Eclectic line-up for Imagine Arts Festival
Songwriter John Blek will perform during the Imagine Arts Festival. Pic: johnblek.com
The organisers of this year's Imagine Arts Festival in Waterford have ensured there is an eclectic line-up of artists and activities included in the progamme to satisfy all tastes.
One of the main attractions will be the legendary Jerry Fish, however, this year there will be an exciting new twist to his show as he will be joined on stage by members of Music Generation Waterford's Wind and Brass programme - as his personal request.
That particular show promises to be one of the festival highlights.
However, there are numerous other events taking place that will be equally as entertaining and captivating. Shane Barry's 'Multisensory Showcase' will see participants take a journey through the sites and sounds of Waterford, blending live music with visual elements to create immersive experience.
'The Collector', a gripping physical theatre performance, directed by Will Flanagan, will explore themes of isolation and the human condition through circus-inspired movement and drama. For lovers of spoken word and music, 'Lifting the Gate' promises to deliver an emotional and poetic exploration of identity and belonging through a multidisciplinary performance.
Songwriter, John Blek, renowned for his emotional storytelling and soulful acoustic performances, also be one of the star attractions during the festival and Mohammad Syfkhan will bring the vibrant rhythms of the Middle East to Waterford. His performance promises to be a celebration of cultural fusion and musical mastery.
There will also be workshops throughout the festival, one of which will feature Lesley Conroy, who will host a unique event for parents who are arts practitioners. Meanwhile, Cathy Purcell and Kathleen Doherty will guide participants through creative explorations of music and dance.
Two festival residencies that are sure to attract a lot of interest will also feature the aforementioned Cathy Purcell and Kathleen Doherty, who will share their artistic explorations throughout the event.
Heritage walking tours will also form part of the festival programme. Visitors and locals will get the chance to discover Waterford’s rich history with tours such as the 'Forgotten Women of Waterford', 'Culture Quarter Walking Tour' and the 'Waterfronts Walking Tour'. All of which offer unique insights into the city’s past.
'Booze, Blaas & Banter', an early-morning gathering featuring storytelling, history, and music will pay homage to Waterford’s maritime and social heritage while on the visual arts front there will be free exhibitions across the city including the innovative Shell/Ter Collective at GOMA, blending textile art and film, and stunning works by Lillian O'Sullivan, Geraldine Kavanagh, and Edel Regan.
The Imagine Arts Festival will run from October 22 to 27, and more information on all events taking place can be found at imagineartsfestival.com
