Run by Laois County Council Arts Office this years festival includes readings, classes in creative writing, book launches, children’s events and music.
I haven't been able to blog much lately as I'm editing, editing, editing... you should see the state of my kitchen! I'll be back in action soon, in the meantime I'm facilitating a day long workshop in Portlaoise as part of this autumn literary festival. The idea behind the workshop is to use one of your poems to inspire further poems, or even a series of poems. Complete beginners are completely welcome.
Friday 9th November
Official launch: Áras an Chontae at 7.30pm.
Launching poetry collections by Ann Egan, Kathy D’Arcy, Jamie O’Connell and Pat Boran.
Chaired by James Ryan chairing the readings. Music from Conal Rae.
Poems Beget Poems Workshop:
10am to 4pm @ Dunamaise Arts Centre: 40 Euro
By Hennessy award winner Niamh Boyce. This workshop would suit writers who have begun to write poetry and would like to explore it further, participants must bring one of their own poems to work with, its doesnt have to be complete or perfect, just one that has more to give.
Saturday 10th November
Seasons Of The Heart workshop:
10am to 4pm @ Dunamaise Arts Centre: 40 Euro
John MacKenna will hold a workshop exploring the ways in which we can draw on nature and our own life experiences to create fiction and memoir.
Readings and Music
8pm @ Arthouse & Library, Stradbally: 12/10 Euro.
An exciting mix of readings and music featuring Christine Dwyer Hickey, Niamh Boyce and Nuala Ní Chonchúir, chaired by Seamus Hosey, with music by harpist Claire O Donnell.
Bookings for all events can be made at the Dunamaise Arts Centre Tel: 057 8663355. www.dunamaise.ie
