From Dry January events and tribute performances to an exhibition that explores Irish pubs in art, here’s the best of what’s on this weekend.
Dry January Festival
All January, venues across Dublin, more info here
For those partaking in Dry January, this festival is inviting you to discover a whole new Dublin—no booze required. With a month-long programme designed to spark creativity, build connections and maybe even leave you with a new hobby or two, this weekend’s events include a sustainable shopping trail, a make-your-own-cup pottery workshop and a beginner’s yoga session.
Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance: A Lifetime of Standing Ovations
15-18 January, Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin, more info here
Michael Flatley’s ground-breaking choreography for Riverdance was followed by massive global success with hit show Lord of the Dance. A show that’s been dazzling audiences across the globe with its unique combination of high-energy Irish dancing, original music, storytelling and sensuality, it’s coming back to Dublin for five unmissable shows.
Plates & Palettes: Irish Pubs in Art
16 January, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, more info here
Join hosts Blanca Valencia and Santina Kennedy for Plates & Palettes, an immersive culinary experience exploring Irish pubs in art. Irish pubs hold a revered place in the heart of Irish culture, serving as more than mere watering holes; they are vibrant centers of social interaction, storytelling, and conviviality. Through the artwork of the time, this exhibition explores the food and drink of pubs throughout Irish history.
Accents by Emmet Kirwan
16-18 January, Ambassador Theatre, Dublin, more info here
‘The sound of your voice is the sound of your family, your community and where you’re from. It can lift you and lay you down.’ With poetry from Emmet Kirwan and music from the late Eoin French, Accents is a loving testament to a beautiful soul and towering talent, someone who was also the driving force behind the band Talos.
Midwinter Festival: RAVEL
17-19 January, Town Hall Theatre, Galway, more info here
Music for Galway celebrates 150 years since the birth of Maurice Ravel, one of the most original and sophisticated composers of the twentieth century. The festival presents a wide-ranging survey of his solo piano, chamber and vocal music, as well as a new choreography of his world-famous Boléro.
Alex in Wonderland
From 17 January, Backstage Theatre, Longford, more info here
Wonderland is in an uproar at the arrival of Alice – the girl prophesied to defeat the wicked Red Queen and restore peace to the land. There’s just one problem – she’s not Alice at all! Together with her magical pals, Alex in Wonderland must overcome this case of mistaken identity, win control of the kingdom and find her way home once and for all, before the villains decide it’s off with her head!
These Charming Men – A Tribute To The Smiths
18 January, Cyprus Avenue, Cork, more info here
Formed in 1995, this Dublin tribute band continue to charm fans of The Smiths all around the globe with their finely tuned, energetic and passionate live shows. They are classed as one of the premier Smiths tribute bands around at the moment.
The David Kronn Collection
Until 27 January, IMMA, Dublin, more info here
This exhibition of photography from the David Kronn Collection celebrates the fourth donation to the IMMA Collection from Irish-born, US-based collector David Kronn. The donation includes a diverse selection of works, ranging from the 19th century to the present day, by modernist and contemporary photographers.
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