County Clare Events Calendar 2015
See also Library Events and Art Exhibitions and Clare Focus - What's On Today (external link)

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December

• 22nd - 23rd December & 27th - 30th December 2015
  Pantaloons present Aladdin
  glór, Ennis
  Returning in 2015, the very successful Pantaloons present a new, fun-packed production of Aladdin. This is a show that promises to delight young and old audiences alike. Prepare to be transported to the glittering and magical realm of the glór panto-sphere for a visual feast of costumes and set, a side splittingly funny script and a multi-talented cast. Aladdin will also feature the talented students of the Sparks School of Dance. €15/€50 family of 4
• 21st December 2015 – 9th January 2016
  Fionnathan: Monsters and Us
  Clare County Museum
  Fionn Crombie Angus and Jonathan Angus are a father and son team, who work together, and with other artists, in a multitude of media. As well as visual arts, they are engaged in film making, musical performances and public lectures on themes of Irish culture, the natural world and the sometimes hidden abilities of people who are labelled 'disabled'. This exhibition, Fionnathan: Monsters and Us, explores mythological representations of The Other, and how mainstream society responds to other-ness. Fionn's lived experience as a young Irish man with Down syndrome, and Jonathan's as a father and advocate for inclusion, inform their artwork. Their pieces have recently been shown in London and New York, and they are represented by the Heart and Sold Organisation in the UK.
• 17th December 2015
  The WhistleBlast Quartet presents The Nutcracker Suite
  glór, Ennis at 12 & 7pm
  Suitable for all ages. Duration 60 mins. Come and enter the magical dance world of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, narrated and performed by the WhistleBlast Quartet. Arranged by the Quartet’s acclaimed Ken Edge, this sparkling Christmas show will also include Gabriel’s Oboe, Sleigh Ride and popular carols! €10/€8 Child/€30 Family 4/Teachers free of charge for 12pm performance
• 16th December 2015
  Rice College Christmas Concert
  glór, Ennis at 7.30pm
  For all the pre-festive entertainment you need, why not come along to glór where the talented students of Rice College, Ennis will take to the stage to showcase their talents in music, song and dance. From traditional to rock, pop and classical there will be flavours of harmonious music that will have your feet tapping on a night that promises to be memorable for all! Bígí linn! €10
• 15th December 2015 - 9th January 2016
  Fiona Faulkes Art Exhibition
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  "This is a collection of portraits depicting a group of musicians engaged in Traditional Irish Music." Fiona Faulkes studied Fine Art at the Ruskin School of Drawing, Oxford University and graduated with Honours in 1996. Originally from the New Forest in England, she now resides in Ennis, County Clare. Her paintings have been exhibited in Oxford, London, Cobh, Cork, Ennis, Scarriff and Dublin. Internationally her work has received Internet views from 96 Countries. The exhibition can be viewed in the foyer of Cultúrlann Sweeney Library during opening hours.
• 14th December 2015
  Sparks Hip Hop School of Dance Christmas Show
  glór, Ennis at 7.30pm
  Sparks present a fun and entertaining night for all the family, young and old. See performers from as young as 3 years all the way up to adult champions. Don't miss it! €11.50/€7 Child/€38 Family of 5/€32 Family 4
• 12th December 2015
  Elf Factory
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Santa's Elves greet the children amongst a pile of presents, soon everyone is passing, stacking and packing together. Then the cheeky Elves invite their new friends on an adventure inside a Giant Christmas Present. From a jumble of unpacked presents a beautiful town emerges waiting for Santa's Christmas visit and we find ourselves carried away on a fantastical journey using shadow play and puppetry. Children and their families enjoy a playful,intimate experience culminating in a wonderful meeting with Santa who has a present for each child. There are two shows 3.30pm and 4.45pm. Tickets €6. Book on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 12th December 2015
  Julie Feeney in Concert, presented by Music Generation Clare and Glór
  Glór, Ennis 8pm
  Julie Feeney's sell-out shows on both sides of the Atlantic have received rave reviews - whether solo, with ensemble, with choirs or with full orchestra - and she composes, arranges and orchestrates all of her own music. Her three albums have been widely, critically acclaimed internationally, receiving numerous awards and she has created a whole host of stunning music videos to accompany them. Her opera Bird goes into full production in 2017. Sharp witted, unpretentious and fiercely passionate, Julie Feeney is a genuine artist and a hugely enjoyable performer. 2015 saw her perform her own shows in Amsterdam, Mexico, Italy, all over Ireland and New York and she premiered her one woman show in Dublin which ran for seventeen performances. She is delighted to be back at glór. Support act for the evening will be young performers from Music Generation Clare partnerships and programmes. Under the Music Generation Go See! Leath/Leath Ticket Scheme, €10 tickets are available for this event for Under 18’s - (must be accompanied by an adult). www.glor.ie / 065-6843103
• 12th December 2015
  Music Generation Clare in association with glór presents Julie Feeney in Concert
  glór, Ennis at 8pm
  Julie Feeney's sell-out shows on both sides of the Atlantic have received rave reviews - whether solo, with ensemble, with choirs or with full orchestra - and she composes, arranges and orchestrates all of her own music. Her three albums have been widely, critically acclaimed internationally, receiving numerous awards and she has created a whole host of stunning music videos to accompany them. Her opera Bird goes into full production in 2017. Sharp witted, unpretentious and fiercely passionate, Julie Feeney is a genuine artist and a hugely enjoyable performer. 2015 saw her perform her own shows in Amsterdam, Mexico, Italy, all over Ireland and New York and she premiered her one woman show in Dublin which ran for seventeen performances. She is delighted to be back at glór. €20
• 10th December 2015
  Ballet Ireland presents Coppélia
  glór, Ennis at 7.30pm
  Franz and Hildy are curious about the beautiful girl, Coppélia. Hildy begins to suspect things are not all that they seem…She and her friends follow the seemingly perfect starlet, arriving at Dr. Coppelius laboratories. Inside, they stumble upon a magical and strange world, uncovering secrets that will change them forever! Ballet Ireland has re-interpreted this witty and pertinent ballet inspired by the eternal obsession with youthful perfection. With its nod to the movie glamour of yesteryear, its captivating dance and the charming music of Léo Delibes and Tom Lane, Coppélia will enchant and enthral audiences of all ages. €20/€18 Conc./€12.50 Child/€55 Family 4
• 9th December 2015
  Katherine Lynch presents You Don’t Bring me Flowers
  glór, Ennis at 8pm
  Watch an exceptional cast, including Katherine Lynch, (Wagons Den), Seamus Moran, (Fair City), Helen Norton, (Fair City), Karen Ardiff, (Brooklyn), Emma Barry, (Fifty One Shades of Maggie), and Karl Bowe, (Mr. Ireland), navigate through a story of family ups and downs in the way only they can. Crammed with laughs, tears and songs this heart-warming, raunchy comedy about love will be your best night out this year! Katherine Lynch is well-known for her characters in Wagon’s Den, such as Sheila Sheikh and Singing Bernie Walsh. €25
• 8th December 2015
  Niall Hynes, The Haunting of the Famine
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to host a film screening of The Haunting of the Famine which will be followed by a discussion with producer and director, Neil Hynes. This film contains the works that Neil Hynes was asked to produce as part of a submission to the National Famine Commemoration Committee. Hynes, with the help of local historians, took his camera to several locations in and around the West Clare town of Kilrush to places that hold tragic accounts of Famine times there. For this new DVD presentation Hynes has conducted further recordings, gathered new material, and has produced new, limited print, artwork. The screening will take place on 8th December 2015 at 7pm in The Malbay, Miltown Malbay. All are welcome. Members free, non-members €5.
• 8th December 2015 – 21st January 2016
  30 Years, Artists, Places
  glór, Ennis
  Exhibition Curated by Muireann Ni Chonaill, Laois Arts Officer
  One of the most significant exhibitions of Irish artists in recent years will be launched in glór this Decemberember ahead of an extensive nationwide tour. The exhibition marks 30 years since Local Authorities embarked on providing for the arts locally, featuring 30 artists and 30 places, (Clare being the first county to appoint an arts officer in 1985). This is a must see, not just for the extraordinary line up of Irish artists who rarely find themselves curated into one room, but for the stories of how they each came to be purchased, commissioned or acquired by local authorities, therein lies the real narrative; the quiet, genuine and imaginative support for Irish artists demonstrated by our local government for the past 30 years. Featuring renowned artists such as Tony O’Malley, Alice Maher, Robert Ballagh, John Kindness, Norah McGuiness, Sean McSweeney, Sean Lynch and John Shinnors, Clare is represented by a work by Theo McNab, purchased in 1983. The exhibition will tour nationally well into 2017.
• 6th December 2015
  ‘Winter Wandering through history, legend & myth at Kilmacduagh’ a Burrenbeo Trust talk with Rory O’Shaughnessy
  Kilmacduagh, 2pm
  Kilmacduagh is one of the Burren’s earliest visitor attractions; steeped in archaeology, history and legend and still a hugely significant site for the local community. Rory will lead a gentle walk through the story of the Monastery and uncover some of the lesser known secrets which it holds. Rory has a degree in history and archaeology and a post grad in Irish Heritage. Outside of guiding and heritage he also works as a stonemason with a vast knowledge on building, maintaining and the history of dry stone walls. Rory lives in the Galway Burren, he is part of a clan this is one of the oldest in the area, and does a lot of heritage education with the Heritage in Schools Scheme and the Burrenbeo Trust. The walk will start at 2pm at Kilmacduagh. Waterproofs, warm clothes etc. required depending on the weather! The walk will be based in and around Kilmacduagh Monastery and will not cover a large distance. The walk will last for about 2 hours. The walk is free for members of Burrenbeo Trust and €10 minimum donation for non-members. You can join online at www.burrenbeo.com, or you will be able to join on the day. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096. Directions: From the North (Kinvara): From Kinvara take the Gort Road (L4508) and continue as far as Tierneevin, c.9km. At Tierneevin Church turn right and continue for just over 2km. You'll see the Monastery and a car park on your right. From the South (Corofin): From Corofin take the R460 towards Gort, after c.1km keep left and continue on the R460 for about 16km, crossing straight over the New Line road as you pass Lough Bunny on your left. You'll see the Monastery on your left and take a left turn onto the local road. The car park is past the site on the left
• 4th December 2015
  The Matchmaker, by John B. Keane
  glór, Ennis
  Starring Jon Kenny and Mary McEvoy, the play follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O’ Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn from all parts of the country. At the centre of this celebrated production is John B. Keane’s marvellous and mischievous wit coupled with his unparalleled way with words. John B. Keane takes us back to a simpler time, when even phones were few and far between and the only web was one left behind by spiders. €20/€18 Conc.
• 3rd December 2015
  “Exile For The Love Of God - ST Colman’s Hermitage, Eagle’s Rock”, an illustrated talk by Tony Kirby
  X-PO Killinaboy
  St Colman’s is one of Ireland’s outstanding remaining Christian hermitages. Eagle’s Rock was also a pilgrimage site of regional importance for centuries. The site is set in sublime native woodland at the base of one of the region’s steepest cliffs. The talk will focus on the history, archaeology and folklore of the hermitage…as well as the cult of Colmán Mac Duagh. Tony Kirby works as a full-time guide in the Burren and is the author of the book The Burren and the Aran Islands A Walking Guide. The X-PO is located in the former post office in Killinaboy. It is a community hub for social and cultural activities. All are welcome to the talk. More information 087 292 54 87.

November

• 30th November 2015
  Cuckoo Connolly’s Curious Clock Shop - A Play for Children by Padraic McIntyre
  glór, Ennis,10 and 11.45am
  Cuckoo Connolly owns the curious little clock-shop at the bottom of Main Street. He has the very important task of keeping the Christmas Clock going, a job he has been given by Santa Claus himself. When the Christmas Stealer breaks in and puts three locks on the clock, Christmas is not going to happen. Cuckoo enlists the help of Willie the Wizard, and with Willie’s help he goes on three amazing adventures which bring him to Winnie the Witch’s House, Conor the Crazy Clown’s Circus and Padraic the Pirate’s Island. €8. Teachers Free of Charge. Duration 50 Mins.
• 30th November 2015
  The North Clare Historical Society presents “They have left us our Fenian Dead, Commemoration in Irish republican history from O’Donovan Rossa to Martin Devitt", a talk by Dr. Tomás Mac Conmara
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon at 8pm
  Admission €5. All welcome.
  The deep roots which memory holds in Irish society offers some basis for the power of commemoration in Irish political culture. The immortal words of Pádraig Pearse at the grave of O’Donovan Rossa in 1915 bore eloquent testimony to the potency of memory in Irish history. This lecture will explore the role of commemoration in the preservation of the republican tradition and its associated social memory, with a particular focus on the revolutionary period in county Clare. It will also reflect on the broader memory landscape and examine other methods of remembrance like songs, poems, graveside speeches, autograph books, artefacts and memorabilia.
• 28th - 29th November 2015
  Endings - Claire Keegan writing workshop
  Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis
  10am to 5pm, both days
  How do we conclude? Are endings natural -- or an artifice? Isn't life ongoing -- until it isn't? The focus during this weekend will look at falling action, resolution, redemption, emotional consequences and inevitability.
  This course will focus on the structure of a narrative within fiction in different genres: the short story, the novella and the novel. It also look at the structure of endings in film, and consider how scenes and time work in a story. This course should be of interest to anyone who writes, reads, edits or teaches fiction. Tuition 300 euro. To book or for info email ckworkshops@yahoo.co.uk. Participants will not submit work but will be asked to read and carefully consider the following:
  Good Country People by Flannery O'Connor;
  The Devil by Leo Tolstoy;
  Regeneration by Pat Barker.
  Film: The Godfather by Mario Puzo/ Francis Ford Coppola
• 28th November 2015
  Oliver Callan
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Award-winning satirical impressionist Oliver Callan is fresh from his hit TV and radio series Callan’s Kicks and will perform a brand new show satirising the hot topics of the day after another year of scandal and controversy across Ireland and the world. Featuring a new array of characters from Conor McGregor to Imelda May and Marty Morrissey to Rachel Allen, as well as old favourites Taoiseach Enda and President Michael D. Higgins; a huge range of issues will get the Callan treatment in this biting, live show. €27.
• 27th November 2015
  Paddy starring Tommy Fleming
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Tommy Fleming stars in this sensational new drama/musical. Paddy tells the story of a young Irish emigrant Patrick Murphy, who leaves Mayo in the 1960s in search of fame and fortune. The show follows his life in London city and Ireland over a 25 year period. Tommy Fleming is one of Ireland’s most popular and successful artists and his involvement in Paddy is a natural progression in a career that has seen him perform sell-out solo concerts in Ireland, the UK, America and Australia. €30.
• 26th November 2015
  The Liddy O’Reilly School of Speech & Drama
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  A spectacular evening of drama and fun for all the family, with one of Clare’s longest established schools. €10
• 25th November 2015
  Fishamble: The New Play Company presents Underneath - Written and performed by Pat Kinevane, Directed by Jim Culleton
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Sticks and stones didn't break Her bones, but words and pointing crushed Her. Is Beauty really only skin deep? Does Ugliness hide somewhere deeper? Following the runaway international success of Forgotten and Silent, Fishamble presents Pat Kinevane’s third solo play, Underneath. This stunning new play is a blackly comic, rich and vivid tale of a life lived in secret, a testament to the people who live on the fringes, under the nose of everyday life. It explores the surface, and what lies underneath. €18/€16 Conc. Suitable for ages 16+.
• 24th November 2015
  Aspects of sport and social life in nineteenth century Clare, a talk by Joe Power hosted by Kilrush and District Historical Society
  Teach Ceoil, Kilrush, 8pm
• 22nd November 2015
  Keith Barry- Out of Control
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Internationally acclaimed mentalist Keith Barry brings his brand new live show, Out of Control to glór. Out of Control is Keith’s most limit-pushing, live show yet, and will once again blow everyone’s minds! Keith has established himself as Ireland’s biggest touring entertainment star, with years of sell-out tours and theatre runs under his belt, and has now also become a household name in the UK. Early booking advised. Please note that under 12s must be accompanied by an adult. €30.
• 21st November 2015
  Cultúrlann Sweeney present Cris Wood
  Culturlann Sweeney Kilkee
  'None The Wiser' is a fourth solo album released in Summer 2013 from Chris Wood. With humble hymns and sweeping statements from Alzheimers to William Blake, Wood lovingly takes the pulse of his English homeland in what could be his best album yet.Wood has worked and collaborated with a long list of artists, most recently Dizraeli, Billy Bragg, Eliza and Martin Carthy in Simon Emerson's Imagined Village. His duet with Eliza added to the "Villager's" winning another Folk Award for "Best Traditional Song". The Irish Times dubbed him ‘the renaissance man of English folk’ because his work extends beyond song writing into commissions for Radio 3 Between The Ears, Late Junction and The Essay. He has written for The Times and lectured at Newcastle and Limerick Universities. His setting of Blake's Jerusalem features in Paul Gilroy's lecture on poetry and music at Kings College London and Wood's lyric Walk This World With Music is included in Michael Morpurgo's latest collection. Chris will continue to tour ‘None the Wiser’ solo during 2015 bringing his spellbinding performances to new audiences in UK and Europe as well as playing some high profile festival concerts. Show starts 8pm. Tickets cost €20. Book on 065 9060769 or book online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 20th November 2015
  Dermot Byrne, Trevor Hutchinson & Steve Cooney
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Dermot Byrne, one of Ireland’s finest traditional accordion players, performs a concert to mark the twentieth anniversary of his solo album. For many years a member of Altan, Dermot performed, recorded and toured extensively with the group, along with artists like Donal Lunny, Steve Cooney and Stephane Grapelli, bringing the joy of traditional Irish music to audiences all over the world. For this special concert, Dermot will be joined by Australian Steve Cooney on guitar, and Tyrone man Trevor Hutchinson on bass, both of whom have impeccable traditional music credentials. €20/€18 Conc.
• 19th November 2015
  Two Brothers: Vladimir & Anton Jablokov
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Following their hugely successful debut Irish tour, violin maestro Vladimir is delighted to share the stage with his equally gifted younger brother, Anton. Two Brothers celebrates popular classical music by the great composers, with Vladimir and Anton highlighting pieces from their Russian heritage, mixed with well-known favourites from the stage and screen. This concert will feature traditional Russian tunes, popular classical pieces, themes from movies and musicals, as well as singalong favourites. €20/€18 Conc.
• 18th November 2015
  Clare Traveller Focus presents Pavee Ceoil
  glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  This evening of entertainment is a return of the annual Traveller Focus Event which celebrates the contribution of the Traveller Community to Co. Clare. The line-up includes a selection of original compositions by the young people from the Songstories song writing programme, Ennis singer Mary Frances Joyce, Jack Delaney performing traditional Cant songs, uilleann pipe and tin whistle player Michael Benn, Stephen Pecker Dunne, and our headline act, country music singer, John Hogan. €8.
• 14th November 2015
  Phil Coulter: The 50th Anniversary Concert
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  For this special concert to celebrate his 50th anniversary in the music business, Phil Coulter will perform new arrangements of all his well-known songs and will be joined by his guest vocalist and wife, Geraldine Branagan. Phil has performed with everyone from James Galway and the London Symphony Orchestra to Nanci Griffith and The Blue Moon Orchestra, not to mention Henry Mancini, Elmer Bernstein and Quincy Jones, and has written at least four titles that can be added to the list of great Irish Songs. €25/€22 Conc.
• 12th November 2015
  Cultúrlann Sweeney present Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Martin Hayes is regarded as one of the most extraordinary talents to emerge in the world of Irish traditional music. His unique sound, his mastery of the fiddle and his acknowledgement of the past and his shaping of the future of the music, combine to create an astonishing and formidable artistic intelligence. He has drawn musical inspiration from sources as diverse as the Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, the Spanish viola da gamba master, Jordi Savall, and the jazz genius, John Coltrane, but remains grounded in the music he grew up with in his own locality, in Feakle County Clare. Dennis Cahill is a master guitarist, a native of Chicago born to parents from the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. He studied at the city’s prestigious Music College before becoming an active member of the local music scene. Cahill’s spare, essential accompaniment to Martin Hayes’ fiddle is acknowledged as a major breakthrough for guitar in the Irish tradition. In addition to his work with Martin, Dennis has performed with such renowned fiddlers as Liz Carroll, Eileen Ivers and Kevin Burke, as well as many Irish musicians on both sides of the Atlantic. Show starts 8pm. Tickets €25 /€22 concession. Book on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 12th November 2015
  The Castles of Corofin, Rath and Kilnaboy
  A Talk at X-PO Killinaboy
  X-PO in Kilnaboy will host an illustrated talk by Risteard (Dick) UaCronin and Martin Breen on Thursday the 12th of November at 8.30 pm. The talk is entitled "The Castles of Corofin, Rath and Killinaboy". Risteard (Dick) UaCroinin and Martin Breen have carried out a Survey of the 217 castles of County Clare over a twenty year period. The Survey was published by The National Monuments Service in 2014 on their website archaeology.ie. The lecture will explore the remains of these buildings in the three parishes around Corofin and the lives of those who built and lived in them. The X-PO is located in the former post office in Kilnaboy. It is a community hub for social and cultural activities. All are welcome to the talk. More information 087 292 54 87.
• 11th November 2015
  ‘Boasters, threateners and lyric poets’ - the Celts andtheir place in Ireland, a Burrenbeo Trust November Talk
  The Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort at 8.30pm
  One of the defining aspects of Irish identity is its Celtic origin. From the Celtic imagery used in the fight for Independence to the Celtic Revival of Lady Gregory and Yeats, from the evidence written on the landscape to the poetry of the great heroic sagas, the Celts have shaped modern Ireland. But who were they? Savage, noble warriors or wonderful artists - or a bit of both? In this talk, local historian Dr. Terri Shoosmith will explore Celtic society and will take a look at some of the things history books tend to ignore: what did they wear, what were their homes like, how did they cook and what did they eat? Come along and meet the ancestors! Terri Shoosmith has been studying Clare history since going to university as a mature student in 2003. She completed her PhD on Settlement and Social Change in the Barony of Tulla, c. 1650-1840, in December 2014 and is currently teaching a course on Hearth, Home and History at Rockvale Garden Studio, Tubber. This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members. For more information please email elaine@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 10th November 2015
  'Scattery: Island of Saints and Sinners' - an Old Kilfarboy Society Winter Series Talk by Rita McCarthy
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay at 8pm
  Barely 100 acres in size, Scattery Island has witnessed and been part of the changing times of our country. Today it is a place of peace and tranquility, but that belies its tempestuous past. It was once a place of saints and Vikings, invasion and shipwrecks, prosperity, peace and ultimate abandonment.Invaded by Brian Boru, it can also boast a King of Munster as one of its abbots. Saint Senan, Ivar the Viking King of Limerick, the Spanish Armada and British forces have all played key roles in the Island's history, making it in many ways a microcosm of Ireland’s history. Currently completing a PhD and originally from Kilrush, Rita McCarthy is a history researcher and independent radio producer who has recently completed two 1 hour radio hour documentaries for Clare FM on the history of Scattery Island. Old and new members welcome, non-members €5.
• 7th - 8th November 2015
  Middles - Claire Keegan writing workshop
  Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis
  10am to 5pm, both days
  This weekend will focus on the much neglected middle. If the beginning and the ending are the extremities, then the middle is the trunk of the story. We will look at why most manuscripts, if they fall down, tend to fall down in the middle. And the relationship between the beginning and the middle, how and why one feeds off the other.
  This course will focus on the structure of a narrative within fiction in different genres: the short story, the novella and the novel. It also look at the structure of middles in film, and consider how scenes and time work in a story. This course should be of interest to anyone who writes, reads, edits or teaches fiction. Tuition 300 euro. To book or for info email ckworkshops@yahoo.co.uk. Participants will not submit work but will be asked to read and carefully consider the following:
  Good Country People by Flannery O'Connor;
  The Devil by Leo Tolstoy;
  Regeneration by Pat Barker.
  Film: The Godfather by Mario Puzo/ Francis Ford Coppola.
• 7th November 2015
  "The Dainty Daisies" - Rape Crisis Midwest's fundraiser
  The West County Hotel, Ennis
  This is a fun evening promised to entertain all as it has done so over the last five years. The format on the night is similar to the Rose of Tralee except that it involves a group of males donning frocks and performing a party-piece. More information can be seen on Rape Crisis Midwest's facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/rapecrisismidwest/.
• 6th - 28th November 2015
  Between You, Me & The Wall - An Exhibition of photography by John Kelly
  glór, Ennis
  Celebrating 25 years at The Clare Champion newspaper, glór and The Clare Champion are showing a selection of staff photographer John Kelly's work. Working out of the west of Ireland, John Kelly is an evocative and original multi award-winning photographer. As staff photographer with The Clare Champion he has chronicled the life of Clare over the past two decades; his unique photographs scratch beneath the surface of everyday activity within the county.
  John’s photographs have appeared in many publications and his work backboned the acclaimed publication, The Scattering. For this project, John travelled to England, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea to record the story of those who left Clare for further fields.
• 4th November 2015
  My Name is Saoirse - Written and performed by Eva O’Connor
  Directed by Hildegard Ryan
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Rural Ireland, 1987. Saoirse lives in a peach coloured bungalow with her Da and big brother Brendan. Her best friend is Siobhán, who has a glorious fountain of ginger hair and an arse so big it distracts all the men at mass. After a night out drinking with the lads, Saoirse discovers her pregnancy and is forced to set out on journey that will take her miles away from her home and the carefree adolescence she once knew. €15.
• 3rd November 2015
  Ger Carey Live
  glór, Ennis, 11am
  Ger Carey is back with his hilarious stand-up comedy show for transition year students. By secretly observing his subjects in their natural habitat, such as leaning on lampposts, in chippers, outside chippers, in shopping centres and sitting on any kind of steps, Ger has uncovered the weird and frightening world of the teenager! The aim of the show is to get teenagers to laugh at themselves and appreciate the differences of others. €10. Duration 2 Hours. Teachers Free of Charge. To book contact Ger Carey on 083 119 0024 and 059 914 1333.
• 1st November 2015
  Winter Waders on the Rine with Susan O Donohoe, a Burrenbeo Walk
  Ballyvaughan Bird Hide 51M 226 084 at 2pm
  Susan is a keen birdwatcher. She is involved with various bird conservation projects and is a bird ringer with the British Trust for Ornithology. She works as an Education Guide in the Burren National Park and in schools around the country on education programmes for BirdWatch Ireland and the Heritage Council. The Rine is a narrow spit of land, just 3km from Ballyvaughan and is a great place for waders and wildfowl and one of the best areas on the west coast for wintering divers. The walk will start at 2pm at Ballyvaughan Bird Hide and will then car pool to the Rine, start point marked here. Waterproofs, warm clothes etc. required depending on the weather! Wellingtons Essential. No Dogs. If you have Binoculars or a Scope please bring them. The walk will last for about 2 hours. The walk is free for members of Burrenbeo Trust and €10 minimum donation for non-members. You can join online at www.burrenbeo.com, or you will be able to join on the day. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.

October

• 31st October 2015
  Halloween Celebrations
  Carrigaholt
  Bring your children to the biggest trick or treat in West Clare. Come and watch the spooky and haunting through drama and dance. Follow the Pucka through the streets of Carrigaholt as he searches to find the clues to solve riddle. Contact 086 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 31st October 2015
  The Lambert Puppet Theatre presents Hansel and Gretel with Bosco
  glór, Ennis, 1.30 & 3.30pm
  Hansel and Gretel is a beautifully produced show with large puppets, colourful sets and exquisite lighting. The Lambert Puppet Theatre is now widely recognised as the premier touring puppet theatre company in Ireland. Paula Lambert was the Bosco voice on TV for seventeen years, and indeed Bosco is still a firm favourite with younger children and will make a nostalgic appearance in the opening part of the show. €10 Adult/€8 Child /€30 Family. Suitable for ages up to 10. Duration 60 mins.
• 30th October 2015
  BellX1 – Acoustic Tour
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Following their Ed Sheeran, Croke Park, support in July, glór are delighted to welcome BellX1 back for a very special acoustic gig. Paul, Dave & Dom have been busy in the studio recording their 7th album – the follow up to the much acclaimed Chop, Chop. The acoustic shows will feature new songs along with favourites from their much-loved catalogue in a stripped back, intimate performance that glór audiences have always loved. Book Early. €25/€22.50 Conc.
• 27th October 2015
  The North Clare historical Society presents "Samonios, Samhain and All Saints' Eve - the History of Hallowe'en" - a talk by Billy Mag Fhloinn
  The Courthouse, Ennistymon at 8pm.
  Billy Mag Fhloinn is a lecturer in Irish Studies at the University of Limerick and Mary Immaculate College. He holds a degree in archaeology and a PhD in folklore studies, and has an interest in a wide variety of subjects, including folk religion and belief, calendar customs, experimental archaeology and prehistoric music. He has published papers on a range of subjects, and will release his first book in 2016, a monograph on ritual animal sacrifice and the Cult of St. Martin in Ireland. Outside of his work in academia, he plays traditional music, and is a member of the Clare Memory Orchestra. He is also a member of Umha Aois, a collaborative project exploring art and archaeology. Admission €5. All are welcome.
• 26th October 2015
  Charity 5k Walk, Jog, Run
  Starting and finishing at the GAA Pitch in Lissycasey at 12.00 noon.
  Entry Fee: Adults €10, Family €20.
  The proceeds of this fundraiser will go towards the building of a rescue home for the forgotten children of Kenya, which are used for the trafficking Industry.
• 25th October 2015
  Burren Food Fayre
  Lisdoonvarna
  The Burren Food Fayre has a range of local Artisan Food Producers, cookery demonstrations, talks and tastings. The Burren MASTERCHEF competition is one highlight with categories for Secondary Schools and Adults, all are invited to participate. Contact 065 7072295 & www.burren.ie
• 24th October 2015
  Pitschi, The Kitten with Dreams
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Pitschi lives with her cat family, Grandma Lisette and a dog called Bello on a farm high up in the Swiss Alps. She doesn’t much care for the rough and tumble and mischievous fun of kitten play and dreams of being something else – a chicken, perhaps, or a goat, or a bunny – for after all, for Pitschi, anything is better than being a cat! The little kitten goes off on an exciting adventure around the farm to meet the other animals, but finally discovers that she can be happy by being exactly what she is. ! Based on Swiss author and illustrator Hans Fischer’s award-winning picture book, Pitschi, this is a tale that has delighted generations of children – and cat lovers all around the world. Show starts at 3pm, tickets are €5, family ticket (4 persons) €18. Book on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 24th October 2015
  Get ready for Halloween
  Vandeleur Walled Gardens, Kilrush
  Get ready for Halloween at Vandeleur Walled Gardens. Suitable for children aged 4 to 12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Scary 50% off all plants for sale! Contact 065 9051760 & www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 24th October 2015
  P.A.W.S. 2015 - The International Pictures and Words Storytelling Convention
  glór, Ennis, 11am - 4pm
  The International Pictures and Words Storytelling, (P.A.W.S.), Convention 2015 is an annual arts convention based in County Clare, to highlight art, storytelling, literature, comics, education, the Irish language, film, theatre, traditional storytelling and other media in which stories are told. This year there will be a free open day in glór with cartoonists, writers and illustrators and sessions from 11am. The line-up includes authors and illustrators Alan Nolan and Matthew Griffin as well as others. There will be six paid workshops on the day also.
• 23rd - 26th October 2015
  Willie Keane Memorial
  Doonbeg
  This festival celebrates the life of Willie Keane, legendary sean-nós dancer, with traditional music, song and dance. This weekend of music, song and dance is our tribute to him. Contact 087 9985427 & www.williekeanememorialweekend.com
• 23rd - 25th October 2015
  Burren Winterage Weekend
  The Burren
  The Burren Winterage Weekend is carried out to celebrate the unique farming traditions of the Burren, but also to highlight, celebrate and support the broader significance of pastoral farming in shaping much of the Irish landscape. Contact 091 638096 & www.burrenwinterage.com
• 23rd October 2015
  The Haunting of the Famine
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Cultúrlann Sweeney presents an artistic and academic event, produced by local video-artist Neil Hynes, that will inform people of their local heritage. It will build on the hard work that was carried out by the Kilrush and District Historical Society who helped bring the Famine Commemoration to Kilrush in 2013. The event will be artistic in form (involving a newly produced video by Hynes, and theatre performances from the Full Moon Theatre company, an experienced group in the area of Famine story re-enactments) and educational in its delivery with insights from Hynes on the occurrances surrounding the 2013 event and recording of the video. It is intended that the audience will gain a new appreciation and further insights into the Great Famine period in West Clare through the opportunity to see film and live theatre performances on the subject. Starts 8pm, tickets €10 and are available from the Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie
• 21st October 2015
  Burren Sub Aqua Club Open Evening
  Oakwood Arms Hotel, Shannon, 8pm
  Burren Sub Aqua Club are holding an Open Evening Wednesday 21st October; 7.00pm at the Oakwood Arms Hotel Shannon followed by a try-a-dive at 8.00pm in the Shannon Leisure Centre. Discover scuba diving in the safety of the swimming pool. Bring togs and a towel. Call Bernie on 0860634564 for further details or visit www.burrensubaquaclub.com
• 20th October 2015
  Clare county Library presents Shane Hegarty Reading from the Darkmouth Series for Children's Book Festival
  glór, Ennis, 11am
  Shane Hegarty was the Arts Editor of the Irish Times but left when Darkmouth became the sensation of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, with record-breaking publishing deals worldwide. His best-selling debut explores the border between our world and the world of monsters, (properly called Legends). One of those towns is Darkmouth. There, our hero Finn is the son of the last remaining Legend Hunter – which means that one day soon Finn will be the last remaining Legend Hunter. Except…he’s not very good at it. Free of Charge. Book directly with Clare County Library on 065 6821616
• 19th October - 14th November 2015
  ‘A Tribute to Caravaggio’ Art Exhibition by Brian O’Shaughnessy
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Brian O’Shaughnessy is a native of Tuamgraney, County Clare and now lives in Killaloe. Brian has always been interested in art and painting and completed two years studying Art and Design at LCFE and now works full-time as an artist. Brian works in oil on canvas and is particularly interested in and inspired by the works of the Old Masters. This Exhibition ‘Tribute to Caravaggio’ has been inspired by the works of the great Italian baroque artist Michelango Merisi da Caravaggio (1571 – 1610). Brian is particularly inspired by Caravaggio’s dramatic use of light in his paintings. Tribute to Caravaggio’ will be exhibited at the Gallery at Cultúrlann Sweeney from 19th October to 14th November 2015. Opening hours: Mon and Weds 1.30 to 5.30 and 6.00 to 8.00, Tues, Thurs and Fri 10.30 to 1.30 and 2.00 to 5.30 and Sat 10.30 to 2.00.
• 17th - 26th October 2015
  The Cora-Ween Revamp
  Corofin
  A week-long Halloween event starting October 17th with an ‘up cycling’ costume workshop for adults and children at the GAA Hall, run by Rainbow Up cycling. Events continue with Halloween festivities at An Cupan Tae Café with lots of fun for the entire family. Contact 087 6240839.
• 17th October 2015
  My World is My Song with Regina Nathan
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Regina Nathan, Soprano, sings My World is My Song in a concert featuring an eclectic mix of music, from classical arias and songs to more popular music such as that of Janis Ian, Leonard Cohen, Edith Piaf and others. €20/€18 Conc. This is an exciting new show, directed by Robert Chevara, presented in an intimate, unique and powerful way. Regina Nathan is a well-known Irish soprano who has worked with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and has sung major soprano roles nationally and internationally.
• 17th October 2015
  AnTara in Concert and CD launch
  Russell Gallery, New Quay, Burrin, County Clare at 8pm
  AnTara is a unique duo comprised of Tommy Hayes & Matthew Noone that explores the spaces in-between the traditions of Irish and Indian Classical music. Both regarded as pioneers on their chosen instruments and fearlessly inventive, they create a diverse yet cohesive musical experience. Limited Tickets 10 euros, buy online http://www.russellgallery.net/AnTara/AnTara.html
• 16th October
  John Sheahan, Damien Dempsey & Declan O’Rourke - The New Triangle
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  John Sheahan, Damien Dempsey and Declan O’Rourke bring together the living pedigree and last surviving original member of Ireland's greatest folk group, with two of Ireland's finest contemporary voices and song-writing forces. The repertoire draws on a wealth of new material by all three, along with some of the greatest Irish songs that ironically influenced the two youngest from an early age, in a magical collaboration of music and song - fast becoming known as The New Triangle. €28.
• 15th October 2015
  Rough Magic presents How to Keep an Alien: A story about falling in love and proving it to the government.
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Sonya Kelly, (The Wheelchair on my Face), is back with a tearfully funny, tender memoir about securing an Irish visa for her Australian partner Kate. They met. They fell in love. Now all they have to do is prove it to the government. Join her madcap odyssey from the stony townlands of Offaly to the leafy depths of the Queensland bush. It’s a tricky business coming from opposite ends of the earth. It takes an Olympian will and the heart of whale, but above all else, paperwork. It takes a hell of a lot of paperwork.Includes post show discussion with Sonya Kelly. €18/€16 Conc.
• 14th, 15th, 19th & 20th October 2015
  Corofin Dramatic Society presents 2 One Act Plays
  St Patricks Hall Corofin
  Hilarious Night of Comedy. Curtain 8pm
  Ticket €12 / €10 on door
• 14th October 2015
  ‘Don’t Die In Autumn’ - A Life of Birds with Eric Dempsey, a BurrenBeo Talk
  The Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort, at 8.30pm
  To coincide with the launch of Eric Dempsey’s new book, ‘Don’t Die In Autumn – a memoir’, Eric will present a public talk on his life watching and enjoying Ireland’s rich and varied birdlife. Using original stunning images of Ireland’s birds, Eric will present a relaxed, entertaining and fun evening, bringing everyone on a journey of his discovery of birds at an early age, from spending time in the Botanic Gardens to travelling the world in search of rare and exotic species…and everything else in between! This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members. For more information please email elaine@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 13th October 2015
  Lovely field of Kilfearboy’: Mary Frances McHugh’s recollections of childhood in West Clare, an Old Kilfarboy Talk with Anne Clune
  The Malbay, in Miltown Malbay at 8pm
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to announce the first lecture in the Winter 2015-16 series which takes place at 8pm, on Tuesday, 13 October. Anne Clune will present "‘Lovely field of Kilfearboy’: Mary Frances McHugh’s recollections of childhood in West Clare". Published in 1931, McHugh’s Thalassa is an account of the author’s childhood in Caherrush and of the people and places she remembered along the coast of Clare in the early years of the 20th century. Anne Clune worked for many years in Trinity College Dublin as a lecturer in English literature, with a particular interest in Flann O'Brien. After early retirement she returned to live in Clare, her mother’s home county, and describes it as the best thing she ever did. All talks take place in the Malbay, in Miltown Malbay and all are welcome. Membership: €20 (for series of six talks) or pay as you go, €5 per each talk.
• 13th October 2015
  The Abbey Theatre - Me, Michael by Tara McKevitt
  glór, Ennis, 10am, 12 & 2pm
  Me, Michael explores the magic and the intelligence of an imaginative child growing up without a father in 1930s Donegal. By sharing his family story, Michael finds a new strength in dealing with prejudice. This charming tale re-frames Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa with all the exuberance and insight of the original. Teachers Free of Charge. €6. Suitable for ages 10+. Duration 55 Mins including post show Q&A. Part of the Abbey Theatre’s Community and Education programme.
• 12th October 2015
  Traditional Horse Fair
  Kilrush
  Kilrush Traditional Horse Fair takes place on Francis Street, Kilrush. Contact 065 9051047
• 10th - 11th October 2015
  Beginnings – Claire Keegan writing workshop
  Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis
  10am to 5pm, both days
  How and where do stories begin? How does an author make the incision in time and proceed into rising tension? How is a reader drawn into the narrative? And what is off-putting about some opening pages? Why do readers sometimes not get past the first page and put the book down? This course will focus on the structure of a narrative within fiction in different genres: the short story, the novella and the novel. It also look at the structure of beginnings in film, and consider how scenes and time work in a story. This course should be of interest to anyone who writes, reads, edits or teaches fiction. Tuition 300 euro. To book or for info email ckworkshops@yahoo.co.uk. Participants will not submit work but will be asked to read and carefully consider the following:
  Good Country People by Flannery O'Connor;
  The Devil by Leo Tolstoy;
  Regeneration by Pat Barker.
  Film: The Godfather by Mario Puzo/ Francis Ford Coppola.
• 10th October 2015
  MÓRglór Award 2015: A Concert celebrating MÓRglór Award Winner, Eoin O’Neill
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  glór’s annual award to celebrate outstanding contribution to traditional music has this year been awarded to Eoin O’Neill. Eoin is a musical giant in County Clare and is known throughout the country for his stylish and sensitive playing. In a concert to express thanks to Eoin and to celebrate his achievements, glór has lined up some of the most renowned traditional musicians and singers in the country and the county, including Luka Bloom, Kevin Crawford, Yvonne Casey, Quentin Cooper, Kevin Griffin and many more for a cracker of a concert! Early booking advised. €20.
• 9th - 31st October 2015
  In Berlin by Samuel Walsh - An Exhibition of Paintings, Studies and Drawings
  glór, Ennis, Ennis
  In Berlin stems from a number of visits - most recently in June 2015 - made by Samuel Walsh to the city since 2005. Much of the work is small and of a study nature, with a number of these small studies turned into larger works, both paintings and drawings. The work in this exhibition showcases the artist’s signature use of bold colour as well as his technical brilliance. Samuel Walsh is one of Ireland’s leading exponents of abstract art and he has exhibited widely, both nationally and internationally.
• 9th - 11th October 2015
  Bunratty Bluegrass Festival
  Bunratty
  A festival (formerly Bunratty Banjo Festival) of Bluegrass music and more in 7 venues around
  Bunratty Village and Bunratty Folk Park. This festival showcases artists from Ireland and abroad. Contact 00353 86 1571847 & www.bunratty.ie
• 9th October 2015
  Live, Love, Laugh by Eilish O’Carroll
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Eilish O’Carroll’s Live, Love, Laugh is a wonderfully entertaining and life affirming one woman show. Best known as Winnie McGoogan in her brother Brendan’s successful BBC sitcom, Mrs Brown’s Boys, Eilish comes into her own here with this reflective look on an eventful life that includes a strict Catholic upbringing, two failed marriages, (one of them abusive), and coming out as a lesbian at the age of 50. €18/€16 Conc. Suitable for ages 16+.
• 7th October 2015
  Clare Archaeological and Historical Society presents ‘A Secondary Opinion’ - Cumann na mBan in Revolution and Memory a talk by Dr. Tomás Mac Conmara
  Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis at 8.00pm.
  Ennis Public Lecture on Cumann na mBan in Revolution and Memory .An exploration of the role of Cumann na mBan in the Irish Revolutionary period (1916-23) and how this has been treated in history and memory. The lecture will place a particular focus on the organisation in County Clare.
• 6th October 2015
  Newfound Sound Chorus & Friends present Teamchor Jona
  Kilkee Bay Hotel at 8.30pm
  Teamchor Jona from Switzerland is a dynamic mixed choir of approx. 50 singers who perform a wide range of musical styles. (Musical, Jazz, Gospel, Rock, Pop, Classic) They usually sing everything by heart and fill their performances with simple, effective and suprising show elements. Hear it - see it - love it! Newfound Sound is a choir formed last winter - based in Kilkee, with about 40 singers from the West Clare area. We're excited to be joining Teamchor Jona for this choral experience and are hoping to learn a lot from them! Admission €5 at door, or to reserve tickets call 087-9819257
• 4th October 2015
  ‘Wild Foods from the Burren’ with Oonagh O’Dwyer, Burrenbeo October Walk
  2pm at Gortlecka Cross Roads.
  October is traditionally a month of harvest so it’s perfect timing for a walk with Oonagh O’Dwyer of wildkitchen.ie on the ‘Wild Foods from the Burren’. Oonagh is a local forager and organic grower and will speak about the food which is all around us; wild food is seasonal, local, nutritious and free, beneficial to human health and can be used as food medicine. The walk will include information on plant identification, plants to avoid, what's in season, and an introduction to the vast culinary uses of wild food. While we will not be able to 'harvest' food from the park, we will be able to sample. The walk will be a gentle stroll in Burren meadows and limestone pavement - please wear appropriate footwear and bring waterproofs etc. Walk starts at 2pm from Gortlecka crossroads. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 3rd - 4th October 2015
  Ború 3 Peaks
  Killaloe & Ballina
  Run, walk or crawl up the 3 peaks surrounding Killaloe / Ballina -Tountinna, Moylussa and Keeper’s Hill - Register and raise money for charity. Contact Boru3peaks@gmail.com & www.boru3peaks.com
• 2nd October 2015
  IMRAM presents Moondance: The Van Morrison Project
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  From the pulsing rhythm and blues of Gloria to the sweet, breezy folk rock of Tupelo Honey, to the ecstatic gospel of Full Force Gale, Van Morrison’s music is marked by its emotional drive. Moondance features exquisite Irish language versions of Morrison’s songs, translated by poets Cathal Póirtéir and Gabriel Rosenstock. They will be performed by Liam Ó Maonlaí, Hilary Bow, and The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra. Margaret Lonergan has created stunning screen projections of the lyrics. €20/€16 Conc.
• 1st October 2015
  Decadent Theatre presents Vernon God Little by DBC Pierre
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Vernon’s a Texan high school student, and it’s like any ol’ day of the week. Until, word comes in – his best friend has murdered 16 of his fellow classmates. The clowns and bullies, jocks and beauty queens have reached a tragic, early, Texan grave. Vernon, however, has no alibi and a witch hunt begins… glór is delighted to welcome Decadent back after its 50 show run of The Pillowman by Martin McDonagh, with one of theatre’s best kept secrets – Vernon God Little. €20/€18 Conc.
• 1st Oct 2015
  Kieran Quinn: 32 Pianos
  glór STUDIO, Ennis, 8.30pm
  Kieran Quinn is a pianist/composer from County Sligo. To mark the release of his second album – The Next One - he is bringing his music to a piano in each of the 32 counties of Ireland. Expect contemporary piano-based songs and tunes, ranging in style from New Orleans swing to west of Ireland traditional, and everything in between, played with a range of special guest musicians. €15.

September

• 28th September 2015
  The North Clare Historical Society presents “Lisdoonvarna Revisited” a talk by Mary Angela Keane
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, at 8pm
  Admission €5. All welcome.
• 27th September 2015
  Traditional Harvest Day
  Bunratty
  Experience a traditional 19th Century Harvest Day with wonderful activities such as old style threshing demonstrations, a vintage machinery display, traditional music and dancing with the Straw boys, sheaf throwing competitions and much more! Contact 00353 61 360788 & www.shannonheritage.com
• 27th September 2015
  Cathal Torpey Memorial 5 Mile Chraity Run & Walk
  The Courthouse, Tulla, 2pm
  Tulla Athletic Club is holding its annual 5 mile road race on Sunday the 27th of September. The race is a memorial for Cathal Torpey who died earlier this year following a road accident. Cathal was a former member with the club and competed with distinction for a number of years. The Dermot Walsh cup will be presented to the first woman and the Thomas Byrnes cup will be presented to the first man. There will be a Club team event with 6 to score (3 men and 3 women). AAI Permit granted. http://www.runireland.com/events/cathal-torpey-memorial-5-mile-charity-road-race
• 26th September
  Ennis Food Festival presents Gourmet Food Village
  glór Ennis, from 12pm
  Ennis Food Festival presents this year’s highlight event - the Gourmet Food Village at glór. Come join artisan producers, growers and restaurants to sample some of the best in local produce from Ennis, Clare and beyond. The festival will see many foodie events in Ennis restaurants and food venues and a food trail of gourmet tastings from 24 - 27 September. €5. www.ennisfoodfestival.com
• 25th - 27th September 2015
  Traditional Music Festival
  Mountshannon
  Mountshannon Traditional Music Festival hosts a packed weekend of pub sessions, céili, workshops, singing sessions, song competition, and concert. Contact 00353 87 7801346 & www.mountshannontradfestival.ie
• 25th - 27th September 2015
  Che do Bheata Festival
  Kilkee
  Celebrate Che Gavara weekend with Salsa and South American food and drink. Kilkee converts to the southern hemisphere for a weekend of fun and swing. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 25th September 2015
  Indian Film and Food Night - The Lunchbox
  glór, Ennis, from 7pm
  Some romances are written in the stars. Others, it would seem, can be chalked up to a misread street map. When a lunchbox painstakingly prepared by Ila for her emotionally distant husband is mistakenly delivered to Saajan, (the wonderful Irrfan Khan, Life of Pi), the under-appreciated Mumbai housewife and lonely accountant strike up an intimate correspondence. With a delicious Indian Menu by Nolan & Lambe. €20 Film & Food.
• 24th - 27th September 2015
  Ennis Food Festival
  Ennis
  A varied and inclusive celebration of food and drink, with the main Food Village Event on Saturday in glór. With something for all ages, from a Teddy Bears Picnic, Cinema Suppers, Dining In The Dark, Jazz Brunch, Medicinal Food, Food Art & Photography, Artisan Food, Craft Beers and Best-In-Class Events. Not to be missed. Contact 00353 86 3981325 & www.ennisfoodfestival.com
• 20th September 2015
  Ennis Fashion Week presents Hats and High Tea
  glór, Ennis, 3 - 6pm
  Kick start Ennis Fashion Week with style and enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea and bubbly while you feast your eyes on a one off millinery extravaganza featuring the cream of Irish millinery design. Music by Nigel Bridge and models by Coast Model Management. €29
• 19th - 26th September 2015
  Ennis Fashion Week 10th Anniversary
  Ennis
  Ennis prides itself as being the ‘boutique capital of Ireland’ and this year Ennis Fashion week will celebrate its 10th year. 2015 is the year of design and Ennis fashion week will play host to the Clare and Irish fashion designers showcase as well as hosting fashion bloggers and stylist awards. Contact tesspurcell1@gmail.com
• 19th September 2015
  East Clare Kilkishen 10k
  Kilkishen
  The East Clare Kilkishen 10K course is AAI measured and approved and is a relatively
  flat course which is very popular with all the participants as personal bests are achieved on this course. It’s a loop run passing many lakes and is enjoyable for all runners - both casual and serious. Contact 0353 87 6601125
• 19th September 2015
  Cherish the Ladies with Special Guests
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Cherish The Ladies is an internationally acclaimed super group, led by the irrepressible and award winning flute and whistle player, Joanie Madden. With their unique spectacular blend of instrumental talents, beautiful vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing, this powerhouse group combines all the facets of Irish traditional culture and puts it forth in an immensely humorous and entertaining package. €20/€18 Conc.
• 18th - 20th September 2015
  Seafood in September Festival
  Carrigaholt
  The festival includes a Shellfish and Craft Beer Event, A Gala Seafood Buffet, Guided Food Trails, Fishing Trips, Artisan Food and Craft Fair with cooking demonstrations by local chefs and live music throughout the weekend. Contact 0353 65 9058106 & www.loophead.ie
• 18th September 2015
  Culture Night 2015
  Culture Night 2015 takes place on Friday September 18th when Clare's cultural community come together to showcase the very best the county has to offer. Culture Night Clare will see over 40 cultural events being held for all ages from 5pm to 10pm around the county. All events are free and full details can be seen at www.culturenight.ie
• 18 September 2015
  Zoe Conway and John McIntyre
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  With an exciting blend of eclectic fiddle and guitar music, Zoë Conway and John Mc Intyre bring to the stage sympathetic arrangements of traditional Irish music, compositions and songs, old and new. The husband and wife folk duo possess a rare facility to draw pieces into their repertoire from other genres such as classical, jazz and world music and express this material in a way which not only displays the sheer range and knowledge of both instrumentalists but also exhibits the wonderful versatility of their instruments. This is a free event and the show starts at 8pm. To reserve seats call the box office on 9060769.
• 18th September 2015
  The Vanbrugh Quartet presents Harvest
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Culture Night in Clare sees Ireland's leading classical ensemble, The Vanbrugh Quartet launch Harvest, their 2015 autumn tour. The glór concert will be a very special one, featuring Cranning by Clare's own Dave Flynn. Also included in the programme for Culture Night is Mozart 387 1st movement; Kraggerud: Preghiera; Cranning from 2nd movement; Tchaikovsky Andante Funebre; Schickele Barn Dance. Culture Night is brought to you by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in partnership with Clare County Council. Free of Charge.
• 13th September 2015
  Kilkee Strand Races
  Kilkee
  All the fun of the races, watch as horses race on the famous strand at Kilkee, take in the atmosphere and enjoy the local hospitality. The time is water dependent. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 13th September 2015
  Autumn Art & Craft Fair with Plant Sale
  Vandeleur Walled Garden , Kilrush
  Join us for our Autumn Art & Craft Fair at the Vandeleur Walled Garden. We also offer a massive discount of 50% on plants. The head gardener will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Contact 00353 65 9051760 & www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 12th September 2015
  North Clare CF Cycle-Run-Walk
  Kilnaboy
  4 Cycle Routes: 100km, 70km Scenic Burren and breathtaking Atlantic Coastline - Wild Atlantic Way, 40km Fr. Ted and Mullaghmore cycle route, 11km Mullaghmore Cycle. 2 Run loops, 11km Mullaghmore and 6km Burren Run, also 6km Burren Walk. Contact 00353 86 8390942 / 00353 87 8222750 & www.tlc4cf.com
• 11th - 13th September 2015
  Burren Peaks Weekend of Walking Festival
  Ballyvaughan & Fanore
  Burren Peaks Weekend of Walking Festival promises you a real taste of the Burren and offers guided hill and lowland walks varying in distance and grade catering for all walkers. Contact 00353 87 7779714 & www.burrenpeakswalkingfestival.com
• 11th September 2015
  Music Network presents Kathleen MacInnes, Dermot Byrne, Brian Finnegan & Mike Vass
  glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Join four trad trailblazers as they come together for the first time in an evening of musical creativity and virtuosity. Hebridean singer Kathleen MacInnes teams up with Donegal accordion maestro Dermot Byrne, maverick flute and whistle player Brian Finnegan, and award-winning Scottish guitarist and fiddler Mike Vass, for a concert of Traditional music and song from Scotland and Ireland. €15.
• 9th - 13th September 2015
  An Post Rás na mBan
  Ennis
  An Post Rás na mBan is Ireland’s premier bicycle stage race for women. Taking place over five days with six separate stages. Conact 0044 7572411360 & www.rasnamban.com
• 9th September 2015
  Workshop in community training of recording of graveyards run by Clare Roots Society
  Teach Ceoil Kilrush
  We are going to hear about communities experiences in transcribing and recording graveyards as well as from professionals. A new methodology, photogrammetry, will be explained on the day and its uses in reading old headstones.
• 6th September 2015
  ‘Forts, Farming & Folklore on Roughan Hill’, a Burrenbeo Trust walk with Michael Killeen
  Kilnaboy Old Church at 2pm
  Join Burrenbeo Trust on their September walk which will be led by local farmer Michael Killeen. Michael’s farm lies in a fertile valley on the southern edge of the Burren, and offers views of Clifden Hill, Cratloe Hills and Mahera and Derrybrien Mountains (on a clear day!). The farm also includes a large Cashel and a prehistoric standing stone. Michael will share interesting local facts and folklore. Walk will be on Burren farm land so good walking shoes / boots, waterproofs, warm clothes or potentially sunscreen required. There will be livestock on the land so strictly NO DOGS. The walk is open to everyone, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. Start point for the walk is marked here http://goo.gl/maps/G4xVo. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 6th September 2015
  Carrigaholt Harvest Festival
  Carrigaholt
  Vintage and agricultural show celebrating all that is produced out west. All the fun of the fair, stalls, artisan market, competitions and livestock shows. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 6th September 2015
  BORU Tri Club - Boat to Bridge Long Swim
  Killaloe
  Open water distance swim event with a difference - boating up the lake a distance of 3km – taking the plunge and returning by arm power – swimming downriver from boat to bridge. Open to licensed Triathlon Ireland/Swim Ireland members. Pre-registration required. Contact 00353 87 7197282 & www.borutriclub.com
• 5th September 2015
  Declan Hayes Memorial Half Marathon & 10k Run/Walk
  Doonbeg
  The 10k walk/run takes place in a very scenic looped route overlooking the White Strand Beach and Doughmore Sandhills. The half marathon route is made up the 10k loop and& a second loop which goes in and around the famous Doonbeg golf course. It starts and finishes in Doonbeg village. Contact 00353 86 2620688 & www.westclarewalkingclub.com
• 4th - 7th September 2015
  Crotty Galvin Traditional Music Festival Weekend
  Moyasta, Kilrush
  The Crotty Galvin Traditional Music Festival features an incredible line up of sessions, céilis, dancing and music classes. The official opening will take place on Friday at 9.30pm followed by céili with the Four Courts. There will be lots of free music and dancing classes. Contact 00353 87 2830511 & nellgalvinfestival@gmail.com & www.nellgalvin.com
• 4th September - 3rd October 2015
  On View - New Work by Dorothy Ledwith
  glór, Ennis
  On View features a diverse and varied mix of new work from Ennis artist Dorothy Ledwith, with landscape, still life, urbanscape and print all presented. Using a colour palette of muted dusky tones, landscapes show the fantastic expanse of countryside, whilst Ennis’ urban surrounding is also showcased with paintings of sun light on gable ends and old chimney pots, forming an acknowledgement of the beauty of everyday routine. The artist’s signature still lives will also feature in this beautiful exhibition. Come along and see if you can spot your own house immortalised in paint.
  

August

• 30th August 2015
  Annual Aviation Show 2015
  Shannon
  There’s an exciting line up of displays and exhibitions with something for aviators of all ages. Shannon Airport Fire and Rescue Vehicles attend plus, Military Vehicles, Uniforms Medals and Memorabilia and lots more including Aerobatics display in the afternoon! Contact 00353 61363687 & www.atlanticairventure.com
• 30th August 2015
  Finding Clare’s Armada Heritage
  Seafield Pier, Seafield, 14:00 to 17:00
  This event will demonstrate the techniques being used to locate the wreck of the Armada Galleon San Marcos, which foundered off the coast at Seafield. Adult €5.00. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact The Old Kilfarboy Society / The San Marcos Project john.j.treacy@mic.ul.ie & 086-123 1618
• 30th August 2015
  Folklore Music Dance Storytelling Poetry
  An Teach Cheoil, Kilrush, 20:00 to 21:00
  Recital of traditional tunes and airs on the concertina by Tim Collins one of Ireland’s most renowned concertina players. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact OPW Scattery Island Visitor Centre scatteryisland@opw.ie & 087-9958427 & www.heritageireland.ie
• 30th August 2015
  Open Day at Loop Head Lightkeeper’s House
  Loop Head Lightkeeper’s House, 10:00 to 16:00
  An opportunity to view the conservation work of the Irish Landmark Trust. Enjoy a selfguided tour of this restored 19th century lightkeeper’s house which is now available as holiday accommodation. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Irish Landmark Trust caroline@irishlandmark.com & 01-6704733 & www.irishlandmark.com
• 30th August 2015
  Guided Tour of the 13th Century Franciscan Friary
  Ennis Friary, Abbey Street, Ennis, 12:00 to 12:45 and 15:00 to 15:45
  DETAILS: Guided tour of the 13th century Franciscan Friary, founded by twww.heritageireland.iehe O’Briens. Come and see the numerous 15/18th century sculptures and the re-opened Chancel lit by the magnificent east window. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact ennisfriary@opw.ie & 065-6829100 &
• 30th August 2015
  Peadar Clancy – 1916 Hero, Irish Martyr
  Ennis Friary (The Old Abbey), 19:30 to 21:00
  Free public lecture by author and historian Cormac Ó Comhraí on the life of Peadar Clancy from Cranny, who played a leading role in the 1916 Rising and the Irish War of Independence. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact OPW Ennis Friary 065-6829100
• 30th August 2015
  The Great War and links to Clarecastle/Ballyea Parish
  Old School, Clarecastle, 12:00 to 14:00
  The Great War and links to Clarecastle/Ballyea Parish. We encourage you to bring along artefacts from the War. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Clarecastle & Ballyea Heritage & Wildlife Group cartock@gmail.com & 087-9791955 & www.clarecastlecommunity.ie
• 30th August 2015
  Corcomroe Abbey Tour
  Carpark at Corcomroe Abbey, 14:00 to 16:00
  Olive Carey will lead this trip through the beautiful ruins of this Cistercian Abbey, recounting its history and pointing out its architectural features. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Clare Archaeological and Historical Society Emgreene@eircom.net & 087-9165916
• 29th - 30th August 2015
  Nell Galvin Music Festival
  Moyasta
  A weekend of traditional music and dance. Come and join in the music and dancing lessons, enjoy the craic on the banks on the Shannon. While in Moyasta visit the well known West Clare Railway. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 29th August 2015
  An Fulacht Fia BBQ Festival
  Killaloe/Ballina
  An Fulacht Fia is an annual International BBQ Festival. Teams from all over the world compete to win the coveted “An Fulacht Fia Cup”. The Festival includes culinary events including garden party, BBQ demonstrations and competitions and live music. Contact 00353 61622790 & www.flanagansonthelake.com
• 29th August 2015
  Folklore Music Dance Storytelling Poetry
  Aughinish Crossroads, via Doorus Peninsula, Newquay, 10:30 to 18:00
  This event celebrates Aughinish musical traditions past and present and highlights the iconic design of the Irish postbox. It is being used to play recordings of Pat Keane and other local musicians. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Brian Twomey/KAVA briantwomey@live.com & 091-637075
• 29th August 2015
  Furnace Tour
  Mountshannon Harbour, 10:30 to 16:30
  Join on a free tour of the 17th and 18th century icon smelting furnaces and iron mines on the western shores of Lough Derg. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Paul Rondelez prondelez@yahoo.com & 085-1239550 & www.furnaceproject.org
• 29th August 2015
  The Bridges of County Clare
  Court House Gallery, Ennistymon, 19:00
  Clare and North Clare have some of the most amazing bridges in Ireland. Lotts Architecture and Urbanism Ltd are undertaking a survey of bridges in North Clare funded by the Heritage Council and Clare County Council as part of the Clare Heritage Plan. Desmond Byrne will present the findings of the study showcasing the wealth of bridges in the area and how the bridges are influenced by the area’s history, engineering, topography and geology. The bridges of Clare have many layers of significance, bridges are important in terms of design, they act as landmarks, are attractive in the landscape and are of scientific and historical interest to their local area. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Congella McGuire, Heritage Officer, Clare County Council cmcguire@clarecoco.ie & 065-684 6408
• 29th August 2015
  The Great War and links to Clarecastle/Ballyea Parish
  Old School, Clarecastle, 19:30 to 21:00
  The Great War and links to Clarecastle/Ballyea Parish. We encourage you to bring along artefacts from the War. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Clarecastle & Ballyea Heritage & Wildlife Group cartock@gmail.com & 087-9791955 & www.clarecastlecommunity.ie
• 29th August 2015
  Mini Beast Hunt
  Burren National Park / Gortlecka Crossroads, 10:30 to 12:00
  Join us for a mini-beast hunt through the meadows in the Burren National Park. We will be looking for insects, small mammals and frogs. Suitable for children aged between 4-10 years. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact burrennationalpark@ahg.gov.ie & 065-6827693
• 28th August - 4th October 2015
  Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
  Lisdoonvarna
  The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival attracts up to 60,000 people from all over the world, who come for the music, the dancing and the ‘craic’. Dancing takes place in venues all over town. Third generation matchmaker Willie Daly is on hand to bring hopeful singles together and boasts many marriages to date. Contact 00353 65 7074005 & www.matchmakerireland.com
• 28th - 30th August 2015
  Tulla Weekend of the Welcomes
  Tulla
  Tulla Weekend of the Welcomes is a fabulous opportunity for anyone with a link to Tulla or who enjoys Tulla and Clare heritage to take part in any of the events throughout the weekend. www.irelandxo.com
• 28th August 2015
  The Ogonnelloe and East Clare Community Heritage Project
  Ogonnelloe Community Centre, 20:30 to 23:00
  All are welcome to help launch the community website and heritage engagement project with the people of Ogonnelloe, Scarriff, Tuamgraney, Killaloe and more. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Small Town Studio/Ogonnelloe Community Group info@smalltownstudio.ie & 087-9005044
• 28th August 2015
  Miltown Malbay’s Industrial Past
  Áras Oidhreacht an Chláir, Miltown Malbay, 20:00 to 22:30
  Memories of industrial life in Miltown Malbay, 1940-80: videotape of a recent public interview with former employees of two big local factories (now closed). Also an Irish music interlude. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Oidhreacht an Chláir eolas@oac.ie & 065-7085785
• 28th August 2015
  Visit the Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre
  Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre, 10:00 to 18:00
  DETAILS: Visit us for guided tours of our dolphin research and education centre, and learn about the valuable work we do on the Shannon Estuary bottlenose dolphin population! A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Foundation shannondolphins@gmail.com & 086-4057633
• 28th August 2015
  Peadar Clancy – 1916 Hero, Irish Martyr
  Teach Cheoil, Kilrush, 19:30 to 21:00
  Historian and author Cormac Ó Comhrai will give a free public lecture on Peadar Clancy from Cranny in West Clare who played a prominent role in the 1916 Rising & the War of Independence. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact OPW Scattery Island Visitor Centre scatteryisland@opw.ie & 087-9958427
• 28th August 2015
  Open Day – Goats and Cheese!
  St Tola Goat Farm, Gortbofarna, Inagh, 14:30 to 16:30
  Open Day at St Tola Goat Farm, comprising a tour of the animals, a talk on farming & the history of cheesemaking, a cheese demonstration & a full tasting of all our award winning cheeses. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact sales@st-tola.ie & 065-6836633 & www.st-tola.ie
• 27th August 2015
  Historic Buildings Gardens and Parks
  Lisdoonvarna Failte Tourist Office, 14:00 to 16:00
  Explore the locations and discover the history of the various natural mineral wells located in Lisdoonvarna. Tour concludes at the original iconic Victorian Spa Wells buildings. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact lisdoonfailte@eircom.net & 065-7075644
• 27th August 2015
  ‘Raising Heritage Awareness: Being an archaeologist for a day’
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  Want to be the next Indiana Jones? Why not attend a workshop on ‘Being an Archaeologist’ at 10 am or 2pm on Thursday, August 27th at Clare Museum. Admission is free, though places are limited. Book your place at claremuseum@clarecoco.ie or call John at 065-6823382
• 27th August 2015
  Heritage Picnic in the Cedar Garden
  Carrigoran Day & Education Centre, 14:30 to 15:30
  Picnic in the heritage walled garden under the Cedar of Lebanon tree – Event exploring this area of historical interest. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Valerie.vaughan@carrigoranhouse.ie & 061-368100
• 27th August 2015
  Visit the Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre
  Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre, 10:00 to 18:00
  Visit us for guided tours of our dolphin research and education centre, and learn about the valuable work we do on the Shannon Estuary bottlenose dolphin population! A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact shannondolphins@gmail.com & 086-4057633
• 27th August 2015
  Ennis at Work in the 19th Century
  Ennis Friary, 15:00 to 16:00
  Author Lucille Ellis will give a talk on the growth of Ennis during the 19th century from the position of certain occupations and of the families involved. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact ennisfriary@opw.ie & 065-6829100
• 27th August 2015
  The Industrial Archaeology of Ireland
  The Irish Traditional Music Institute, Beechlawn House, Newmarket on Fergus, 19:30 to 21:30
  Lecture on Ireland’s Industrial Archaeology by Dr. Colin Rynne of UCC, the leading authority on the subject. This lecture will give great insight into 18th and 19th century Ireland. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Obair - Newmarket on Fergus Ltd tracey.daly@obair.org & 061-368030
• 27th August 2015
  Trees in Towns and Villages in County Clare
  Kilfinaghty Public Library, Sixmilebridge, 18:30
  Trees play a vital role in enhancing Sense of Place in our many towns and villages in County Clare. Trees add to the urban landscape, biodiversity, amenity, public realm and streetscape, street roads, parks, graveyards and green spaces. Clare County Council wish to highlight and raise awareness of the amenity value of trees and hedgerows and show how trees contribute to street design. Nicholas de Jong Associates, Urban Design and Michael Garry, Arborist will present the findings of their work from 15 towns and villages in County Clare. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Congella McGuire, Heritage Officer, Clare County Council cmcguire@clarecoco.ie & 065-6846408
• 27th August 2015
  Conservation of Buildings and legal protection of monuments in our graveyards
  Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, 19:30
  Conservation of buildings and legal protection of monuments in our graveyards. A heritage evening with the County Clare Architectural Conservation Officer. There are 170 historic graveyards in County Clare, in addition to new graveyards, many of which are managed by local communities in association with Clare County Council and others. A Medieval Church and Graveyard Survey of County Clare was carried out in 2010 where all historic graveyards were surveyed, described with site drawings and information presented in a publicly accessible database. It is a very valuable and informative resource for Local Communities who wish to consider projects to conserve these buildings. Recently lack of training and community awareness has lead to poor practices in graveyard maintenance. This talk will provide information on best practice, existing guidelines, acceptable standards and legislative requirements in the Care, Conservation and Recording of Historic Graveyards. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Clara Hoyne, Clare Roots thehoynes@gmail.com & 087-4176475
• 26th August 2015
  Templemaley East Window Conservation
  Templemaley Church, Ballyallia, 19:00 to 20:00
  Find out about the history of this c. 12th century church and current conservation
  work of its east window funded by the Heritage Council. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Clare Archaeological and Historical Society Emgreene@eircom.net & 087-9165916
• 26th August 2015
  Researching Bottlenose Dolphins in the Shannon Estuary
  Vandeleur Walled Garden, Kilrush - Conference Room, 15:00 to 16:30
  Learn about the research regarding the Bottlenose Dolphins in the Shannon Estuary. The talk is held by the Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Foundation. A Heritage Week event. Entry is free and donations are welcome. Contact info@vandeleurwalledgarden.ie & 065-9051760
• 26th August 2015
  Heritage Picnic in the Cedar Garden
  Carrigoran Day & Education Centre, 14:30 to 15:30
  Picnic in the heritage walled garden under the Cedar of Lebanon tree – Event exploring this area of historical interest. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact valerie.vaughan@carrigoranhouse.ie & 061-368100 & www.carrigoranhouse.ie
• 26th August 2015
  Heritage Walk Clarecastle
  Church Carpark, Clarecastle, 19:00 to 20:30
  Dr Joe Power will lead a historical walk through Clarecastle taking in the Famine Memorial, on to the Pound and then on to Main Street, ending up at the Castle & Barracks, from there to the Quay. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Clarecastle & Ballyea Heritage & Wildlife Group cartock@gmail.com & 087-9791955
• 26th August 2015
  Pledged as a Rebel
  Kilkee Bay Hotel, 20:00 to 21:30
  This lecture is an exploration of County Clare’s Cumann na mBan’s role in the Irish War of Independence. It is presented by Dr Tomás McConmara, well-known historian of that period in Irish history. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Kilkee Civic Trust secretary@kilkeecivictrust.org & www.kilkeecivictrust.org
• 26th August 2015
  A Wandering of the Mal Bay
  West Clare Resource Centre, Ballard Road, Miltown Malbay, 11:00 to 15:30
  A heritage tour around the Mal bay including a tree planting ceremony, garden tours and talk, local musicians and lunch provided. Finishing with a guided bus tour of the Mal Bay. Visit will include: Oidhreacht an Chlair - traditional music centre, Tuama na Spainneach for the story of the Spanish Armada, Bealaclugga - the famous 'Bell Bridge', Star of the Sea Church in Quilty where the story of the sinking of the Leon with be told, Malrock, Seafield to view the proposed site of work on the San Marcos wreck. A Heritage Week event. Adult €5.00, Child €5.00. A Heritage Week event. Contact Old Kilfarboy Society cora.yellowcottage@gmail.com & 087-1354192
• 26th August 2015
  A Heritage Walk around Ennistymon Town
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, 19:00 to 21:00
  A stroll through the streets and lanes of the town of Ennistymon with local historian Colm Hayes while recalling its history in times past as the main market town and craft centre in North Clare. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact The Old Ennistymon Society & The North Clare Historical Society info@thecourthousegallery.com & 065-7071630
• 26th August 2015
  The War of Independence in Clare – A Sectarian Struggle?
  OPW Ennis Friary, 19:30 to 21:00
  Talk by historian and author Dr. Pádraig Óg Ó Ruairc on the War of Independence investigating whether the fight for freedom in County Clare was mired by anti-Protestant sectarianisim. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact ennisfriary@opw.ie & 065-6829100
• 26th August 2015
  A Walk with a Difference
  Kilnaboy School, 11:00 to 16:00
  A walk in the Burren for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility organised by Burrenbeo Trust in association with the Irish Wheelchair Association. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Burrenbeo Trust trust@burrenbeo.com & 091-638096 & www.burrenbeo.com
• 26th August 2015
  Bat Talk & Walk
  The Inn at Dromoland, 19:30 to 21:00
  A family friendly talk that tells the audience how a bat really lives, debunks myths about bats and covers all Irish species and others from around the world. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact Clare Association of An Taisce clare.antaisce@gmail.com & 086-3497946
• 26th August 2015
  Exploring Nature in Kilrush
  Kilrush Woodland Park Carpark, 18:00 to 20:00
  Ecologist Janice Fuller will lead a nature walk through Kilrush Woods (next to Vandeleur Garden) in Kilrush Town. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Kilrush Tidy Towns janicefuller@eircom.net & 086-7726790
• 26th August 2015
  Bat Talk and Walk
  Burren National Park Information Point, Corofin, 20:00 to 22:00
  Join us for an illustrated presentation about the bats of the Burren National Park followed by a bat walk along one of the National Park trails. Please bring a torch. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact National Parks and Wildlife Service burrennationalpark@ahg.gov.ie & 065-682 7693 & www.burrennationalpark@ahg.gov.ie
• 26th August 2015
  Railways and Agriculture in Munster
  St Fachnan’s Cathedral, Kilfenora, 20:00 to 21:30
  Paper will be presented by Edel Barry MPhil, based on her research into the Archaeology of Narrow Gauge Railways in Munster. A Heritage Week event. Free. Contact The Kilfenora Timeline kilfenoratimeline@gmail.com
• 25th August 2015
  Heritage Picnic in the Cedar Garden
  Carrigoran Day & Education Centre, 14:30 to 15:30
  Picnic in the heritage walled garden under the Cedar of Lebanon tree – Event exploring this area of historical interest. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact 061-368100 & www.carrigoranhouse.ie
• 25th August 2015
  Doonaha Fort Heritage and Military History Guided Tour
  Outside Doonaha Church /O’Curry GAA Field, Doonaha, Kilkee, 13:45 to 15:00
  Guided tour of Gun Battery at Doonaha Fort. Learn of the events leading up to the British defences fortifying the Irish Coastline when under threat by Napoleon. Tour the ordinance ground and moat. A Heritage Week event. Adult €5.00, Child €2.00. Contact Carmel Haugh haugh.carmel@gmail.com & 087-7800062
• 24th August - 19th September 2015
  Exhibition of Paintings by Una Heaton
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, Kilkee
  Renowned Limerick artist, Una Heaton will display a variety of her paintings at Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, Kilkee. Contact 00353 86 3735015
• 24th August 2015
  We’ll Meet Again
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  We'll Meet Again' presented by Crack'd Spoon Theatre group is a show of songs and memories from World War 1&2. Think Music Hall, War Marches, Flanagan and Allen, Dad's Army, together with poems and personal collections to take you on a journey down wartime memory lane. Show starts at 8pm and tickets are €10/€8.Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 24th August 2015
  Forgotten Placenames and Landmarks of Ennistymon
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, 20:00 to 22:00
  An Illustrated talk by Colm Hayes on the placename changes and the landmarks that have disappeared over the past 250 years around Ennistymon town. Free entry. An Old Ennistymon Society & The North Clare Historical Society talk. A Heritage Week event. Contact info@thecourthousegallery.com & 065-7071630 & www.thecourthousegallery.com
• 24th August 2015
  Interpretation of the Iconography on the Graveyards in Loop Head
  Kilballyowen Graveyard (Just outside Cross Village), 14:00 to 15:30
  Interpreting the iconography and carvings on the grave stones in Loop Head. Understanding and discussion of the different artists of the time and life styles of the families involved. Free entry. A Heritage Week event. Contact aroundtheloop1@gmail.com & 087-336 7022
• 23rd August 2015
  Guided Walk Ancient Raheen Oakwoods of Tuamgraney
  Tuamgraney
  Andrew St Ledger will take people on a journey through the ancient Raheen Oakwood, an extremely rare remnant of the ancient wildwood authentic landscape of Ireland. Meet at Tuamgraney Heritage Centre. All welcome, dogs must be on leads. Contact 00353 87 9933157 & www.celtnet.org
• 23rd August 2015
  Heritage Garden Day
  Irish Seed Savers, Scariff, 12pm to 4pm
  Join us for a relaxed day celebrating all that is good about Irelands Natural Food Heritage.
  Tours, Talks, Tastings, Stalls, Cookery Demos, Café, Pizza, Puppet Show, Craft Activities And More ... Free entry for Children & Supporters / €4 non-supporters. For more info please see www.irishseedsavers.ie. Tel 061 921866 / 921856 or email info@irishseedsavers.ie
• 23rd August 2015
  Organic Garden Tour
  Moy House, Lahinch, 11:00 to 17:00
  We grow organic vegetables beside Moy House just south of Lahinch. This is a chance to see the garden and walk through the woodland which with the help of the Heritage Council we are helping to conserve. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Moy Hill Community Garden coordinator@moyhillcommunitygarden.org & 087-130 1937
  & www.moyhillcommunitygarden.wordpress.com
• 23rd August 2015
  Tours of Mooghaun & Knockadoon Hillforts
  Mooghaun & Knockadoon Hillforts, Newmarket on Fergus and Shannon, 13:30 to 17:00 A tour of Mooghaun Hillfort, the focus of a Late Bronze Age Chieftain and nearby Knockaddon Hilltop Enclosure, a satellite settlement to Mooghaun. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Shannon Archaeological & Historical Society and Dúchas na Sionna occarey@eircom.net & 085-710 7581 or 086-820 6543
• 23rd August 2015
  Guided Tour of the 13th Century Franciscan Friary
  Ennis Friary, Abbey Street, Ennis, 12:00 to 12:45 and 15:00 to 15:45
  Guided tour of the 13th century Franciscan Friary, founded by the O’Briens. Come and see the numerous 15/18th century sculptures and the re-opened Chancel, lit by the magnificent east window. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact ennisfriary@opw.ie & 065-682 9100
• 22nd - 30th August 2015
  The Strategic Importance of the Mouth of the Shannon, Ancient and Modern.
  Dolphinwatch Centre, Carrigaholt
  A 2 hour trip to see and learn about 2,000 years of man built heritage at the Mouth of Ireland’s Greatest River as well as the resident dolphins and wildlife in this dynamic environment. Adult €30.00, Child €15.00. A Heritage Week event. Contact info@dolphinwatch.ie & tel 065-905 8156 & www.dolphinwatch.ie.
• 22nd - 30th August 2015
  Dry Stone Walling
  Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre
  Live Dry Stone Walling exhibits from a local master stonemason and guided tours where you can learn more about quarrying methods and traditions. Adults €6.00, Free for under 16’s accompanied by adults. A Heritage Week event. Contact Roisin.kelly@cliffsofmoher.ie & tel T: 065-708 6141.
• 22nd - 30th August 2015
  Free Daily Tours of Scattery Island
  OPW Scattery Island Visitor Centre
  Free guided walking tours exploring the rich, history, heritage and folklore of Scattery Island, including Saint Senan’s 1,500 year old monastery and the islands famous 36m / 120 foot tall round tower. A Heritage Week event. Contact scatteryisland@opw.ie & 065-905 1327 or 087-995 8427.
• 22nd - 30th August 2015
  Butterfly Hunt
  Vandeleur Walled Garden, Kilrush
  Find the hidden wooden butterflies in the garden. Get a little map to mark their position. The map is yours to keep and contains a lot of information about the butterflies. A Heritage Week event. Contact info@vandeleurwalledgarden.ie & 065-905 1760.
• 22nd - 25th August 2015
  “Monastic Europe: Landscape & Settlement” – international conference
  Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis
  As we reach mid-summer, the Monastic Ireland team are very much looking forward to our international conference, Monastic Europe: Landscape & Settlement this August in Ennis, Co. Clare. We have gathered together a wonderful collection of the best speakers from Ireland and international guests from as far afield as Wales, Norway, Romania, Scotland, Catalonia and America. A variety of themes will be covered, including: The topography of medieval monastic settlement (1100-1700), in both urban and rural environments; The impact of Church reforms on the physical structures and landscapes of the monastic Church; Monastic space (liturgical, social and architectural aspects); Patronage networks; Architecture and identities; and Written sources for understanding the monastic environment. The highlight of our conference will be the daily excursions to the wonderful heritage in the region, featuring entertaining and expertly guided tours of the monastery and round tower at Kilmacdaugh, Quin friary, the abbeys at Killone and Corcomroe and the historic town of Adare. This conference will appeal to anyone, scholar or enthusiast, with an interest in Irish history, art and architecture, the history of monasticism and European medieval history. Early bird tickets for the full conference and tours are €95, while there are options for single day attendance, conference attendance without the tours and our conference dinner in the Cloisters restaurant in Ennis. All details are available from our conference website www.monasticeurope.wordpress.com.
• 22nd August 2015
  Marathon/10k/5k Challenge
  Fanore
  The 6th Annual Fanore summer event will take place on a mixture of open tarmac road & green road with a course to suit everybody. Suitable for walking or running with spectacular scenery on the Wild Atlantic Way. Contact 00353 86 3272472 & www.fanore-info.com
• 22nd August 2015
  Tramming the Hay
  The field at Carrigoran House, 14:00 to 16:30
  Tramming the hay with Carrigoran residents. They love the memories it evokes and can chat about what they used to do. A Heritage Week event. Contact paula.mccarthy@carrigoranhouse.ie & 061-368 100 & www.info@carrigoranhouse.ie.
• 22nd August 2015
  Tours of the Merchant’s House
  The Merchant’s House, Market Square, Kilrush, 12:30 to 15:30
  The Merchant’s House, Market Square, Kilrush, County Clare is an early 19th century townhouse, restored as a heritage holiday home. It involves free tours of the house along with its place in local history. A Heritage Week event. Contact Paul Gleeson pg30kensington@gmail.com & 087-683 1587
• 22nd August 2015
  The Bend in the Rine
  Quin Abbey, 10:30 to 12:30
  A look at Quin history from the 13th century using the monuments and the landscape. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Joseph McCooey seosgm@gmail.com
• 22nd August 2015
  Loop Head Heritage Cycle
  Bridges of Ross Car Park, Loop Head, 11:00 to 13:00
  Family friendly bike ride beginning at the Bridges of Ross Car Park, Kilbaha, along coastal bog roads stopping at Kilbaha Gallery along the way. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact info@purecamping.ie & 086-381 9216
• 22nd August 2015
  Stonecarving Demonstration
  Ennis Friary, 14:30 to 16:00
  Mason Edwin Feeney will demonstrate the skills of stone-carving and masonry techniques used in the medieval period. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact ennisfriary@opw.ie & 065-682 9100
• 22nd August 2015
  Bio Blitz
  The Quay, Clarecastle, 15:00 to 17:00
  Participants use maps and species check sheets to survey how many species of plants, insects, birds and animals can be found at the quay in different habitats. Small prizes on completion. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact Clarecastle and Ballyea Heritage and Wildlife Group jeananneryan@hotmail.com & 086-835 5246 & www.clarecastlecommunity.ie
• 22nd August 2015
  Bio Blitz
  Burren National Park/Gortlecka Crossroads, 09:00 to 11:00
  A morning bird walk along the Crag road in the Burren National Park. We will be looking in the hedgerows and wetlands for warblers, sandpipers, egrets and more. Learn some common bird calls. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact National Parks and Wildlife Service burrennationalpark@ahg.gov.ie & 065-682 7693 & www.burrennationalpark.ie
• 22nd August 2015
  Masterclass and Concert with Rónán O’Snodaigh
  The Irish Traditional Music Institute Beechlawn House, Newmarket on Fergus, 15:00 to 23:00. Free Bodhrán Masterclass followed by concert (€10.00 admission) with Rónán Ó Snodaigh, one of Ireland’s most innovative bodhrán players and accomplished signer/songwriters. A Heritage Week event. Contact tracey.daly@obair.org & 061-368 030
• 22nd August 2015
  Uilleann Piping Recital by David Power
  An Teach Cheoil – Kilrush, 20:00 to 21:00
  David Power, one of the most highly acclaimed performers on the uilleann pipes, will talk about the history of the instrument and give a recital of traditional Irish tunes and airs on the pipes. Free. A Heritage Week event. Contact OPW Scattery Island Visitor Centre scatteryisland@opw.ie & 087-995 8427
• 22nd August 2015
  Visit to Tomeen Cave, Tulla
  Courthouse, Tulla, 14:00 to 16:00
  Unique visit and guided tour by landowner to the renowned Tomeen Caves partially roofed active river limestone cave. There are 10 spectacular caves in total, each separated by surface collapse. Adult : €10.00, Child: €5.00, Concession: €7.00. A Heritage Week event. Contact harrisonlaura@eircom.net & 086-866 2615
• 21st - 23rd August 2015
  Dan Furey Weekend of Set-Dancing
  Labasheeda
  Dan Furey Weekend 2015 provides a feast of setdancing to the best bands in the tranquil setting of Labasheeda. The bands this year are: Friday 21st August - Five Counties Céili Band, Saturday 22nd afternoon - Micheál Sexton, night - Abbey Céili Band and Sunday 23rd - Johnny Reidy Céili Band. Contact 00353 87 2220289 & www.danfurey.ie
• 21st - 23rd August 2015
  Doolin Craft Beer Festival
  Doolin
  The Doolin Irish Craft Beer Festival features Ireland’s best craft beers from micro-breweries
  around the country, great Irish artisan food, and cracking live bands. This year however, we’ll have more beers, more food and more music. Contact 00353 65 7074111 & www.irishcraftbeerfestival.com
• 20th August – 25th September 2015
  The Mc Mahon Archival Collection Exhibition – Clare County Archives
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  A collection of previously unseen archival material relating to families and landed estates in County Clare, dating from the early 1600s to the mid-1900s, is exhibited for the first time. This exhibition is on the ground floor of the museum.
• 16th August 2015
  Kilkee Bay Swim
  Kilkee
  Set yourself the challenge of swimming the bay in the beautiful Victorian town of Kilkee. If you don’t feel up to it, then watch from the many vantage points around the bay. Contact Loop Head Tourism - 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 15th August 2015
  Killaloe Colour Run
  Killaloe
  Fundraiser run in aid of GROW. Contact 00353 87 3905314 7 & www.grow.ie
• 15th August 2015
  Mary Coughlan in concert
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Mary Coughlan is an Irish jazz, blues and folk singer. She has received great critical acclaim for her emotional and heartfelt renditions. A lot has been written and a lot has been said, whispered, recounted, alleged, supposed and presumed. It’s all quite forgotten now and the songs remain the same, they remain a testament to Mary Coughlan’s seemingly timeless and endless talent. Her smoky, bluesy, boozy drawl has always been a seduction, no matter what the subject. The vocal marrying of sardonic wit, visceral rage, orgiastic between the sheets passion, the tenderest of sorrowful regrets- this is Mary’s talent. Regardless of the elements she chooses to manipulate with flawless ease, Mary’s voice has always been an unforeseen, sudden seduction. This is why she is so loved. Tickets €18/€16. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 14th August - 3rd September 2015
  Snapshots in Time - Ennistymon, Lahinch and Liscannor captured on camera
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  This photographic exhibition of over 80 images takes a nostalgic look at times past, recording the streetscapes and daily comings and goings of three North Clare areas - the market town of Ennistymon and the coastal villages of Lahinch and Liscannor - recalling many long forgotten businesses and crafts. The photographs date from the early to mid-years of the 20th century and capture a bygone age. More info...
• 14th August 2015
  Merchant Of Ennis
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Premiered in Autumn '13, this play is set in an old style local shop that sells everything from sunlight soap to a bicycle repair kit. This is no ordinary shop in no ordinary town. It is no accident that characters and tales seem familiar. Our shopkeeper has 3 daughters, 2 of which have a nasty streak. Another daughter is in love with the son of a rival shop keeper, NAMA are looking for their pound of flesh and lovely Scottish lady has difficulty with stubborn stains. The stories that unfold will make your hair stand on end - just as well, our shop is well stocked with Brylcream! Our audience will be customers, traveling salesmen, other townsfolk all with a story to tell and a song to sing. We are developing an innovative set that unfolds to reveal an Aladdin's cave of produce. There are 2 shows 4pm and 6pm. Tickets €5, family ticket €18. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 13th - 16th August 2015
  Carrigaholt Family Festival
  Carrigaholt
  Events such as Sheaf Throwing, Tug a War and nail driving competition make for great viewing and family events such as the Car Treasure Hunt, the Water Fun Run and Sand Castle building competition mean there is something for the whole family. Contact 00353 65 9058102 & www.loophead.ie
• 12th - 16th August 2015
  Merriman Summer School
  Ennis
  The 2015 Merriman Summer School will consider ‘Love and Marriage’. The usual mix of experts, interest groups and commentators will participate, for an open and honest consideration of this important topic, which was very much the hot topic in Brian Merriman’s own poem of 1780. Contact 00353 86 3820671 & www.merriman.ie
• 11th August 2015
  Symphony, by Paul Moroney - presented by The Full Moon Theatre Co.
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  The Full Moon Theatre Co. presents, SYMPHONY - acaustic exposé of the culture of greed by Paul Moroney - directed by Rob Hopkins. A double first! Newly formed Full Moon Theatre's first production and Clare Co Council's snr environment engineer, Paul Moroney's first play. Straight from premiering at the Galway Fringe, the play is a comic tragedy illuminating the collapse of the banking system through the delusional antics of a pool of increasingly crazed, back stabbing sharks who masquerade as pillars of their local community. Punctuated by a Brechtian chorus, the production builds to a harrowing finale as the precipice nears and a phantasmagorical get-rich-quick reality game reaches it's all consuming climax.Tickets €15 / €7.50 concession, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 10th - 14th August 2015
  Traditional Irish Music Workshops
  Boghill Centre, Kilfenora
  Our workshops are friendly and relaxed and open to people who play a traditional instrument. Melodic and accompanying instruments are both catered for as well as all levels and abilities – assuming musicians have a basic understanding of their instrument.
• 10th August 2015
  We’ll Meet Again
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  We'll Meet Again' presented by Crack'd Spoon Theatre group is a show of songs and memories from World War 1&2. Think Music Hall, War Marches, Flanagan and Allen, Dad's Army, together with poems and personal collections to take you on a journey down wartime memory lane. Show starts at 8pm and tickets are €10/€8.Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 9th August 2015
  Kilkee Diving Board Competition
  Kilkee
  Not quite the Red Bull high diving competition, but none the less an annual spectacle in Kilkee. Locals have dived from the rocks in the west end of the town for many years and this is the opportunity to witness their skills. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 8th August 2015
  Jack L in concert
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilke
  In this show, Jack will be giving a potted history of his incredible career to date and will be performing songs from his album The Great Wall of China and his smash hit show “The 27Club” . The 27 Club is the name bestowed upon a remarkable group of artists who passed away at the age of 27.They are all interpreted by the Irish multi-platinum Jack, in his own spellbinding and legendry performance abilitity. Tickets €20. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 6th - 11th August 2015
  Feakle International Traditional Music Festival
  Feakle
  6 days of Music, Song and Dance with concerts, ceilis, workshops, singing and music sessions, recitals, poetry readings, children’s storytelling, nature walks and cultural talks. Contact 00353 61 924322 / 00353 87 9678020 & www.feaklefestival.ie
• 6th August 2015
  Inis Cathaigh Seisiún at Teach Ceoil Kilrush
  Kilrush
  Enjoy an hour long stage show showcasing the best of young local traditional music, song and dance followed by an informal session of music, song, dance and stories. Audience participation is welcomed. Admission €5. Contact 00353 87 2663718 & www.kilrushcce.com
• 6th August 2015
  Best of 6 Art Exhibition
  Kenny's Art Gallery Lahinch
  An exhibition of works by Peg Quinlan, John Dinan, Brigitte McGovern, Pat O'Dwyer, Geraldine O'Mahoney and Manus Walsh. Barbara Mc Evoy will officially open the exhibition at 6.30pm. For more info contact 065 708 140 & info@lahinchartgallery.com
• 5th - 16th August 2015
  Kilmurry Harvest Festival
  Kilmurry
  Kilmurry Harvest Festival is a 12 day action packed event with a wide variety of attractions for all the family including a field day with loads of events for all ages. Contact 00353 87 2525453 & www.kilmurry.com
• 3rd August 2015
  Doonbeg Currach Regatta
  Doonbeg
  Races will consist of 3 Hand, Fear & Bean, U18, Naomhóg and Parish. Bouncing castle and
  refreshments will be provided on site. Contact 00353 87 6188701 & www.doonbeginfo.com
• 3rd August 2015
  We’ll Meet Again
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  We'll Meet Again' presented by Crack'd Spoon Theatre group is a show of songs and memories from World War 1&2. Think Music Hall, War Marches, Flanagan and Allen, Dad's Army, together with poems and personal collections to take you on a journey down wartime memory lane. Show starts at 8pm and tickets are €10/€8.Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 2nd - 3rd August 2015
  Lughnasa Festival
  Craggaunowen , Quin
  The annual Lughnasa Festival at Craggaunowen will feature costumed re-enactors from the
  Bronze Age to Medieval times. Watch combat demonstrations, ancient cooking demonstrations and much more! Contact 00353 61 360788 & www.shannonheritage.com
• 2nd August 2015
  Guided Walk through Ancient Raheen Oakwoods of Tuamgraney
  Tuamgraney
  Andrew St Ledger will take people on a journey through the ancient Raheen Oakwood, an extremely rare remnant of the ancient wildwood authentic landscape of Ireland. Meet at Tuamgraney Heritage Centre. All welcome, dogs must be on leads. Contact 00353 87 9933157 & www.celtnet.org
• 2nd August 2015
  Lúnasa Art & Craft Fair
  Kilrush
  Celebrate Summer with us and join us for our Lúnasa Art & Craft Fair and Plant Sale at the
  Vandeleur Walled Garden. We offer 20% discount on all plants and the head gardener will be on hand to provide information and answer any questions. Contact 00353 65 9051760 & www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 1st - 7th August 2015
  Rose of Clare Festival
  Cooraclare & Cree
  The Festival is designed to cater for all age groups and is a “Fun” week. While there are many social and sporting events through the week, the highlight of the Festival is the selection of the “Rose of Clare”. Tel 086 2876402
• 1st August 2015
  Brian Kennedy
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  One of Ireland's most well known, well loved and well respected singers Brian Kennedy returns to Kilkee for an intimate gig in our beautiful surroundings. One not to be missed. Tickets are €18. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• Every Monday August 2015
  Deesigner Balloons Twisting Workshop
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  At Deesigner Balloons Twisting Workshop you make your own balloon creations. Have fun creating colourful balloon dogs, swords, octopus, flowers, bees and more. Watch everyone's face light up as they leave with their balloon creations and a certificate of accomplishment. Workshop at 2pm, and at 3.30pm. Duration of workshop 1hour. Advanced booking required. Balloons contain latex. Tickets €8 first child and €6 per child thereafter. Advanced booking required. Tickets available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769.
  

July 2015

• 31st July - 3rd August 2015
  Kilmihil Festival of Fun
  Kilmihil
  Four action packed days of events for fun loving people of all ages, the highlight being the National Pig Racing Finals. Tel 086 3633998
• 31st July - 2nd August 2015
  Scariff Harbour Festival
  Scariff
  Scariff Harbour Festival is a multi-disciplinary street festival combining music, entertainment, arts, children’s activities and outdoor pursuits, celebrating Lough Derg and the East Clare countryside. More info 00353 87 2308974 & www.scariff.ie
• 31st July 2015
  Hat’s Off to Clare
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  This one man show performed by Gerard Howard and written and directed by Paul Brennan is based on a hilarious and surreal romp through time with some of Clare’s most famous characters – real and fictional – and how they might have interacted had they ever met. Pile them all into the West Clare Railway and see where they end up! What will Mr de Valera make of Percy French? And how will the famous clown Johnny Patterson and submarine inventor John Phillip Holland get on? Tickets €12 / €10 concession, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 30th July 2015
  Symphony
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  The Full Moon Theatre Co. presents, SYMPHONY - a caustic exposé of the culture of greed by Paul Moroney - directed by Rob Hopkins. A double first! Newly formed Full Moon Theatre's first production and Clare Co Council's snr environment engineer, Paul Moroney's first play. Straight from premiering at the Galway Fringe, the play is a comic tragedy illuminating the collapse of the banking system through the delusional antics of a pool of increasingly crazed, back stabbing sharks who masquerade as pillars of their local community. Punctuated by a Brechtian chorus, the production builds to a harrowing finale as the precipice nears and a phantasmagorical get-rich-quick reality game reaches it's all consuming climax.Tickets €15 / €7.50 concession, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 26th July - 3rd August 2015
  Kildysart Cultural Festival
  Kildysart
  Kildysart Cultural Festival includes events such as the Honda 50/70/90 and Big Bike Run, the Cultural Parade of Floats, Kids Fancy Dress and 5k Road Race to the smaller but equally enjoyable events. More info 00353 87 7463070
• 28th - 30th July 2015
  The Burren Wild Child summer camp
  Carron
  Wild Child Summer Camp is back! What better place to be during the summer than in the outdoors out in the Burren. The Burren Wild Child summer camp, 28th – 30th July, will be a fun and interactive 3 days for children where they will learn to explore the natural, cultural and built heritage of the Burren’s hedgerows and limestone pavements through games, scavenger hunts, treasure hunts, fossil finding, & much more. The aim of this event is to get children enthused by the Burren, the magic it holds and to foster a sense of pride and responsibility in this incredible landscape. The event is run by Burrenbeo Trust, a local landscape charity that focuses on raising awareness of this fantastic landscape, and is running from the 28th-30th July out of the Carron Field station between 10am-2pm each day. It is for 6-12 year olds (1st-6th class only). The price is €30 per child/ €50 for 2 children/ €65 for 3 children. If you are a Burrenbeo Trust family member it is €20 per child /€40 for 2 children/ €55 for 3 children. This includes all the necessary materials. Each child has to come with a snack, a packed lunch, a drink and waterproofs. Children will be supervised on a maximum 10:1 ratio by Burrenbeo Trust staff. Spaces are limited so booking is essential, please phone 091 638096 or email trust@burrenbeo.com.
• 28th July 2015
  Caherconnell Fort, County Clare - from Early Medieval royalty to Gaelic nobility
  A talk by Dr Michelle Comber
  St Patrick's Hall, Corofin at 7pm
• 26th - 30th July 2015
  Traditional Irish Music Workshops
  Boghill Centre, Kilfenora
  Our workshops are friendly and relaxed and open to people who play a traditional instrument. Melodic and accompanying instruments are both catered for as well as all levels and abilities – assuming musicians have a basic understanding of their instrument. More info 00353 65 7074644 & www.boghill.com
• 26th - 30th July 2015
  Eco Experiences
  Boghill Centre, Kilfenora
  Sustainable building techniques, Wild Life Surveying, Organic Gardening, Ceramics, Flax Weaving, Foraging Walk and Basket Weaving are just some of the activities on offer at the Boghill Centre. More info 00353 65 7074644 & www.boghill.com
• 26th - 30th July 2015
  Ceramics Workshops
  Boghill Centre, Kilfenora
  Ceramics workshops for all levels of experience and ability. They are intended to give absolute beginners and improvers the skills to create something magical, functional, obscure, weird, and practical or anything you fancy! More info 00353 65 7074644 & www.boghill.com
• 26th July 2015
  Scattery Island Outing with the Old Kilfarboy Society
  Scattery Island will be the destination for an Old Kilfarboy Society outing on Sunday, 26 July. As well as a tour of the monastic sites, participants will get a guided tour of the battery and a walk around the island coastline. The Scattery battery is in an excellent state of preservation and is one of seven fortifications built on the Shannon Estuary between 1793 and 1815 because of the fear of a French invasion. Meet at Kilrush Creek Marina at 9.30 am for a 10.00 crossing (weather dependent). We will be on the island for about three hours, so suitable clothing and footwear is recommended as well as lunch/snack food. Price: €12 for boat (children €7) + €5 insurance. Contact Maura at 187-1264527.
• 26th July 2015
  South East Clare Agricultural Show
  Bridgetown
  The South East Clare Show will have something for everyone, including a comprehensive programme of children’s entertainment including bouncy castles, mobile pet farm, archery, ceramic making and many dog showing classes. More info 00353 86 8372177 & www.southeastclareshow.com
• 25th July 2015
  I-TRI Ennis
  Ennis
  This is a sprint distance triathlon Ireland sanctioned event based around Ballyalla Lake, The Auburn Lodge Hotel and surrounding areas. It will be a family friendly event with lots of entertainment for young and old. More info itri@ennistriclub.com & www.ennistriclub.com
• 24th July 2015
  The 4 of US
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  THE 4 of US bring their critically acclaimed acoustic show to Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee, showcasing songs from thier brand new album, as well as songs from their extensive back catalogue. From their first anthem MARY – still a radio favourite, through to the UK charting SHE HITS ME, to SUNLIGHT – the band has notched up over two decades of radio hits and six top 20 charting albums. Tickets €15, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 22nd - 26th July 2015
  Kilrush Traditional Music& Set Dancing Festival
  Kilrush
  Enjoy open air Ceili’s in Kilrush Square on Friday, Saturday & Sunday, music sessions, Sean Nós & Set Dancing Workshops, musical boat trip to Scattery Island, Concertina Competition and Sean Nós Dancing competitions throughout the weekend. More info 00353 87 2663718 & www.kilrushcce.com
• 22nd July 2015
  Poulnabrone: the earliest megalith in Ireland? - a lecture by Dr Ann Lynch
  St Patrick’s Hall, Corofin
• 20th - 24th July 2015
  Music Generation Clare & Clare Memory Orchestra Summer School
  Ballyvaughan National School
  Music Generation Clare (MGCE) is partnering with Dave Flynn & the Clare Memory Orchestra (CMO) to deliver a week-long summer school for 12-17 year old students of violin, fiddle, flute, whistle, oboe, drums, percussion, bodhrán & guitar in Ballyvaughan National School, between July 20th & 24th culminating in a magical performance in St. John the Baptist Church, Ballyvaughan on July 24th at 7:30pm featuring artist in association Martin Hayes. String participants of the summer school will have an option to perform with the full CMO in glór, Ennis, on July 25th. This summer school is organised in partnership with Dave Flynn and the CMO who have in turn organised and developed the inaugural Burren Festival of Music & Culture. This festival is kindly supported by The Arts Council to encompass instrumental classes for adults, traditional, classical and jazz concerts, nightly seisiúin, and cultural activities in The Burren. Further information can be found on http://www.clarememoryorchestra.com/summer-school.html
• 19th July 2015
  Andy Irvine in Concert
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Andy Irvine has enjoyed a long and successful career as a traditional Irish musician. He has travelled the world as a solo artist and as a member of legendary Irish groups such as Planxty and Patrick Street and more recently Mozaik. Throughout his extensive career he has maintained and developed the qualities in his music, which endear him to his audience and fellow musicians alike. Tickets cost €18 /€16 concession. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 18th July 2015
  Flann’s Yer Only Man
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Flann's Yer Only Man is an entertainment by Val O' Donnell based on the life and work of Flann O’Brien, aka Myles na Gopaleen, aka Brian O’Nolan (1911-1966), who is widely regarded as Ireland’s finest satirist since Jonathan Swift. O’Donnell re-enacts a wide range of extracts from the humorist’s novels and his celebrated Irish Time columns, which are linked with key biographical events in the writer’s life. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €12 / €10 and are available from the Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór on 065 6843103, or online at www.glor.ie
• 18th July 2015
  Feile Latino
  Ennistymon
  Now in its fourth year, a weekend of events mixing Irish and South American Culture culminating in a showcase concert on Saturday night. More info 00353 85 1054858 & www.lospaddysdelaspampas.com
• 17th July - 6th August 2015
  So don't rely on the starry skies’ - A multi-disciplinary exhibition by Audrey O’Brien and Willie Redmond
  Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery
  Audrey O’Brien presents a new installation and a participatory artwork. Willie Redmond presents paintings on round format canvasses.
• 17th July - 6th August 2015
  ‘Segullah - Treasured Possession’ – an exhibition by Ann Vaughan
  Ennistymon Courthouse Gallery
  Ann Vaughan is a native of Liscannor, County Clare, and a graduate of CCAM Galway.
  She works from her Open Studio by the shore in Clahane, Liscannor. The Mixed Media work in this exhibition is concerned with thoughts of where we belong and who we belong to. “I collect treasure. I seek it out, I dig, I excavate. Of course what I consider treasure might not be of any value to you. Mine comes from the shores around Liscannor Bay, the gems that the tides throw up all smooth and shaped by the battering of the waves, all unique.” Ann Vaughan.
• 17th - 19th July 2015
  Loop Head Gathering
  Cross
  Events include traditional music and dance each evening led by Emigrant Musicians from our area with a welcome for all musicians, football tournaments, tug of war, and much more. More info 00353 87 7744646 / 00353 65 9058238 & www.loophead.ie
• 16th July 2015
  Irish Chamber Orchestra, Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Kilkee Civic Trust bring The Irish Chamber Orchestra to Cultúrlann Sweeney. They will perform ‘The Four Seasons.. Twice’ which combines Vivaldi’s iconic Four Seasons with Astor Piazzolla’s Four Seasons of Buenos Aires. Vivaldi’s Seasons has long enjoyed immense popularity and never fails to enchant with its freshness and musical brilliance. Each season features three short movements, prefaced by a sonnet full of allusions ripe for sonic depiction. Enjoy these musical snapshots like you have never heard them before. In contrast, Piazzolla allows each season one movement, full of atmosphere. Summer contrasts the sassy, rhythmic tango with remnants of the Italian Baroque while a beautiful melancholic cello solo dominates Autumn. Katherine Hunka shines in Winter with cadenza-like displays of virtuosity. Vivaldi’s Summer interweaves seamlessly into Piazzolla’s intensely emotive Winter tango. Spring in Buenos Aires is filled with excitement as rhythmic electricity propels this work to a brilliant conclusion. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €20 and are available from the Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, Glór Box Office 065 6846267 or online at www.glor.ie
• 14th - 17th July 2015
  Children's summer Camp at Irish Seed Savers
  Capparoe, Scarriff
  Irish Seed Savers are now running a Summer Camp. Our camps are a combination of nature activities and arts & crafts. The emphasis is on fun with a strong ecological message and a fun week guaranteed. Activities include: Treasure hunt, gardening fun, pizza making in our cob oven, fire building, baking, cooking, foraging, drumming and singing, biscuit baking, nature walks, bug hunt, pond dipping, woodland fun, Japanese art, willow art, felt craft, outdoor games and so much more. To Book please Phone: +353 61 921866 or Email: info@irishseedsavers.ie
• 14th July 2015
  ‘Irish Bronze Age pottery with a focus on the material from wedge tombs’ – a lecture by Dr Eoin Grogan (NUIM).
  The 2015 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare. Brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. Lectures will be on at 7pm on Tuesday nights in the newly refurbished St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, County Clare. All lectures are open to the public €5/€3.50 concession. Concession entry is offered to students, unemployed and pensioners.
• 12th July 2015
  Kilkee Currach Racing
  Kilkee
  Kilkee hosts the next round of currach racing in the West.
  More info 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 10th July 2015
  Luan Parle, Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Meteor Award Winner Luan Parle plays Kilkee for the first time. Her songs regularly top the iTunes chart and she has performed with James Blunt and Elton John amongst others. She seamlessly blends various American genres and styles including country, blues, jazz and pop. November 2014 saw Luan release ‘Day Is Done’ written with Tupelo’s James Cramer . The song topped the iTunes chart for a number of weeks and received rave reviews. The song is taken from her forthcoming EP ‘Roll The Dice’ produced by Gavin Glass, mixed by Ingmar Kiang. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €16 /€14 and are available from the Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, Glór Box Office 065 6846267 or online at www.glor.ie
• 9th July 2015
  Burren walk for the Blind
  On Thursday 9th July 2015, Burrenbeo Trust, in association with the National Council for the Blind, are organising a Burren walk for people who are visually impaired. Building on the very successful ‘Walk with a Difference’ for wheelchair users, the walk for the blind will enable participants to experience the Burren in all its glory through the guidance of some of the Burren’s leading heritage experts. More info...
• 7th July 2015
  ‘Regional traditions and distant events in the 4th millennium BC – Parknabinnia (Killinaboy) and other atypical court tombs in north Munster’ – a lecture by Dr Carleton Jones (NUIG).
  The 2015 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare. Brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. Lectures will be on at 7pm on Tuesday nights in the newly refurbished St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, County Clare. All lectures are open to the public €5/€3.50 concession. Concession entry is offered to students, unemployed and pensioners.
• 5th July 2015
  ‘The seaweeds of a Burren shore’, a Burrenbeo Trust Walk with Gearoid Neylon
  Meet at Newquay (51M 121 254), at 1.30pm
  July’s walk will see us learning about the fruits of the Burren coast with Gearoid Neylon. Gearoid will look at some of the coastal seaweeds, including the edible seaweeds and sustainable harvesting. Sustainable harvesting techniques play a very important part in preserving our shorelines vital vegetation. Tea & scones are available after the walk in Mount Vernon House on the flaggy shore for a donation. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. The walk is open to everyone, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walk will not cover a large distance and is more focused on information sharing. Start point for the walk is marked here http://goo.gl/maps/G4xVo. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 5th July 2015
  Carrigaholt Currach Racing
  Carrigaholt
  Enjoy the competition of local currach crews battling out to become Carrigaholt champions.
  More info 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 5th July 2015
  Summer Craft Fair & Plant Sale at Vandeleur Walled Garden
  Kilrush
  Celebrate Summer with us and join us for our Summer Art & Craft Fair and Plant Sale at the
  Vandeleur Walled Garden. We offer 10% discount on all plants and the head gardener will be on hand to provide information and answer any questions. Handcrafted garden accessories will also be available for sale and orders can be taken. More info 00353 65 9051760 & www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 4th - 12th July 2015
  Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy
  Miltown Malbay
  Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy is a week long summer school of Irish traditional music, song
  and dance. The school provides tuition on many instruments, dance workshops, Irish and English language song traditions and historical and cultural background to the Irish music heritage. The tuition is complimented by lectures, recitals, concerts and céilithe. More info 00353 65 7084281 / 00353 86 8773747 & www.scoilsamhraidhwillieclancy.com
• 3rd - 5th July 2015
  Ennis Street Festival
  From the 3rd to the 5th of July, Ennis will become a hub for children and adults to explore their artistic side and experience many different events: children’s workshops, poetry, theatre, visual arts, comedy, arts exhibitions, street entertainment, music and dance, Art & Craft Market and the duck race; there is something for everyone to enjoy! All of this is brought to you by local, national and international artists. More info 00353 86 3096096 &
  www.ennisstreetfestival.com
• 3rd July 2015
  Summer Serenade, Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  "Summer Serenade" with Helen Houlihan Soprano, Owen Gilhooly Tenor, Anne Cullen Piano and Jane Hughes Cello. An evening of popular music and song. Based in Quin, Helen Houlihan has enjoyed a busy career in the singing world performing regularly in concert, recital, opera and oratorio and in venues such as the National Concert Hall, the John Field Room and the Fortune Theatre in London. She has performed at several of the leading Arts Festivals and has sung with Opera Ireland, Wexford Opera, Opera Theatre Company, Anna Livia Opera and in London at the Holland Park Festival. Helen has been a guest soloist with the RTE Concert Orchestra and on several live television shows. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €20 and are available from the Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, Glór Box Office 065 6846267 or online at www.glor.ie
• 1st - 5th July 2015
  Féile Brian Ború
  Killaloe/Ballina
  Féile Brian Ború is an annual festival held in the picturesque twin towns of Killaloe & Ballina. As it is the birthplace of Brain Ború, we like to commemorate Ireland’s Greatest High King in style! Experience a variety of excellent events. More info 00353 86 3586293 & www.feilebrianboru.com
• 1st July 2015
  Calendar Customs - a lecture by Dr Billy Mag Floinn (UL)
  Hotel Doolin, Doolin.
  Cuimhneamh an Chláir, the Clare Oral History & Folklore Group, is organising a public lecture on calendar customs by Billy Mag Floinn, folklorist & oral historian, on Wednesday 1st July in Hotel Doolin. The lecture starts at 7.30 pm. This is a free event and all are welcome. Contact Jackie on 0861760280 or email info@clarememories.ie for more information.
• Every Monday July 2015
  Deesigner Balloons Twisting Workshop
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  At Deesigner Balloons Twisting Workshop you make your own balloon creations. Have fun creating colourful balloon dogs, swords, octopus, flowers, bees and more. Watch everyone's face light up as they leave with their balloon creations and a certificate of accomplishment. Workshop at 2pm, and at 3.30pm. Duration of workshop 1hour. Advanced booking required. Balloons contain latex. Tickets €8 first child and €6 per child thereafter. Advanced booking required. Tickets available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769.
  

June 2015

• 29 June – 25 July, 2015
  Art Exhibition by Senan O’Brien
  Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee, Co. Clare.
  Senan O’Brien was born in 1964 in Dublin, the youngest son of Denis O’Brien the noted Dublin artist and sculptor and Lilian (nee Behan) from Kilrush Co. Clare. His bond with the nearby countryside and the people, who live there, simply going about their rural daily life, is a major part of his inspiration. Senan was introduced to Scattery Island shortly after his mother Lilian passed away. They were devoted to each other and she spent many hours in his studio just watching him paint. She would have been particularly proud of his paintings of Scattery Island, an island she knew very well. Senan could feel her spirit watching over and guiding him as he painted the series. Senan’s work is held in high regard and some of his commissions include A.I.B. Bank and Mary McAleese.
• 27th June 2015
  Clare 10K Charity Run
  Ennis
  The Clare 10k is a charity road race which takes place along a scenic route in Ennis. This event is organised by a voluntary committee in association with the Clare People newspaper. All proceeds go to Clare Haven Services which has been providing refuge, support and information to women and children who experience domestic abuse in our
  local community. Contact 00353 86 8525222 & www.Clare10K.com
• 26th June - 3rd July 2015
  Burren Tolkien Festival
  The Burren
  This unique gathering is a celebration of the eerie beauty of the Burren area, which is believed to have been a considerable influence on J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic novel ‘The Lord of the Rings’. Contact 00353 65 7072295 & www.burrentolkiensociety.ie
• 26th - 28th June 2015
  Féile Chnoc na Gaoithe, Traditional Music Festival
  Tulla
  A weekend packed with traditional Irish music, song, dance and Gaeilge, with céilithe, workshops, concerts, and recitals, singing sessions and music sessions in the pubs all weekend. Contact 00353 87 8350996 & www.cnocnagaoithe.com
• 26th - 28th June 2015
  INIS Fest
  Showgrounds, Ennis
  Inis Fest is the new music festival for all ages featuring Irish international and national acts including genres from folk to rock and beyond. The three-day event will be held in the musical town of Ennis. Contact 00353 86 8200045 & www.inisfest.com
• 26th - 28th June 2015
  Santosa Yoga Festival
  Purecamping Loop Head Peninsula
  Santosa Yoga Festival. 3-day festival of Yoga from dawn to dusk in the beautiful setting of Purecamping in the Loop Head Peninsula. Yoga from all traditions - Yoga for Children - Children’s activities - The Yoga Cafe - music and song and lots of laughs. Contact 00353 86 3819216 & www.purecamping.ie/events/santosa
• 23 June to 18 July, 2015
  Art Exhibition by Mary Foudy O’Halloran called Endurance
  in Clare County Museum, Ennis, Co. Clare County
  Endurance is an exhibition of new work by artist Mary Foudy O’Halloran in association with the Clare Arts Office and the Riches of Clare Museum. Endurance develops ideas set out in her 2014 exhibition Weighed (Ballina Arts Centre, 2014) which explored tensions between figures and the domestic environment that entraps them. This new body of work turns this theme outwards to the savage and unrestrained landscape of the Burren in her native county Clare. The series juxtaposes the endurance of the Burren with the transience of unremarkable lives around it. Bold shapes, often grotesque are then disregarded under layers of paint and rediscovered. This painting process has been developed over many years working in oils and mixed media. The Burren landscape has long provided inspiration for Foudy O’Halloran, best known for her paintings centred on themes of the unremembered, the unremarkable and the overlooked. Recent solo exhibitions include Belmullet (2010) Ballina, (2014) and group exhibitions such as Iontas (2007) and Ennistymon (2009).
• 23rd June 2015
  ‘Children of the Sun: wedge tombs stone circles and Bronze Age religion in south-west Ireland’ - a lecture by Professor William O’Brien (UCC).
  The 2015 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare. Brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. Lectures will be on at 7pm on Tuesday nights in the newly refurbished St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, County Clare. All lectures are open to the public €5/€3.50 concession. Concession entry is offered to students, unemployed and pensioners.
• 21st June 2015
  John & Maggie Carty Concert
  Rowan Tree Cafe Bar, Ennis
  Join us for some midsummer madness, Sunday, 21st June at 9.30pm. We're excited to have John Carty - one of the finest names in Irish traditional music play here this coming Sunday. John is undertaking a summer stroll tour of Ireland and will be joined by his daughter, Maggie and guitarist Shane McGowan. For further details and to reserve tickets call Siobhan Peoples on 087 968 6050 or Blackie O'Connell on 086 100 0388.
• 20th - 21st June 2015
  Summer Workshops Weekend at Irish Seed Savers
  Capparoe, Scarriff
  Willow Basketmaking to Bee Keeping, Food Foraging to Herbal Remedies and Creating an Orchard to Making the most of your Polytunnel, there really is something for everyone. Our courses always get positive feedback from participants and you will benefit from on hand expert tutors with years of experience in their field. The weekend format also offers you the opportunity to meet like-minded people and to spend some time in our gardens, orchards and woodlands in beautiful East Clare. To book your place today visit http://store.irishseedsavers.ie/Workshops_s/82.htm
• 20th June 2015
  Hell of the West Triathlon
  Kilkee
  Not for the faint hearted, come and see men and women challenge their endurance ability in one of the toughest events on the peninsula. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 20th June 2015
  An Post Tour de Burren
  Ballyvaughan
  Voted ‘Best Leisure Event’ 2014 by Cycling Ireland Members. The event includes four routes around scenic north Clare; a 10k family spin, a 60k, a 100k and a 160k. Contact 00353 65 6865434 & www.tourdeburren.com
• 19th - 23rd June 2015
  Spancilhill Fair 2015
  Spancilhill
  Enjoy free entry to the fair with entertainment including face painting and a multitude of other activities for all the family to enjoy. The Donkey Derby will take place on the eve of the fair. Contact 00353 65 6840555 & paddyhassett7@gmail.com & www.spancilhillfair.com
• 19th - 21st June 2015
  Doolin Heritage weekend
  Doolin
  A weekend of talks on the Archaeology of the Burren, Built Heritage and Conservation. Heritage walks and site visits, organised by Doolin Heritage. Contact seosamh33@eircom.net
• 19th - 21st June 2015
  Killaloe Chamber Music Festival
  Killaloe
  The Killaloe Chamber Music Festival brings International quality classical music to Killaloe.
  www.killaloemusic.com
• 16th June 2015
  ‘Here comes the sun: solar imagery and gold in Early Bronze Age Ireland’ - a lecture by Mary Cahill (NMI).
  The 2015 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare. Brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. Lectures will be on at 7pm on Tuesday nights in the newly refurbished St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, County Clare. All lectures are open to the public €5/€3.50 concession. Concession entry is offered to students, unemployed and pensioners.
• 15th June 2015
  1916 Commemoration Events - Community Consultation Meeting
  Clare Museum, Ennis, at 7.30pm
  2016 marks the centenary of one of Ireland’s most significant events, the 1916 Easter Rising. Plans to commemorate this event will include a wide and exciting range of community and cultural activities. To allow the public an opportunity to offer suggestions and to listen to the ideas of others, community meetings will take place in four locations in Clare. These commemorative proposals and ideas will then be brought forward to the 2016 committee. A member of the ‘Ireland 2016 Project’ team from the Dept. of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht will be available on the night in each venue. Clare County Museum will host one of these meetings on Monday, 15th June at 7.30pm. This is a great opportunity to ensure that 2016 is a truly memorable year so please come along and feel free to bring family and friends. The other meetings will be held in Shannon Library on Tuesday, 16th June, Kilrush Library on Wednesday, 17th June and Scariff Library on Thursday, 18th June, all at 7.30pm.
• 14th June 2015
  Kilbaha Currach Racing
  Kilbaha
  Currach racing and entertainment at the pier in Kilbaha. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 14th June 2015
  Fundraising Concert in aid of Irish Seed Savers & St. Cronan’s Refurbishment Fund
  St. Cronan’s Church Heritage Centre, Tuamgraney, at 7pm
  Two Local Choirs & a Harp Ensemble perform for you for One Summers Evening Only:
  Lough Derg Singers, Blue Sky Singers & Blossom Harp Ensemble. A Beautiful Collection of Songs and Styles from around the World, Voice & Spirit Galore! Tickets on the Door: Family Discounts available: €5 Adult, €2 Child. For more information contact: 0877830282 & www.facebook.com/events/460769054082830 &
  http://www.irishseedsavers.ie/blog/2015/uncategorized/fundraising-concert
• 13th June 2015
  BORUMAN Sprint Triathlon
  Killaloe & Ballina
  750m canal swim through the town, transitioning into a 23km fast, flat sprint cycle and finally a 5km run in Killaloe itself with an epic finish taking in the true heritage of the historic home of the last great High King. A great sprint event for the competitor preparing for Hell of The West (perfect time to test the legs, then taper) and the many other events to follow this summer. It’s also an ideal start for those new to triathlon. Relay places will be available. Contact 00353 87 7197282 & www.borutriclub.com/boruman
• 12th June - 9th July 2015
  ‘The Middle of Nowhere / The Centre of the Universe’, an exhibition of new colour lino-cuts by Mike O’Connor [with some photographs and collages]
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon.
  Mike O’Connor has been making prints in North Clare for over thirty years, mostly landscape images. This show is called ‘The Middle of Nowhere / The Centre of the Universe’. “It seemed to me that they are one and the same. The notion celebrates the growing excitement to be met in the everyday, in farmland, weather, roads – everything”, says Mike. Click here for more info...
• 12th June - 9th July 2015
  ‘See’ an exhibition of new works by Mary Fahy
  Red Couch Space, Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon.
  Mary Fahy's upcoming art exhibition 'See', comprises local scenes of Ennistymon.
  It opens upstairs at the Courthouse Gallery Red Couch Space on Friday 12th June at 8pm. The gallery opening hours are Tues - Sat from 12- 5 pm.
• 12th - 14th June 2015
  Doolin Folk Festival
  Doolin Folk Festival 2015 will present powerful music in an intimate setting and ensure that audiences and musicians can feel at one and just enjoy the communal spirit of such festivals. Contact 00353 65 7074111 & www.doolinfolkfestival.com
• 9th June 2015
  ‘Uisneach, Co. Westmeath: the prehistoric archaeology of the sacred centre of Ireland’ - a lecture by Dr Roseanne Schot.
  The 2015 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare. Brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. Lectures will be on at 7pm on Tuesday nights in the newly refurbished St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, County Clare. All lectures are open to the public €5/€3.50 concession. Concession entry is offered to students, unemployed and pensioners.
• 7th June 2015
  ‘Flowers of the Lowlands' a Burrenbeo Trust walk with Micheline Sheehy Skeffington
  2pm at Rinecaha (52 R 364 942)
  Join us for June’s Burrenbeo Trust walk led by Dr Micheline Sheehy Skeffinton, recently retired lecturer in Plant Ecology in the Botany Department, NUI Galway, where she taught for 34 years. The walk will focus on the array of plants and flowers which the Burren is famed for – with focus on the lowland and wetland species. The walk is over the farm of Michael Keane which runs up to the shores of Lough Muckanagh. Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. Start point for the walk is marked here http://goo.gl/maps/G4xVo. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 7th June 2015
  Killaloe Pink Ribbon Walk
  Killaloe/Ballina
  Come and join us in our 6th Killaloe Pink Ribbon Walk in aid of Action Breast Cancer and the Irish Cancer Society. This 10k walk will take you around the idyllic and picturesque town of Killaloe. Start and finish at the Lakeside Hotel. Contact 00353 85 1064808 & www.pinkribbonwalk.ie
• 7th June 2015
  Ruan Gymkhana
  Ruan
  SJI registered show, 3 arenas, all grades of ponies and horses welcome. Show jumping, lead rein competition plus family fun for everyone. Entries open at 9.00am. Starting 9.30am sharp, all arenas. Contact 00353 86 6087914
• 7th June 2015
  Taste the Loop
  Kilkee
  An opportunity to taste the products of Loop Head Food Circle. The afternoon is set in front of the bandstand in Kilkee, with live music and entertainment for the children. Contact 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 5th June 2015
  Freddie White
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Freddie White has long been synonymous with music of the highest quality. He has been part of the fabric of the live music scene in Ireland since the 1970’s and his live performances are nothing short of legendary. He was a founding member of ‘Scullion’ and 'The Fake' in the 1970's. Next came The Freddie White Band formed in 1978, which toured with Eric Clapton that year. His first album, Live on Tour, recorded while touring with Clannad, brought him national attention. His second album, Do You Do, was the biggest selling Mulligan Label album of 1981. Long Distance Runner was launched in 1985, and it featured original songs such as ‘Goodbye This Time’, ‘Down Without A Fight’, and the hit single ‘Frozen Heart'. Since then he has continued to produce some great albums. Freddie latest album ‘Better Days’ is a collection of 10 original songs. All but one written in the past year by Freddie and his wife Trish. The exception “Down Without a Fight” also written by Freddie, originally appeared on the now unavailable album “Long Distance Runner” 1985. Freddie White will be here in Cultúrlann Sweeney as part of his nationwide tour. Show starts at 8 pm and tickets cost €16 / €14. To book tickets ring the box office on 065 9060769 or Glór on 065 6843103 you may also book online at www.glor.ie
• 4th June 2015
  KilrushTraditional Horse Fair
  Kilrush Traditional Horse Fair takes place on Francis Street, Kilrush.
  Contact 00353 65 9051047
• 3rd - 20th June 2015
  Art Exhibition by Sinéad Slattery
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  Ennis Artist Sinéad Slattery will hold an exhibition of work entitled People and Places at the Clare Museum from the 3rd to the 20th June 2015. She is a member of the Clare Art Collective and has worked on a number of occasions as part of the group shows. Sinéad’s latest exhibition features portraits, streetscapes and landscapes. Sinéad’s paintings are made up of landscape scenes, which she creates using, glass paints, to make them more striking. “I love the nice strong colours. I got fed up with watercolours and oil paints so, in the last couple of years, I’ve started using glass paints, not on glass but on canvas,” she said. She will also feature a number of portraits in mixed media.
• 2nd June 2015
  ‘Seeking Darkness: the Bronze Age ritual use of caves in the Burren’ - a lecture by Dr Marion Dowd (IT Sligo).
  The 2015 Summer prehistoric archaeology lecture series, Corofin County Clare. Brought to you by ‘The Irish Fieldschool of Prehistoric Archaeology’ and the ‘Department of Archaeology, NUI Galway’. Lectures will be on at 7pm on Tuesday nights in the newly refurbished St Patrick’s Hall Corofin, County Clare. All lectures are open to the public €5/€3.50 concession. Concession entry is offered to students, unemployed and pensioners.
• 1st June 2015
  Summer Concert, Italian Style - The Lismorahaun Singers welcome Mikrokosmos from Coro Multietnico di Bologna, Italy
  8pm New Quay, County Clare
  Buy your ticket (10 euros) in advance at the Russell Gallery New Quay, Mooney petrol station Ballyvaughan, or Healing Harvest Kinvara.
  

May 2015

• 31st May 2015
  Guided Walk - Ancient Raheen Oakwoods of Tuamgraney
  Tuamgraney
  Andrew St Ledger will take people on a journey through the ancient Raheen Oakwood, an extremely rare remnant of the ancient wildwood authentic landscape of Ireland. Meet at Tuamgraney Heritage Centre. All welcome, dogs must be on leads. More info: 00353 87 9933157 & www.celtnet.org
• 31st May 2015
  Bríd O'Donohue's Music School, Miltown Malbay presents Ceol na nÓg
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  An evening of Traditional Irish Music, song and dance from the pupils of Ceol na nÓg Music School with performances also from Bríd and her family - Seán (flute), Eibhlís (uilleann pipes), Deirdre (harp), Liam (concertina) and Sinéad O'Brien (fiddle). €12.50/€10 Child
• 30th May 2015
  Charolais
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Charolais is a surreal comedy of love, longing and one woman's rivalry with a Charolais Heifer. The play is set on a farm, and has its heart firmly rooted in rural Ireland with many references to farming, cooking, the ICA, as well as a randy Charolais Heifer who speaks French! The production has been called ‘a John B Keane directed by David Lynch’. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets cost €15/€13. Bookings and more information available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769, through Glór Box Office on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 29th May - 1st June 2015
  Doonbeg International Jazz Festival
  Doonbeg
  A great weekend of performances throughout the whole weekend and an excellent line up of bands and performers. All performances are FREE. More info: 00353 65 9055345 & www.doonbegjazz.com
• 29th May - 1st June 2015
  Feile An tSamhraidh
  Ballyvaughan
  Feile An tSamhraidh is a community music weekend featuring variety show, BBQ, dance, street music, children’s entertainment and markets. There will be a gala music event with Irish profile act on Saturday. Great family fun guaranteed. More info: 00353 85 574 4792 & www.discoverballyvaughan.com
• 29th May - 1st June 2015
  The Burren Rocks!
  The Burren
  The Burren Rocks festival combines adventure with geology and the landscape! Get immersed in all that is the Burren - cycle it, hike it, climb it – explore it! More info: 00353 65 7072295 & www.burren.ie
• 28th May - 1st June 2015
  Tuamgraney Community Weekend
  Tuamgraney
  The weekend will feature music, dance, history, sport, water & fishing activities and will offer many opportunities for people of all ages to get involved. 00353 87 2937479
• 28th May 2015
  Rise Productions presents The Games People Play, with Aonghus Óg McAnally & Lorna Quinn
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Winner of Best New Play at the Irish Times Theatre Awards and the sell-out success of Dublin Fringe Festival, The Games People Play is a radical re-working of the Tír na nÓg myth. Niamh and Oisín were sold the dream – the house, the life, the kids. The mounting pressure of balancing family and career takes its toll, and one night a series of games starts to escalate, threatening to unravel their suburban paradise. ‘Riveting... both a timeless story about two people lost inside a marriage, and a very contemporary Irish horror story of debt, desire and emigration’. Irish Theatre Magazine. €16/€14 Conc.
• 27th May 2015
  Albert Lee and Hogan’s Heros
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Albert and the band play Country Rock as a broad term. Albert is double Grammy award winning musician, whose talents continue to be in demand. Albert fronts his own band, Hogan’s Heroes, formed by some of the best known and most respected Rock’n’Roll and Country musicians in Europe. Star names such as Willie Nelson, Eric Clapton, Don Everly, Gary Booker and Nancy Griffith, have all at one time or another jammed with the band to the sheer delight of both audience and band. Whenever and wherever they appear on stage, the pedigree of the whole group and their rare blend of talent guarantees a magical treat of timeless and powerful music. He is joined by Gerry Hogan, Peter Baron and Dona Oxford. €23
• 26th May 2015
  Sparks School of Dance Show
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  Sparks Dance School was created about 17 years ago by Lourdes O'Donoghue and is the longest running and most successful modern dance school in Clare. The show is great value and is always sure to be a great family night out. €11.50 Adult/€7 Child/€38 Family 5/€32 Family 4 (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• 25th May - 20th June 2015
  Exhibition of Paintings by Sinead Slattery
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  An exhibition of new works by local artist Sinead Slattery at County Museum. More info: sineadart@gmail.com
• 24th May 2015
  Éist Suas! Memories of Ennis - an Audio/Visual History of the Streets of Ennis from the Cuimhneamh an Chláir Archive
  Suas Coffee House (above Carraig Donn), O'Connell square, Ennis at 4pm.
• 24th May 2015
  Celebrate Bealtaine with Kate Purcell and Local Musicians
  Kildysart Community Hall 2 – 4pm
  A get-together with our older neighbours, friends and families.
  All welcome – free event.
• 24th May 2015
  Martin Fennel Memorial Tractor Rally
  Kilbaha
  Charity tractor rally to raise funds for Kilkee Marine rescue. More info: 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 24th May 2015
  Fleadh Nua Ennis: Maestro - the music of Bobby Casey
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  In 1969 and 1970, Séamus Mac Mathúna recorded the legendary West Clare fiddle player, Bobby Casey, in London. These invaluable recordings are part of the Comhaltas Archive. A CD of many of these recordings has been produced by the Cois na hAbhna Archive and will be launched at Fleadh Nua, when many musicians, including friends who played with Bobby, will perform and pay tribute to one of Clare's greatest musicians. €5
• 24th May 2015
  Seol Sionna Traditional Boating Festival
  Kilbaha
  Currach racing and boating at Querrin pier. More info: 00353 86 1549402 & www.loophead.ie
• 23rd May - 1st June 2015
  Mountshannon Arts Festival
  Mountshannon
  This promises to be a fantastic week in the beautiful lakeside village of Mountshannon, with
  arts events, multi-media installations, exhibitions and entertainment for all ages and interests. More info: 0353 87 2380555 & www.iniscealtra-artsfestival.org
• 23rd May 2015
  Clare Burren Marathon Challenge
  Ballyvaughan and Fanore
  Clare Burren Marathon Challenge is a road, green road and trail challenge across the beautiful scenic Burren. Enjoy some of Europe’s most unique landscapes while walking or running along The Wild Atlantic Way. More info: 00353 87 7779714 & www.clareburrenmarathonchallenge.com
• 23rd May 2015
  Fleadh Nua Ennis: Seán Ó Sé and the Turloughmore Céilí Band, with many guests
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Fleadh Nua will honour the legendary singer Seán Ó Sé on this special night. Seán, a native of Bantry, Co. Cork, has an instantly recognisable voice and his performance of An Poc ar Buille in the early 1960's established his reputation as a well-known singer. Seán performed with Seán Ó Riada and Ceoltóirí Chualann until Ó Riada's untimely death in 1971. Over the years he has toured and recorded extensively, including a recording with the Turloughmore Céilí Band. €15
• 22nd - 24th May 2015
  Burren Slow Food Festival
  Lisdoonvarna
  Burren Slow Food Festival showcases the very best of Burren local artisan producers, members of the Burren Food Trail, Burren Geopark in a Farmers Market, through talks and cookery demonstrations by local and national Celebrity Chefs. More info: 00353 65 7074432 & 00353 87 8224173 & www.slowfoodclare.com
• 22nd May 2015
  Afternoon Variety Show
  Kilrush Community Centre 3 – 6pm
  A talent show of sorts, with a mixture of mature age performers showcasing their talents.
  Free event & all welcome.
• 22nd May 2015
  Fleadh Nua Ennis: Pipers Union in concert, with Caitlín Nic Gabhann and Ciarán Ó Maonaigh
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Pipers Union, comprising David Power, Ciarán Somers and their old friend Dónal Clancy, is a tight-knit trio, incorporating traditional and contemporary styles to deliver rousing ballads, soft love songs, lively dance tunes and haunting airs. Award-winning musicians in their own right, Caitlín Nic Gabhann & Ciarán Ó Maonaigh are quickly becoming one of the foremost duets in Ireland today. Their music & dance is rooted in the tradition; full of spirit, soul and life. Together on fiddle, concertina and dance, they breathe fire into traditional tunes - not to be missed! €15
• 21st May 2015
  Broadway Dance Recital presents Shoot for the Stars
  Glór, Ennis, 7pm
  This show brings together our three dance schools from Doolin, Miltown Malbay & Kinvara, Co. Galway. We will showcase all styles of dance, from jazz, tap, ballet, hip-hop, musical theatre and contemporary. €12/€10 Child/ €35 Family (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• 20th & 27th May 2015
  ‘Ballroom Of Romance’ Events
  St. Joseph’s Hospital, Ennis
• 19th - 20th May 2015
  Dinan School of Ballet presents Hansel and Gretel
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  A delightful show for all the family, loosely based on the traditional fairy tale. With a great mix of dance styles, an eclectic musical score, creative choreography and a cast of talented dancers, this promises to be a very entertaining and enjoyable show. €15/€10 (16 years and under)
• 18th – 22nd May & 27th May 2015
  Riches Of Clare
  County Museum, Ennis 1 – 2pm
  A series of lunchtime concerts featuring traditional music from Co. Clare and beyond.
  Free event. More info: www.clarelibrary.ie/eolas/claremuseum
• 17th - 25th May 2015
  Fleadh Nua
  Ennis
  Fleadh Nua is an 8 day festival with more than 120 separate events, where there is a welcome for everyone. More info: 00353 65 6824276 / 00353 86 8260300 & www.fleadhnua.com
• 16th - 17th May 2015
  High Nelly Bike Festival
  Bunratty
  Enjoy a weekend of high jinks with High Nelly bikes, workshops, costumes, music and much more. More info: 00353 61 369766 & www.durtynellys.ie
• 16th May 2015
  Summer Blooms - a day's walk over the finest Burren pastures
  A very special, all day addition to Burren in Bloom’s programme for 2015, ‘Summer Blooms - a day's walk over the finest Burren pastures’ takes place on May 16th. Led by local land owners, Burrenbeo Trust and heritage experts, you will spend the day walking in beautiful surroundings and along the way hear the stories of the past, present and future of the Burren and its heritage. The walk will take you over a lesser known Green Road, ideal for spotting some of the Burren rarities that will be in bloom, and along the way you will meet archaeologist Michael Lynch on his farm. Lunch is included at Dalys farm, an authentic mixed Burren farm. Refreshed, the walk will continue to the imposing stone fort at Cahercommaun before continuing over rougher terrain to the Seven Streams that rise from the sacred mountain of Slieve na Glaisé and back to the Jeuken Family farm, which includes a herd of traditional shorthorn cattle, a holy well, ringfort and a goat herd. The Jeuken goats will provide part of the afternoon tea treats that can be enjoyed at that stage. The walk, which includes a light lunch and afternoon tea of locally baked and produced goodies, costs €25. The walk takes place on Saturday the 16th of May and will start at 10am and finish at approximately 4pm, the terrain is rough and uneven in places so a good level of fitness and suitable clothing and footwear are required. The proceeds help ensure the Burrenbeo Trust can continue their work for a sustainable future for the Burren. Booking in advance to 091 638096 or trust@burrenbeo.com. More information on the other walks and events taking place during Burren in Bloom on www.burreninbloom.com.
• 16th May 2015
  Pat Shortt: Selfie
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  The irrepressible Pat Shortt is back on a nationwide tour with stories and gimmicks that only Pat Shortt could come up with. Selfie tells the tales of a singing undertaker Mossey Burke, along with a host of new characters as he recounts his favourite funeral tales. While his unique, comedic but somewhat universal look at everyday Irish life has cemented his place in the public hearts, along with that his work on stage and screen over the last decade have proved him to be an enduring, versatile and award winning talent. €28
• 16th May 2015
  National Drawing Day: The Big Draw with Hazel Walker
  Glór, Ennis
  Children Ages 10-12 11am - 12.30pm
  Adults: 1.30 – 3pm
  As part of National Drawing Day, glór presents a drawing workshop exploring ways of drawing, using a range of materials and methods, and illustrating how drawing can be a daily discovery for everyone! €10 including materials. http://www.glor.ie/events#e774
• 15th - 17th May 2015
  Caitin MacNamara/Dylan Thomas Weekend
  Ennistymon and Doolin
  See http://thecourthousegallery.com/the-inaugural-caitlin-macnamara-dylan-thomas-weekend-in-ennistymon-doolin-15-17-may-2015/ for details
• 15th - 17th May 2015
  Doolin Harley Festival
  Doolin
  Doolin Harley festival will feature a custom Harley bike show, bike graphics, tattoo artists, stalls, fireworks display, pub sessions, live bands and a Burren ride out on Sunday. More info: 00353 65 7074111
• 14th May 2015
  The Man in the Woman’s Shoes: written and performed by Mikel Murfi and presented by Loco and Reckless Productions
  Glór, Ennis
  It’s October 1978. Pope John Paul the First is not long dead, autumn is closing in and Pat Farnon has ‘some business’ to do in town. The story follows Pat Farnon as he walks the 5 miles from his wee white cottage to town and back again and the marvels that he meets along the way. It’s a charming encounter - an ageing man still with a boundless enthusiasm for life. Shortlisted for the Irish Times theatre Awards 2013. Shortlisted for the 2013 Stewart Parker Trust Award. Winner of the Stewart Parker/ BBC Northern Ireland Radio Drama Award 2013.
  2pm €10/€8 Students/(Teachers free). 8pm €16/14 Conc.
• 12th May 2015
  The Clare Older Person of the Year, Presentation and Tea Dance
  Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, 2pm – 6pm
  Presenter: Ger Loughnane, Music: Larry McEvoy.
  Tickets €5 available at the door.
  Bookings: Tel 087 2909995, email Clareopf@gmail.com
• 11 - 17th of May 2015
  Clare Wellness Festival 2015
  Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, County Clare
  with activities including workshops on Mindfulness, Yoga, Homeopathy and Chakra Dancing, and outdoor guided tours of the Burren, trips to Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and foraging walks along the Wild Atlantic Way. Full details at http://www.fallshotel.ie/clare-wellness-festival.htm.
• 11th - 12th May 2015
  Ennis Academy for the Performing Arts presents Working with Beauty and the Beast
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  This much-loved story, packed with great songs, magical characters and lavish dance routines, has won the hearts of millions, both young and old, throughout the world. The Ennis Academy for the Performing Arts are putting their magical touch to this all-time favourite and guarantees a great night’s entertainment for children of all ages. Many wonderful excerpts from other hit shows will also be included in the evening. This is a great opportunity to bring the kids along to experience the magic of real live theatre. €13/€11 Conc.
• 10th May 2015
  Old Kilfarboy Society goes to the Burren with Christine Grant
  Sunday, 10 May, the Old Kilfarboy Society will travel to North Clare to visit a number of archaeological sites in the Burren including Poulnabrone. Christine Grant, archaeologist with the National Monuments Service, will be the guide for the afternoon. The expected duration is approximately three hours. Meet in the Church Car Park, Miltown Malbay at 1.00pm for carpooling or at Poulnabrone Car Park at 2.00pm. Cost is €5 per person. Contact Maura at 087-1264527.
• 9th May 2015
  Darkness into Light
  Ennis
  Darkness into Light is a symbolic run/walk starting in darkness at the Ennis Courthouse and ending as the dawn is rising symbolising hope. The event starts at 4.15am (Friday night/Saturday morning). This is a flagship fundraising event for Pieta House which is a centre for the prevention of suicide and self harm. More info: 00353 87 2430700 & dil.pieta.ie
• 9th May 2015
  Super Soul Saturday with Ennis Gospel Choir
  The Queen’s Hotel, Ennis 11am – 12.30pm
  Attend a gospel singing workshop followed by gospel concert as part of the Gospel Rising Festival.
  Free event. Booking required – phone Fiona at 087 688 6378.
• 8th May - 4th June 2015
  Arc of Visibility: New Paintings by Sara Foust and Cormac O’Leary
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Arc of Visibility, a joint exhibition of recent paintings by artists Sara Foust and Cormac O’Leary, opens at Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon on Friday 8th May. The artists present complementary perspectives on the texture and atmosphere of the rugged Irish coast, the maritime landscape distilled through memory and the lens of narrative. Opening Reception Friday 8th May at 8pm.
• 7th May 2015
  Clare Arts Office presents Hats Off to Clare Written and directed by Paul Brennan
  Glór, Ennis, 2pm
  Gerard Howard Productions presents a hilarious and surreal romp through time with some of Co. Clare's most famous characters - real and fictional - and how they might have interacted, had they ever met. Pile them all into the west Clare Railway and see where they end up. Followed by Music & Refreshments. Free of charge.
• 6th - 29th May 2015
  Embrace Exhibition 2015
  Glór, Ennis, 10am – 5pm gallery
• 5th - 29th May 2015
  Patricia Winders Reynolds Art Exhibition
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Patricia Winders Reynolds will be hosting her art exhibition here in Cultúrlann Sweeney this May. Patricia is from Dublin and studied Art and Art History under Irish artists Declan Campbell and John Skelton in the 1970s, and oils and still life under the tutelage of artist Chad Hughes in North Carolina in the 1990s. Her love of ethnic art of the Celtic and Australian Aboriginal traditions has a huge influence in her paintings. From the strength of Celtic shapes and symbols to the boldness of colour from the Aboriginal tradition, these all come through in her beautiful paintings. The exhibition can be viewed in the library foyer during library opening hours.
• 3rd May 2015
  ‘Bealtaine Birds on the Dawn Chorus Walk’ a Burrenbeo Trust Walk with Gordon D’Arcy
  5.45am at Village Store, Ballyvaughan
  The first walk of the 2015 Burren in Bloom festival and the May Burrenbeo walk will involve an early start with Gordon D’Arcy leading a group on a dawn chorus walk. Gordon is a Burren resident, natural historian, author & wildlife artist and will point out some of the Burren’s birds in the early morning light – they’ll hopefully put on a good show. The early morning will be made slightly easier by starting with coffee and a croissant from the Village Stores. On return from the walk, Logues Lodge is offering breakfast for the walkers for €13.50 – like the early bird you can catch the tasty worm! Meet at Village Store, Ballyvaughan at 5.45am (!). Please bring good walking shoes and waterproofs if needed. Also bring binoculars if you have a pair. No dogs allowed. The walk is open to everyone, although a reasonable level of fitness is required. It is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 3rd May 2015
  Bealtaine Art & Craft Fair
  Vandeleur Walled Garden, Kilrush
  Join us for our Bealtaine Art & Craft Fair in the courtyard of the Vandeleur Walled Garden. We also offer a discount of 20% on all plants. The head gardener will be on hand to provide information and answer any questions. More info: 00353 65 9051760 & www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie
• 2nd May 2015
  Poetry Reading
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon 7pm
  Salmon Poetry presents Poetry Reading by Sarah Clancy & JP Dancing Bear.
  Free event.
• 2nd May 2015
  Choral & Instrumental Festival
  Killaloe
  Adult and children’s’ choirs/instrumentalists will perform throughout the afternoon and evening with a gala concert at 8pm. More info: 00353 61 375132 / 00353 86 1095010
• 2nd May 2015
  Ireland’s Best Beard & Moustache Championship
  Corofin
  This event is held in cooperation with the Irish Beard and Moustache Association. Categories for Ireland’s Best Beard and Moustache competition will include Best Moustache, Best Partial Beard, Best Full Beard, Best Trend Beard, Best Six Week Beard, and Best Fake Beard. More info: 00353 87 2836296 & www.festivaloffinn.com
• 1st - 31st May 2015
  Burren in Bloom
  The Burren
  The Burren in Bloom Festival features a series of illustrated talks and organised walks throughout the month of May in the Burren. The festival gives people an understanding and appreciation of the Burren and its formation, and how it continues to be a source of great botanical, archaeological, and cultural wealth with its unique wild flowers and ancient sites. More info: 00353 91 638096 www.burreninbloom.com
• 1st – 31st May 2015
  ‘Heralding The Spring’
  Skycourt Shopping Centre (opposite the foodcourt), Shannon
  Inis Artists Exhibition.
• 1st – 31st May 2015
  ‘Essence’
  Cliffs Of Moher Visitor Centre
  Exhibition by Inis Artists.
• 1st – 23rd May 2015
  Inis Artists Exhibition
  Clare Museum Foyer, Ennis
  A collection of local scenes.
• 1st – 16th May 2015
  ‘Fionnathan – Collaborations’
  The Gallery at Scariff Public Library during opening hours
  Exhibition of paintings, drawings and sculptures by Fionn Angus, his father, Jonathan, and a host of artists and craftspeople from Clare, around Ireland and internationally.
• 1st - 4th May 2015
  Carrigaholt Oyster & Shellfish Festival
  Carrigaholt
  Visit Carrigaholt over the May Bank Holiday weekend and experience delicious seafood and
  compete in our Oyster shucking and Oyster Eating Competition. Book a table for our Craft Beer and Shellfish night or enjoy traditional Irish music in the local pubs while enjoying complimentary oysters. More info: 00353 65 9058102 & www.loophead.ie
• 1st - 4th May 2015
  Loop Head Walking, Biking & Heritage Festival
  Loop Head Peninsula
  Join us on the Loop Head Peninsula to walk the coastal paths of Loop Head, Kilcredaun and George’s Head. Enjoy stunning wild Atlantic Scenery with experienced guides in this, one of Europe’s EDEN destinations of Excellence (irelandseden.ie). More info: 00353 87 3367022 & www.loophead.ie
• 1st - 4th May 2015
  Whitegate Bank Holiday Festival
  This year we will have an action packed weekend of events where some of the highlights will include Horse & Pony racing, a 10k road race, local Drama production and nightly entertainment in the pubs - something for everyone! More info: 00353 86 8257229 & burkedromaan@gmail.com
• 1st - 3rd May 2015
  Burren Law School
  Ballyvaughan
  The Burren Law School is an annual conference that aims to recreate the tradition of legal learning that is associated with the Brehon Law School, allowing the past to illuminate the present in what is characteristically a very stimulating weekend. Mor info: 00353 65 7077200
• 1st - 3rd May 2015
  Father Ted Festival
  Kilfenora
  A festival of all things Father Ted, there will be location tours, a visit to the Parochial House, Lovely Girls contest, Golden Cleric awards, and loads of craic and musical entertainment. More info: 00353 87 6277000 & 00353 65 7088846 & www.tedtours.com/festival
• 1st- 2nd May 2015
  It’s the Real McCoy
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Set in rural Ireland in 1964 this production tells the story of Madge Molloy who has lived over forty years of her life wondering why her husband Tom – whom she was married to for just four months – disappeared without trace or reason. Packed with hilarious one-liners, a gormless postman, a nervous curate, a frustrated wife, a worried husband, a timid daughter and Ireland’s two nosiest neighbours, brace yourself for a night of unforgettable Irish comedy as It’s the Real McCoy makes a welcome return to glór. €20/€18 Conc.
• 1st May 2015
  ‘At The Still Point Of The Turning World’
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon 4pm
  One of the strategic projects for the Bealtaine Festival sees Clare County Arts Office, together with artist Maria Kerin and Eleanor Feely, celebrate the creativity of the great concertina player, Chris Droney, through dance, performance and image.
  All welcome. Free event. www.bealtaine.com

April 2015:

• 30th April – 18th May 2015
  Burren in Bloom Festival
  The annual arrival of the Burren’s world famous wildflowers is truly spectacular - the Burrenbeo Trust’s Burren in Bloom festival is a celebration of this, opening the magic of this landscape to all. Running from April 30th to May 18th in venues around the Burren, Burren in Bloom will feature a wide variety of events including walks, talks and cultural events, with a choice for all age groups. Organised by the Burrenbeo Trust, a charity for the region, the events are sure to enhance your appreciation of the unique and beautiful Burren landscape. ‘Every year the amazing Burren floral bloom arrives to delight locals and visitors to the region. The Burren in Bloom festival gives people a greater appreciation for and knowledge around this natural phenomenon. This year’s festival promises to be the best yet, with events for all the family’, says Brigid Barry, Burren in Bloom coordinator. With events during the month on topics ranging from dawn chorus to coastal blooms and wolves to grasses there is plenty to attract the outdoor enthusiasts. There is also a day long walk over the winterages and a family art event. The Burren in Bloom Festival is coordinated by the Burrenbeo Trust with support from Failte Ireland. To download the festival brochure visit www.burreninbloom.com and for more information contact trust@burrenbeo.com or 091 638096.
• 30th April - 4th May 2015
  The Festival of Finn
  Corofin
  From the opening recitations on Thursday till the sun sets Monday evening, there’s a large
  programme of events from which to choose. More info: 00353 87 6383988 & www.festivaloffinn.com
• 30th April 2015
  Vardens Ennis Guitar School Show
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Vardens Ennis Guitar School are proud to present their annual end of year concert, showcasing our students of all ages playing guitar, piano/keyboards and singing. In styles such as pop, rock, blues, and many more, this is sure to be an entertaining evening that you won’t want to miss. €12.50/€10 Conc./€40 Family (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• 29th April 2015
  Apples of the Golan
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Irish Made Documentary. Q&A afterwards with Directors Keith Walsh and Jill Beardsworth.
  Apples of the Golan tells the epic story of Majdal Shams, one of five remaining Arab villages in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Irish film-makers Keith Walsh and Jill Beardsworth spent five years among the people of the village and have woven together, from the interlocking lives of the apple growers, rappers, salsa dancers, holy men, traitors, and freedom fighters that make up this unique community, a film that is a complex portrait of a place, a people, and the apple trees that root them to land. €8
• 28th April 2015
  ‘The greatest famine? The Great Famine in perspective’, a talk by Terri Shoosmith, Ph.D.
  Aughty Famine Working Group Spring Lecture Series
  Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort, 8 p.m.
• 27th - 28th April 2015
  BreakThrough Dance Company presents Dance Fusion 2015
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  Sit back and enjoy a variety of contemporary, commercial and ballet dance as the students take to the stage. An evening for all the family to enjoy. €12/€10 Conc.
• 26th April 2015
  Ballyvuaghan Fanore Walking Club are walking Burren National Park Perimeter Walk.
  Meet at Kilnaboy at 10.30
• 26th April 2015
  Clare Garden Festival
  Ennis
  Visitors can expect an impressive programme of expert talks, children’s entertainment and plenty more garden-related attractions at the easily accessible Ennis showgrounds just off the M18 in Ennis town. More info: 00353 87 6117538 & www.claregardenfestival.com
• 25th April 2015
  Corofin Dramatic Society presents The 39 Steps
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have an intriguing, thrilling, riotous and unmissable comedy. The show hurtles a notorious fugitive and a spellbound blonde from a London music hall to Scotland’s most remote highlands.
  A cast of 4 plays over 50 characters in this fast-paced tale of an ordinary man on an extraordinarily entertaining adventure. The 39 steps contains every single legendary scene from the award-winning movie. Be prepared to laugh out loud! €15/€12 Conc.
• 24th- 30th April 2015
  ELEMENT’, An exhibition by FETAC -The Ennistymon Vocational School (FETAC Level 5 & 6)
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  The PLC FETAC Art End of Year Exhibition ‘ELEMENT” is to be held at the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon. The exhibition will be officially opened on Thursday April 23 at 7pm by Siobhan Mulcahy, Clare Arts Officer. The exhibition will continue for the week running until Thursday April 30. This event is held annually to celebrate the emerging artistic talent within the art course. The Post Leaving Cert courses in Ennistymon Vocational School comprise of a one year multi-disciplinary art programme leading to a FETAC Level 5 Award and a more advanced one year art programme culminating in a FETAC Level 6 Art Award. Students range from school leavers to mature applicants and come from many backgrounds and nationalities. The course is suitable for those who wish to explore their creativity or pursue an independent art career. Equally the course is designed for people who wish to pursue art at a third level institution and intend to create a portfolio of work. The exhibition will display a selection of work from the students in a variety of media including painting, sculpture and ceramics. All are welcome. For any queries please contact: Ennistymon Vocational School 065 7071375 or email artbeat1@eircom.net. The Courthouse Gallery is open from 12 - 4 pm each day. Also on Monday 27th April, during this exhibition. Closed on Sunday.
• 24th - 27th April 2015
  Kilfenora Traditional Music Festival
  Kilfenora
  Kilfenora Traditional Music Festival will include concerts, set-dancing and the legendary Kilfenora pub sessions. Headlining are Frankie Gavin’s De Dannan in concert, the Kilfenora Céilí Band playing open-air, and céilís with The Star of Munster and Four Courts. More info: 00353 87 6896600 & www.kilfenoraclare.com
• 24th April 2015
  Join Me in the Pines, with David Geraghty of BELL X1
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  It’s been an incredible first year for Join Me In The Pines who unleashed four beautiful videos for tracks from their debut album Inherit. JMITP’s front man is Bell X1’s David Geraghty who released his debut solo album Kill Your Darlings in 2007, to critical and fan acclaim. 2009 saw David return with his second solo offering The Victory Dance. Both of these albums were written and recorded between stints in the hectic Bell X1 touring schedule. €16
• 23rd April 2015
  Weighing In, written by Ger Gallagher and directed by Caroline Fitzgerald, with Isobel Mahon & Rose Henderson
  Glór, Ennis at 8pm
  Easi-Slims new member Pam McGowan has it all. A fabulous home, two perfect kids and a successful husband. Pam is only attending meetings to maintain her svelte figure. Breda has been struggling with her weight and is thinking about abandoning the diet - until Pam takes her in hand and power walks her into a new way of life. Both women open up to one another as they pound the pavements every evening. However, when Pam's mask begins to slip, Breda is reminded that things aren't always what they appear to be. €16/€15 Conc.
• 22nd April 2015
  Actors + Reactors Drama School Show
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  An evening of dramatic extracts, poetry, mime, drama and recitals presented by talented young people aged from 4 to 15 years, introduced and stage managed by senior Actors + Reactors students. Actors + Reactors will showcase a term’s work in aid of The Clare Crusaders Children’s Clinic. €10
• 19th April 2015
  Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club (incorporating the Michael Dunleavy Charity Walk) are walking Bones Bay to Donagore.
  Meet at The Pier, Doolin at 10.30; walk at 11.00.
  Donation to charity on the day. Contact Paddy Power 087 7401509
• 19th April 2015
  Historical walk of the West Clare seaside resort of Kilkee, an Old Kilfraboy Society Guided Walk.
  The first outing of the Old Kilfarboy Society 2015 season of summer walks will be a historical walk of the West Clare seaside resort of Kilkee. Local guide, Laura Foley, will retell the history and folklore of the area as she guides the group through the town. The emergence of the resort began in the early nineteenth century when Kilkee became known as the “Brighton of the West.” Laura will trace the development of the resort from Victorian times to the present. The influence of the property owners McDonnells and Conynghams will be discussed and St Senan’s Well and sites of past and present churches will be visited. The walk will be approximately two hours duration. Meet outside the Stella Maris Hotel, Kilkee, on Sunday, 19 April at 2 pm. The cost is €5 per per adult. All are welcome.
• 18th April - 1st May 2015
  MFA Exhibition
  Burren College of Art , Ballyvaughan
  The exhibition features work of the 2015 MFA graduates of the Burren College of Art. More info: 0353 65 7077200 & www.burrencollege.ie
• 17th - 19th April 2015
  Kincora Traditional Weekend
  Killaloe/Ballina
  A weekend of live traditional Irish music sessions, concert performances, workshops and recitals. Traditional music river cruises, children’s sessions, Pipe Band parades and more. More info: 00353 86 0529278 & www.kincoratradweekend.com
• 17th April 2015
  Spanish Food & Film Night: Volver & Flamenco in Glór
  Glór, Ennis, 7pm
  Volver directed by Pedro Almodóvar: Penelope Cruz plays one of two sisters whose lives are disturbed by the apparent reappearance of their late mother. Flamenco/Spanish guitar music by Javier Jimenez. Topped off with a delicious Spanish menu provided by Nolan & Lambe. Food served at 7pm, Film at 8pm (see menu on www.glor.ie). €20 (for film, food & music)
• 17th April 2015
  We’ll Meet Again, by Crack'd Spoon Theatre
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Crack'd Spoon Theatre group present their show of songs and memories from World War 1 & 2. Think Music Hall, War Marches, Flanagan and Allen, Dad's Army, together with poems and personal collections to take you on a journey down wartime memory lane. Show starts at 8pm at Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee. Tickets cost €10/€8
  Contact Kilkee Box Office for bookings and information 065-9060769 or book online at www.glor.ie
• 16th April 2015
  Ballet Ireland presents Tutus and Beyond
  Glór, Ennis, 7.30pm
  Ballet Ireland’s Tutus & Beyond journeys from traditional classical ballet to the striking contemporary work being produced today. Pas de Quatre, the romantic classic caused a sensation when it was created for the four greatest ballerinas of the time in 1845. Next up, Sing Sing Sing inspired by Bob Fosse, a legendary choreographer of Broadway & Hollywood throughout the 60s & 70s. The second half of the programme features the premiere of a powerful and magical new ballet, Lost, by Ludovic Ondievla. One of best productions the company has done’ Irish Mail on Sunday. €20/€18 Conc./€12.50 Child (16 or under)/€50 Family (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• 11th April 2015
  David O’Doherty Has Checked Everything
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  The forgotten Sugababe, the bad boy of Zumba, David O’Doherty presents a new hour of talking and songs. Take a ride into the Davidzone.
  One man. One small keyboard. With batteries. And a chair. And a mic. And cables. And a sound system. And then a room, obviously. With more chairs. And a lighting rig. It’s surprising how much stuff is involved actually. €18/€16 Conc.
• 10th - 12th April 2015
  Consairtín - the National Concertina Convention
  Ennis
  Consairtín 2015 is a celebration of the concertina in traditional Irish music. Events include classes for all grades, instrument maintenance workshops, specialist master classes, recitals, concerts, lectures, seminars and sessions. More info: 00353 86 2612127 & www.consairtin.ie
• 9th April 2015
  Dancer Nic Gareiss and harpist Maeve Gilchrist
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  Michigan-born percussive dancer Nic Gareiss and Edinburgh harpist Maeve Gilchrist met while teaching at the Shasta Fiddle Summit in Northern California. They continued their musical relationship with spontaneous
  collaborations at festivals and chance meetings and later toured together as part of Darol Anger's band, 'The Furies', finally making their duo debut at the Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, Scotland. Sharing a deep respect for traditional music and culture while drawing on contemporary elements of music, movement, rhythm and improvisation, Nic and Maeve have emerged from the vibrant new acoustic scene as innovators in their fields. The percussion and drive of Nic's footwork combined with Maeve's melodic and improvisational sensibilities make for an explosive duet sure to delight both the ears and the eyes. Tickets €8 adult, €5 concession and family ticket €25 (2 adults/2 children). Tickets available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769 or through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie. Show starts at 8 pm
• 7th – 11th April 2015
  Kilrush Choral Society presents South Pacific
  Kilrush Community School at 8pm Sharp
  Tickets go on Sale at Lillis old Travel Agency, Frances Street, Kilrush, from Monday 30th March to April 10th from 1pm to 5pm , [Closed on Easter Monday] or Contact Box Office, Margaret Rush at 0862045461.
• 6th April 2015
  Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club are walking Ballyvaughan - Rathbourney - Carn Burrenwee.
  Meet at The Pier Ballyvaughan at 10.30 walk at 11.00.
  Contact Mary O'Brien 087 2691147.
• 5th April 2015
  ‘Winter Leaves, Spring Shows’ a Burrenbeo Trust Talk with With Sharon Parr
  2pm at Creevagh/Cloncoose Green Road, Kilnaboy (51R 273 955).
  After a winters grazing by the out wintered cattle, the high Burren is starting to show signs of spring life. Join Sharon Parr for an investigation of the effects of the winter grazing and some of the floral delights to look forward to over the coming seasons. Sharon has been working in the Burren since 2003 and is currently the Project Scientist with the Burren Farming for Conservation Programme. Sharon is a natural historian with wide-ranging interests that span plants, insects, birds and mammals. She is the joint Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland vice county recorder for County Clare and regularly contributes bumblebee, butterfly and mammal records to the National Biodiversity Data Centre. There will be refreshments available for purchase after the walk. Suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy waterproof footwear recommended. The walk is open to everyone - please don’t bring dogs as there will be livestock on the walk. The walk is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 4th April 2015
  Rath/Dysert Pilgrim Path Walk on National Pilgrim Paths Day.
  Meet in Corofin at 1.30pm
  Details see www.pilgrimpath.ie.To register for the walk contact Pius Murray 0879828173 or pius@coisceimanama.com.
• 4th April 2015
  Kilkee Easter Egg Hunt
  Kilkee
  The Kilkee Easter Egg Hunt on the beach EGGStravaganza we will have lots of games,
  singing, jumping, digging and fun map reading (tricky clues so parents are encouraged to take part!). More info: 00353 86 3308236 & www.nevsailwatersports.com
• 3rd - 30th April 2015
  A Journey with Metal: Contemporary Work by Jane Murtagh
  Glór, Ennis, 10am – 5pm gallery
  Jane lives and works from a farm on the North bank of the Shannon Estuary. She has been developing a visual language combining contemporary practices and sensibilities with ancient techniques in metalworking - casting, repoussé, etching, patination and gilding. Man-made and natural features in the surrounding landscape have informed much of her recent work. She has a particular interest in the interpretation of this landscape by 17th and 18th century cartographers. Another area of study has been the work of a number of Irish explorer botanists of the 19th century and in particular Augustine Henry. Plants identified and brought back to Ireland by this plantsman have evoked images that she translates into metal. http://www.glor.ie/events#e797
• 1st - 25th April 2015
  Clare Seascapes
  Clare Museum, Ennis
  An exhibition of paintings of Clare seascapes by West Clare artist Cathal Butler at the County Museum.

March 2015:

• 29th March 2015
  Sharp Shooters Airsoft Indoor League
  The Pavilion, Lisdoonvarna
  Registration 2pm. 3 Categories : Sniper Rifle / Hand Pistol / Sling Shot
  Open to Men & Women over the age of 16 . BB Guns with no live ammunition, all equipment supplied. Further Information, contact: (085) 1637619. Fundraiser for Lisdoonvarna/District Game & Conservation Club.
• 28th March 2015
  Postscript, Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  POSTSCRIPT, tells the story of actor and playwright Noelle Brown was born into a mother and baby’s home in Cork in the 1960’s and adopted at 8 weeks old. The story begins 35 years later when Noelle embarks on a journey to uncover her true identity and how the system both church and state made every step so difficult. Told through the eyes of a private investigator it is in a poignant and humorous account of an adopted person’s search for identity through a series of letters. Told through a series of letters with Noelle Brown and Brid Ni Neachtain, who played Rose in the original production of Dancing at Lughnasa (which won a Tony away on Broadway) this is a show which has captured the hearts of audiences all over Ireland and the show is very adaptable. The subject is very topical and the only theatre piece to deal with the issue of adoption in Ireland, its both funny and sad and does not set out to apportion blame, Noelle had a happy childhood but would have liked to meet her birth mother. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets €15/€3 available from Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769. You can also book through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 28th March 2015
  Guitarchestra
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Back by popular demand with new themes to be presented on the night, this fantastic bunch of young musicians will be bringing you the most memorable themes from TV, movies and video games. Featuring music from Game Of Thrones; Back to the Future; Star Wars; Indiana Jones; Batman and more. It promises to be a fun night! Guitarchestra is a Youth based guitar orchestra that take popular themes from a variety of sources and combine them with a variety of musical influences. €12.50/€10 Conc./€40 Family (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• 28th March 2015
  Stephen Roche Atlantic Challenge
  Lahinch
  Stephen Roche Atlantic Challenge is an 80km leisure cycle with the former World Champion and Tour de France winner, Stephen Roche. Starting on the beach promenade in Lahinch, the cycle takes in the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Corkscrew Hill. More info: 00353 87 7854848 & www.stephenrocheac.com
• 27th - 29th March 2015
  Doolin Writer’s Weekend
  Doolin
  The Doolin Writer’s weekend features an eclectic mix of music, food, poetry, theatre and literature. This spring we look forward to welcoming back some of Ireland’s best writers to Hotel Doolin. More info: 00353 65 7074111 & www.doolinwritersweekend.com
• 26th March 2015
  The Stranger, directed by Neasa Ní Chianáin
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Neal MacGregor, an English artist, died alone, prematurely, aged forty-four, in a stone hen-house that he couldn’t stand up in, where he lived without water, electricity or heating on a remote island. The Irish-speaking islanders on the rapidly depopulating island knew little of Neal during the eight years he lived there. Neal left behind volumes of beautifully illustrated notebooks and secret diaries, and this beautiful enigmatic film pulls together the jigsaw of missing pieces and sensitively paints a portrait of a man living on the edge, physically and mentally, and the insular island community he lived amongst. €8
• 25th March 2015
  Traditional Horse Fair
  Kilrush
  Kilrush Traditional Horse Fair takes place on Francis Street, Kilrush. More info: 00353 65 9051047 & www.clarecoco.ie
• 24th - 25th March 2015
  Little Gem, Written & Directed by Elaine Murphy
  Glór, Ennis at8pm
  Three generations of women tell us their story of one extraordinary year. Party girl Amber has brutal indigestion that the Sambuca’s won’t shift. Lorraine loses it at work and is shipped off to see the ‘head doctor’. While Granny Kay ‘toys with the idea of Kermit’ scratching an itch that Gem no longer can. Little Gem has swept the boards since its sell out run in the Dublin Fringe Festival, and this heart-warming tale of courage, comedy and romance returns to glór due to popular demand. Starring Anita Reeves and Hilda Fay with Kay Gilmore. €20/€18 Conc.
• 24th March 2015
  “Better to die by the sword than to die of starvation”: protest and resistance during the Great Famine” - a talk by John Cunningham, National University of Ireland, Galway.
  Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort, 8.00 p.m.
  An Aughty Famine Working Group public lecture
• 23rd March 2015
  The Role of the Workhouses during the Great Famine
  The Courthouse, Ennistymon
  The final lecture in the North Clare Historical Society’s current lecture series will take place on Monday 23rd March, with William J. Smyth’s talk entitled The Role of the Workhouses during the Great Famine. The talk will take place at The Courthouse, Ennistymon at 8pm with admission at €5. Professor Smyth will begin by exploring the ideological origins of the Poor Law system in England. Following the dismissal of the findings of the 3-year based recommendations of the Irish Poor Law Commission, the consequences of the imposition of the English Poor Law model on a very different Irish society will be explored. The internal structures and functioning of the workhouse system will be examined both before and after the summer of 1847, when the Poor Law unions and workhouses were expected to carry the full burden of the Famine catastrophe. The main focus will be on the living conditions of the inmates in North Tipperary and Clare unions – from his home-town Roscrea workhouse to our own Ennistymon.
• 21 March – 16th April 2015
  Life consuming Time, etchings by Corinna Schroeder-vFrihling
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  The Courthouse Gallery in Ennistymon will host an exhibition of 26 etchings by Doolin artist Corinna Schroeder-vFrihling entitled ‘Life consuming Time’. In this exhibition Corinna offers her views of the mutually consuming relationship between life and time from a variety of perspectives. The prints are made on copper or zinc plates using the techniques of dry-point, aquatint, verni mou, soap-ground and several different engraving tools and acid. No photographic or digital processes were involved. Each piece is unique and is hand printed in her Doolin studio.
• 21 March – 16th April 2015
  ‘Between Here and You’ - recent work by Els Borghart and Alison Cronin
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Between Here and You a joint exhibition by visual artists Els Borghart and Alison Cronin features a selection of works that focus on the fluctuating nature of reality and memory unveiling fleeting glimpses of an in-between space.
• 21st March 2015
  Mick Flannery & Band at Glór
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Mick Flannery’s songs usher us into a world which is by times emotional, romantic, dark, insightful and hopeful. On foot of his latest album By The Rule, the Cork singer songwriter makes a much anticipated return to glór. His new album By the Rule is the work of a confident, assured songwriter, someone who knows how to turn a list of nouns, adjectives, verbs and adverbs into graceful, minor-key pen-pictures and poetry which will resonate with the listener. €22.50/€20 Conc.
• 20th March 2015
  The Nualas: Lock Up Your Husbands
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  In their most dangerous show ever, The Nualas break the mould they made previously with a deluge of new songs, higher harmonies, different keys and slightly shorter dresses, if that’s possible! And there’s more – expect new Nuala revelations, harder laughs, slicker riffs, and even tighter foundation wear, if that’s possible! €18/€16 Conc.
• 18th March 2015
  Castles of County Clare with Dick Cronin and Martin Breen
  Teach Ceoil, Corofin at 8.30pm
  Dick is the Architectural Conservation Officer and Archaeologist with Clare County Council. He is responsible for the built heritage of the county including historic buildings, vernacular houses, protected structures and architectural conservation areas in towns and villages. Having studied in UCD and UCG, he has worked in the conservation and restoration of historic buildings since the 1980s. In 1986 he restored Dysert O'Dea Castle, Corofin, which has been open to the public since as The Clare Archaeology Centre and Trail. He has published widely on the local history, archaeology, built environment and placenames of County Clare and gives regular lectures to interested groups and third level colleges. Dick is presently (2015) The Chairman of The Association of Architectural Conservation Officers, of Ireland. Martin has been studying and recording the castles of his native Co. Clare for over 30 years, and along with Dick, they have visited and photographed every castle and castle site known in Clare. To date, 227 examples have been recorded and researched. The floor plans of the remaining structures and their architectural features have also been completed. Anybody familiar with The Other Clare will be aware of the work, which has appeared in that Journal for the past 30 years or more. Both Martin and Dick have just completed a contract with the Dept. of Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht, formerly the O.P.W., detailing the Castles and Towerhouses of Co. Clare. This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 17 March 2015
  St Patrick’s Festival at Glór
  Face Painting with Ana Colomer, 12.30 - 2.30pm, €1.50;
  The Fiddle Case with Eoin O Neill, Quentin Cooper, Jon O’Connell & Adam Shapiro, 1 – 3pm, Free of charge.
• 16th - 17th March 2015
  St. Patrick’s Festival, Killaloe/Ballina
  National & International visitors will join with the people of Killaloe / Ballina in celebrating one of Ireland’s greatest historical town lands, on this internationally recognised day of the Irish! More info: 00353 86 3586293 & www.feilebrianboru.com
• 16th March 2015
  Céilí Night with The Tulla Céilí Band
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Kicking off a great festival of family events at glór is the world famous Tulla Céilí Band. The band was formed in 1946 by Paddy Canny and PJ Hayes, their passion for traditional Irish music and their talent set the tone for the band. The Tulla Céilí Band has toured all over the world and even played in New York City’s Carnegie Hall. Join us for a great night of music and dancing! €10
• 13th March 2015
  Kieran Goss at Glór
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Long hailed as one of Ireland's leading songwriters and performers, Kieran Goss’s music has won him fans across the globe. But if his songs have made him a star, his live shows have made him a legend – live on stage is where Kieran Goss really shines. €25/€22 Conc
• 12th March 2015
  Ireland’s Weather: A Journey Through Time with Evelyn Cusack
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  Evelyn will take us on a whistle stop tour through the varying climates of early Earth to the beginnings of civilization and the Weather Gods on to the Age of Enlightenment and our own Robert Boyle and then to the present high-spec numerical forecast models which can predict weather about a week ahead. This is a great opportunity to get to grip with Ireland’s national preoccupation with our ever changing weather! €12
• 10 March 2015
  “The oldest Colonel of all”: Charles Synge (1789-1854) of Mount Callan, an Old Kilfarboy Society talk
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to announce details of the final in the series of talks for 2014-15, ‘ “The oldest Colonel of all”: Charles Synge (1789-1854) of Mount Callan’, presented by Jane Tottenham. The talk explores the history of Charles Synge, the first of the Synge/Tottenham family to live at Mount Callan, based there from 1842 until his death in 1854. This talk will discuss his family background, military career and what is known about his establishing a home at Mount Callan and life subsequently. Jane Tottenham, originally from Dublin, has lived in County Clare for many years. This information is taken from ongoing wider research into the Synge family history of the nineteenth century. Based on family papers and archive sources, Jane is currently preparing this research for publication. The talk takes place at 8pm, on Tuesday, 10 March at the Malbay, Miltown Malbay and all are welcome. Entry €5 (members free).
• 9th March - 4th April 2015
  Scenes from West Clare, a joint exhibition of paintings by mother and daughter, Geraldine and Elaine Cowley.
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, Kilkee, County Clare
  'Scenes from West Clare' is an exhibition of paintings in both Acrylic and Oil directly influenced by the picturesque land and seascapes evident in West Clare. Geraldine and Elaine's exhibition will be open to the public during Cultúrlann Sweeney Library opening hours. For more information about this event, please contact Cultúrlann Sweeney Library at (065)6899091 or contact either artist directly at Geraldine Cowley Elaine Cowley
  ph: 086 2070093; ph:086 8270443. E-mail: geraldineofhayestown@gmail.com. E-mail: elaine.cowley2@mail.dcu.ie
• 7th - 16th March 2015
  54th West Clare Drama Festival
  Doonbeg
  Three-act plays by Irish and international writers are performed by amateur groups from all around the country, as well as local groups, who are seeking nomination to the Open and Confined All-Ireland Finals. 00353 87 8075662 & www.westclaredramafestivaldoonbeg.com
• 6th - 8th March 2015
  Ennis Book Club Festival
  Many wonderful and talented authors, speakers and performers will participate in this year’s Ennis Book Club Festival. There’s fiction, poetry, social comment, literature, drama and chat! 00353 87 2391037 & www.ennisbookclubfestival.com
• 5th - 28th March 2015
  126 Group Show
  Ballyvaughan
  Group exhibition of members of the 126 Gallery in Galway. More info: 00353 65 7077200 &
  www.burrencollege.ie
• 5th March 2015
  Pádraig Rynne's NOTIFY & Pauline Scanlon With Special Guest John Spillane
  Glór, Ennis, 8pm
  This specially commissioned touring project is the result of a six month writing collaboration that will be showcased in a highly anticipated concert series. Recipients of Traditional Arts Touring Awards, Pádraig Rynne's NOTIFY and Pauline Scanlon have been funded for their ambition to contribute to the development of new, young and urban audiences for traditional Irish music. €18
• 3rd - 28th March 2015
  Art Exhibition by Patricia Reynolds
  County Museum, Ennis
  Patricia is an Irish-born artist who grew up in Dublin, but has travelled extensively, living in London, UK, and North Carolina, USA. Her love of ethnic art of the Celtic tradition and Australian Aborigines has influenced her own artwork, which blends influences from both to create her personal abstract vision. The rich beauty and love she finds in life in the Irish countryside, spills over into the vibrancy and expression of her work. Contact pseandrews@yahoo.co.uk
• 1st March 2015
  Guided Walk - Ancient Raheen Oakwoods of Tuamgraney
  Tuamgraney
  Andrew St Ledger will take people on a journey through the ancient Raheen Oakwood, an extremely rare remnant of the ancient wildwood authentic landscape of Ireland. Meet at Tuamgraney Heritage Centre. All welcome, dogs must be on leads. 00353 87 9933157 & www.celtnet.org
• 1st March 2015
  ‘In-laws & Outlaws in the High Burren’ - a Burrenbeo Trust walk with Robert Cassidy
  Cassidy’s Bar and Restaurant, Carron at 2pm.
  Robert Cassidy’s family have been farming in the Burren since the 1790s. This walk will take us over the Carron hills to listen to stories of the people and the history of the area. Robert and his wife own and run Cassidy’s pub and restaurant in Carron, housed an old R.I.C station and he has many stories of the past both recent and distant. There will be refreshments available in Cassidy’s after the walk. Suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy waterproof footwear recommended. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.

February 2015:

• 28th February 2015
  Cathaoirleach Cllr. John Crowe’s Mayor’s Charity Banquet in aid of Carrigoran Day Care Centre & Clare Cancer Support Services
  Treacys West County Hotel, Ennis County Clare at 7:30 p.m.
  Tickets: €70. Dress Code: Semi Formal. Music by Atomic Chicken
• 26th February - 2nd March 2015
  Russell Memorial Weekend Festival
  The annual traditional festival held in Doolin falling on the last full weekend in February is a remembrance ceremony to the Russell family, Micho Packie and Gussie Russell, the world-famous traditional musicians. The festival began in 1995 as a remembrance ceremony to Micho Russell, one of Ireland's best known and loved traditional musicians, who died in 1994. In 2006 the festival was renamed the Russell Memorial Weekend in memory of the three Russell brothers, Micho, Gussie, and Packie and their two sisters, Bridie and Mary Kate.
  For more info see http://www.michorussellweekend.ie/
• 26th February 2015
  'Wild Flowers: History, Uses, Science & Ecology' – a talk by Vivienne Campbell
  X-PO, Kilnaboy, 8.30 pm
  X-PO in Kilnaboy will host a talk by well know herbalist Vivienne Campbell on Thursday the 26th of February at 8.30 pm. The talk is entitled 'Wild Flowers: History, Uses, Science & Ecology' and coincides with the start of the flower season. Originally from Scotland, Vivienne Campbell is based in Kilnaboy. She has a first class honours degree in Herbal Medicine. She is passionate about showing people simple remedies that can be made at home from common plants. Vivienne teaches herbal medicine classes and leads wild herb & food foraging walks across Ireland. Her enthusiasm for herbalism is contagious and people regularly return to her walks, courses and talks. Vivienne’s work has featured in national newspapers, radio and in the Irish craft book ‘Hands On’ by Sylvia Thompson. Vivienne co-presented the hit RTE1 television series Corrigan Cooks Naturally along with celebrity chef Richard Corrigan and organic gardener Kitty Scully. She also appeared in Garrai Glás on TG4. Both series featured foraging and natural remedy-making. You can read all about Vivienne's herbal work on her website http://theherbalhub.com/. The X-PO is located in the former post office in Kilnaboy. It is a community hub for social and cultural activities. All are welcome to the talk. More information 087 292 54 87.
• 24th February 2015
  “Food exports: how much food was exported during the Great Famine whilst Ireland starved?”
  an Aughty Famine Working Group public lecture by Niall Ó Cíosáin, National University of Ireland, Galway.
  Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort 8.00 p.m.
• 23rd February 2015
  “Construction materials and techniques in the traditional buildings of North Clare” by Fidelma Mullane, a North Clare Historical Society lecture
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Dr Fidelma Mullane is a graduate of NUI Galway where she completed a Masters Degree in Geography on the topic of vernacular architecture. She trained as a Planner at the University of Paris, where she was also awarded a doctorate for her research on Irish traditional building practices. With over twenty years experience in the heritage sector, both as an expert adviser and vernacular architecture specialist, she currently works on heritage research and conservation projects, as well as publishing and lecturing widely on the topic. She is currently a member of the Board of the Heritage Council of Ireland. Fidelma Mullane specializes in the study and conservation of vernacular buildings. In the 1980s, Fidelma did a study of the traditional building practices in North and West Clare. Her talk will concentrate on this study, and she will also consider the state of local buildings and their importance in North Clare today. Time: 8pm Admission: €5 All are welcome
• 22nd February 2015
  Sharp Shooters Airsoft Indoor League
  The Pavilion, Lisdoonvarna
  Registration 2pm. 3 Categories : Sniper Rifle / Hand Pistol / Sling Shot
  Open to Men & Women over the age of 16 . BB Guns with no live ammunition, all equipment supplied. Further Information, contact: (085) 1637619. Fundraiser for Lisdoonvarna/District Game & Conservation Club.
• 20th February 2015
  Hats Off To Clare, Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  This one man show performed by Gerard Howard and written and directed by Paul Brennan is based on a hilarious and surreal romp through time with some of Clare’s most famous characters – real and fictional – and how they might have interacted had they ever met. Pile them all into the West Clare Railway and see where they end up! What will Mr de Valera make of Percy French? And how will the famous clown Johnny Patterson and submarine
  inventor John Phillip Holland get on? Show starts at 8.30 pm. Tickets €12/€10 available from Kilkee Box Office on
  065 9060769. You can also book through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 19th February 2015
  Hanging with the Elephant, an evening with Michael Harding, Glór, Ennis
  Following his hugely popular nationwide tour of venues in Ireland in the autumn of 2013, Michael Harding, author, playwright and Irish Times columnist, is on his travels again in his unique one man show, talking with great honesty and wit about life, love and growing old. Coinciding with the publication of his latest book Hanging with the Elephant, he will once again enthral audiences with a night of storytelling, musings and readings from his very best work. Hilarious yet poignant, homespun yet profound, down-to-earth yet prone to amazing flights of fancy, there's nothing quite like an evening with Michael Harding. 8pm. Tickets €16 at 065 6843 103 or www.glor.ie
• 18th February 2015
  The Burren’s Underworld – Caves and other things that go bump in the dark! A Burrenbeo Trust February Talk with Colin Bunce
  8.30pm at Teach Ceoil, Corofin
  Colin works as a senior instructor at the Burren Outdoor Education Centre with key involvement in providing field study programmes for secondary schools. His background is in geology and he is an avid caver. He has run numerous geology courses and teachs at the Caherconnell Summer School. He has lived and worked in the Burren for many years so knows its cave systems very well. This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 13th February - 12th March 2015
  Imirt Le Do Thoil! (Play Please!): A multi-disciplinary exhibition by Amanda Jane Graham, Myra Jago and Nicole Tilley.
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Imirt Le Do Thoil (Play Please) is a group exhibition by artists Amanda Jane Graham, Myra Jago and Nicole Tilley, exploring through print, drawing, painting and sculpture recent dramatic shifts within contemporary society and the resultant extreme impact upon childhood experience.
• 13th - 15th February 2015
  3rd annual Concertina Cruinniú
  Miltown Malbay
  A weekend of Concertina Classes, Recitals, Concerts, Lectures and Concertina Repair
  Workshops. There are classes for all levels, and new this year, an Adult only Beginner class, and a Master Class with Noel Hill. Free Concertina Trail in the pubs in Miltown Malbay.
  00353 65 7085785 & www.oac.ie
• 13th February - 12th March 2015
  ‘Compostela - Field of Stars’: Mixed media works by Marianne Slevin
  Red Couch Space, Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  The work features improvisations and explorations of chance in ink and oil paint on various surfaces. They are mainly 2 dimensional drawings, but some found and everyday objects are turned into art objects with her use of ink. The drawings are experimental and made using a combination of chance, intuition and feeling.
• 12th February 2015
  A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce, Glór, Ennis
  Presented by The New Theatre Dublin in association with Richard Ryan Promotions. Following its national and Parisian tour, this classic tale of Stephen Dedalus follows the young man during his formative years as he breaks away from the Irish Catholic conventions of his past to become an artist who will "encounter for the millionth time the reality of experience and forge in the smithy of my soul the uncreated conscience of my race." 8pm, €20/€16 conc. Directed by Jimmy Fay. Produced by Anthony Fox. Adapted by Tony Chesterman.
• 10th February 2015
  ‘A natural and cultural history of wolves in Ireland’ – an Old Kifarboy Society talk
  The Malbay, Miltown Malbay
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to announce details of its next talk, 'A natural and cultural history of wolves in Ireland', which will be given by Dr Kieran Hickey, Senior Lecturer in Geography at University College Cork. The talk will take place on Tuesday, 10th February at 8pm at the Malbay, Miltown Malbay. Published widely, Dr Hickey will be familiar to many through his wide research and expertise on storms, natural disasters and climate change in particular. He has also undertaken more specialised research on changing patterns of Atlantic storminess, hurricanes and the climate/coastal interface. Among his many publications is his volume on wolves in Ireland (2011). We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be a fascinating presentation. Non-members, €5.
• 7th February 2015
  Paddy Casey, Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee
  After a five year hiatus, Paddy Casey returned last year with his fourth album The Secret Life Of. It was recorded, produced and mixed at home in Paddy’s kitchen by Paddy and Pat Donne. Paddy finished touring his third
  album Addicted To Company in mid 2009 and decided then that it was time to make an album on his own, without a label. He wanted to let the songs come naturally, but found that, almost immediately, they came along in droves. So he began recording them all over the next few years, and in the last 6 months he chose the 11 tracks that make up the new album The Secret Life Of. Paddy will be here in Kilkee singing songs from his new album on the night. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets €20 available from the Kilkee Box Office on 065 9060769. You can also book through Glór on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie
• 6th February - 28th March 2015
  Glór and Ennis Book Club Festival present To be or Naught to be is Written in Sand
  Glór, Ennis, 10am-5pm
  An exhibition of work by Carmel Doherty, Richard Sharp, Brian McMahon, Will Gillchrist and Mick O'Dea. The idea behind the exhibition is that a selection of poems were given to the artists and the artists picked a poem which they liked and used it as the catalyst in the creation of their painting. At the exhibition the poem which inspired the artist will be displayed next to the art work. The title for the exhibition To be or Naught To Be is Written in Sand is an excerpt from a Patrick Stack poem called ROTA. All of these poets and artists live in Co. Clare.
• 6th February 2015
  Ensemble Eiru at the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Ensemble Eiru are an exciting group of young musicians from a wide range of performance backgrounds. They were formed in 2011 by Jack Talty and Neil O’Loghlen with a view to developing new conceptualisations of arrangement and ensemble playing in Irish traditional music. Focussing specially on the traditional musicians and repertoire associated with west and north Clare, the group perform contemporary interpretations of Irish traditional music by drawing on an eclectic range of artistic influences. Featuring Jack Talty (Clare Memory Orchestra) on concertina, Neil O’Loghlen ( Louis Stewart Quartet, Clare Memory Orchestra) on double bass and flute, Matthew Berrill (Clare Memory Orchestra) on clarinet, Jeremy Spencer on fiddle, Maeve O’Hara (CNAG) on marimba. Paddy Groenland (Leafzang) on guitar, and Matthew Jacobson (ReDiviDeR) on drums, Ensemble Eiru bring together some of Ireland’s most exciting and experienced young musicians. Admission €10 – Tickets at door. 8pm.
• 3rd February 2015
  'Between Clare and Ayr', a talk on the life and times of Ennis poet Thomas Dermody by Dr. Michael Griffin
  The Old Ground Hotel, Ennis
  A joint initiative by the Clare Archaeological Society and the Shannon Archaeological and Historical Society
• 2nd - 27th February 2015
  'Interpreting Life Through Art' an Exhibition of Paintings by Fiona Faulkes
  Scarriff Gallery, Scarriff Public Library
  Fiona Faulkes studied Fine Art at the Ruskin School of Drawing, Oxford University and graduated with Honours in 1996. Originally from the New Forest in England, she now resides in Ennis, County Clare. As an International Artist, images of her paintings have had views from over 60 countries on the World Wide Web. For more information contact Fiona at: fionafaulkes@gmail.com
• 1st February 2015
  ‘Taking a Turn over Turlough Hill’ with John Connolly, a Burrenbeo Trust February Walk
  2pm at Burren Walking Centre, Oughtmama
  John Connolly is a farmer, walk leader and Burren local. John’s walk will take in an introduction to his farm, some Burren archaeology, mythology, folklore & folk traditions, Poteen distilling and much more. John was awarded a B.A. degree in Irish Heritage in 2003, and his walks have featured on BBC and TG4. An added treat on this walk is the possibility to purchase some Hazel Mountain Chocolate, Tea and Cakes in the Burren Wild Café before or after the walk. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.

January 2015:

• 27th - 30th January 2015
  St Bridget’s Day Stories and Cross making for schools
  Clare Museum, first floor gallery
  Local storyteller Ruth Marshall will hold Free workshops for primary schools of stories, songs, poems and cross-making to mark St Bridget’s Day and the traditional beginning of spring. Workshops will be held twice a day from 27th – 30th January and will start at 10 am and 11.30 am respectively. Each will last about an hour and 15 minutes. Booking is essential: contact John at 065-6823382 or email claremuseum@clarecoco.ie
• 26th January 2015
  Forgotten Placenames and Landmarks, a North Clare Historical Society talk
  The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, 8pm
  The North Clare Historical Society commences its 2015 lecture series on Monday 26th January with a talk by Colm Hayes entitled Forgotten Placenames and Landmarks of Ennistymon. In this illustrated talk the placename changes and the landmarks which have disappeared over the past 250 years will be outlined. Colm Hayes is a native of Ennistymon and comes from an old Ennistymon family. He has operated a printing and stationery business in the town for over 40 years. He has had a lifetime interest in local history and was a founder member of the Old Ennistymon Society in the 1990s. He has edited a number of local publications including the popular Ennistymon Parish Magazine from the 1980s to 2002. Admission: €5
• 21st January 2015
  “Burren bats, their habits and habitats” a Burrenbeo Trust talk with Dr Kate McAney
  Teach Ceoil, Corofin, County Clare, 8.30pm
  Kate McAney works for The Vincent Wildlife Trust in Ireland and has done so since 1991. Before joining the Trust she graduated from NUIG in 1987 with a PhD, the subject of which was the summer activity of the lesser horseshoe bat in County Clare. She currently manages 13 lesser horseshoe bat reserves located along the west coast, from Mayo in the north to Kerry in the south and edited a recent publication on the species produced by the Irish Naturalists’ Journal. An increasing feature of her work is producing educational information and supporting research on other mammals, including the Irish stoat, pine marten and pygmy shrew. This talk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a suggested €5 donation from non-members. For more information please email trust@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.
• 16th January - 5th February 2015
  ‘VARIANT’, an exhibition of recent work by John Hanrahan
  Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Official opening Friday 16th January at 8 pm
  John was a founding member of the Ennis Arts Initiative, a former member of the Tulla Stables Studios and is currently a member of the Ground Up Artists Collective. He has studied and exhibited in Ireland and Australia and his work features in private and public collections.
• 16th January - 5th February 2015
  ‘The Wonders of Clare’, an exhibition of paintings by Michel Riand
  Red Couch Space, Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon
  Official opening Friday 16th January at 8 pm.
  MICHEL RIAND is a self-taught native French artist. Since 2005 he has taken up residence in Ennistymon. While he painted regularly in France, moving to Ireland influenced him to create a range of paintings inspired by the beauty of North Clare sceneries, its people and its wildlife. He thrives in colourful environments which is reflected in his candid representations of simple moments of daily life in the West of Ireland.
• 15th - 31st January 2015
  Art Project of recent works by Chris Brigdale.
  County Museum, Ennis
  Chris Brigdale a native of Ennis Co Clare has teamed up with Peter Fluck of (Spitting Image Fame) to poke fun at Fat Cat Bankers and Irish politicians. They hope to sell these prints by Caricature Artist Charlie Everett aka (Demonpen) to help raise funds to make a Simpsons type animation of these bankers. Further details on the project can be found at www.jokerinthepack.guru or by contacting Chris directly at 083-1972692
• 14th January - 7th February 2015
  Sirens - A collection of Artists Photographs by Pip Sides
  Cultúrlann Sweeney Museum, Kilkee
  This is a collection of artistic photography from Clare Artist Pip Sides. According to Pip “Siren was the name given to some sea nymphs who lived on an Island. Contact details: Pip Sides. E-mail: info@pipsgallery.com Tel.00353 873624277
• 13th January 2014
  'The Excavations at Fanore More', an Old Kilfarboy Society talk by Michael Lynch.
  The Old Kilfarboy Society is delighted to present a talk on the excavations at Fanore More (Later Mesolithic/ hunter gatherer sites) at 8pm on Tuesday, 13 January 2015 at the Malbay, Miltown Malbay. Presented by Michael Lynch, an archaeologist living in Killinaboy, County Clare, with a particular interest in the prehistoric archaeology of the Burren. He is also the Field Monument Adviser for County Clare. The talk will give an up to date account of the excavations (2009-2014) of two prehistoric shell middens at Fanore More, County Clare. These are the earliest known habitation sites in County Clare and date to the Mesolithic period over 6,000 years ago.
• 4th January 2015
  ‘Blow off the cobwebs on Mullaghmore’ with Burrenbeo Trust & Friends
  1.30pm at Mullaghmore base on Crag Road
  Join the Burrenbeo Trust and friends, including various Burren experts, for a chance to burn off some of those Christmas excesses. The first monthly walk of 2015 will be climbing the iconic Mullaghmore. The walk begins at the earlier start time of 1.30 pm from the base of the Mullaghmore more on the Crag Road. Please wear strong walking shoes, warm waterproof clothes and bring water / snacks - this will be a strenuous walk - No dogs allowed. There will also be an option suitable for children to enjoy. The walk is open to everyone. However, it is free for Burrenbeo Trust Members and a donation of €10 is suggested from non-members. For more information please email communications@burrenbeo.com or phone 091 638096.

See http://www.glor.ie for events at Glór Irish Music Centre, Ennis
See http://www.burrencollege.ie/ for events at the Burren College of Art, Ballyvaughan
See http://www.burrenpaintingcentre.com for courses at O'Neill's Burren Painting Centre, Lisdoonvarna
See http://www.burrenpaintingcentre.com and http://www.artatthepark.net for courses at Art at the Park, Killanena

See also: Events Calendar 2014, Events Calendar 2013, Events Calendar 2012, Events Calendar 2011, Events Calendar 2010, Events Calendar 2009, Events Calendar 2008, Events Calendar 2007, Events Calendar 2006, Events Calendar 2005, Events Calendar 2004, Events Calendar 2003, Events Calendar 2002 and Events Calendar 2001