteria.

MIDWINTER Winter is very much upon us, and with it come coughs, colds, flu, and all those other immune system stressors. The change from winter to spring brings even more challenges as a fresh influx of germs descends upon our little island. Protecting your immune system is crucial this time of the year. While covering your coughs and washing your hands are no-brainers, the best way to boost your immunity is to take care of your body as a whole.

by Alene Bouranova

REST A good immune system depends on a wellrested body. That requires sleeping sufficiently AND keeping stress levels low – easier said than done! Adults should have between seven and nine hours of sleep a night, which means hitting the hay at a decent hour is crucial. If you have trouble falling asleep at night you may want to limit your evening screen time; studies show that pre-bedtime light exposure disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm. So swap out your nightly Netflix binge for some bedtime reading instead – though still bright, lamp light is just a little easier to take than light from a tablet or phone. If all else fails, try a little melatonin or even a glass of warm milk and honey to lull yourself into a peaceful slumber.

Stress is a different matter. It’s unavoidable during Christmas, in particular. With gift shopping, visiting relatives, and New Year resolutions to make, stress levels are understandably through the roof. And once the holidays have passed you have to actually maintain your resolutions – another layer of pressure. Nothing helps keep stress in check like regular exercise. Though it seems like a chore, you’ll be surprised at how much better you feel after regular physical activity.

That doesn’t mean you have to run and join the nearest yoga or spin studio (though those aren’t bad ideas!). Even just taking prolonged walks a few times a week or doing the occasional

exercise video will do you a world of good. Not to mention regular exercise helps you sleep better...so it’s a win win.

DIET Protecting your immune system starts from within. Healthy eating is key to taking care of your body, so pay attention to what you ingest.

Fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins; though not as tasty as leftover Christmas cookies, they’re necessary for a balanced diet.

It’s also important not to skip breakfast in the morning (and no, coffee doesn’t count as breakfast). Eating breakfast everyday not only provides you with the energy you need to start your day, but also keeps you from overeating later on.

Taking care of your insides begins with your gut and digestive tract. You can eat all the healthy food you want, but if your body can’t can’t absorb its nutrients then you might as well not be eating right. That’s where probiotics come in; this healthy bacteria fights harmful bacteria and strengthens the intestinal wall to make sure your body absorbs the nutrients it needs. An easy way to make sure you have enough healthy bacteria is to eat more fermented foods. Live-culture yoghurt,cottage cheese, miso, and kimchi all boost digestive health. Cure midwinter blues with a new digestive-friendly recipe – you just might like what you find.

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SUPPLEMENTS (w/ probiotic focus) Supplementing with friendly bacteria also helps to replenish beneficial gut bacteria and keep harmful bacteria from multiplying in our intestines. The Bio-Kult advanced probiotic range are easy-to-digest capsules which contain 14 strains of good bacteria including the two most important strains, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Bio-Kult’s probiotics are supplements you can trust. All Bio-Kult strains have received a special protective coating to ensure they survive your gut’s acidity. They’re suitable for the whole family, including newborns and pregnant or lactating women.

Best of all, they won’t interfere with other medications – if you do fall sick this midwinter, you can take Bio-Kult supplements on the same day as your antibiotics.

We’re not kidding about those fruits and veggies, however. When eaten along with fermented foods and probiotic supplements, a daily intake of fruits and vegetables feeds your beneficial bacteria with soluble fibre, which helps them colonize your system. Other great sources of soluble fibre are whole grains like oats and legumes (AKA beans and peas). Just stay away from those Christmas cookies; sugar significantly weakens the immune system. Just a teaspoon of sugar suppresses immunity by 50% for up to five hours. Try Xylitol or Manuka Honey for sweetening instead.

Bio-Kult is a scientifically developed, advanced multi-strain formula containing 14 live bacterial cultures, proven to survive the high acidity of the stomach.

Bio-Kult is suitable for vegetarians and it’s gluten free. It can be swallowed whole, sprinkled over food or mixed in a drink and it doesn’t need to be refrigerated.

SCOPEIE0033

DELIVERING INNOVATION

Available from your local pharmacy or health food store Phone: 01 525 3683 Visit: www.scopehealthcare.ie

G O B U S I N E S S clare keogh

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G O B U S I N E S S

Have I got

BREWS FOR YOU 2015 was the year that craft beer went mainstream in Ireland, with big money starting to flow into the industry. Stuart Clark reports. (left) Franciscan Well's Shane Long, (inset) Franciscan Well Stout and (below top to bottom) the Wicklow Wolf range, and Wicklow Wolf 's Simon Lynch and Quincey Fennelly with Hozier

A

s the crowds flocking to September’s Irish Craft Beer & Cider Festival in the RDS, Dublin underlined, 2015 was the year that microbrewing went mainstream here, with virtually every bar in the country dedicating a tap or two to hoppy go lucky types like Franciscan Well.

Having started as a humble brewpub – their North Mall HQ in Cork is busier than ever! – Franciscan Well now has a new state-of-the-art brewing complex and toeholds in both the UK and American markets.

“We’ve done more specials in the last two years than in the first 12,” enthuses Franciscan Well head honcho Shane Long. “It’s necessity, because the customer is simply demanding more. The palate is evolving at a ferocious rate in Ireland right now, and if you don’t adapt you’ll be left behind. The days of producing an IPA, a blond ale and a stout, are pretty much gone. We won Best Seasonal Pale Ale for our Saison at the World Beer Awards; that’s the biggest award we’ve ever received. In fact, we’ve won more international awards this year than we ever did. It does mean we’re that much busier – we’ve had to stop taking on new accounts, because we just couldn’t keep up.

“It’s remarkable to see how quickly the industry is growing,” Shane continues. “I was at the International Beer Challenge Awards, sitting next to two brewers from Rising Sons.

They’re another Cork brewery, and we helped them set up when they first got started. To be at that level in the world after just 12 months is truly remarkable. They won Gold for their Grainu Ale wheat beer. Both the guys there, Shane Murphy and Kieran Foley, trained with us. They were homebrewers two years ago; now they’re living the dream. Not everybody is doing well out of it though; I reckon there’ll be some closures in the New Year, unfortunately.

There’s a lot of different factors. Consistency is a huge thing, and not just in Ireland.”

Barely a month has passed in 2015 without the launch of a new brewery – Third Circle, Knockout, Wood Key, Mont, Walled City and Drew Fox are among those who’ve hit the ground running – or an existing one announcing expansion plans.

Exciting years lie ahead for Rye River in Cellbridge, County Kildare who are trebling production and building an 8,000 square foot visitor centre, and the Boyne Brewhouse

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in Drogheda whose new €20m facility will comprise of a brewery and taproom, a distillery producing both whiskey and gin, a visitor centre, whiskey bar, event space, 120-seater theatre and a shop.

2015 has also seen more and more home brewers deciding to go the commercial route, with Limerick’s Treaty City Brewing, Cork’s Radik Ale and James Brown Brews in Dublin all proving that the step-up can be made.

Last spotted boiling pots of rhubarb on his mam’s stove for a fruity IPA, Brown, still only 23, had his Chocolate Orange Stout crowned Beoir Champion Beer of 2015 down in Killarney while expat Belgian Alain Dekoster had the very bright idea of producing his Radik Ale Radical Brew in association with Cork neighbours, Blackwater Gin. It’s also been a brilliant 12 months for Wicklow Wolf who’ve gone from being a wellkept Garden County secret to one of the bestknown craft brewers in the country.

“We’ve had a very, very busy year, pretty much quadrupling our capacity and trying to stay ahead of demand as best we can,” enthuses Wicklow Wolf ’s Quincey Fennelly.

“In this business, there’s a certain level of entertainment required. When people go to buy a beer, oftentimes they’ll want to see what’s new and different. We try to bring out at least one new beer every quarter; we’ve been really busy this time and brought out three! The first is the Elevation Pale Ale, which we’ve had on draft for the past couple of months but is now available in bottles. We also have a collaboration with Java Republic on A Beer Called Rwanda. It’s a Coffee Brown Ale. I hadn’t known this, but Rwanda produces some of the best coffee in the world. We were approached by Java Republic to do something together, and I’ve always enjoyed coffee beers.

We used this Rwandan coffee with which they’ve won Great Taste Awards. Number three is our Locavore Fresh Hop Ale.” That extremely tasty A Beer Called Rwanda might well be one of the tipples showcasing at the Alltech Craft Brews & Food Fair, which returns to the National Convention Centre from February 5-7, with live music and the Six Nations on the big screen for rugby fans. Like the Irish Craft Beer & Cider Festival, 2015’s Fair was the most successful yet with tickets for the next gathering of the craft clans available from eu.alltechbrewsandfood.com.

F A S H I O N

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If you Can Dream it, You can Wear it THIS SEASON WE KNOW YOUR WARDROBE HAS TO COMPETE WITH THE ELEMENTS AS WELL AS THE DEMANDS OF ENDLESS CHRISTMAS PARTIES BUT, NEVER FEAR, ROE McDERMOTT HAS CAST A DISCERNING EYE ON WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE CATWALKS AND IDENTIFIED THE KEY TRENDS THIS WINTER

IF LUX COULD KILL With winter turning chilly, it’s time to layer up – but there’s no need to hide in drab colours or boring weather-appropriate gear. As the days get shorter and the evenings darker, it’s time to stand out.

This lux-layer look is all about combined colours and contrasting fabrics – with this trend, more is more. Anything goes: velvet, lurex, glitter, sequins, fur (faux of course), leather, lace, embellishment, animal print, snakeskin – if you can dream it, you can wear it.

Crushed velvet is the fabric of the season, as its luxurious texture and deep hues make it the

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perfect Yuletide textile. Christopher Kane used cerulean blue velvet for his androgynous suits, Valentino went for full-on drama with gothic black dresses, and Givenchy complemented waist-nipping velvet dresses with bold brocade patterns. Velvet cami-style tops can look slinky and sensual when worn with skinny jeans and heels, while velvet dresses can be teamed with tights and Doc Martens during the day for some ’90s grunge, or dressed up with heels and statement jewellery for the Christmas party.

Leather is always in fashion, and this season it’s softened by gentler fabrics. Another option is mixing midi-skirts with cosy woollen jumpers, slouchy velvet kimonos or velvet tops.

F A S H I O N

Blend colours and styles for a unique look. (clockwise from top left) Patchwork bag €29.99, New Look. Purple Contrast Trim Wrap €29.99, New Look and Burgundy Glitter Crop Top €17.99, New Look

THAT'S A WRAP Coats and jackets are, of course, a staple this time of year, and there are a myriad of styles to choose from. It’s all about mid-length fur coats, with streamlined silhouettes and deep-midnight hues to make them more preppy and modern. Deep blues and purples mark a nice twist on the traditional brown and black, and can brighten up a monochrome outfit.

Edun and Calvin Klein focused on the fastenings and details, going for halfcapes and long trench coats, so look out for military-style jackets and cape detailing for some drama.

Or, if you prefer a more individual look, layer different pieces to create a slightly boho way of keeping warm. To embrace the ’70s trend that’s been huge this year, look to autumnal colours that work well with basic blacks and can also be mixed and matched. Deep mauves, rusts chocolates, mustards, teals, and burnt sienna tones all look wonderful together, and be sure to pick clashing patterns for some definition between your pieces.

Combine a variety of fabrics, from shearling jackets, knit cardigans, silk scarves and leather belts, and play up this patchwork approach with your accessories too. For an eccentric touch, bring two clashing small purses instead of one big bag, or look for a tote with a bold pattern. With your jewellery, wear an array of materials. Clash feather earrings and statement gemstone necklaces with wooden rings. Don’t forget your shoes – fringed or laced boots will complement your layered look nicely, or get creative by wrapping some old bracelets or leather strands around an old pair of boots for a really original look.

Be sure that your silhouette doesn’t get overpowered by all the fabric by nipping in your waist with a belt, or keeping one half of your outfit streamlined with a pencil skirt or skinny jeans. Throw on a long scarf – bonus points if it has a hood – and enjoy.

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Look cool and understated this Christmas. (clockwise from top left) Red glitter heart clutch €8, Penneys. Silver/ Black sequin dress €25, Penneys and Blue Velvet Pinafore €30, Penneys

ANYTHING FUR FASHION Fur is back with a bang – but don’t worry, we’re going faux, and it’s fullon fabulous. Fur has been all the rage this winter on the catwalks, and it’s an easy and timeless look to work into your wardrobe. Fur stoles were all the rage at Jason Wu and Michael Kors – drape them elegantly over one shoulder and secure, or wear them crossed over your chest and secured with a belt, like a gilet.

Of course, you can’t go wrong with a fur coat, and Mara Hoffman was all about rainbow colours and candy-shop hues, while Michael Kors’ teal furs were the envy of every fashion lover. If you don’t want to go full-on fur, many coats have faux-fur highlights around the collar and lapel, which can look sophisticated when teamed with a formal look, or urban causal when dressed down with jeans. Neutral colours are utterly timeless, and camelcoloured faux fur or shearling adds an effortless sense of Parisian chic to any outfit.

If you prefur (see what we did there!) to keep your fur accents minimal, look for classic leather gloves with fur cuffs, fur charms for your handbags, or even fur hats and muffs if you feel like evoking a sense of Russian royalty – and why wouldn’t you?

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GO

REVIEW albums. movies. books

KATHRIN BAUMBACH

E N Y A pg 63 GOLISTEN.

GOWATCH.

GOREAD.

We cast a cold eye on Adele's world-record smashing comeback album 25, Enya's new offering Dark Sky Island, and one of the most hotly anticipated new Irish releases of the year, Gavin James' Bitter Pill

Pixar's tour de force Inside Out is the DVD release that will have people queuing round the block this Christmas. We also run the rule over winter watching such as AntMan, Mad Max: Fury Road, Song Of The Sea and 99 Homes.

If it's a rollicking read you're after, Queen Of Spies isn't to be missed. We also cast our critical eye over such page-turners as Waterford Whispers News Takes Over The World, Winter Pages and Alex Ferguson's Leading.

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GOLISTEN. m i l l i o n

d o l l a r

b a b y

It’s been four years in the making, but ADELE’s latest lovelorn confessional blockbuster doesn’t let us down. Also reviewed: fine new releases from ENYA and GAVIN JAMES.

Adele’s new album has smashed sales records around the world, shifting an incredible 2.8 million copies in its first five days in the United States, and dethroning Oasis as the fastestselling act of all time in the UK. But is 25 worth the hype? The answer is ‘yes’ indeed. If you liked the last record, with all its righteous anger and emotional balladry, you’re going to like this one too. Adele, after all, was hardly going to go hip-hop.

In a statement released last month, confirming that the album would indeed be titled 25, the 27-year-old Londoner said, “My last record was a break-up record, and if I had to label this one, I would call it a make-up record. Making up for lost time. And I’m sorry it took so long but, you know, life happened.”

Life for Adele has happened at hyper-speed in recent years. Her previous album, 21, made her a global superstar, and she also became a mother. However, songs about being megafamous and changing nappies aren’t going to do it (the four-year delay is partly due to the fact that she wrote, and then scrapped, an entire album about motherhood).

Mostly, then, she’s back on familiar ground.

Adele made her name creatively mining a failed relationship (result!), but even though she may now be happy with a new man, the old one isn’t entirely out of her system. Thus, there’s still a touch of passive-aggression even in an upbeat song such as ‘Send My Love To Your New Lover’.

“Send my love to your new lover,” she sings, “I hope you treat her better.”

While there’s absolutely no arguing with the power of her vocals, it’s hard to know how much of herself Adele is really revealing in these

seemingly deeply personal songs. The powerful persona of its prime mover notwithstanding, this entire album is a team effort. Every single track is a lyrical co-write.

The recipe hasn’t been changed much, either.

Whilst there aren’t many duds, ‘Water Under The Bridge’ and ‘Love in the Dark’ are relatively bland MOR. To these ears, one of the standouts is the Danger Mouse-produced, darkly propulsive ‘River Lea’: “Sometimes I feel so lonely in the arms of your touch/ But I know that’s just me because nothing ever is enough.”

All told, 25 is another lovelorn confessional blockbuster, guaranteed to sell millions of copies and emotionally soundtrack every other wedding, funeral, 21st birthday party and acrimonious break-up from now until the release of her next LP. Another million-seller returning with a new LP is Enya. Dark Sky Island, her eighth full album, has been three years in the making. The music on Dark Sky Island was inspired by the Donegal artist’s recent travels, and her ongoing explorations of themes of journeying – whether through time, place or, indeed, the vast panoply of human emotions.

All of the familiar Enya elements are here: ethereal, cascading melodies; cinematic, instrumental textures; and magnificently otherworldly vocals. The lyrical themes on Dark Sky Island have their origins in a series of poems written by Roma Ryan which, in turn, were inspired by the English Channel island of Sark, and its designation as Europe’s first 'Dark Sky' community (i.e. a place free of light pollution, to allow for naked-eye astronomy).

It’s an intriguing source to turn to and, as ever

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with Enya, the environment looms large within both the words and the music. ‘Echoes In Rain’, the lead single, lives up to its description as a companion piece to her 1988 breakthrough hit, ‘Orinoco Flow’. Though slightly slower in pace, it has a similar staccato rhythm/vocal part and an insistent melody with a chorus of 'hallelujahs' that make it instantly memorable. Mournful and hymn-like, the beautiful ‘So I Could Find My Way’ weaves its sweeping, textural tapestry in fine style, with piano, lush strings, a choir of voices and a keening melody all inter-weaving expertly.

Meanwhile, the title-track, a slow hypnotic waltz, boasts a melody that recalls the classical French air ‘Plaisir D’amour’. It has a distinct Christmas feel and atmosphere about it too, which might make it an appropriately seasonal single release.

Also proudly flying a banner for Irish music is newcomer Gavin James, just back from supporting Sam Smith on tour in the United States. Indeed, Bitter Pill is among the most hotly anticipated Irish releases of the year. Many in this part of the world will already be well aware of the young Dubliner’s immense talent and the musical riches he can conjure apparently almost out of nothing. On Bitter Pill, Gavin confirms all of that – with knobs on.

The tunes that have become live favourites are all present and correct here: ‘For You’, ‘The Book of Love’, ‘Till The Sun Comes Up’ and lots more besides. But they have been beefed up here, with an added punch, courtesy of producers who’ve guided Adele, Florence and others in the past.

For James, the future is about to get a whole lot brighter.

GOWATCH. i n n e r

s p a c e

Despite the season, there’s not a turkey in sight! So this Christmas curl up with your family in front of some truly great films, or buy them as gifts for your favourite movie buffs. Roe McDermott has the best of the upcoming DVD releases to make sure your winter watching is filled with treats.

If you’re looking for stocking filler DVDs to suit anyone and everyone this Christmas, get ready to queue for your copy of this one. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Inside Out is not only Pixar’s best film, but one of the greatest children’s films ever imagined. This stunning story about how our emotions work and affect us is not only a delight to watch, but changes how we think about our feelings. The film’s ostensible-protagonist is Riley, a good-natured eleven-year-old who has just moved from Minnesota to San Francisco. But the real stars are the anthropomorphic Emotions inside her brain. There’s leader Joy (voiced by the everchipper Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) – and then Sadness (Phyllis Smith), who Joy tries to ignore as much as possible.

The house move throws Riley’s Emotions into turmoil, and sends Joy on an epic quest through Riley’s brain. Along the way, Joy discovers that she can’t always protect Riley from Sadness, and it’s actually important for Riley to feel and express all her emotions – not just the good ones. Even for Pixar’s intelligent standards, the film is unapologetically complex and riddled with ideas, which are intricately layered. All the while, the rainbow-bright visuals communicate the dangers and victories colourfully enough that kids will understand the stakes and the feelings, if not the exact psychology. Just like life.

Also out in early December and ready for some family fun is Paul Rudd’s introduction to the superhero world in Ant-Man. Director Peyton Reed works well with the somewhat ludicrous concept of a shrinkage-inflicted man with a diminutively-named alter-ego. A combination of essential invisibility, Houdini skills and superstrength allows Ant-Man (Rudd) to be more exciting than expected, as he surfs through water pipes, escapes capture by crawling through cracks and under doors, and even uses his sneaky fighting skills to take down an Avenger.

There’s also a simplicity and appropriate scale to the film, which isn’t yet another potential apocalypse flick, merely a good old-fashioned heist. Instead of making the character darker in the vein of Captain America or even the Batman reboot, writers Edgar Wright and Joe Cornish settle for having lots of jokes, which may disappoint those looking for some hardcore action and character development. Given that the main threat is also the development of technology (dire technophobes, the Marvel

lot) rather than the impending death of any individuals, the danger never feels particularly imminent. But Rudd is endlessly charming, and a brilliant cameo by one of the newer Avengers is a joy. Perfect for little ones looking for a light induction to the superhero world.

If you’re eager for something a bit more heavy on the action, not to mention nostalgia, look no further than Mad Max: Fury Road.

George Miller’s franchise revival will leave some drooling over its relentless, kaleidoscopic, retinabursting Cirque du Soleil-style set pieces, and leave others scratching their heads wondering where the plot, dialogue and character arcs went; Mad Max: Fury Road is an alternately ridiculous, progressive, eye-rolling and entertaining chase through an apocalyptic world. Miller’s screenplay is light on words, but his characters are both expressive and subversive. Charlize Theron’s role as Furiosa – a steely determined saviour who has few words to spare, but plenty of guts and tech-savvy – is deliberately more intriguing and influential than the self-preserving and unengaging survivor Max (Tom Hardy). The two combine forces during Furiosa’s quest to free the enslaved wives of Immortan Joe, tyrannical ruler of the arid Citadel. As cameras speed alongside manic skeletal racer-boys, with faceon shots capturing the wild energy of warriors; a soundtrack filled with dramatic strings and operatic rock guitar creates a pumping energy.

Freakshow elements and gratuitous gore add an element of Vegas absurdity to this breathless desert ride. Be sure you want to get on, because it won’t stop for you.

Another perfect family film for Yuletide viewing is Song of the Sea, released late in December.

Tomm Moore, Oscar-nominated director of The Secret Of Kells, has managed to improve on visual perfection in the visually sumptuous Song Of The Sea. The warm, emotive and layered story of a young boy whose sister is revealed to be a Selkie (she transforms into a seal in water); Song Of The Sea blends mysticism, myth, emotional realism – and a visual style that is truly enchanting. The visuals are simply breathtaking, with watercolour backgrounds evoking the everchanging light of an Irish sky, while the swirling, mysterious depths of the ocean is captured in the richest of blues and greens. Celtic swirls subtly highlight the shapes of shells, clouds and rocks, bringing a uniquely Irish and textured beauty to the animation. This texture is felt in the story and the sound, too, as the interactions

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Inside Out: a true festive cracker

with fairies, ancient storytellers and an owl witch (Fionnula Flanagan) are accompanied by an ethereal score and Irish-language songs; an older storytelling tradition that strengthens the modern animation. A story whose form highlights its message; that magic can be found everywhere, that stories have power, and that both grief and love need to be felt for our lives to be true.

Finally, in January as the cinemas start to fill with award-baiting dramas, why not bring one to your sitting room? 99 Homes is a stirring drama set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial and housing crisis in the States. Director Ramin Bahrani’s examination of house foreclosures and institutional corruption is a lit fuse of righteous anger, ready to explode. Andrew Garfield stars as Dennis Nash, a single unemployed construction worker living with his mother (Laura Dern) and son (Noah Lomax), who finds himself evicted.

A combination of his desperation, the American Dream and a masculine sense of duty is why he agrees to cross the Rubicon and work for Rick Carver (Michael Shannon) – the chillingly precise real estate shark who evicted him. Garfield again proves himself as a heavyweight, conveying a moral and emotional complexity. Simultaneously seduced by the money Rick can offer him, and filled with self-loathing as he evicts people just like him, his eyes are never free from internal conflict. The not-purring-but-growling Shannon is also incredible. It’s unclear whether blind greed is more or less disturbing than the possibility that he’s sadistically enjoying turning Dennis into what he despises. A damning fable about greed and morality that works on personal and political levels.

GOREAD. s p y

c a t c h e r

K AT H R I N B A U M B AC H

With a gripping, page-turning tale of real-life espionage, a sumptuous arts anthology and the latest memoir from arguably football’s finest manager of all time, there’s no shortage of cracking reading material to see you safely through the winter...

Kevin Barry: exciting new arts anthology

On dark winter nights, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a rollicking read. For fans of the spy genre, whether in print or on screen, we recommend Paddy Hayes’ biography of Daphne Park, Queen Of Spies (Gerald Duckworth and Co). Park was born into poverty in Tanganyika (present-day Tanzania) in 1921, and later became the most senior female executive of the Special Intelligence Service, aka MI6. Park’s journey from Africa to the upper echelons of the British establishment is fascinating – with tours through the Special Operations Executive which conducted intelligence operations in occupied Europe during World War 2 – and Park herself is an intriguing character. There is much that many readers will find unethical and morally repugnant, such as Park’s role in the murder of the Congo’s first elected prime minister, Patrice Lumumba, and her relationship with Margaret Thatcher.

Hayes does an excellent job of explaining how the clandestine services work, and Queen of Spies shines much-needed light on the darkest corners of political intrigue.

For those who prefer to chuckle as they read, meanwhile, there is the cult phenomenon that is Waterford Whispers. Having featured regularly in the nation’s Facebook feeds for the past few years, the team at the comedy website have finally brought their clever, sharp and funny satire to book form with Waterford Whispers News Takes Over The World (Blackstaff Press).

And a worthwhile exercise it is too. Brevity being the soul of wit, there are no mammoth essays here; instead, the jokes stay punchy and the takes hot. Matters of politics, economics and sports mingle nicely with what might be WWN’s single greatest suit, off-beat observational comedy. We defy you to read ‘Car-buyer not too sure why he kicked front tyre just there’ and not have a good chuckle.

A gorgeous document as well as a fascinating read, Winter Pages (Curlew Editions) is a new arts anthology co-edited by award-winning novelist Kevin Barry. A handsome hard-bound volume, the first edition features original fiction by such literary up-and-comers as Sara

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Baume, Claire Kilroy and Rob Doyle plus sliceof-life black and white photography by Conor Horgan. The fiction is unashamedly literary and will be of interest to those who value characterisation and meticulous prose over straightforward storytelling. Either way, this is a sumptuous object and will appeal to anyone who appreciates top-rank craftsmanship.

For sports fans, meanwhile, the latest postretirement tome from Manchester United’s former manager Alex Ferguson will make for a fascinating read. Building on an unlikely second career as corporate guru (he has lectured at Harvard), Leading (Hodder and Stoughton) sees Ferguson share his thoughts on working in a high-pressure environment and getting the most from colleagues and underlings. For the Irish reader, there will be one major surprise with Ferguson omitting Roy Keane from the list of world-class talents with whom he has worked, even while he finds space for the arguably less accomplished Paul Scholes. Otherwise, this is an engaging book, free of the usual clichés.

GOWIN. GO RAIL COMPETITION

WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY AND EVENING MEAL AT MOUNT WOLSELEY HOTEL, SPA & COUNTRY CLUB

The Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Country Club is located on 200 acres of beautiful countryside in County Carlow. It boasts 143 luxury bedrooms and over 30 holiday lodges, in addition to an 18-hole championship golf course and tennis courts. In addition, its award-winning leisure centre has a state-of-the-art gym featuring machines with integrated TVs. The renowned Wolseley Spa offers a range of exotic and luxurious treatments, while food enthusiasts are also catered for courtesy of Frederick’s Restaurant, which serves creative cuisine and an Irish breakfast buffet among large windows and an outdoor terrace. Guests can also enjoy the rolling gardens overlooking the golf course.

THE PRIZE:

The lucky winner will enjoy an overnight stay and evening meal at Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Country Club To enter, simply email your answers to gorail@hotpress.ie. Please include your contact details, and let us know on which train route or at which station you picked up your copy of Go Rail.

THE QUESTION: Which Dublin landmark played a central role in the 1916 Rising, and will soon house a visitors' centre dedicated to the period? a) Trinity College b) The GPO c) The Mansion House Iarnród Éireann are also offering 5 runners-up, 5 pairs of InterCity tickets, please email your answers to gorail@hotpress.ie Terms & Conditions: The prizes are valid for one year, and subject to availability. No cash alternatives will be offered. Entrants must be aged 18+. Go Rail may contact competition entrants with details of future special offers. Your details won’t be passed on to any third party. Please specify in your email if you would like to opt out of this.

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