Now in it’s 11th year the Leaves Festival of Writing and Music continues to grow from strength to strength and is becoming a firm fixture on the literary circuit. The festival celebrates writing and music in the beautiful setting of Laois. Leaves is the festival to enjoy contemporary writers, the art of conversation, musicians, film and theatre.
This year the festival is curated by one of Ireland’s best known writers Dermot Bolger. Dermot, together with Laois Arts Officer Muireann Ní Chonaill have put together a comprehensive week long programme that includes readings by literary greats, bi-lingual performance, workshops, music, and conversations.
The backdrop for many of these events is the Dunamaise Arts Centre in the centre of Portlaoise. Once the town prison this beautifully restored building is now a vibrant Arts Centre.
The 18th century St Peter’s Church is one of the highlights of the architectural heritage of Portlaoise. The acoustics in this magnificent church lends itself perfectly to music and the spoken word. This is the ideal setting to listen to Irish legend John Sheehan, sean nos signer Sibéal Ní Chasaide and prose by Niamh Boyce.
Ballintubbert Gardens and House, home to Sebastian Shaw and Cecil Day Lewis is steeped in literature, poetry, stories, music and food.
Choose any 3 evening events for just
in various locations in Portlaoise, Co Laois.
Tickets are on sale now at www.dunamaise.ie.
