Mallow revelling to the beat of arts festival

EAGER CROWDS FLOCK TO TOWN TO ENJOY THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF THE 2018 MALLOW ARTS FESTIVAL

THE 2018 Mallow Arts Festival proved to be a tremendous success, with the weather playing its part to help generate a wonderful atmosphere across the town.

Renowned fashion designer Michael Mortell was back on home soil to officially open proceedings at the Hibernian Hotel, which was also the venue later on that evening for one of the festival high-points – a concert by the Irish queen of jazz and blues, Mary Coughlan, with support from Mourneabbey’s Julie Buckley.

The art exhibition saw works displayed at venues across the town, while more than 50 people took part in a historical walking tour of the town under the guidance of local experts.

Over the past weekend Mallow was buzzing as people flocked to enjoy the on-street entertainment and the numerous events taking place at venues across the town

These included a selection of award-winning short films at the Gate Cinema, curated by Ger Browne, poetry readings by some well-known local faces at Mallow Library and a performance on Noni Stapleton’s one-woman play ‘Charolais’ at the Amelian Theatre.

Saturday was the busiest day of the festival with plenty outdoor entertainment, including a family fun day and a theatrical production of Robin Hood and his Mery Men.

Cor Magh Ealla gave an afternoon recital at Market Square, while the atmosphheric surroundings of St James’ Church hosting gigs across the day featuring an eclectic mix of artists, including Elaine Malone, Dan Walsh Eoin Leahy and Noel Walsh. The day-long busking competition also proved very popular with visitors.

A packed final day on Sunday included readings by Dublin poet James Conway at the Hibernian Hotel and a performance by popular family folk group Greenshine with a concert featuring Hank Wedel and his Band and German folk group Red Pony closing the festival with a concert at Ocanas.

None of this would have been possible without the hard work of the festival committee, led by chairperson Tadgh Curtis, who must be acknowledged for putting together such a wonderful five-days of entertainment.

The Cork City Samba Band at entertaining the crowd outside St. Mary’s Church on Saturday afternoon. Photos: Eugene Cosgrove.

Mourneabbey singer/songwriter Julie Buckley on stage ahead of the opening night concert by Mary Coughlan (inset) at the Hibernian Hotel.

Veteran singer/songwriter Hank Wedel and his Band were joined by German folk group Red Pont for the final gig of the festival at Ocanas. Photo: Jimmy Howard.

Amelia (above) and Silk, joint winners of the on-street busking competition.