Frank O'Connor's Cork childhood

The short stories of Cork-born Frank O'Connor are regarded as classics, and none more so than the brilliant and often hilarious stories about his childhood which have been appreciated by generations of readers around the world. 

“God Bless the Child”, a play adapting ‘'My Oedipus Complex”, “The Genius” and “First Confession”, has been getting rave reviews as a hugely entertaining and uplifting night of theatre. “God Bless the Child” is on at An Grianán Theatre this Friday and Saturday. 

Adapted for the stage and directed by Patrick Talbot, “God Bless the Child” features Shane Casey (“Love, Peace and Robbery”), Liam Heffernan (“The Cavalcaders”, “Fair City”, “Glenroe”) and Gary Murphy (“Vikings”, “The Tudors”). Also known for his work as a literary critic, translator, biographer, essayist, poet and travel writer, O'Connor delivered a charming and hilarious world through the eyes of a child in Cork. O'Connor went on to write over 150 works, but remains best known for his short stories and memoirs.

Kieran Goss

Kieran Goss brings his Home for the Summer Tour 2016 to An Grianán Theatre on Saturday 2nd July, with special guest Annie Kinsella. “Individually, they are both gifted singers but when they sing together magic happens…the harmonies, the chemistry…just sublime,” said Time Out Magazine. Rodney Crowell said, “I’ve toured with Kieran and watched him perform many times. I’ve seen him win the hearts of everyone in the room, not just with his great songs and instinctive musicality, but with his warmth and humour. It’s the performance of an artist at the top of his game, delivered with intelligence and integrity ... Kieran Goss is one of Ireland’s national treasures.” One to catch.

California Feetwarmers

The masters of ragtime, Dixieland blues and early swing perform at the Balor Arts Centre on Saturday 25th June.  The California Feetwarmers are one of the hottest properties on the US Lindy Hop revival scene, renowned for an earthy depth of character that sets them apart from others who have followed that throwback path to New Orleans, circa 1920.

Earagail Arts Festival

The Earagail Arts Festival is a bilingual, multidisciplinary arts festival which takes place each July here in the county, this year it’ll be from the 8th – 24th July. It brings inspiring performers, showcases artists native to the area and provides opportunities for cultural exchange, in venues from purpose built theatres and galleries, to village halls, forests and even beaches. If you haven’t dipped your toe into the festival then this year is a great time to start! Check out the website at eaf.ie for all the events and where they are happening. 

Swell

The 3rd Swell Festival takes place on Arranmore Island, July 8-10th. It’s a weekend of fantastic, fun-filled entertainment in a picturesque location off Burtonport coast, with performances from David Kitt, The Wood Burning Savages, Clanns, Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Maire Ní Bhraoinain & Family, Tadgh, Clameens, Donal Dineen, Silences, Rosie Carney, New Jackson (DJ Set), Eve Belle and many, many more.

You can also expect a huge selection of poetry, spoken word, live art, DJs, games and other performances and activities. Check it all out at swellfestival.com

Shindig Nights

The monthly music and arts cabaret returns to Voodoo Vintage this Friday, 24th June. Each Shindig showcases a line-up of emerging and established musical artists from across Ireland & beyond, eclectic and eccentric performance acts, good vibes™ and a DJ set from Shindig's resident party enabler Dano. Like the Shindig Nights group on Facebook to keep up with line-up announcements.