‘The air in Water ville is worth a thousand pounds a breath ’– Charlie Chaplin
“A POPULAR festival, nationally and internationality, with its own unique flavour and vibe which appeals to all ages” is how Barry O’Donovan describes the Chaplin festival, adding: “Waterville is extremely lucky in the sense it’s the only festival of its kind in the world dedicated to Chaplin.”
Chaplin and his family made Waterville there number one holiday spot; so much so that even today members of the family still holiday in Waterville every year.
“Charlie used to visit Waterville with his family twice a year and there was always a great buzz in the village when he arrived. He loved fishing on the lake and walking on the promenade which is now named ‘ The Charlie Chaplin Way’ in his honour,” Barry added.
Barry stressed that Waterville is fortunate to be a very eclectic locality and can draw on such talents as film director, Rory Fellowes - a man of vast experience - who has worked with the festival to create the vibrant theme ‘ The Golden Age of Cinema’.
While this year’s festival will also showcase a special Charlie Chaplin gallery at its Main Street offices. “This will make a lovey addition for tourists who can enjoy film and pictures of Chaplin’s life in Waterville. Charlie used to love looking out at the sea and once said: ‘ the air in Waterville is worth a thousand pounds a breath’.
It’s good to know that hasn’t changed as it’s still a beautiful setting. Every day in our tourist information centre you are guaranteed a number of questions about Chaplin as people are genuinely fascinated by the connection.”