‘I've survived cancer and a heart attack. I grew up on the Falls Road' – Brian Kennedy on taking criticism and his first acting role
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Irish Independent
4 days ago
- Irish Independent
Ticket demands surge to pre-Covid levels for Kennedy Summer School as sessions sell out
New Ross local and Festival Co-ordinator, Sharon Doyle commented on this year's demand: 'Audiences are clearly eager to experience everything the Kennedy Summer School has to offer this year. What has very much surprised us is the pace of ticket sales. In pre-COVID times, we would usually reach this level of demand around the August Bank Holiday weekend—but it has been years since sales moved at this pace.' " We are very much looking forward to welcoming all our audiences and guest speakers very soon. And if you're quick, you might still be able to join us for a Thursday or Friday evening session,' she added. The 2025 Kennedy Summer School will officially open on the evening of Thursday, August 28, with a special ceremony at St Michael's Theatre in New Ross. Esteemed broadcaster and Chair of the Kennedy Summer School, Eileen Dunne, will lead a fireside chat with President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns. Following the official opening, attendees are invited to a special film screening and panel discussion of From That Small Island – The Story of the Irish. This thought-provoking documentary explores the enduring global impact of the Irish diaspora. The post-screening discussion lead by Eamonn Hore promises to be a highlight of the evening, featuring insights from leading historians and cultural commentators including Professor Bríona Nic Dhiarmada, originator of the acclaimed 1916: The Irish Rebellion series; Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, a prominent historian of early modern Ireland; historian and author; and Colm Mac Con Iomaire, musician and storyteller whose work reflects the emotional texture of Irish identity. The programme continues on Friday morning with a centenary celebration of The Great Gatsby, marking 100 years since the publication of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic American novel. This special Schools Masterclass Session is designed to engage secondary students and the wider public with fresh perspectives on the novel's relevance today. The panel will feature leading International literature scholars — Professor Kirk Curnutt, Professor Sarah Churchwell, Professor Philip McGowan and Dr Martina Mastandrea — and moderated by Dr Brian Murphy, will unravel the magic, mystery and timeless charm of Fitzgerald's masterpiece. Later on Friday, attention turns to the scenic setting of the JFK Arboretum for the sold-out Speakers' Lunch, which will host Minister James Lawless TD as guest speaker. After lunch, the focus shifts back to St Michael's Theatre for a compelling panel on the role of local journalism in Irish society today. This discussion, moderated by Alan Corcoran of Southeast Radio, will explore how regional media continues to inform, connect, and hold power to account. Panellists include journalist and columnist Brenda Power, Wexford People reporter Jessica O'Connor, editor and broadcaster Dave O'Connell, and Bill Forry, editor of the Boston Irish Reporter, who brings an Irish-American media perspective. One of the most anticipated events of the summer school follows, which is the prestigious Noel Whelan Interview, named in honour of the school's co-founder and visionary political analyst. Introduced by Seamus Whelan, this year's interview will feature Colm Tóibín, internationally celebrated author of Brooklyn and The Magician, in conversation with Sinéad McSweeney. Their discussion is expected to explore themes of literature, identity, censorship, and the global reach of Irish storytelling. The evening concludes with a timely and provocative panel titled President Trump & Us, moderated by RTÉ Europe Editor Tony Connelly. With the 2024 U.S. presidential election still reverberating globally, this session will include a diverse mix of insightful Americans and Europeans from the worlds of politics, business, journalism, economics and academia, who will assess the far-reaching ramifications for the world of the second Trump presidency. Contributors include economist Dan O'Brien, European affairs journalist Shona Murray, former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard, Latino political strategist Gilberto Ocanas, and Ukrainian political analyst Tanya Gordiienko. Their diverse perspectives promise a nuanced and wide-ranging conversation at the intersection of politics, diplomacy, and public sentiment. The 2025 Kennedy Summer School promises a dynamic and timely series of conversations and cultural events in the historic town of New Ross. With issues ranging from US politics to housing, Irish-America to literature, the programme continues the festival's mission to foster informed public debate. For further information and tickets, visit
Irish Independent
01-08-2025
- Irish Independent
August bank holiday in Laois: Steam rally, puppy love and fun on the farm during festival season
Today at 01:00 Co. Laois offers a little something for everyone this August Bank Holiday weekend as one of the county's longest-running summer traditions, the Stradbally Steam Rally makes its return. With other quirky events amid festival season, the midland county is definitely worth a visit. Follow Independent Laois on Facebook Stradbally Steam Rally Now in its 61st year, the steam rally will return to Co. Laois and is expected to be packed with displays and attractions in celebrating Ireland's industrial heritage. However, the rally is far from just a mechanical showcase. Families and enthusiasts can look forward to live country music, bustling craft stalls, farm animals, vintage amusements, and even helicopter rides. Tickets can be purchased online and organisers are also encouraging a weekend-long camping on-site. Those wishing to camp can also buy an access pass with camping available along the Timahoe Road. Craft Market at Solas Whether you're looking for something unique, selling your own creations, or in the mood for some window shopping, the craft market at SOLAS Eco Garden Centre will be open on Sunday, August, 4 from 11.00am until 4.00pm. The market will include a range of vintage treasures, handmade crafts, and artisan goods. Cara dog festival Instead of the usual group dog walk, Cara Rescue Dogs is this year focusing on reconnecting dog owners with their amazing adopted pups. The festival will offer friendly catch-ups with the Cara team and fellow adopters, a chance to meet your dog's original fosters and those who rescued them, along with fun competitions, games, raffles and dog gift bags. ADVERTISEMENT Cara Rescue Dogs will also be giving away a DNA test worth over €100 as one of the prizes. Dog owners will meet at Emo parklands and owners will still be welcome to take your dogs for a stroll around the area. However, this year's focus is on gathering together, swapping stories, sharing tail wags, and celebrating the dogs. Fields of Fun at Castleview Open Farm Castleview Open Farm based in Cullohill is set to welcome families and individuals to its site for a day of craft tents, bouncy caste slides, inflatable axe throwing, animal bingo, a barnyard boogie, and the usual farmyard fun. The farm is home to over 100 friendly animals both indoors and outdoors. Some family favourites include giant rabbits, alpacas, Briana the eagle owl, buffalo, highland cows and silver foxes. Families of all ages are invited along, with online bookings essential. Brian Kennedy comes to Abbeyleix Abbeyleix Manor Hotel will play host to a live performance from singer Brian Kennedy on Saturday, August, 2. Brian recently returned to the stage, now that Covid-19 restrictions have lifted after suffering a major heartattack. Throughout lockdown Brian presented a fortnightly up close and personal show live on Facebook called 'A Night In With Brian Kennedy'. He is now ready to bring on the gigs, as he takes to the stage in Abbeyleix at 8.00pm on the bank holiday Saturday.
Irish Examiner
31-07-2025
- Irish Examiner
A different casting call for Cork's famed Everyman as theatre recruits executive director
One of Ireland's leading producing theatres, the Everyman in Cork, has begun a different kind of casting call as it seeks to recruit a new executive director who will also work as co-CEO. The new executive director will work in close partnership with the famed theatre's artistic director Des Kennedy. The executive director will provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the theatre's financial sustainability, legal compliance, and commercial vitality. As joint chief executives, both roles report directly to the theatre's board and will share responsibility for delivering The Everyman's artistic vision and social impact. 'We are so proud to have just completed our first Everyman Made season and we are thrilled to be looking ahead to our next exciting chapter on MacCurtain Street,' said artistic director Mr Kennedy, who took on his role earlier this year. 'Since moving to Cork, 10 months ago, I have had the privilege of working with the most passionate and dedicated team of staff, artists, and theatre-makers. We look forward to welcoming a new executive director to join, and co-lead, this team, as we continue to make world class theatre, made by The Everyman, for Cork, and beyond." The 650-seater Everyman Theatre is a Victorian architecture jewel on Cork's MacCurtain Street, which opened at the end of the 19th century. The theatre is in the middle of a hectic summer season, with the Barn Theatre's production of the award-winning play Stones in His Pockets running until August 10. Later in the month, two Irish personalities better known in different arenas will grace the stage, with Imelda May starring there in Mother Of All The Behans from August 12 to August 16, while broadcaster and TV persoanlity Laura Whitmore will star in The Girl on the Train at The Everyman from August 19 to 23.
