This is Galway - March/April 2018 Edition - Issue #7

MAR - APR 2018 // FREE // THISISGALWAY.IE

ISSUE # 7

Open Air Markets Restaurant Trail Festival Village Food Tours Cookery Demonstrations Food Talks Local Produce Meet the Producers Kids Stuff

& More

Connect With Us  galway-food-festival  @galwayfood galwayfoodfestival.com

WHAT’S INSIDE 4-5

Stevo Timothy: A Questionable Comedian

8-10

EAT // From Under the Sea

13-15

DRINK // Galway-made brews and drinks

16-17

Pálás - What have the Pythons ever done for us

18-19

Cúirt International Festival of Literature returns to Galway

21-23

New Faces, Fresh Places // Welcoming new businesses to the streets of Galway

24-25

Little Hours // Donegal’s John Doherty chats about taking a new direction and a Galway show

27-30

WHAT’S ON // The best of live music, theatre and more around Galway

WHO WE ARE...

Art Direction & Design Martin Browne info@thisisgalway.ie

Photography Boyd Challenger

Editor Caitlin Foley caitlin@thisisgalway.ie

Advertising Queries Maxi Browne maxi@thisisgalway.ie Ian Burke ian@thisisgalway.ie

A QUESTIONABLE COMEDIAN “They wouldn’t count me as a stand up comedian because I’m not traditional” We talked to Stevo Timothy and Sinead, also known as Farmer Michael and Kathleen, about their upcoming stand-up gigs, the Galway comedy scene, and secrets of the Irish psyche Interview: IAN BURKE Words: CAITLIN FOLEY Photography by Boyd Challenger

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n person, Stevo Timothy couldn’t be any more different than the alter ego he’s famous for.

Stevo the person is laid back and drives a shiny red BMW; Farmer Michael is keyed-up, usually shouting, and – I imagine – more comfortable in a tractor than a beamer.

Walking up to Eyre Square, I met Stevo and his partner Sinead, who is also Farmer Michael’s partner Kathleen, parked up outside TK Maxx.

After awkwardly waving through the window to get their attention, I hopped in the car and asked if there was anywhere they’d like to go to do the interview.

“No, here’s good,” Stevo said, and then starting question the sobriety of a particular driver careening by with her head stuck out the window.

If you’re not familiar with Farmer Michael and Kathleen, you should be. For two years, they’ve been taking the piss out of Irish stereotypes, especially from Galway and the west of Ireland. They started with sketch videos on Facebook, which were hugely popular.

“We like to tailor [our show] to different areas,” Sinead says – which means if you’re seeing them in Liverpool, you can expect to have the piss taken out of you, too.

“Kathleen’s always trying to reel me in because I go off on my infamous tangents and rants about anything and everything…” Stevo says, trailing off, possibly about to jump into a rant about tangents.

“I think a good way to describe it is ‘totally off the cuff but with a structure’. We know what we’re going to talk about,” Sinead says.

You can expect singing, for sure, and Stevo says that’s nearly always off the cuff.

And they’ve got other news: in April, they’ll have done Vicar Street. “The sacred temple of Irish comedy,” Stevo calls it. “It’s where you want to end up. We kind of sometimes take it for granted, but then you sit back and go, ‘Oh! We’re doing Vicar Street!’ After two years of f--ing around, it’s kind of strange.”

That’s especially true for a comedic duo that hasn’t enjoyed a particularly warm reception from the Irish comedy scene. When asked how they found Galway’s comedy scene in particular, Sinead responded, “We don’t really find the Galway comedy scene… at all.”

But they also do sketch comedy, which is what we started off with. Their stand-up routine is set up similarly to their Facebook videos, which makes the transfer from one to the other an easy one.

“It’s toxic. It’s very back-bitey. Horrid, I suppose,” Stevo puts it, in his uniquely forthcoming manner.

They’ve only done one gig in England before, at a pub owned by a friend, so the reception is staggering.

Apparently it’s not that simple. If the rules of stand-up are changing, the comedy scene isn’t ready for it. “If you asked anyone in stand-up in Galway, they wouldn’t count me as a Galway comedian, and they wouldn’t count me as a stand up comedian because I’m not traditional,” Stevo says.

“It’s a fake interview kind of set up, so we sit in two chairs and Kathleen tries to ask me questions – we go through some of the classic sketches, but we do a bit of crowdwork, too,” Stevo explains.

They’re getting ready to go on a UK tour, hitting Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham. Liverpool sold out in three days, so they announced a second Liverpool date – and that sold out, too. They’ve only done one gig in England before, at a pub owned by a friend, so the reception is staggering.

But, I protested, you’re the biggest comedy act out of Galway to make it international in at least five years.

Surely that earns you some clout around town.

“We both love Galway, we love being from Galway,” Sinead says, “but we hate performing here. We avoid performing here. It’s a really horrible environment.”

Except Loughrea – Loughrea gets a pass. “It really depends on where you’re playing, too,” Sinead says.

“Out in the country is usually great.”

I asked Stevo if he’d had any particularly bad experiences with stand-up, since we’re on the subject of bad experiences.

“Yeah,” he says, “but only in smaller venues, practice

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venues. There was one, we were doing a club in Galway and I do the bit where Michael ‘loves the Chinee’ – it’s the old Irish stereotype that the Irish have no problem with races who keep to themselves. But if they’re brash and show-offy, then we hate them. But the “Chinee” are great because they keep to themselves. I said to Kathy onstage like, ‘Oh I love the Chinee, Kathleen’ but there happened to be a Chinese girl sitting beside us. She loved it, but

“If you asked anyone in stand-up in Galway, they wouldn’t count me as a Galway comedian, and they wouldn’t count me as a stand up comedian because I’m not traditional,” Stevo says. there were a few Americans down the back who started booing and stuff. Didn’t seem to get that I’m parodying the Irish racist.”

I asked him what was more difficult: uploading that first video to Facebook, where the audience is vast but largely anonymous, or his first stand-up, where the audience is smaller but right in your face.

“Probably sitting in my car with my brother doing that first ever video… That was really hard. But stand-up is a different kettle of fish altogether. Before shows I get really, incredibly anxious, but once I get out there, maybe thirty seconds into it, I sing my entrance song and then I’m grand, I’m into it. Just pre-show nerves.”

Stevo is bluntly honest like that: he doesn’t pretend that any of it comes easily. He’s also recently been forthcoming about his use of antidepressants.

“No,” he says immediately when I ask him about it, with a smile on his face that lets me know he’s joking. “No, no.

There’s no depression in Ireland – none at all. Just go for a walk, get a dog, go to the gym. You’ll be grand.”

That, of course, is the reaction a lot of people coping with mental health issues face. I asked him if mental health is an important issue for him.

“It’s not so much an important issue for me,” he tells me.

“I get a lot of snaps [on Snapchat] and messages from people saying, ‘I was in hospital, your videos made my day.’ I thought maybe I could relate to them a bit more if I shared that I’m on antidepressants too.”

“I think what we’re trying to put across,” Sinead adds, “is that it’s not important, and it shouldn’t be important; [taking medication for depression] should just be a normal thing.”

And I get can definitely get behind that de-stigmatisation.

Finally, I ask Stevo and Kathleen what’s next, after the UK tour.

“We have the second leg of our tour… Swansea, Cardiff Reading, London, then third leg, Newcastle, Edinburgh,” Stevo says. “We’re back to Liverpool in October for the Southport Comedy Festival with Jason Byrne, Jason Manford – and they got onto us and said, ‘We’d really love to have you on.’ Ha!” “We have a DVD coming out, too,” Sinead tells me. “It’s a highlight of all our best bits. It’s about 40 minutes and it’s fourteen euro. Buy it!”

“And we’re having a film crew following us in Liverpool,” Stevo says, “and then we’re doing a documentary about the whole journey, from my accident up to Vicar Street.

We’ll have a professional film crew doing that.”

I ask him if there are any plans for TV appearance in the future.

“We hope so, but we hope it’d be British television. Once you’re on British television, Irish television will want you,” Stevo says, laughing. “We have this thing – ‘We hate you, but, oh the English like you? Well the English know comedy, because they used to rule us…’ It’s the weird Irish psyche of hating the British, but loving what they love. Up the IRA – now let’s head to a Chelsea match.”

Find more about Stevo Timothy and Farmer Michael on Facebook @sirstevotimothyofficial

John Keoghs, where people get together in the Westend Being located in Galway’s westend means that the award-winning John Keoghs is located in one of Ireland’s Top 10 Foodie Destination as awarded by the Restaurants Association of Ireland.

In 2017, John Keoghs was named as one of Irelands top three gastro pubs, Highly Commended in the Yes Chef Awards and as Ireland’s Newcomer Restaurant in the Hotel & Catering Review Gold Medal Awards. The westend pub and eatery was also awarded the title of Best Pub Food and Best Customer Service in Connacht by the Irish Pub Awards 2017.

This pub which is now known for its great food and fusion drinks has for over a year now been hosting some of the best parties in Galway. John Keoghs has several areas to choose from for your celebration, catering for groups of 10 up to 120 guests. Whether it’s a birthday, an engagement, corporate, post wedding party or a table quiz, the private ‘Occasional Room’ which has its own bar, sound system and is on the same level as the main bars is the venue for your bash.

As the Occasional Room is private, you can have a DJ, live music, drink tabs, Specialized Drinks Lists and can cater for any specific requests you or your guests might have. There is no room hire and our finger food has been described as “out of this world” by party goers. John Keoghs has become a regular haunt for Galwegians and a new place to go for first time visitors to the city, their drinks selection with 28 gins, extensive wine list, signature beers and of course a great pint of Guinness makes it the ideal place for an early evening or late night drink when in Galway.

Get social with John Keoghs, The Lock Keepers across all social media platforms, call 091-449431 or check out John Keoghs on Tripadvisior or www.johnkeoghs.ie to book your Private functions.

planning a party?

ils, deluxe finger food, cocktaog gins & Late bar at John Ke h’s Two great party rooms available for any occasion you can think of!

091 449 431

22-24 UPR. DOMINICK ST. JOHNKEOGHS.IE

UNDER THE SEA Fresh from the Atlantic to your plate...

FOOD

EAT: SEAFOOD

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WAY MORE THAN JUST A FISH SUPPER

Galway is a haven for the seafood-lover. A hundred years ago, fleets of Galway Hookers would head to sea from the Claddagh in all weather, and return with fresh fish, which was sold at the Spanish Arch by the fishermen’s wives. These days, it’s much easier to get fresh seafood on your plate: Galway is overflowing with great seafood restaurants.

Dock No 1 Seafood Bar & Restaurant Enjoy fresh Irish seafood in this warm, rustic-style restaurant while overlooking the boats floating in the harbour at the docks. How much closer to the sea can you get than that?

The Restaurant serves options from land and sea for lunch and dinner, with daily specials based on the catch of the day. The menu from the Seafood Bar is full of oysters, mussels, Irish lobster rolls, and other innovative dishes made with high-quality local ingredients and the best of native Irish seafood.

1-3 Dock Road, The Docks, Galway City // +353(0)91 562 872

Hooked This award winning, family-run restaurant and chipper is perfect for a sit-down meal with friends and family in a casual, welcoming setting with a big seafood menu. They’ve got a little something for everyone, from the popular monkfish goujons, hearty fish pie, shellfish bowl in lobster bisque and of course fried fish and twice-cooked chips; there’s even a vegetarian option, but you won’t find any chicken on this menu. Their seafood is sourced daily from Ali’s Fish Market just around the corner, which brings a steady stream of high-quality fresh fish.

Their food philosophy is “hook it and cook it”, and the difference is noticeable in that first, delicious bite.

65 Henry Street, Galway’s Westend, Galway City // +353(0)91 581 752

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Misunderstood Heron Set in one of the most dramatic landscapes that Ireland has to offer, the Misunderstood Heron serves up the flavors of Connemara, with stunning views of the Killary Fjord. It’s a food truck, offering visitors an al fresco dining experience that won’t soon be forgotten.

Their menu is constantly changing and evolving, but it always serves up flavoursome, homecooked food, highlighting the gorgeous produce available in the West of Ireland. The Misunderstood Heron’s mussels are sourced directly from the Fjord they overlook; the lamb from nearby fields; and they forage for seasonal flavours wherever they can find them. It’s a friendly, relaxed environment where tourists and locals alike are welcomed to stop for a chat, to enjoy a tasty bite of grub, a delicious cup of coffee and homemade cake, and to enjoy the views.

Leenaun, Connemara, Galway County

McDonagh’s Fish and Chips Possibly Galway’s most well-known chipper, McDonagh’s fills Galway’s Latin Quarter with the tempting smell of fish and chips. Rock up to the fish and chip bar for a take-away batch of their delicious thick-cut chips with salt and vinegar (a viable lunch option), or sit down at their picnic-style tables to enjoy some of the tastiest fried fish around. On a sunny day, the outside seating area is one of the best places for people-watching in Galway’s Latin Quarter. They also have a cosy sit-down restaurant, serving up local oysters, pots of mussels, and fresh fish of every order.

22 Quay Street, Galway City // +353 (0)91 565 001

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Dillisk on the Docks The Harbour Hotel recently transformed their bar and restaurant into a haven of charm and elegance, complete with delicious, carefully crafted food: meet Dillisk on the Docks, if you haven’t already! Their menu effortlessly blends local Atlantic seafood with family favourites, using only the freshest local and artisan ingredients under the careful design of head chef Patrick Anslow. They serve breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, and also have an extensive bar menu to enjoy.

True to their name, you’ll find plenty of dillisk on the menu, used in creative and delicious ways.

Harbour Hotel, New Dock Road, Galway City // +353 (0)91 894 800

“ People who love to eat are always the best people”

Marina’s Grille at the Galmont Hotel Panoramic views of the Lough Corrib, fabulous service and a wide-ranging menu make Marina’s Grille an easy choice for family get-togethers and Sunday lunch. Their “From the Wild Atlantic Way” menu features delicious, locally sourced options like baked Atlantic cod and Clarenbridge mussels.

But where they really shine is with the Wild Atlantic Way Platter, which is a European Region of Gastronomy 2018 Signature Dish as well: it includes mussels, Burren smoked salmon, prawns, scallops, and crab claws!

Lough Atalia Road, Galway City // +353(0)91 538 212

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The New Irish: Tartare Café & Wine Bar’s take on the fresh and local food movement blends traditional food with the unexpected Galway’s West End has recently welcomed a new café and wine bar, from husband and wife team JP McMahon and Drigín Gaffey, also of Aniar and Cava Bodega restaurants.

Tartare, described as terroire-based, takes its strength comes from a creative approach to in-season ingredients from the West of Ireland. The daytime menu focuses on sourdough sandwiches, soup, and organic salads with small plates of options like fresh oysters, beef tartare, and venison & barley stew.

They also serve some unique baked goods, like a chocolate & sugar kelp brownie; apple & hazelnut tart; or a cheese scone with fermented butter, which pair perfectly with Bell Lane Coffee.

By night, try their wine list, which showcases organic, biodynamic and natural wines. They also serve a range sharing boards which celebrate Irish farmhouse cheeses and charcuterie, as well as oysters, briskets, soup and other options.

Their new Sunday brunch features menu staples, with an ingredientdriven twist: seaweed hollandaise sauce over poached eggs, pancakes with local honey, and house-made granola with locally produced sheep’s yoghurt feature.

« Café »

By day, it serves the best sourdough sandwiches, soups, and organic salads with artisan coffee and pastries.

« Wine Bar »

« Brunch »

By night, (Thurs, Fri, Sat) it transforms into a hip wine bar focusing on organic, biodynamic & natural wine.

On Sundays we brunch! The menu changes up again to offer you brunch, inspired by our local farmers.

Tartare is a new café and wine bar, from the owners of Cava & Aniar, located on Lwr Dominick St in Galway’s Westend 56 Lower Dominick St, Galway city · tel: 091 567 80 · food@tartaregalway.ie · tartaregalway ·

@tartaregalway

tartare_cafe

GALWAY MADE Galway’s brewers & distillers making it so the rest of us can drink it

We consider beer to be like any other food:, the fresher and less processed the better. - Aidan Murphy, cofounder of Galway Hooker Micil Irish Poitín Each bottle of Micil Traditional Irish Poitín is hand-crafted in a micro-distillery in Galway, using 100% Irish grain and bogbean botanical. You’ll be hardpressed to find a spirit more Irish than this. Micil Poitín is created from a recipe passed down over five generations, uniquely crafted and honed over the years to create a white whiskey that carries a spice, hints of honey, and a velvety finish. It’s a drink that’s steeped in one family’s history as well as the tradition of a nation, brought into our modern age - with a modern alcohol content, too, in case you were wondering!

MicilPoitin.com

Independent Brewery As the only brewery based in the Connemara Gaeltacht, Independent Brewery holds a special place in Galway. Their standard range includes milk stout, wheat beer and more, and they also have seasonal and special brews. Everything is brewed in Carraroe, in their 1000L microbrewery, giving it a local, artisan feeling that they’re proud of. Independent are also responsible for The Blue Note’s signature “seshon” beer, #WATTBA, which you can only have if you’re in the bar having the craic.

IndependentBrewing.ie

Galway Hooker Brewery An artisan brewery on the edge of the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway Hooker are Ireland’s third oldest independent brewery, and the oldest in Connacht. They’ve been leading the charge in craft beer since 2006, when they came out with the first and original Irish Pale Ale for which they’re famous.

They made that first beer with a simple design: they wanted to brew natural, full-flavoured beer, free of preservatives. In the years since, they’ve taken that ethos and applied it to their core range of craft beer, including a traditional Irish stout and a refreshing amber lager, as well as seasonal brews. They’ve plans in 2018 to develop a beer unique to the West of Ireland, in collaboration with local producers.

GalwayHooker.ie

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Galway is making a name for itself for its gastronomic merits, putting the focus on the high-quality seasonal ingredients available to us in the West of Ireland. The drinks scene in Galway is following this same line and coming into its own. The focus is put on creating high-quality, simple craft beer and artisan liquor, taking inspiration and flavour from the place in which it’s created.

Galway Gin Company Distilled right here in Galway, the Galway Gin Company’s primary botanical is taken directly from the western coast: dillisk. It’s the first of its kind distilled directly in Galway, and the newest creation to come out of the Wild Atlantic.

The fresh dillisk provides a unique flavour, complemented by notes of lemon, warm cardamom, and meadowsweet for a fresh, crisp gin.

From this summer, the Galway Gin Co will soon be the home of Ireland’s newest Gin School in the heart of the city, on Merchant’s Road. Visitors will get the chance to learn about the process while choosing their own botanicals and distilling their own gin.

GalwayGinCompany.ie

Yes Beverages Think of Yes Beverages as event catering, but for cocktails: it’s a mobile drinks bar. They focus on creating delicious seasonal cocktails that people enjoy drinking, whether it’s at a special occasion, a work event, or a class. They source ingredients for their drinks from local Galway spots like St. Nicholas’ Market, Ernie’s in the Westend, McCambridge’s, and suppliers like Bía Oisín. It all helps keep the drinks fresh and local, using what’s available. Their philosophy is that people should be able to enjoy a tasty drink, regardless of the setting: whether it’s the office, your garden, or a pub looking to add something special for a night. Their unique mobility and passion for the service industry allows Yes Beverages to provide a service that’s personal, and a little bit different.

On Facebook: @yesbeverages

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LEADING IRISH AND INTERNATIONAL WRITERS FOR 33rd CÚIRT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE úirt International Festival of Literature has announced details of a diverse and eclectic programme, curated by its new Director, Dr. Emily Cullen.

Leading Irish and international authors, an exploration of language across art forms and a strong commitment to Irish-language writing are at the heart of the 33rd Cúirt International Festival of Literature, which will take place in Galway this April 23 – 29.

This year’s festival will see the voices of some of the most exciting authors, poets, performers and artists come alive at over 70 events, many of them free, across poetry, prose, music and spoken word. The programme also includes theatre, talks, masterclasses, family events and exhibitions as well as its annual education programme for children and teenagers, Cúírt Labs.

Writers from America, Austria, Canada, Catalonia, the UK, France, Mexico and Norway will feature alongside the very best of Irish authors.

Programme Director for Cúirt, Emily Cullen, commented that: “I’ve had the honour of preparing what I think is an eclectic line-up with an eye to diversity, and hopes of appealing to a broad audience. Cúirt has always provided a prestigious platform and convivial space for authors and readers, artists and performers to share ideas and a common love of literature. We’re building on that in 2018 with writers coming from America, Austria, Canada, Catalonia, the UK, France, Mexico and Norway, who will feature alongside the very best of Irish authors. Part of my role as programme director is to find ways to distribute the joy that resides in diverse literary traditions and in our individual reading experiences. We’re looking forward to welcoming our loyal Cúirt enthusiasts and we also extend a warm invitation to those who have yet to experience their first Cúirt Festival.”

In an exciting new departure, the programme will explore language across art forms, namely music and visual art. Lyrics of our Lives looks at the creation of song lyrics as a writing practice and will feature The Stunning’s Steve Wall; Julie Feeney; Paul Linehan, lead singer and songwriter with The Frank & Walters; Brendan Murphy from The Four of Us and Sharon Vaughn, an undisputed legend in the world of songwriting, as they discuss the inspiration, anecdotes and the craft behind some of our favourite songs.

Cúirt will also host a number of exhibitions, exploring writing as a visual art. One exhibition features prints and works by Cúirt guest artist Sam

Winston, exploring writing as a visual art. It will include his awardwinning project with Oliver Jeffers, A Child of Books; an illustration from the book features as Cúirt’s programme cover. Winston will also give a talk about his collaboration with Jeffers, how they found new approaches to storytelling, and the ways in which writing is a visual art.

There is a strong commitment to Irish-language literature in this year’s programme. Some of this year’s events include: An Focal: Cuisle which celebrate the written and spoken word in poetry, music, song and craic with three of the finest contemporary Irish-language artists; Marcus MacConghail, Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh and Simon Ó Faoláin. Cúirt will also welcome the author of Motherfoclóir: Dispatches From A Not-So Dead Language, Darach Ó Séaghdha who will lead a lively discussion

“I’ve had the honour of preparing what I think is an eclectic lineup with an eye to diversity, and hopes of appealing to a broad audience. “ about the work of Flann O’Brien. This will be recorded live for the Motherfoclóir podcast.

The Cúirt Over the Edge New Writing Showcase highlights emerging talent in poetry and fiction, and features readers and winners from the popular Over the Edge Literary Series in Galway. Winners of the 2018 Cúirt New Writing Prize, sponsored by Tigh Neachtain in memory of Lena McGuire, will join the showcase line-up and read from their winning entries. This year’s winners are Eoin Hegarty (Poetry) & Eimear O’Callaghan (Short Story). The youth strand of the prize, for ages 12‐17, was won by Hannah Riordan.

There are also workshops and masterclasses for writers, educational workshops and talks for children and teenagers, a varied theatre programme, spoken word and lots more besides.

Cúirt International Festival of Literature takes place in Galway from April 23 – 29, 2018. Tickets for all events are on sale now on http://www. cuirt.ie or through the Town Hall Theatre on 091 569 777.

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What Have The Pythons Ever Done For Us?

In April, Pálás bring their “What Have The Pythons Ever Done For Us” season to Galway!

Monty Python is one of the most revered and influential comedy troupes in the world, and the members of Monty Python have offered a lot to the worlds of comedy and film. Pálás are exploring the movies as well as the influence of the members themselves, with screenings of Monty Python movies as well as films written by Terry Gilliams and John Cleese.

They’re also hosting a very rare screening of the documentary Lost in La Mancha, about the doomed production of Terry Gilliam’s film “The Man Who Killed Don Quixote”.

In April and May, Pálás will be paying tribute to the Monty Python team by bringing you a season of films from some of the greatest and silliest minds in the history of comedy, a mix of genius high-brow sci-fi and some very, very silly comedy that’s not to be missed!

What Have The Pythons Ever Done For Us? What have the Monty Python lads ever done for us? Absolutely nothing! Well, maybe except Life of Brian – they did give us that I suppose. Not much else though.

Ok, ok they gave us the sci-fi and fantasy epics of Terry Gilliam AND one of the finest documentaries ever made about filmmaking. What’s that, you say? One of the greatest comedy crime capers of all time, A Fish Called Wanda? OK, I’ll give you that. That’s it though…right? Oh go on then - I suppose Terry Jones did technically write Labyrinth…

Life of Brian

Brazil

The Fisher King

We’re kicking off our season with one of the best, most blasphemous comedies of all time. Life of Brian has had a long, rocky road with the censors but we’re very happy to present it here for you on the big screen to enjoy with all your friends. They really don’t get much better than this!

Along with being a member of the Monty Python troupe, Terry Gilliam is one of the world’s most beloved fantasy filmmakers. Brazil is an innovative, head-melting sci-fi masterpiece. Jonathan Pryce plays a bureaucrat, in a retro-future world who tries to correct an administrative error and becomes an enemy of the state leading to a convoluted, increasingly wild series of events.

A visual feast!

Terry Gilliam directs Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges in a whimsical comedy with a huge heart, The Fisher King about an unlikely friendship formed between a suicidal DJ and an eccentric homeless man. Hilarious, moving and unforgettable, The Fisher King is a multi-layered look and humanity and connection.

April 1st at 3:30pm / 8:30pm

April 14 at 10:30pm April 17 at 8:30pm

April 28 at 10:30pm April 29 at 4pm

FLAGSHIP PROGRAMME OF EVENTS FOR 2018 DESIGNATION

CLÁR SUAITHEANTA IMEACHTAI D'AINMNIÚ 2018

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Unit 4, Glenrock Business Park, Ballybane, Galway T: 091-755705 F: 091-755707 E: sales@isupply.ie

Arts/Science Building, NUI Galway T: 091-492350 F: 09 1-494571 E: printthat@nuigalway.ie

Unit 6, Glenrock Business Park, Ballybane, Galway.

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FRESH PLACES NEW FACES Brand spanking new businesses to check out in Galway!

Galway Barista School They’re raising the bar for coffee-lovers in Galway. Whether you’re a caffeine addict yourself and want to learn how to make the pretty designs on top of a cappuccino, or you’re a café looking to improve your brewing game, Galway Coffee School has a class for that. Their workshop in Tuam offers immersive day classes in barista skills, latte art and home brewing, and they also call out to cafés and restaurants to upskill staff in serving the perfect cup.

Unit 11 MG Business Park, Tuam, Galway // +353 (0)93 51384

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Hair at 74 After 39 years in business, Andy’s Hair Studio have re-invented themselves as Hair at 74.

Significant renovations in 2017 kitted out the new Ladies’ Studio and Boutique Barbers to bring a warm, comforting, up-to-date atmosphere to the entire salon. Andy, the resident “Baldy Barber” is still an integral part of the salon, now joined by his daughter Gemma, manager and makeup artist.

They have ongoing product training and upskilling with Wella Professionals, L’Oréal, Kerastase, and American Crew to bring the best possible services to their clients.

74 Prospect Hill // +353(0)91 561 867

Umbrella This funky, colourful restaurant has a great vibe and even better food. Asian-style tapas including bbq ribs and sticky teriyaki chicken are plentiful on the menu, alongside wok dishes, pad thai and soup noodles if you fancy something a bit heartier. It’s definitely something different for Galway, and has been getting great reviews all around!

2 Middle Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 561 443

Lady Galago For fashion-forward women looking to add a bit of sparkle to their wardrobe, look no further than Lady Galago on cross street. This gorgeous new boutique has everything: glam jumpers, smart options for a feminine business casual look, and elegant jumpsuits that would be perfectly suited to a special occasion or a night out.

Lower Cross Street, Galway City

New to Galway SOCIAL WHITE:

Harry’s Bar This laid-back, comfortable pub is doing everything right since opening recently in Bohermore. A full menu of brunch, lunch and dinner, as well as tasty bar bites means it’s always a good time to call in for some grub. Pull up a high stool and head in to watch a match, or call in to enjoy the live music and open mic nights they have on regularly throughout the week.

77 Bohermore, Galway City // +353(0)87 946 0320

Wholly Cow Burgers Ideally located near the university and hospital, Wholly Cow Burgers are bringing everything fresh, locally-sourced and homemade to the table. This upbeat, casual restaurant offers a simple menu of 100% Irish beef burgers: choose from a range of local veg, Irish cheeses, homemade pickles and secret house sauces to sit between your brioche bun, and you’ve got yourself one tasty Wholly Cow Burger. Their chips are freshly cut and fried, and we’d say they’re among the best in Galway. And that’s saying something.

Unit 2 An Grianan Geal, Newcastle Rd, Galway // +353(0)91 586 888

Castle Street Barbers This handsome, modern barber shop in Oranmore is kitted out with steampunk decor accents, a gaming corner with FIFA ready to go, and all your favourite products in stock and ready to take home. It’s a perfect shop for gentlemen and boys to get any manner of cut, colour and shave.

Unit 1, Castle Road, Oranmore, Galway // +353(0)91 792 257 SOCIAL WHITE:

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LITTLE HOURS: NEW DIRECTIONS

FEATURE SOCIAL WHITE:

Little Hours have been tipping away on the Irish music scene since their formation in 2014. Originally a duo (but that’s old news), the band name now refers to frontman and singer/songwriter John Doherty, and the band he plays with for recordings and live gigs. Their (his?) music is acoustic and heartfelt, sometimes angsty in the best way possible, and always catchy.

When I spoke to John, I wanted to talk to him about the important stuff first. Namely: Seal, his thoughts on Kiss From A Rose (only one answer: what a tune), and his experience opening for him in the Olympia in late February.

“That was something else,” John says, sounding still a bit star-struck. “That was amazing. I got to speak to him for a good while, before the show at soundcheck and then afterward we had a good chat, actually. He was very, very nice. It was a bit surreal.”

Playing ahead of Seal in the Olympia might be a bragging point for some, but John is very cool and collected about the whole thing.

“It’s very humbling, but there’s still plenty of more work to do, songs to be written. There’s always something else to be done, to keep the momentum going.”

When I talked to John, Little Hours had just released their latest single, Heavy On You. It’s the first single from Little Hours since Ryan McCloskey left the group, coming quickly after their release of the EP ‘Too Much Patience’ in October 2017.

I noted that Heavy On You has a slightly darker tone to it than ‘Too Much Patience’, and John agreed that the new single is a slight change of pace for him. “[Heavy On You] takes a slightly different direction. We’re playing around with different sounds, getting new gear, getting new toys. And of course, your writing [style] changes over time. It’s a slight change, but it’s sort of a nod to a few new directions as well, for the future. It’s definitely a bit darker. I still want to keep acoustic stuff there, but another door has been opened with this new sound, to do some darker stuff.”

It’s a slight change, but it’s sort of a nod to a few new directions as well, for the future. It’s definitely a bit darker And with over 60,000 streams on Spotify on the release day alone, it looks like fans are more than receptive to it.

If it sounds like John is hinting that there’s more to come, you’d be bang on: Little Hours have an album following on from the single.

“There’s so much stuff recorded already, ready to come out already. ‘Heavy On You’ is the first to come out, and we’re excited for the rest of it to come out. There’s a video for Heavy On You coming out soon, too, ready to go, just waiting for me to push that button.”

If you want a taste of the new music before it officially drops, the best way to hear it is to head to their gig at the Róisín Dubh in April.

“We’re really looking forward to it. We’ve played the Roisin a few times before and it’s always amazing, it’s always a good time.

I think this set is going to be really special this time. We’ll be playing old stuff, but we’ll be playing new tracks too, some songs nobody’s heard before. So it should be a really good gig.”

My last question: What are John’s favourite bars and restaurants in Galway?

“Well the Roisin Dubh has to be my favourite bar. And as for my favourite restaurant… I always go to Capone’s, it’s this great Italian restaurant in Knocknacarra. And Cactus Jack’s, they’re really good, too.”

There you have it.

You can listen to Heavy On You on Spotify and Apple Music, and get tickets to their show at the Róisín Dubh on 13 April at roisindubh. net!

Words: CAITLIN FOLEY Photography courtesy Little Hours SOCIAL WHITE:

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WHAT’S going ON?

MARCH HIGHLIGHTS _

Russell Brand - Re:Birth

Sister Act

In RE:BIRTH, Russell Brand unravels the matrix of modern media, politics, sex, fatherhood and death. Join one of comedy’s fiercest talents as he tries to make sense of life, having just made a new one.

Coming to the Town Hall Theatre for the first time, Sister Act is the feelamazing musical comedy based on the smash hit movie which starred Whoopi Goldberg! The hilarious musical is directed by AIMS Award winners 2017- Brian Power & Seán Power.

14 March // Leisureland 13 - 18 March // Town Hall Theatre

Lee Scratch Perry

Foil, Arms & Hog: Oink!

All Tvvins

81 years old and still selling out shows around europe and beyond! Regarded with awe throughout the music world Lee “Scratch” Perry holds status as one of the most enduring and original reggae producers and artists of all time.

Coming back to Galway with their new show Oink, Foil, Arms and Hog have put together a fast paced sketch show featuring a collection of songs for the elderly, a baggage handler’s interpretive dance and a shop that naively only sells balaclavas.

After selling out their Saturday gig, All Tvvins have added a second date at the Róisín Dubh to their tour. Their debut album crashed into the charts at #2 and was nominated for Album of the Year at the Choice Music Awards, now they’re back with a host of new singles.

22-24 March // Town Hall Theatre

25 March // Róisín Dubh

23 March // Monroe’s Galway

WHAT’S ON SOCIAL WHITE:

APRIL HIGHLIGHTS Jack Lukeman: Magic Days After spending most of last year touring with big names like Jools Holland, Imelda May, Neil Sedaka and Aerosmith, Jack is coming back to Galway with music from his best selling album “Magic Days”.

5 April // Town Hall Theatre

Druid Sessions #4 The Druid Sessions is a new music club in Galway, offering intimate seated gigs in the Mick Lally Theatre, with a full bar in the foyer. The monthly sessions feature the very best of local and national musicians, and are sure to become a staple of Galway’s music scene. April’s Druid Sessions feature Ye Vagabonds, Máirtín O’Connor & Daughters Ltd and Elaine Feeney.

7 April // Mick Lally Theatre

Little Hours Following an incredibly successful year which included playing the main stage at Electric Picnic and the release of their number 1 EP “Too Much Patience”, Little Hours are coming to the Róisín Dubh with a new album up their sleeve.

13 April // Róisín Dubh

Mario Rosenstock: In Your Face With an incredible career behind him, including eighteen years on the incredibly popular Gift Grub and starring in three series of his smash-hit self titled TV show on RTE, Mario Rosenstock is heading out on a nationwide tour of his one man stage show, In Your Face.

27 April // Leisureland SOCIAL WHITE:

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WHAT’S going ON? WE RECOMMEND Galway Food Festival Taking place over the Easter weekend, the Galway Food Festival will be full of inspiring cooking demos, educational food tours, hands-on workshops, fresh produce and of course lots of delicious food!

29 March - 2 April

Cúirt International Festival of Literature The 33rd Cúirt International Festival of literature is returning to Galway. The festival includes; readings of poetry and fiction, discussions, poetry slams, book launches, masterclasses, spoken and musical performances, multimedia events, theatre and visual art.

23 - 29 April // Various Locations

Paul Currie: Cats in My Mouth Electric presents Leon Vynehall This British producer and DJ is known for his off-kilter, carefully layered tracks with a unique charm and serious groove. Deep house and bass are his thing and he’s bringing it to Galway for the second time since 2016.

31 March // Electric Garden & Theatre

The next great show from this hairy idiot manchild, strap in for more fun and nonsense as the entire audience is taken by the hand into a true circus of silly and a rollercoaster of emotions.

Currie pushes the rules of ‘stand up’ comedy to their extremes with ‘Cats in My Mouth’.

20 April // Roisin Dubh