Ever more spectacular
Cavan Arts Festival programme launched
Spectacle is central to the success of Cavan Arts Festival over the last eight years, and this year’s is set to be the most spectacular yet.
The programme is brimming with eye-catching acts like the headliners – ‘The Devil’s in the Dance Hall’ – to the wonderfully gifted street performers like Italian act Duo Padella, to the critically acclaimed musical acts DUG and Zoé Basha, and the amazing comedienne Aoife Dunne. Intriguing little gems are secreted away in the back of the booklet, that are no less dazzling like the Hand Drawn Animation Workshop for young people aged 8-15.
Those attending Thursday’s launch event in the Town Hall had already marvelled at artist John Rainey’s “wonderful sculptures” as curator Joe Keenan correctly described the ‘Retrofit’ exhibition (see p48), while Iraqi Kurdish musician Nîwar Ismat Issa provided gorgeously intricate live music.
Arts Festival organiser in chief Kim McCafferty told the packed gallery how they were eager to further raise the spectacle stakes through the ‘Carnival Community School Parade’.
This is a new addition with workshops already underway under the expert guidance of five artists.
“We are going to basically set up a new Macnas in Cavan,” said Kim, referring to the internationally renowned street performers that captivate revellers at Galway Arts Festival. “And that’s the most dangerous thing I will ever have said in public,” the Cavan woman quipped.
“This is the aim – this is what we are heading for – spectacle and street arts that welcomes all artforms in.”
She noted it was due to the support of Peace Plus funding that it’s been made possible.
“It’s not too late, there are still a few places across five art forms: samba drumming, music, dance, contemporary circus, accessible to everyone, and making.
“This project is going to develop on next year as well. We hope that is really sowing the seeds – if it’s the right time for something massive for Cavan – not just Cavan Arts Festival, but for events throughout the year, and the community as a whole and bring arts out onto the streets and celebrate together.”
continued on p48
Of the act at the top of the festival bill, The Devil’s in the Dance Hall on Sunday, May 17, Kim advised - “It’s going to sell out, if you are thinking of coming, or your neighbour is, tell them to buy a ticket please, it’s really important, and dress in your best 1930s garb and dance all night long.”
continued on page 48
Thanking by name everyone who helps support the festival, Kim saved her greatest appreciation for the tireless committee of volunteers who make it happen.
Officially launching Cavan Arts Festival, cathaoirleach John Paul Feeley let it be known the committee’s great work didn’t go unnoticed.
“Kim and colleagues have put on a real feast – they are award wining and really putting Cavan on the map,” said Cllr Feeley.
The Blacklion man descibed the relationship between the festival and Cavan Council as a “win-win”. He lamented that the festival, running from May 14-17, clashes with an event he was duty bound to attend.
“I do note it’s the weekend of the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, and I can safely say its a very creative event as well. Maybe not cultural but creative,” he quipped.
For coverage of the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, check out the RTÉ guide, alternatively, for a preview of this year’s festival delights, see cavanartsfestival.ie.