Compelling summer programme unveiled by Mayo arts centre
THE Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar has released its summer programme, an eclectic line-up of music, literature, film, art exhibitions, workshops and more happening in the theatre, gallery and beyond.
It commences on Wednesday, May 1, with Irish traditional music at its very best, when the David Munnelly Trio take to the Linenhall stage.
Widely regarded as two of the finest musicians in Irish traditional music today, Mick Conneely is a master fiddle player and David Munnelly a virtuoso accordion player and composer. A duo combining tradition and innovation, energy and precision in their mesmerising performances, they will be joined by singer Caitriona Ni Cheannabhain from Connemara, known for her distinctive voice and repertoire of traditional Irish songs.
NIALL MCCABE
Remarkable singer songwriter Niall McCabe returns to the venue on Friday, May 10.
With self-effacing humour and stories told of growing up on Clare Island, McCabe possesses an effortless charm which both captivates and liberates his audience. Like the wild Atlantic landscape of his home, McCabe’s songs feel timeless and natural yet bely the dense shaping of a dynamic creative force.
Deft, intricate guitar work brings a lightness to the weight of Island isolation, yet the sound, soul and stories of McCabe’s life and experiences breathe a deep cultured sense of discernment vocally.
Niall is securing a growing, loyal fanbase as he travels extensively, venturing off the island with his recent tour, across Ireland, UK, Europe and North America. McCabe’s eagerly anticipated Rituals album, released in 2023 to critical acclaim, featured as RTÉ Album of the Week, while the title track topped the RTÉ Radio airplay charts for five consecutive weeks.
BOOK LAUNCH
Hugely anticipated is a very special evening on Thursday, May 9, when the Linenhall’s wonderful director of operations, Fiona Neary, is celebrated at the launch of her beautiful and moving memoir Parcels in the Post, Growing up with Fifty Siblings.
Published by New Island Books, Parcels in the Post will be launched by award-winning, bestselling novelist Kate Kerrigan (pseudonym of Morag Prunty). Attendance is free but booking is essential.
MORE HIGHLIGHTS
Additional summer highlights include comedian Shane Daniel Byrne with his fierce and fiery show But He’s Gay on Saturday, May 11; alt-trad artist Lisa Canny collaborates with Music Generation Mayo Harp Ensembles, plus special guests, for Féile Mhaigh Eo on Friday, May 17; and award-winning writer Colin Barrett will read from his first novel, Wild Houses, on Saturday, May 25.
Full information on the current programme encompassing music, theatre, film, visual art and more can be viewed at https://www.thelinenhall.com/ or by picking up a print copy from the box office.