A "diverse and vibrant display of artistic excellence" is promised at this year's Kilkenny Arts Festival, which takes place from August 11th to 20th.
The festival, which draws from the worlds of art, drama, music, literature, dance and comedy, is now entering its 33rd year. Newly-appointed chief executive officer Geraldine Tierney said yesterday that audiences can expect "a packed programme of national and international artists".
Frank McCafferty's first play, Tintype, will make its world debut in the Parade Tower of Kilkenny Castle. Described as "a visual, theatrical journey", Tintype looks at the themes of identity and alienation in a world driven by technology.
Other firsts for the festival include The Old Tune and Night, both by Robert Pinget and translated by Samuel Beckett, and a silent performance from French theatre group La Compagnie Fiat Lux. Their new production, Strike, is a humorous and poignant depiction of the chaos caused by a train strike.
There will be readings from the award-winning British poet and novelist, Tobias Hill and the Irish author of The Last Deeds and Blue Tango, Eoin McNamee.
To book tickets and for more information log on to: www.kilkennyarts.ie or call 086-7752175.