It’s Chaplin time again as Waterville counts down to another festival

IF it’s lights, camera and action you seek then a visit to the Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival from August 24-27 is a good place to start. Nowhere in the world is the monarch of silent comedy more revered than in Waterville where in 1959 he first visited the village and started a lifelong connection which has remained strong ever since. Today, Chaplin’s legacy is a cornerstone of four magical days with family fun, entertainment, and where screen writers, authors, historians, film producers and comedians come to share their experiences.

Saturday will host another crack at the Guinness Wold Record Attempt for the largest gathering of people dressed as Charlie Chaplin. Take note of the requirement to dress up as Charlie and remember it’s all about the fun.

Among this year’s guest speakers will be Samantha Jane Power – United States Ambassador to the United Nations; Liam Muldowney will talk about Laurel & Hardy in Ireland; US legal scholar and bestselling author, Cass Robert Sunstein, while Dorothy and Amy Rudd will give an informal talk on the history of Waterville’s telegraph cable.

Sunday will host the annual awards evening at Tech Amergin which will be followed by a screening of the 1936 Killarney-shot film, The Dawn. “This festival is very much about showcasing the best of Irish talent in entertainment and seeing as ‘The Dawn’ was the first feature film ever shot in Kerry we’re very proud to show it at our festival,” said Barry O’Donovan, festival PRO.