8 January events happening around Ireland that should definitely be on your radar

Dirtbirds’ #NoFilters

Taking place on numerous dates at various locations throughout Ireland, more here

In a world where women are expected to have the patience of Mother Teresa, the arse of Jennifer Lopez, the social media profile of Kim Kardashian and the BMI of Elle McPherson, the pressure is relentless. Comedy duo and internet sensations Dirtbirds present their hilarious new show #NoFilters, taking a close look at the barrage of bullshit we are subjected to on a daily basis and reminds us that despite what we’re told there is no such thing as perfect.

Tommy Tiernan’s Tomfoolery

5, 6, 7, 12, 13 & 14 January, Vicar Street, Dublin, more here

Tommy Tiernan’s brand new show ‘tomfoolery’ sees the now 50-year-old comedian back onstage with an exhilarating mix of the highly personal and flamboyant storytelling that audiences have come to love. Renowned for his no holds barred approach to the art of stand-up, this promises to be a delightful trip through the mouth and mind of one the world’s most respected comic performers.

Gearóid Farrelly’s Glamour Hammer tour

Taking place on numerous dates at various locations throughout Ireland, more here

In this show Gearóid takes a look at the litany of things in our lives that just don’t measure up. Everything from his generic-looking cat to Shania Twain. He will also be examining the big issues that really sell tickets like mental health (insert something searingly honest), masculinity (grrrr), relationships (sexy stuff as opposed to splitting bills), and how we’re living in a time when we can say anything we like and it becomes the truth.

Estonian National Ballet — Swan Lake

11-15 January, Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin, more here

For the first time in its 100-year history, the acclaimed Estonian National Ballet comes to Bord Gáis Energy Theatre with a full-length classic production of Swan Lake. Accompanied by the Irish National Opera Orchestra, the season is strictly limited to seven performances only, taking place from Wednesday 11 January – Sunday 15 January 2023.

The Piece with the Drums

17-28 January, Project Arts Centre, Dublin, more here

CoisCéim Dance Theatre is back at Project Arts Centre with The Piece with the Drums, a driving dance narrative between dancer and percussion. Directed and choreographed by David Bolger, with music, beats and everything in between by pioneering Jazz percussionist Conor Guilfoyle, this major new work is a colourful exploration of relationships, spirituality, and our connection to rhythm, life and the cosmos.

The Guilty Feminist

24 January, The Sugar Club, Dublin, more here

Less of a podcast and more of a global phenomenon, The Guilty Feminist, hosted by Deborah Frances-White and featuring world class guests, is part comedy, part deep dive discussion and part activism. This is the show that proves you don’t have to be perfect to be a force for meaningful change.

Hedge School 2023

27-29 January, Doolin, more here

Hedge School is a place of imagination, providing a magical setting for unique collaborations and intimate encounters between artist and audience, master and student in Doolin. Hedge School 2023 will be an eclectic mix of some Ireland’s greatest innovators performing, sharing, and collaborating across a vista of artistic disciplines.

Galz Gone Wild Galway Hike

15 & 29 January

Inclusive sea swimming and hiking group Galz Gone Wild are hosting two special events this January, the first of which will be a hike through the hills east Clare. The second event on the last Sunday of the month is a free Rise & Salt event which will have you embracing the thrill of a chilly winter dip followed by a warm drink.