Waterville counting down to another Charlie festival...

IF you want to enjoy the only Charlie Chaplin festival in the world then a visit to Waterville from August 23 to 26 is a must.

Nowhere in the world is the monarch of silent comedy more revered than in Waterville where in 1959 Chaplin first visited the village to make a lifelong bond, which has remained strong ever since. Chaplin’s legacy is a cornerstone of four magical days with family fun and entertainment; a place where screen writers, authors, historians, film producers and comedians come to share their experiences.

This is one festival that likes to open with a bang, and it gets underway on Thursday, August 23, when a Trad Session at Teach Amergin will be preceded by the parade and official opening of the festival. It’s a festival with something for everyone in terms of street entertainment, live music and comedy acts, plus it’s a cultural festival that celebrates various aspects of history and current affairs. Sunday, August 26 sees the annual world 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). Meet at the Charlie Chaplin statue at 4pm. You should also check out the Charlie Chaplin picture gallery which is well worth a visit, while Friday Night Comedy with Karl Spain and Kevin McGahern needs little promotion as these two are a laugh a minute.

The Festival Comedy Club - organic comedy at its brilliant best - sees such rising stars as Tralee’s Shane Clifford, Ashley Manning, Richard Collins, and Anthony Riordan perform. This open air event takes place at the Charlie Chaplin statue at 8pm. The ever popular Hermitage Green will also perform at the Fossetts Big Top at 10pm. Sunday hosts the annual awards day which is a coming together of people in the arts, and a much deserved recommendation for their work. Directors Dan O’Connell and Gwenda Young will screen ‘Movie Memories’ after the awards ceremony. The pre-awards reception starts at 1pm at Teach Amergin. All are welcome to attend. Lastly, on Sunday evening Jake Carter is sure to draw a huge crowd to the Fossetts Big Top tent at 8pm.

The weekend is also packed full of comedy workshops, exhibitions, Fossetts Circus, barbecue, classic cinema, and village market. For more information check out www.chaplinfilmfestival.com for details on times, dates and venues. You can also follow their Facebook page for updates and events.