Robots invaded Temple Bar this summer, and before the holidays end it might be an idea to see how they've got on.
The exhibition Save the Robots (right) at the Ark Cultural Centre for Children looks at the history of mechanical humans and animals, and features a huge variety of droids, from 18th-century robotic ducks to R2D2 and Sonny from I, Robot.
There are also robot-building workshops every day. Opening hours are 10.30am to 5.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday, and tickets cost €8.50. See www.ark.ie, or call 01-6707788. - Davin O'Dwyer
ListenIn
What's hot on your iPod?
Jimmy Fay, director of Bedrock Theatre Co, which is presenting the play Urban Ghosts at the Dublin Theatre Festival
"I'm listening to She's Not There by the Zombies. My favourite track is Rollin' and Tumblin' by Muddy Waters. I'm listening to Who'll Pay Reparations for My Soul from Gill Scott Heron. Also OHM: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music - Brian Eno put it together. And Jandek, he's great, and John Fahey, an iconic guitarist." - In conversation with Catherine Foley
SceneOut
Ardgillan Castle, Balbriggan, Co Dublin
When REM recently played a concert at Ardgillan Castle, singer Michael Stipe kept apologising for the distraction of the view. The 194-acre demesne offers views stretching from Skerries all the way to the Mourne Mountains. The "castle" is in fact an 18th-century castellated house around which there are guided tours. But the highlight is outside, where the gardens are currently in bloom. Open 10am-9pm until the end of August. Details from 01-8492212. - Shane Hegarty
The 164th Moate Agricultural Show, Saturday Aug 27
InFestival
This rural festival in Co Westmeath is one of the oldest shows in the country. It is held in the grounds of Moate Castle and includes show-jumping, cookery, flower shows, dogs and crafts. Some of the finest farm animals will be preened and presented for inspection in the All-Ireland final champion categories, including filly foals and Charolais heifers (left). For more information contact the show's secretary, Reggie Mitchell, at 086-3041089. - CF
Where to go, what to see: for entertainment listings, see The Ticket every Friday in The Irish Times, or go to www.ireland.com/theticket.
