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For a considerable number of years Longford
Waiting Room
POETRY
County Council’s Arts has developed projects the
Text Message
POETRY
A Nice Slow One
FICTION
The Man Who Walked Backwards
FICTION
purpose of which have been to encourage creative writing skills and an appreciation of literature among Longford’s primary and secondary school students. The process has yielded some highly innovative and imaginative projects not least of which have been, the children’s collaborative novel; All
Hatred
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The Poet As Goalkeeper
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Because of a Toothbrush in which over three hundred students in over thirty primary schools From Beatrix .......to Harry
actively co operated to develop the story line and the characters of a charming children’s novel. Another milestone in the nurturing of children’s creative writing was the development of our De-scribe programme. De-scribe was a two year pilot programme designed to develop and test a highly original approach to developing the creative faculties of even the very young primary school children. The development of the De-scribe programme also resulted in the establishment of four children’s writing groups in the county. These are just two examples of an extensive, year-round programme of supports organised to encourage children’s creative writing. Through the high level of activity in this area The County Arts Office has forged an extensive network of partnerships with various stake holders in the sector such as; school’s staff and principals, parents, artists and administrators. We therefore decided to utilize this locally based reservoir of experience and expertise to assist us in exploring new structures and techniques in the development of our writers and readers of tomorrow. Rather than going down the route of devising a work plan or schedule, which we felt was too prescriptive and rigid an approach, we decided to form
Generating a set of guidelines or reference points for the future development of children’s creative writing. read more Launch of the King of the Back of the Hill
a focus group from our pool of partners and to ask the group to assist us in generating a set of guidelines or reference points for the future development of our work in this area. With the financial assistance of the Arts Council we engaged the facilitator Anne Gallagher to motivate and guide the work of the focus group and we would like to take the opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to Anne and all the members of the focus group for their effort commitment and enthusiasm. View report Filed Under: News
Last March we, in the Ardagh Creativity Centre, hosted a very interesting evening with the archaeologies Adel Coleman who told us of the findings of her research in Ardagh. The results of a 1967 archaeological dig had been languishing in the National Archives for decades so Adel decided to writer them up.
Art, photography, poetry, short stories and factual writing from adults and children inspired by the story of the skeleton of the King of the Back of the Hill read more
Launch of De-scribe
We were so inspired by the talk that night we put out a call for writing and art inspired by the dig and the story of the skeleton of the King of the Back of the Hill alleged to be King Maine of Teabhta, son of Niall of the Nine Hostages We were delighted with the response which includes art, photography, poetry, short stories and factual writing from adults and children.
This week sees the launch of the latest and possibly the most innovative creative writing project to emerge from Longford County Arts Office. The Describe project demonstrates new and exciting methods of developing creative writing both with children and adults. read more read all news
Filed Under: News
This week sees the launch of the latest and possibly the most innovative creative writing project to emerge from Longford County Arts Office. The Describe project demonstrates new and exciting methods of developing creative writing both with children and adults. The project techniques have been designed and piloted over the past three years in primary schools and public libraries in County Longford and according to Fergus Kennedy Longford county Arts Officer the reaction of parents and teachers to the project has been overwhelmingly positive with a total of 35 primary schools participating in the project. Schools are already incorporating the describe approach into their toolbox for creative writing and “Author and Scribe” family writing sessions, using the Describe method, are established, regular events in branch libraries. The creative / educational process draws on a scribing technique which, according to Chris Thompson who has designed the technique and facilitated the project, “takes a partnership approach to creative writing. It is a technique that allows very young, reluctant or disadvantaged children to develop literacy skills creatively and enjoyably but it has many other appropriate applications for adults and children working together”. Scribing involves one person, acting as active listener and recorder of the author’s orally recounted story. Fergus Kennedy points out that; “the beauty of the techniques developed through the De-scribe project is that it is flexible enough to be applied in a wide variety of contexts from the formal group context of a school room to the informality of a family kitchen. Because the project offers the means through the attractive and original user-manual and multi-media CD-ROM, to train interested adult facilitators or Scribes, and provides all the resources necessary to begin Scribing, the process is highly cost-efficient and thus sustainable over time.” Resource materials are included on the CD-ROM. View a demo of the De-Scribe CD-ROM Filed Under: News
The Cork International Short Story Festival is taking place from 13 – 16 September, and it’s shaping up to be another dynamic year with readers including June Caldwell, David Means, Nuala O’Connor, Billy O’Callaghan and many more. Online tickets are now available for purchase! There are two opportunities to inspire your own writing: a fiction masterclass with Claire Keegan, as well as a writing workshop with this year’s Frank O’Connor Fellow MarieHelene Bertino. Both classes will run for the four mornings of the festival, from 9.30am to 12.30pm at the newly renovated Nano Nagle Place in Douglas Street. Claire Keegan’s masterclass is 200 Euro, and the Marie Helene Bertino workshop is 150 Euro. Full descriptions of the courses are available at our website here: http://corkshortstory.net/workshops.html . For more information, please contact Jennifer at The Munster Literature Centre:
[email protected] or 021 431 2955 . Filed Under: Events, News
An eight week poetry workshop will be facilitated this Autumn by Kate Ennals on Tuesday evenings from 3 October to 28 November (with a break on Tuesday 24 October for AT The Edge, Cavan) between 7pm and 9pm in Swellan, Cavan Town. The workshop will be based on a mix of themes and forms. Kate will provide poems for inspiration, discussion, and assignments each week. The group will workshop the poems of each participant. The aim is to explore and write new poetry and bring together local poets/writers to stimulate and develop their work. There will be a limit of 8 participants allocated on a first come, first served basis. For further information and to register, contact Kate Ennals on 0863737847 or email
[email protected]. Kate Ennals is a poet and writer and has published material in a range of literary and on line journals (Crannog, Skylight 47, Honest Ulsterman, Anomaly, Burning Bush 2, Poets meets Politics, The International Lakeview Journal, Boyne Berries, North West Words etc). Her first collection of poetry At The Edge was published in 2015. She has lived in Ireland for 25 years and currently runs poetry and writing workshops in County Cavan, and organises At The Edge, Cavan, a literary reading evening, funded by the Cavan Arts Office. Filed Under: News, Other
Leitrim County Council Arts Office is now accepting applications from emerging writers for the inaugural John McGahern Award. The award is offered by Leitrim County Council and the Tyrone Guthrie Centre as part of the Iron Mountain Literature Festival which will be held on Friday 6th & Saturday 7th of October in Carrick on Shannon. Arising from the John McGahern seminar which ran from 2007 for eight years, the Iron Mountain Literature Festival was established in 2016, reframed in a wider context involving writers, artists and thinkers from different fields that converge on a set of interests consistent with the work of John McGahern and with Leitrim. In particular the festival combines panels, talks, readings and field trips which look to ideas central to and arising out of an exploration of place, home and identity. John McGahern is one of Ireland’s most respected and celebrated authors. His fiction is critically acclaimed internationally, has been translated into many languages and has appeared in many anthologies. He was a member of Aosdána and won numerous awards, including the Irish-American Foundation Award, the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres, and the Prix Etranger Ecureuil. He taught at universities in Ireland, England, the USA and Canada. Amongst Women, which won both the GPA and Irish Times Award, was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and made into a BBC television series. The recipient of the Award will receive a two-week fully resourced residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre and a stipend of €500. Who Can Apply: This is an open call to writers of fiction born or resident in the Republic of Ireland. Applicants must have had some fiction or short stories published in a recognised journal, or anthology selected by an established publisher or editor. Submissions from emerging writers are particularly welcome. How to Apply: Applications are accepted by email only to
[email protected] and should include: A cover letter including your personal details and statement of artistic intent, clearly and concisely outlining the project you would like to focus on during your time at Annaghmakerrig. An up to date Curriculum Vitae (max. two A4 pages). Clearly labelled samples of recent work (One sample of 1000 words or up to three short samples of up to 500 words each.) Any relevant information on your proposed project such as written excerpts, photos, research information, etc. Note: All attachments should be in .pdf format Application Deadline: 5pm, 31 July, 2017. No late applications will be considered. Applications will be acknowledged by email on receipt. Selection Process: Applications go before a selection committee nominated by Leitrim County Council and the Tyrone Guthrie Centre. The successful applicant will be notified no later than 15 September, 2017. The recipient of the award will be publicly announced on Saturday 7th October 2017 during the Iron Mountain Literature Festival at The Dock, Carrick on Shannon. For further information, please go to www.ironmountainfestival.ie Filed Under: Competitions, Events
On April 27th Ireland’s love of poetry was celebrated in every town in the country. In Longford we enjoyed a relaxed informal evening of poetry by some of our many local poets. National Poetry Day celebrations were held in the Backstage Theatre where writers and audience were casually seated in a cafe style setting enjoying light refreshments while poets took turns to read from their work or perform their pieces in tandem. Why not enjoy some brief excerpts from the evening?
Filed Under: Events, News
The Arts Office, Waterford City & County Council is pleased to announce details of the Waterford Poetry Prize 2017. The Waterford Poetry Prize is open to all writers currently living on the island of Ireland. There is no age limit and no entry fee. The closing date for receipt of entries is 12 noon on 26th June 2017. For more details view PDF Filed Under: Competitions
To commemorate the Francis Ledwidge Centenary 1917 – 2017 Meath County Council Cultural Services are pleased to announce the establishment of the Francis Ledwidge Creative Writing Award. This award is open to practitioners of all creative writing genres on the island of Ireland over 18 years of age. For details view PDF Filed Under: Competitions
We have been asked to extend the deadline! New deadline is now Friday, 19th May 2017. Please forward this to all who might be interested in submitting. We are looking for art, photography, poetry, fiction and factual writings inspired by King Maine, Son of Niall of the Nine Hostages, St. Patrick and Longford, Liam De Paor and the archaeological digs in Ardagh, Adel Coleman and her revisit to the dig at The Back of the Hill. Sure we all knew there was a King at the Back of the Hill, didn’t we!!
Filed Under: Submissions Wanted
Read more about Alan McMonagle Filed Under: Events
Edgeworthstown: The Town of Great Writers In 1782, Richard Lovell Edgeworth decided to move his family from his home in England to the family estate in Edgeworthstown, County Longford. This was to begin a long tradition of literary creation in the town. His daughter Maria Edgeworth went on to have an illustrious career in writing, and produced many works, some of which are to be found in print today. Her most famous novels were ‘Castle Rackrent’ and ‘The Absentee’. Longford went on to produce many acclaimed writers including Padraic Colum, Vona Groarke, Belinda McKeon, Alan McMonagle and Noel Monahan, to name just a few, and the Edgeworth Literary Society endeavours to maintain the Edgeworth legacy through its annual Festival. The Society continues to promote the work of writers through its annual competitions, and the awarding of the Deirdre Purcell perpetual prize. It also endeavours to keep alive the legacy of the Edgeworths through its programme of events. 2017 will be no exception with this year’s festival from May 5 to 7, 2017 featuring a varied line-up, sure to pique the interest of literary fans of all ages and tastes. This will include children’s storytelling, with Heritage in Schools expert Eamon Brennan, while John Beddoes a direct decedent of the Edgeworth Family, will discuss the poetry of Anna Edgeworth. Professor Iggy Mc Govern, Physicist and Poet, will give a poetry workshop on the Saturday morning and will discuss the link between science and poetry in an evening session. Dr Susan Manly of St Andrew’s University, an authority on 18th century literature and the author of a new biography on Maria Edgeworth, will look at the legacy of Maria Edgeworth. There will be lots of local talent too, including participation from the local members of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Corrine McCormack-Bushell, the O’Reilly family and many more. As part of the heritage trail walk, Octavia Tulloch will give a talk on ‘hedgerow’ medicine and plants at the Gardens in the Manor, and visitors will be able to visit places of interest on the guided walk, ‘St Mary’s to St John’s and Beyond’, with refreshments being served at the rectory. Arguably the highlight of the weekend will take place when a new portrait of Maria Edgeworth, created by Ballymahon artist Orla Kelleher, is unveiled, meanwhile, the weekend concludes with a trip to Tullynally Castle, which will include a guided tour of the Castle and Gardens, and a talk by Thomas and Valarie Pakenham. Details of the festival can be attained from the festival office on 043 6671801 or by visiting www.edgeworthstown.net/festival Filed Under: Events, News
Well known in Longford for their ambitious productions and talented casts, Cilleo Yew Tree Players took on a new challenge last winter – performing on the All-Ireland one act circuit. A fixture in the local drama scene since the late 1980s, the group has a membership of approximately thirty, from school age upwards. “Usually once a year, we would normally do a full length play in March or April,” explained group Chairperson and Director of their one-act offering ‘Brenton vs Brenton’, Damien Bennett. “We had talked about going on the one-act circuit for a long, long time, so we applied for as many festivals as we could.” Giving the reason for their show selection, Damien revealed; “We had done farce before in the group, so it seemed suitable to do it.” A cast of six also meant that more people got to take in the experience of the circuit. The group learned a lot from their first foray into the competition, Damien admitted. With an extensive set, and a large cast, the experience was often a difficult one, but one which they greatly enjoyed, nonetheless. They had remarkable success at the festivals too. They performed at five festivals, earning second and third place in Cavan and Manorhamilton, respectively for the American spoof, which is set in an advertising agency in Chicago. Paul McCarthy, meanwhile, was awarded ‘Best Actor’ in Carrigallen, and received numerous nominations. Sharon Finneran was nominated for ‘Best Actress’, while the rest of the cast, including Damien himself, Mary Mahon, Mick Dunne and Carmel Kennedy put on a memorable performance. Damien was also quick to praise the crew for their invaluable input. “Without them we wouldn’t have been able to do what we did. “We’ll absolutely try again,” Damien continued. “The overall consensus was that it was a very enjoyable and very worthwhile experience.” Attention now turns to the group’s 2017 production, ‘Belfry’, which will take to the stage in the first week of April, directed by Micky Kenny. Filed Under: News
It was a dark, cold evening outside, but inside Longford Library on November 9 last, there was a very warm atmosphere, as creative talents from across the country gathered together for a night of appreciation. As County Arts Officer Fergus Kennedy astutely pointed out; “I can feel the creativity literally bouncing off the walls.” A project of Longford Writers Group and Longford Arts Office , the Poetry and Prose night served a dual purpose; to give local writers a chance to share their pieces and to give up-and-coming Longford artists the opportunity to showcase their work. “When you look around in here at some of this beautiful artwork here on the walls it would actually lift your spirits at this time of the year and I think it’s fantastic to see that all of these artists are from Co Longford, and we’ve a lot to be very proud of in Longford,” Fergus Kennedy added. Officially opening the evening, Cathaoirleach of Longford Municipal District, Cllr Padraig Loughrey, said he was honoured to do so, and paid tribute to the talent in the county. “We have a multitude of wonderful talent here in this county that’s showcased here tonight,” he said. “It’s important that we as a community foster and support this talent. Longford Writers Group is doing just that.” Writers Dan Flynn, Sally Martin, Eileen Moynihan, Geraldine Ryan, Martina Cooney, Rose Moran, Hilda Kennedy, Rose Byrne, Ann Gerety Smyth and event organiser and MC Maggi McKenna then took turns delivering their poetry and prose; some enchanting, some hilarious – some earth-shattering. The writers delivered their pieces with a unique backdrop of art created by Gerard Keaveney, June Belton, Dan Flynn, Gene Rhatigan, Christine Treacy and Frank McGarry, and in keeping with the ‘Longford’ theme, Killoe singer-songwriter Sean Rooney provided the perfect soundtrack. In his speech, Cllr Loughrey expressed his wish that the evening would become a regular event in the county’s social calendar, and thanks to the inaugural night’s success, this wish appears to be coming true. As we go to print, plans are already afoot for the second such evening, with two singers, Jemma Cowan and Sean O’Neill, lined up, as well as four new artists. Filed Under: Events
Alan launches his first novel Ithaca in the Backstage Theatre on Monday 13th March at 8.00pm. Longford punches ‘way above its weight’ in creative writing in this country. We have our literary heritage of Goldsmith, Edgeworth, Casey and Colm, we thankfully have a generation of living writer who have consolidated their literary reputations nationally and in some cases internationally such as Noel Monahan and Vona Groarke, Breda Smith and Mary Melvin Geoghegan. Then we have a new and very exciting generations coming off what is beginning to look like a Longford ‘conveyor belt’ of talented writers such as: Belinda McKeon, John Connell, Lorne Patterson, Rose Moran, Margaret Nohilly, Valerie Masters and most recently Alan McMonagle. Alan launches his first novel Ithaca in the Backstage Theatre on Monday night. It promises to be a great night of music by Paul Gurney and Mick Warnock, readings by guest readers, an interview with the author by the talented young poet/novelist Nuala ni Chonchúir and finally a reading by the star of the night Alan McMonagle. The night is a recognition of, and a tribute to, a significant young creative Longford talent – but it is also an acknowledgement of all Longford writers. Therefore I call on all Longford writers to turn out on Monday night to enjoy an entertaining evening of music and literature, to salute our latest talent and above all to celebrate Longford writing. Remember – to nourish our literary sector we must all get up – get out and support our literary sector. I hope to see as many of you as possible on next Monday evening at 8.00pm in Backstage. Booking is advisable as seats are limited!! Till then – may the muse never desert you!!!
Filed Under: Events
The Red Line Book Festival 2017 is now open for submissions from writers/poets to participate in the literary strand of the festival. The closing date for applications is Monday 20th March at 4pm. The Red Line Book Festival is a celebration of all things literary; be it spoken, written, sung, played, illustrated or even just thought! We provide a programme of events and workshops that appeal to people of all ages and interests, from children to adults and casual readers to book worms. Our line-up of events covers areas such as history, drama, poetry, music and literature. Do not be put off attending if you are not a big reader! You don’t have to read to be inquisitive and that is what this festival is all about. Fuelling the imaginations of people who are eager to learn and explore new ideas and opinions. Many thanks to all of our writers, audiences and partners in making such a great festival in 2016. Keep an eye out for news over the coming months for Red Line Book Festival 2017. Filed Under: Events
The Maria Edgeworth Literary Festival has grown in stature and national recognition since its inception. It serves several notable purposes: preserving the name of the Edgeworth family, giving recognition to the spectacular intellectual and creative achievements of the gifted family and contributing to the continued growth of creative writing in Longford by affording children’s writing the same status and recognition as adult writing. Many of our adult writers today began to develop the belief that they are possessed of a literary talent through their participation in the Edgeworth Children’s Poetry Competition when they were much younger. It is that time of the year again – the hard working committee in Edgeworthstown are inviting submission to the 2017 Children’s Poetry competition on a theme of: Maria Edgeworth in the Garden. If you know a primary school student who has demonstrated any interest in writing or rhymes please direct them towards this worthwhile exercise. All necessary details are outlined below:
Entry Fee: €1 per entryf 1st Prize €50 2nd Prize €30 3rd Prize €20 Closing date 24th February 2017 Rules: 1. Entry fee must accompany all entries. 2. All entries must be the original work of the entrant and must not have been published, accepted for publication, broadcast or honoured by the closing dates for entries. 3. All entries to be clearly written or typed on one side of the paper only. 4. Name and address to go on a separate attached sheet. 5. The decision of the judges shall be final. 6. Poems limited to 40 lines. Entries to be sent to: Competition Secretary, Edgeworth Literary Society, Old School House, Ballymahon Road, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford Tel. No. 043-6671801 Filed Under: Competitions, Events, News
Waterford City & County Council’s Arts Office is pleased to announce that it is currently accepting entries for the Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2017. The late writer lived, until her death in 1996, in Ardmore, Co. Waterford. Her first ten novels and four plays were published under the pseudonym M.J. Farrell. In 1981 ‘Good Behaviour’ became a publishing sensation for which she was short listed for the prestigious Booker Prize. Annually since 1998, to celebrate this rich literary life, the Waterford Arts Office, by kind permission of the Keane family has invited entries for a previously unpublished short story to a maximum of 2000 words. There is no entry fee, no age limit and no restriction on the subject matter. A prize of €500 will be awarded to the winner at a special ceremony during the IMMRAMA Literary Festival in Lismore, Co. Waterford in June 2017. The closing date for receipt of entries is Tuesday 14th March 2017 at 12 noon. Full details and an entry form can be downloaded from www.waterfordcouncil.ie or by contacting the Arts Office on 058-41416. Filed Under: Competitions
SCRIPTS Ireland’s Playwriting Festival, which is dedicated to new Irish plays, is looking for new works. Taking place across Birr, Co Offaly from Sunday 9 July to Sunday 16 July 2017, playwrights (both established and emerging) are invited to submit original 15 minute plays on the theme, “What Next?” Scripts most suited for development will be chosen by the selection panel headed by playwright Eugene O’Brien. Deadline for submission is Friday March 31st 2017. Playwrights must be available to be in Birr from Sunday 9 July -Thursday 13 July 2017, as well as attend the headline event at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Sunday 16 July 2017 where the plays will be presented as staged readings. There will be a prize for “Best Play“. There are also opportunities for winning playwrights to meet and engage with production and dramaturgy departments of professional theatre companies and network with production partners. The winning play may then go on to represent the festival in further opportunities and events, should production partners deem it appropriate. Playwrights can submit plays by e-mail to
[email protected] or by post to “Scripts”, Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, Oxmantown Hall, Birr, Co. Offaly. Filed Under: Competitions, Events, Submissions Wanted
This year’s prize, judged by Deborah Landau, closes on 31 December. If you would like to be in with a chance to win €10,000, or one of three runner-up prizes of €1,000, and see your poem published in the spring issue of The Moth, click here. Previous winners include Abigail Parry (who also won this year’s Troubadour Prize), Lisa Bickmore and Ann Gray (her winning poem was shortlisted for the Forward Prize for Best Single Poem) For further details email
[email protected]. Filed Under: Competitions
Enjoy a relaxing evening with local Poet, Rose Moran, at 7pm on Tuesday the 6th December in Ardagh Heritage and Creativity Centre. Rose will be reading from her new anthology, Meadow of the Spell, celebrating the beauty, colour and gift of nature and all who attend to creation in its many manifestations. Come along and enjoy the readings and do some Christmas shopping in the Craft Shop while we chat over tea. All welcome. Creative Ardagh, supporting local artists, writers and crafters.
Filed Under: Events
The talented Killoe writer John Connell has been shortlisted for the prestigious Bord Gais Irish Book Awards – Short Story of the Year Section. The story was published by Granta Magazine in Granta 135 New Irish Writing alongside the work of such internationally acclaimed writers as; Roddy Doyle, Donal Ryan and Colm Toibin’s. The short story, entitled The Birds of June, is set in Longford and concerns a nurse working in the local county hospital. The nomination as a finalist of such a prestigious competition in the company of multiaward winning writers including a Booker Prize winner (Roddy Doyle) represents a majour milestone in the creative development of one of our most talented young writers. It also reflects very well on the number and quality of contemporary Longford writers. Our emerging artists and writers need all the support we can give them for their individual development but also for the development of the national perception that Longford is a place of talent and creativity thus making the road a little easier for all our emerging artists. The shortlisted story, The Birds of June, can be read on www.writing.ie sponsors of the award. The overall winner will be selected both by the judges and by popular acclaim. Therefore you can play a very real part in helping John Connell bring the title of short story writer of the year back to Longford. All you have to do is log on to: http://www.irishbookawards.irish/vote2016/ Support your local writer and remember, in this week of presidential elections, the immortal words of Sen. Huey Long “Vote early and vote often”!!!!! Filed Under: News
Gothic novels, short stories and even poetry with a gothic mood are all the literary rage at the moment. Those inexhaustible artistic animators of the Ardagh Arts Centre have assembled a fascinating programme of gothic readings and workshops in the techniques of gothic writing for almost all age groups. Come along to that haven of tranquillity and creativity that is the Ardagh Creativity Centre and sample a welcome that is anything but gothic or threatening. Relax and enjoy a reading in the picturesque setting of one of Irelands multi award winning villages and acquire the skills of gothic writing at one of the creative writing workshops. This is a rare and seasonal opportunity and is one that you overlook at the expense of your eternal souls!!!!! As you can see I’m no Mary Shelley that’s why I’ll be at the Ardagh Fright Festival 2016 Literary Events. Bookings can be made online or by contacting us at
[email protected] or 0863027602 Full details of all events including lots more for adults, children and families can be found on http://ardaghfrightfest.blogspot.ie
A Gothic Evening 7pm Readings and discussion of classic gothic literature including Frankenstein, Dracula and more Age 14+ to adult €6pp
Hour of the Witch 7pm. Enjoy a relaxed evening with local author Lorne Patterson including readings from his latest book Hour of the Witch. Adults €6 per person.
Finding the fantastic in your fiction 3pm Award-winning YA author Ruth Frances Long joins us for a writing workshop for teens Age 12+ €15 per person. Booking essential. Adult writing workshop 7pm Joe Murphy returns due to popular demand to share gothic writing secrets Adults €15 per person. Booking essential.
Author Panel 11am Ruth Frances Long, Joe Murphy and Lorne Patterson answer your questions about their books and what they love about writing. Filed Under: Events
It’s been an ‘Eipic’ year for 17-year-old Daire O’Muiri. A talented actor, who hails from Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon, Daire was cast in the acclaimed Irish-language comedy musical drama ‘Eipic’, which aired early this year. “It was fantastic, it nearly exceeded expectations,” Daire smiled, when asked about seeing the finished product on screen. “I really enjoyed seeing the whole story come to life.” In a nod to the 1916 Centenary, the six-part series follows five teenagers who take over the local Post Office to start a musical revolution. Daire played the role of Aodh in the series, which called on his talents as an actor, a musician and a gaeilgeoir.
‘Eipic’ received an extremely positive reaction, and has since gone on to be nominated for three Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) awards for Irish Language programme; Director – Soap and Comedy; and Children’s and Young People’s programme. It equalled the number of nominations received by the ever-popular Mrs Brown’s boys. “I heard that the nominations were coming out on the Wednesday, so I was keeping an eye,” he admitted. “Just seeing ‘Eipic’ written was a bit weird.” Daire has been keeping himself busy for the rest of the year, balancing auditions and school with a performance with Backstage Youth Theatre, of which he is a member. He took on the role of Padraig Pearse in the youth group’s engaging and moving 1916 production: ‘2016 – A Coming of Age’. For now, however, Daire’s acting is taking a back seat as the St Mel’s College, Longford student prepares to undertake his Leaving Certificate exams. However, it’s definitely not the last we’ve heard of Daire, and he confirmed that he is keen to pursue other stage and screen projects, though maybe not immediately. “I might not go straight into an acting course. At the moment I’m planning to do Primary School teaching and see where it goes from there,” he concluded. Filed Under: News
A Longford man was ‘At Large’ in Edinburgh last month, as a Dublin-based theatre group brought three plays to the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 30-year-old Daniel O’Brien, a native of Newtownforbes, is a member of At Large Theatre, who presented three original shows over two weeks. From a passing interest in drama as a child, O’Brien joined the drama society when he enrolled in Trinity College to study History and Economics, but, as he laughed; “College just got in the way.” It wasn’t until he had left college and completed his accountancy exams thereafter that he was convinced by a friend to join No Drama Theatre in Dublin, where he developed his acting, writing and directing skills. “I went along with him and I enjoyed it. They did a weekly workshop every Tuesday and I’d go to those,” Daniel explained, before laughing, “my friend dropped out after a few weeks.” After working with At Large Theatre’s Artistic Director, Gráinne Curistan, he joined the group and went on to write one of the three plays they presented in Edinburgh. According to Daniel, ‘Nowhere Now’ centred on “internal trade agreements and capitalism and working life”. “It’s mostly just about the language people use to talk about them.” Daniel also appeared in the Gráinne Curistan written and directed ‘The Meeting’ a comedy set in an office. The third show was the deeply personal, character-driven ‘Beryl’. Speaking on his return from the festival, Daniel said; “Edinburgh was great. We got settled into it pretty quickly; the routine of flyering, dealing with the time slot pressure that you get at festivals… which was great. I was a bit nervous beforehand about how we’d react to that but everyone handled it very well. “It is a very competitive environment and we had to learn very quickly how best to sell the different shows.” They did an excellent job, if the results were anything to go by, with Daniel reporting some great audiences as well as some sell-outs. “I think it was a very positive experience overall,” he concluded, “we got some very positive audience reactions, we saw a lot of great shows and talked to a lot of interesting people, and everyone made it back physically safe and mentally sane, which is a good result on its own!” For more on At Large Theatre, visit www.atlargetheatre.com or follow them on Facebook. Filed Under: News
A thrilling page-turner which keeps the reader guessing from beginning to end, Bernice Barrington’s debut novel ‘Sisters and Lies’, published by Penguin Ireland, was released in March of this year, to great acclaim. The story centres on two sisters, Rachel and Evie, the latter of whom is in a coma following a car crash. Everyone, including the police, believes that the crash was either an accident or a suicide attempt, but Rachel isn’t convinced, particularly when she discovers that Evie has been living with her childhood bully and has been concealing her identity from him. The book is written as a dual narrative, as Rachel searches for answers and Evie desperately tries to remember what happened and communicate with her sister, and is set between London, Dublin and Leitrim. It has received rave reviews from fans and fellow writers alike – including Marian Keyes, who dubbed it “head and shoulders above the rest” – and Bernice is thrilled with the reaction. “Obviously, getting the quote from Marian was amazing, and by and large the reviews on Amazon and Goodreads have been very positive,” she stated, admitting; “I was dreading the inevitable one-star ratings but there have been mercifully few of those”. Beyond the great reviews, the book has also re-connected Bernice with many old friends and acquaintances, and she has received many Facebook photos showing the book being read on sun loungers around the world. “Basically the whole experience has been overwhelmingly positive and I’m still trying to process all the good will and positivity that has been directed my way,” Bernice continued. “The other amazing thing is that it has given me a feeling of legitimacy about my writing. Making any kind of creative work can be so lonely and difficult – but the reaction has made me feel the hard work was worthwhile.” A native of Aughnacliffe, north Longford, Bernice (née Mulligan) cut her writing teeth at the Longford Leader, where she worked as a journalist for almost two years. She then went on to work as sub-editor and editor at a magazine publishing company before taking on the role of Media Project Manager at Zahra Media Group. Based in Dublin, where she lives with her husband Brian and their beautiful daughter Lily, who was born mere months after the release of ‘Sisters and Lies’, Bernice has certainly had a busy year. “I was on the TV3 show Midday as a panellist promoting the book in June,” Bernice revealed. “I also wrote the article in the Irish Independent about the Leaving Cert and did the follow up interview with Kathryn Thomas on the Ray D’Arcy show.” Just a month after publication, ‘Sisters and Lies’ was part of the Eason/Pat Kenny Book Club for the month of April, and Bernice is due to feature in the Sunday Times for an article about writers and their writing desks. In terms of writing desks, Bernice’s has changed slightly since welcoming baby Lily this summer. “I am in the very early stages of a new idea,” she revealed, “in between nappy changes and feeds! “Needless to say, we are beyond smitten and (touching every piece of wood possible) she has been a wonderful baby – sleeping well and generally being an absolute treasure. I know it’s going to be challenging combining writing and motherhood, but I’m (optimistically/naively) hoping it will all work out!” For more information on ‘Sisters and Lies’, which is now available as an audiobook through Bolinda, or to contact Bernice, see: Facebook.com/bernicebarringtonauthor; Twitter @beebarrington or visit www.bernicebarrington.com. ‘Sisters and Lies’ will also be coming out in the UK in Spring 2017. Filed Under: News
Roscommon County Council is delighted to announce details of the 2016 New Roscommon Writing Award. This is the third year of what has already become an important event in the literary calendar of the county. The NEW ROSCOMMON WRITING AWARD 2016 is organised as part of the county’s literature development programme. It is funded by Roscommon County Council and The Arts Council, and supported by the Roscommon Herald and by Shannonside FM. The winner will receive a monetary prize of €500 and will have their winning entry printed in the Roscommon Herald. It will also be broadcast on Shannonside FM. (Four runners-up will receive €50 each). Closing date for entries is 30 November 2016 Enquiries to
[email protected] View PDF Flyer
Entries, in English, on any theme, in any literary form, will be accepted. The competition is open to anyone over 18. All entrants must have a connection with the county of Roscommon (born in, living in, currently working in, went to school in, etc). Typed entries (handwritten entries cannot be accepted) must be no more than 500 words. Mark the number of words in your entry on the bottom of the page. Entries over the 500 word limit will be automatically disqualified. There is a limit of two entries per entrant. Include your name, address and contact details, plus your connection to the county. Include these on a separate page, not on your entry. There is no entry fee. All entries must be received by 30 November 2016. The competition will be adjudicated by Brian Leyden. The judge’s decision is final. Post your entry to: NEW ROSCOMMON WRITING AWARD 2016, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon Arts Office, Roscommon. You may also email your entry to:
[email protected]. Title your email NEW ROSCOMMON WRITING AWARD 2016. The names of the shortlisted writers will be announced in local media and online at http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Comm_Ent/Arts_Office/literature.htm The awards ceremony will take place early in 2017, on a date and at a venue to be announced. Filed Under: Competitions
Let me tell you about a very interesting and unusual literary event happening in Longford over the Cruthu Festival this Bank Holiday Weekend. Mark Grist an English poet who is rapidly developing a glowing international reputation is appearing in the Canal Studio Backstage on Friday night. He is an English teacher who took the world by storm when he took on a challenge from one of his students to face off to a rap battle (ala Eminem in 8Mile). Such was the response online that he has since quit teaching and performs full time. Have a look at his videos and you’ll see why. In addition Mark will be giving two workshops during the day, his workshops are on writing and writing for performance and are on Friday at 1pm & 3pm priced €5, the evening show is at 8pm and is priced at €15. Marks poetry and presentation style are a little different to what we are used to but are ‘all the better for that’. It gives us an opportunity to open our minds to new experiences in poetry, to new styles and to new genres. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear this immensely talented poet and performer as he is about to become huge on the international literary scene and you can say that you saw him first at Backstage and for only €15.00 Contact Backstage on 043 33 47888 and book a place while there are still some left. Filed Under: Events
Metro Éireann, in collaboration with the Duke University Kenan Institute for Ethics, is hosting an intercultural writing competition for young people in Ireland. The competition, as well as the optional one-on-one writing workshops associated with the contest, is completely free. Cash prizes will be offered to the winners. We would greatly appreciate the Longford County Arts Office promoting this event to the young people with which it engages. I am attaching an image of a flyer for you to peruse. Perhaps you would consider highlighting this event on social media pages? We would love your help getting the word out about this national competition amongst those passionate about the arts! The competition is a great chance for young people to improve their writing skills, develop their understanding of interculturalism, and try to earn cash prizes! The following contains the details of the writing competition and workshops: The 2nd Annual Metro Éireann-Kenan Institute for Ethics Intercultural Writing Competition seeks to simultaneously enrich Irish intercultural life and foster the development of the next generation of Irish writers. All Irish residents, immigrants and non-immigrants, are encouraged to enter, and no submission fee is required. Submissions of original fiction that illuminate the ethical challenges of intercultural diversity in Ireland are invited in the following genres: a short story (2,000 words maximum) a novel extract (2,000 words maximum) a selection of poetry (5 poems maximum) All submissions must be previously unpublished. Our panel of judges will pay attention to the following criteria: Engagement with Themes of Ethics and Interculturalism Creativity/Originality Organization/Structure Impact on Reader Initiative of Beginning Writers €3200 will be awarded in total to the winners! Age 14-17 winner (€800) and runner-up (€400) Age 18-21 winner (€800) and runner-up (€400) Age 14-21 Spirit of Intercultural Ethics winner (€800) All submissions must be typed using 12-point Times New Roman font, double-spaced, and sent to
[email protected] with the entrant’s full name and the word ‘Submissions’ in the subject line. Submissions should also include a cover page that provides the entrant’s personal information (name, age, address, telephone number) and details about their work (age category, title). Submissions are due by Midnight on July 31; winners will be announced on August 5. To learn more or book an individual meeting, please visit www.facebook.com/MetroEireann, call Catherine Ward at 087 401 3414 or Chinedu Onyejelem at 01 878 3441, or e-mail
[email protected]. Filed Under: Competitions
Don’t miss a really exciting night of literature and digital arts when Longford film makers respond creatively to Longford poets and prose writers on the subject of – “Longford”. When you join the forces of creative writers and film makers together you engineer an immediate creative explosion. What kind of explosion? Come along to the Canal Studio Backstage Theatre on Thursday evening 11th Feb. at 7.30pm and find out. Helmets are optional!!!
Filed Under: Events
It is rarely that anyone sits down with the intention of writing a purely gothic/horror novel or short story in the tradition of Bram Stoker of Sheridan Le Fanu. However everyone at some point in their writing tries to incorporate tension, anxiety, fear even terror into their story-line. This is the ‘bread and butter’ of gothic writing (or a more appropriate cliché might be ‘blood and guts’ of gothic writing)!! Anne & Annette – those ‘whirling dervishes’ of creative energy at Ardagh Creativity Centre have scheduled a workshop in Gothic Writing Skills over two nights as part of their Fright Fest Programme 2015. The facilitator is Joe Murphy – the author of three gothic novels – Joe will give his workshops over two nights Wed. 28th & Thursday 29th October in the Ardagh Creativity Centre from 7.00pm – 9.00pm. The workshop is excellent value at just €20.00 for the two nights or two nights for the price of one!! An opportunity to study the techniques, skills and tricks of gothic writing is very rare outside of a post-graduate creative writing course so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Further information may be had by logging on to: ardaghfrightfest.blogspot.ie Or by contacting the Centre at 086 3027602/ 087 2326553 Filed Under: Events
Karina Charles – Longford Correspondent for Irish TV is interested in profiling the work of Longford artists on the Longford programme each Saturday evening. If you have an item relating to your life as an artist or something to do with your practice please contact her at the number or e-mail address below. Karina will be delighted to hear from you. 085 1030569
[email protected] Filed Under: News
The following are the partnerships for the Respond 2 collaborative creative writing project. Writer
Digital Artist
Margaret Nohilly
Shelley Corcoran
Ed Denniston
Evelyn Kelly
Eileen Moynihan
Gordon Farrell
Mary Melvin Geoghegan
Seamus Clarke
Ann Gerety Smyth
Shane Crossan
Pauline Flood
Eddy Bisi-adepoju
Ciaran Furey
Michael Croghan
Kathleen Dowd
Deirdre O’Byrne
Rose Moran
Brendan Keogh
Emma Donohoe
Patrick Baxter
Filed Under: News
SiarScéal 2015 takes place during the first week in November. The Festival commences with a book launch, on the evening of Thurday, 5 November. It continues the following day with a programme of events that includes workshops, recitals and, of course, the presentation of the Hanna Greally Literary Awards, which takes place annually in conjunction with the Festival. As last year’s overall winner of the Hanna Greally Literary Awards, Rose Morris received a publishing package deal from The Manuscript Publisher, to see her book published in print and e-book editions. Her book, The Splendiferous Tale of Ferdinand Fox, is a story told in verse and, while aimed at young people, carries a very important message about the fate of our planet: the place that we all call home. The action takes the protagonists of this story on an adventure that crosses continents but ends up on the shores of Lough Erne, which, of course, was the venue for a recent G8 Summit of world leaders. The book will be formally launched on Thursday, 5 November at 6pm at Roscommon County Libraries HQ, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town. Festival-goers, members of the public are welcome to attend and entertainment and refreshments will be provided. The following day, Friday, 6 November at 10am, the Festival will be officially launched by Chairperson of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paddy Kilduff, accompanied by County Librarian and Festival Patron, Richie Farrell. This will be followed by the presentation of the Hanna Greally Literary Awards, including the Ger Hanily Memorial Cup. Mary Guckian, Leitrim-born poet and author of three anthologies, as well as winner of numerous prizes for her poetry, will present a Writers Recital and Workshop, beginning 12:30pm. This will be followed by a Writing for Publishing workshop, presented by Oscar Duggan of The Manuscript Publisher. The workshop will be an informative session, aimed at addressing both the challenges and opportunities that Writing and Publishing in the Information Age presents to those interested in finding a public outlet for their literary work. Full details about the SiarScéal Festival 2015, including dates, times, venue and programme of events, are available from the SiarScéal website (see Festival page), as well as being available to download in handy brochure form. Entries are now being accepted for this year’s Hanna Greally Literary Awards. The theme or this year’s competition is Century in Reflection and there is a cash prize of €200 for the overall winner. Prizes will also be awarded in categories that include best national and international submission for both poetry and prose, together with a special category for schools. The closing dates for entries is 5pm on Friday 23 October, 2015. Full details, including terms and conditions of entry, are available from the SiarScéal website (see Competition page). All entries received in this year’s Hanna Greally Literary Awards (along with submissions from previous year’s awards) will be considered for inclusion in the inaugural SiarScéal/Hanna Greally Literary Journal, to be launched at the 2016 SiarScéal Festival, which is being brought forward to April. For a flavour of what to expect, check out Roscommon in Reflection, an anthology representing the first five years of the Hanna Greally Literary Awards, published in 2012. It is available to buy online in print and e-book editions along with other SiarScéal publications. Filed Under: Events
Mentoring is one of the most effective supports artists can receive as they struggle to develop their talents and their crafts. In the tradition of the master craftsman and his apprentice the aspiring artist learns at first-hand how to develop and hone his or her talents directly from an established artist. Longford County Arts Office is currently offering the opportunity for a small number of committed prose writers to participate in a ten week programme with writer Alan McMonagle. Potential participants should therefore have an interest in the short story form. Classes will have a different focus each week covering such areas as: finding a voice, beginnings – opening lines paragraphs and chapters, constructing characters, dialogue, place/setting, engaging the reader, conflict, point of view, editing, presenting your work for publication As for selection, this is a Guide to the Short Story and so will be focused solely on the elements of an effective piece of short fiction. Writers wishing to participate should submit a piece of sample prose, no longer than 500 words (which should either comprise a short story or an excerpt from one) to
[email protected] marked “Short Story Course” no later than 5.30pm Thursday September 17th. Successful applicants will be informed on, or before Friday September 25th. The course is subsidised by Longford County Arts Office and will therefore be free for all participants. The ten week course commences on Wednesday 7th October in the Ardagh Creativity (Heritage) Centre and will run from 7.30pm – 9.30pm. All applications and submissions should be e-mailed to the above address and not to the County Arts Office. Filed Under: Events, News
Have you written a brilliant children’s story? Or have you one you’ve been meaning to write? With just over a month left to enter (closing date 30 Sep) now is the time to bring it to light. There is a single prize of €1,000 plus publication in The Caterpillar (which has featured stories by the likes of Michael Morpurgo, Veronica Cossanteli and Frank Cottrell Boyce). The story must be aimed at 7–11 year olds and be no more than 2,000 words in length. It costs €12 to enter. You can read more about the Caterpillar Short Story Prize or enter online at www.thecaterpillarmagazine.com. And needless to say, ignore this if you’ve already sent us your story. Filed Under: Competitions, News, Submissions Wanted
Let me tell you about a new creative writing collaborative project bearing the highly original title – Respond 2 Following the success of last year’s creative writing/visual arts collaborative project – Respond – we propose to repeat the experience by arranging a creative writing/film – digital arts collaborative project entitled – Respond 2. We are inviting all creative writers to submit a piece of poetry or prose on a simple theme of – Longford – to our project’s literary editor Lorne Patterson. Ten submissions will be accepted and the ten writers will be then introduced to ten local film makers/digital artists who will respond to the literary work through a three minute piece of digital art. The literary pieces will be read and the digital responses shown in the Canal Studio Backstage in December and both will be exhibited on www.virtualwriter.ie and the website still under construction www.longforddigitalarts.ie . The participants will also feature in the next issue of the Midlands Arts & Culture Magazine. Lorne has set out below the rules for submitting writing to be considered for the project: Objective: to create ten ‘YouTube’ film clips (of maximum 3 minutes) from ten poems/pieces of prose – on some aspect of Co Longford. Literary terms of reference: Provide an insight into Co Longford – either personal, geographical, historical, cultural, literary, mythological, or a mix of these. But whatever approach you chose remember, your work has to be interpreted within a three-minute filmed time-frame. Poems maximum 40 lines / prose maximum 1,000 words. Submission: Submit online to
[email protected] by 6pm, Friday August 30th. Since the chosen written pieces will be ‘published’/interpreted in a new form (i.e. digital/visual), the piece of prose/poetry you submit to me CAN have been published before. Again, to be clear, it does not have be a new piece of writing. Selection: The editor will select ten written pieces from the pieces submitted. The pieces will be chosen on the basis of originality, potential for visualisation, and diversity. As with the Respond I project, there will then be a randomised allocation to ten film producers during an evening at the Backstage. Remember all submissions to Lorne – the literary editor and project manager – and not to the Arts Office. Go ahead and have a try – it was good fun and very successful last year and I’m sure that it will be equally so this year. Filed Under: Submissions Wanted
Event:
Poetry Outdoors
Facilitated
Noel Monahan, poet & dramatist
by: When:
Daily – Friday 24th July to Sunday 26th July 2015
Cost:
20 Euro Price includes transport from Longford to and from sites and tuition fee
Booking:
Longford Tourism phone: 043 33 42577 email:
[email protected]
In a new and stimulating series of poetry workshops, internationally recognised poet and dramatist, Noel Monahan will take workshop participants on tour of the most beautiful and unspoiled landscapes in Ireland. The Lough Ree Waterway described by RTE’s Dick Warner as; “Europe’s last great wilderness” is the perfect backdrop for this creative adventure in Co. Longford. It is hoped this journey will lead to artistic freedom and engage participants directly in finding new and unexpected gift of subject matter for their writing. Knowing all true artists are hunters/fishermen, we look forward to new findings and new ways of looking at the everyday. The facilitator will draw the participants’ attention to the many features of this picturesque part of Co. Longford: The event will explore: Landscape, Flora and Fauna – hills, bogs, woodlands, quarry-park, lakes
AUDIO CLIP
and islands and wildlife. Unique Colours – lichen covered stones, the strata-graphic colours of bogland, meadowland. As well as the area’s storied history: Ruins of monasteries on the islands, placenames creating their own word- pattern of poetry, the landed ‘gentry’ and the fall of The Big House. Such an approach will lead to a discovery of the
Listen to Noel Monahan discuss this unique event and explain why Lough Ree and Saint’s Island are so special. http://www.virtualwriter.ie/wpcontent/uploads/poetry-outdoors.mp3
wonder of the place and will open up a new vision and new intelligence for the writers. The one day experience is suitable for both beginners and those who have been writing for some time.
[Friday July 24th – Sunday July 26th] 9.30am – Group assemble at Longford Tourist Office, Market Square, Longford Morning – A facilitated exploration of St. Island and the award winning ‘sculpture village’ of Newtowncashel. [Participants are recommended to bring refreshments] 1.00pm – Group arrive in Lanesborough. Lunch can be had in a number of bars and cafes. After lunch people are free to explore the picturesque village, the lake shore and the environmental SAC ‘The Commons’. 3.00pm – Lough Ree Co op Offices Main Street Lanesborough – Workshop based on the morning’s experiences and dealing with specific writing skills such as: Finding the Words and the line as a basic unit of a poem. The workshop will assist with editing and offer guide lines for publication. 5.30pm – Return by bus to the Tourist Office, Market Square, Longford
All places on this workshop must be booked in advance through Longford Tourist Office Course Fee: €20.00 Numbers strictly limited to a maximum of 15 participants per day, therefore it is important to book early The price includes transport from Longford to and from sites and tuition fee. Refreshments and lunch are not provided. Lunch may be had in Lanesborough. Accommodation can be arranged in local Hotel or B & Bs. Enquire at Longford Tourist Office: 043 33 42577
[email protected] All enquiries to Longford Tourist Office. For further information and updates check: www.virtualwriter.ie
Noel Monahan was born in Granard. He has won numerous awards for his poetry and writing. His awards include: The SeaCat National Poetry Award, organised by Poetry Ireland, The RTE P.J. O’Connor Award for drama, The ASTI Achievements Award, The HibernoEnglish Poetry Award and The Irish Writers’ Union Poetry Award. His poetry was prescribed text for Leaving Certificate English and examined in 2011. Noel Monahan has published seven collections of poetry fifth collection of poetry, published in 2010. “ Opposite Walls”, was published in 1991, “Snowfire”, in 1995, “ Curse of The Birds” in 2000 and “ The Funeral Game” in 2004, “ Curve Of The Moon”2010, “ Where The Wind Sleeps” 2014. all published by Salmon. In October 2014, Alidades in France published a selection of Noel Monahan’s work in French translation: “Celui Qui Porte Un Veau”. A number of his poems have been translated into: Italian, Russian, French and Romanian. His most recent plays include “The Children of Lir”, performed by Livin Dred Theatre and “ Lovely Husbands”, a play for young people, based on the work of Henry James. For twenty years he has worked with Heather Brett as co editor of Windows Publications. Noel Monahan holds an M.A. in Creative Writing. The Red AbbeyMonks walked through hell to arrive at Abbeyderg.Each one carried a woman within himselfAnd she settled somewhere between his hair-shirt And heart. In the light and darkness of the SunMoon- Child they listened for the unheard melody, Dreamt prayers over the hills, built altars of snow. By night the stones Fell up to the stars. Asleep on their pillows of stone they stared At the Red Abbey Cross, felt Christified, Saw a lady hanging there, red tears running Down her face. In the morning the stars fell Down as stones, the monks saw Christ’s image, His crown of thorns still bleeding and they carried His cross beams between the stones and the stars. Noel Monahan
Filed Under: Events, News
Help us celebrate the Legend of Midir and Étain. Creative Ardagh, in partnership with County Longford Arts Office and Cruthú Arts Festival are inviting all artists, writers, poets, established and new, young and old to take part in an exciting Visual Arts and Literature Project. We want to celebrate our local legend by publishing an anthology of stories, poetry and artwork by people of all ages. We envisage a mix of work from professional artists and writers, along with the work of children and other budding artists/writers based on the legend of Midir and Etain. This inspirational legend lends itself to an exciting project such as this. Be inspired by the drama, love, envy and shapeshifting transformations that are entwined in the story and produce your own creation in whatever media you like. We are accepting poetry and stories up to a maximum of 1500 words and artworks in any media including drawing, painting, photography, digital media and images of 3d artwork. The only restriction is that it is your own original work. You can find out more about the legend here: http://creativeardagh.blogspot.ie/p/midir-and-etain.html. You can enter from where ever you are in the world by post or email. Artworks sent by post should not exceed A4 size. The closing date for submissions is: 5pm on 7th June 2015. Please send all submissions to: Creative Ardagh, Ardagh Heritage and Creativity Centre, Ardagh, Co. Longford or email:
[email protected] The anthology will be launched as part of the Bilberry Sunday Event on the 26th July 2015 in Ardagh Heritage and Creativity Centre. This event will be hosted by Creative Ardagh in conjunction with County Longford Arts Officer Fergus Kennedy during the Cruthú Arts Festival. Those selected for the publication will get a chance to read their written piece or display the original artwork on the day. View publicity poster Filed Under: News, Submissions Wanted
The focus of this year’s County Arts Office Bursary Scheme will be: individual professional artists operating in the Longford County Council administrative area and aspiring artists from the Longford County Council administrative area, studying creative arts at a third level college. Grants will be awarded to artists to support continuing professional development. The forms of professional development envisaged are: support for the creation of new work, professional development and training, funding for materials and equipment and other creative or professional development purposes. Artists Bursaries will be in the region of €500.00 though this figure may be varied by the adjudicators based on such factors as the number of applicants and the quality of projects. All entries must be by e-mail to
[email protected] Closing date for receipt of applications is: 1.00pm Friday April 10th.
Education Bursaries will be paid to students from Longford County Council administrative area involved in a full time third level creative arts course, in an accredited third level college from September 2014.Students intending to attend art-form specific creative summer courses may also apply. All entries must be by e-mail to
[email protected] Closing date for receipt of applications is: 1.00pm Friday April 10th.
In recognition of the enormous contribution made by Anne Skelly to the development of creative writing in Longford during her time as Creative Writing Development Officer with the County Arts Office, the Arts Office has established the Anne Skelly Commemorative Bursary. The Bursary has been established to enable an artist, preferably a writer, from Longford to spend a week at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre Annaghmakerrig Co. Monaghan, for the purposes of developing or completing a creative project. This Perpetual Prize will be offered in the early Spring of each year starting in 2015, we feel that it is a means of commemorating Anne’s memory in a manner that she would have appreciated. The County Arts Office wishes to thank Anne’s husband Michael for his generous approval of this commemoration. Applicants for the Anne Skelly Commemorative Bursary must complete an application form (PDF format, Word document) which should be emailed to
[email protected] Closing date for receipt of applications is: 1.00pm Friday April 10th. Filed Under: News
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Longford County Arts Office, Aras an Chontae, Great Water Street, Longford, Ireland Phone: 086 8517595 Email:
[email protected]