Beowulf - A Thousand Years of Baggage
Set Theatre
New York ensemble Banana Bag & Bodice bring you a riotous, raw and rowdy retelling of this ancient tale, set to the rhythms of an explosive seven-piece band
Request Programme
Acclaimed Cork-based theatre company Corcadorca presents an intimate show staged in a real apartment and starring IFTA-winning actress Eileen Walsh.
Tabernacle
The Watergate Theatre
Fearghus Ó Conchúir, one of Ireland’s leading independent choreographers, presents an exciting new dance piece that takes a thoughtful look at changing attitudes to religion
anybody waitin’?
ponydance are back, and this time they’re free! Join these incorrigible flirts on their quest through the streets of Kilkenny to find a man
The Big Deal
Barnstorm Theatre
Una McKevitt returns to Kilkenny with the extraordinary real-life story of two women who knew from a very young age that they were born into the wrong bodies
Title & Deed
Barnstorm Theatre
Gare St Lazare Players Ireland are back with the world premiere of Title and Deed, a new piece specially-written for the company by acclaimed American playwright Will Eno
Star Boy
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Joe Brennan presents this delightful early years theatre performance, telling the tale of a small boy who just loves to explore
Holy Mary
The Watergate Theatre
A magical and hilarious new play by Eoin Colfer, bestselling author of the Artemis Fowl series, that takes an honest look at life through the eyes of eight-year-old Majella Barnes
Body Duet
The Watergate Theatre
John Scott’s Irish Modern Dance Theatre presents an energy-packed performance featuring two outstanding dancers
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari: Silent film with live score by Eric Sweeney & 3epkano
St Canice’s Cathedral
Eric Sweeney joins 3epkano to perform a live score to the silent film The Cabinet of Dr Caligari in St. Canice's Cathedral
Resurgam & the Irish Baroque Orchestra, directed by Christophe Rousset
St Canice’s Cathedral
Celebrated choir Resurgam joins forces with festival favourites the Irish Baroque Orchestra to perform Baroque masterpieces, directed by Christophe Rousset
William Butt
St. John’s Priory
Acclaimed cellist William Butt performs an intimate lunchtime concert in St.John's Priory
European Union Baroque Orchestra
The Black Abbey
This dynamic orchestra, featuring Europe's finest young musicians, explores the musical legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach through the music of his sons
Christophe Rousset
St. John’s Priory
Flamboyant harpsichordist Christophe Rousset performs works by Francois and Louis Couperin
Brian O’Kane & James Willshire - Change of Venue
St Canice’s Cathedral
Two outstanding young Irish musicians present a lunchtime programme featuring cornerstones of the repertoire for violin and cello
Kaleidoscope
Design Centre
This laidback salon-style night comes to Kilkenny for two nights of music, song and surprise, mixing the classical with the cutting edge
Amarilli Trio
The Parade Tower
Kilkenny's Maria Ryan makes a welcome return with the Amarilli Trio, performing sparkling string trios from Beethoven and Schubert
Camerata Kilkenny
The Black Abbey
The acclaimed ensemble return to Kilkenny with a breathtaking range of works by Bach and Telemann
Laoise O’Brien
The Parade Tower
A special concert celebrating all things avian, with early music specialist Laoise O'Brien and some of Ireland's finest musicians from both classical and traditional worlds
Alessandro Taverna
St Canice’s Cathedral
An outstanding young Venetian pianist presents a mouthwatering programme of popular favourites
Rebecca and Kirsten Capova
St Canice’s Cathedral
Two sisters, both accomplished pianists, pool their considerable talents (and four hands!) for an exhilarating programme of piano duets
Birdsong Workshop
Gallery 3G Castle Yard
Workshops by musician Laoise O'Brien and visual artist Lorna Donlon.
Kilkenny Arts Festival Choir
St Canice’s Cathedral
A 100-strong choir joins forces with leading singers and performers for a rousing finale in St Canice's
Cashell Trio
St Canice’s Cathedral
Multi-talented siblings join forces to perform piano trios by Beethoven, Shostakovich and Lalo
TrioVD
Set Theatre
TrioVD, one of the most innovative jazz bands in the UK, are coming to the Set for an unmissable high-energy gig.
Guo Yue - Cookery Demonstration
Set Theatre
Guo Yue, author, chef, composer and flute player awakens the senses at a Chinese cookery masterclass.
OKO
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
OKO brings together some of the finest players on the Dublin jazz scene for a night of innovative sounds.
Guo Yue - Performance
The Hole in the Wall
Guo Yue, author, chef, composer and flute player plays an intimate show at the Hole in the Wall.
Susan McKeown & Christine Tobin
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Grammy-winning vocalist Susan McKeown and eclectic singer/songwriter Christine Tobin use poetry as their inspiration for this unique gig.
Barry Guy & Evan Parker
St. John’s Priory
A rare chance to see these giants of jazz improv play together as a duo, sharing the intuitive musical understanding they’ve built up over more than forty years.
T with the Maggies with Donal Lunny
St Canice’s Cathedral
A very special night in St. Canice's with Tríona and Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Moya Brennan.
Hanggai
Set Theatre
Hanggai bring their unique blend of Mongolian instruments and Western sensibility to Kilkenny.
Mari Kvien Brunvoll
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
A genuine original with a captivating voice that straddles jazz, electro pop and acoustic blues with ease.
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Their raw, exuberant sound, melding hip hop with jazz, is like the soundtrack to the coolest movie you ever saw.
Luka Bloom & Friends
Set Theatre
A night of rousing, heartfelt songs and outstanding musicianship in the Set.
The Amazing Few - End of Festival Party
Set Theatre
An 11-piece band (and counting) who play ‘psycho-pop’; a unique style of music that leans heavily on ska, nicks pop’s lunch money and gives punk a wedgie.
Cathal Coughlan and the Grand Necropolitan Quintet
The Watergate Theatre
Cork’s Cathal Coughlan showcases his extraordinary voice in the company of long-term collaborators, the Grand Necropolitan Quintet.
James Vincent McMorrow
St Canice’s Cathedral
Discover James Vincent McMorrow's soulful voice and wistful melodies in the awe-inspiring surrounds of St. Canice's Cathedral.
The Sea and Cake
The Watergate Theatre
Harmonic presents The Sea and Cake who bring their distinctive jazz/rock/lounge/pop sound to Kilkenny in the company of The Buzz Aldrin Allstars.
New Music Night
Set Theatre
Presenting Somadrone, Geppetto, Thread Puls, Margie Lewis and Toby Kaar.
Agnes Obel with Cian Nugent
St Canice’s Cathedral
Harmonic presents Agnes Obel who can weave a spell with little more than a voice, a piano, and an array of deceptively simple melodies. Supported by Cian Nugent.
Emmy The Great
St. John’s Priory
Emma-Lee Moss's exquisite melodies and thoughtful lyrics guarantee this to be one of the stand-out gigs of the festival.
Drums Off Chaos and Philip Jeck
Set Theatre
Since 1982, Jaki Liebezeit, Reiner Linke and Maf Retter have been creating headspinning storms of multi-layered groove using odd meters and unconventional rhythms.
Gemma Hayes with Ann Scott
St. John’s Priory
Tipperary’s Gemma Hayes's eclectic blend of folk, prog rock and electronica has been winning over audiences at home and abroad.
Mark Kozelek with Geese
St Canice’s Cathedral
Harmonic presents former frontman of the Red House Painters, Mark Kozelek, an acclaimed lyricist known for his achingly beautiful songs, delivered in a melancholy baritone.
Sunday Miscellany: RTE Radio 1
The Watergate Theatre
Join Clíodhna Ní Anluain and a terrific selection of writers and musicians for a special recording of Sunday Miscellany Live from the Watergate Theatre
The Arts Are A Luxury We Can’t Afford Right Now! - Panel Discussion
The Pembroke Hotel
A panel discussion on the position of the arts in a time of recession. Come along and have your say!
Dermot Healy & Patrick McCabe
Set Theatre
Two acclaimed Irish writers share their latest work in the Set
Hubert Butler Lecture Professor Morgan Kelly
St Canice’s Cathedral
A rare chance to hear, and question, one of Ireland's most forthright and prescient economists
Gerard Smyth and Leanne O’Sullivan
The Parade Tower
Dubliner Gerard Smyth and Leanne O’Sullivan, from the Beara peninsula, have more in common than you might think: both were teenage prodigies.
Kilkenny 100 Years Ago
Newpark Hotel
A distinguished panel of speakers reveal what the 1911 Census can tell us about the world of our great-grandparents
Belinda McKeon, Kevin Barry & Paul Murray, Introduced by Cormac Kinsella
The Parade Tower
The future of Irish fiction comes to Kilkenny in the form of three fresh and exciting new voices
Fintan O’Toole: The Power of the Object
The Parade Tower
Explore our continuing fascination for objects with Fintan O'Toole and Prof. Daniel Miller
The Great Natural Resources Debate
The Parade Tower
Join a distinguished panel of speakers to debate the pros and cons of Ireland's energy policy.
TC Boyle, Introduced by Colm Toibin
The Parade Tower
The charismatic American author brings his unforgettable characters and corruscating satire to Kilkenny
Tobias Wolff & David Vann
The Watergate Theatre
David Vann makes a welcome return to the festival in the company of one of the greatest of contemporary American writers, Tobias Wolff
John Banville writing as Benjamin Black
The Parade Tower
The acclaimed crime writer discusses literature, crime and alter egos with literary critic Michael Wood
Paul Muldoon & Michael Longley, Introduced by Olivia O’Leary
St Canice’s Cathedral
A rare chance to hear these two great Northern Irish poets as they share the stage at St Canice's. This will be a memorable night.
Francisco Goldman
The Parade Tower
The acclaimed American writer reads from Say Her Name, his most personal and moving work to date
Claire Keegan & Janice Galloway
The Parade Tower
Two acknowledged masters of the short story reveal the secrets of the form
David Beattie
St. Mary’s Hall
An artist who encourages a sense of curiosity and exploration in his act of displacing quotidian objects.
Ann Craven
Castle Yard Gallery
Ann Craven is a compelling New York-based artist whose work focuses on recurring subject matter such as flowers, birds and the moon.
Nick Miller
The Heritage Council
In this multimedia piece Nick Miller draws our attention to the tradition of the reclining nude in art.
Jacco Olivier
The Courthouse
Jacco Olivier fuses painting and filmmaking, continually reworking his paintings with generous, casual brushstrokes and photographing each stage of their development
Michael Thomas Murphy
Kenealy’s Art Shop
Michael Thomas Murphy’s work is multidimensional and multi-layered incorporating many materials.
Maria McKinney
Rothe House
Maria McKinney is concerned with ideas of boredom and escapism and works with familiar objects and materials.
Liam O’Callaghan
Muniments Room, Kilkenny Castle
Playful – even satirical – installations, sculptures and photographs exposing the methods or mechanics in their construction.
Strand 2 - Rachel Dickson & Alison Lowry
Kilkenny County Council Arts Office
Kilkenny County Council Arts Office presents this joint exhibition of ceramics and glass from two emerging Irish makers: Rachel Dickson and Alison Lowry.
Strand 2 - We Are All in This Together
The Watergate Theatre
Exhibiting artists: Maeve Coulter, Sylvia Hemmingway, Emma Hogan, Alé Mercado and Aiseling Noone.
Strand 2 - Ian Burns
Butler Gallery
Ian Burns’s sculptures and installations investigate the expectations of art viewing with wry humor and audience engaging invention.
Brunch with the Artists
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
Join the artists for a free, informal brunch with special guests including curator Hugh Mulholland, art critic Gemma Tipton and journalist John Waters.
This event is free but ticketed.
Living Colour: Film Screening
Set Theatre
Living Colour is a documentary film exploring the world of an extraordinary artists' collective in Callan, Co. Kilkenny.
Other Selections - Commonage
Commonage
Situated in historic locations in Callan, COMMONAGE 2011 includes temporary built structures by artists, designers and architects.
Other Selections - The Workhouse Test
Dunnes Bakery
The Workhouse Test presents a collaborative exhibition that aims to establish links with international art spaces
Other Selections - Jerpoint Studio
Jerpoint Glass Studio
This group exhibition showcases the work of several 'hot glass divas', both up-and-coming artists and internationally-renowned names
Other Selections - Ross Stewart & Andrew Ludick
Castle Yard Gallery
An exhibition of work by ceramicist Andrew Ludick and painter Ross Stewart
Other Selections - KCAT - The Empty Heat of Neanderthal Man
The Workhouse
An exhibition of recent sculpture work by five studio artists, comprising a range of materials such as stone, clay, wood, and mixed media
Other Selections - Made in Kilkenny
Butler House
This year’s exhibition - A Maker’s Journey: from inspiration to creation - traces the process of design, exploring the different elements each craftsperson takes into consideration to produce a finished piece
Other Selections - Ceann
Shankill Castle
Ceann 2011 offers a visual feast in the historic setting of Shankill Castle
Other Selections - Lucy McKenna
Kilkenny Castle Park
This installation in Kilkenny Castle Park explores the darker side of the human psyche
Other Selections - KCAT - Mary Cody
L’Arche Cafe
Sky, Stones, Sea features work inspired by famous beauty spots in the Irish landscape
![Other Selections - Daithi O hUallachain [David Holohan]](/content/images/sized/daithi_ohuallachain_02-220x120.jpg)
Other Selections - Daithi O hUallachain [David Holohan]
Kitchen Corridor - Kilkenny Castle
An exhibition of Daithi's recent paintings, full of light and vibrancy
Other Selections - On the Surface
The Courtyard Bar and Grill
A joint exhibition by artists Bernadette Kiely and Paul Mosse. While Kiely’s and Mosse’s work appears very different on the surface, there is a slowly emerging resonance at play.
Other Selections - Niall Harkin
Berkley Gallery
This exhibition, Votive Offerings, presents the fruits of two years’ work with sheet bronze
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Brendan Brennan
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Clive Nunn
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Kirsty O’Keeffe
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Nicola Brown
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Trini Kenny
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Maire Gartland
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Blackbird Gallery
Blackbird Gallery
The Blackbird Gallery presents a selection of works by three emerging artists
Sunday Miscellany: RTE Radio 1
The Watergate Theatre
Join Clíodhna Ní Anluain and a terrific selection of writers and musicians for a special recording of Sunday Miscellany Live from the Watergate Theatre
Modified Expression
The National Craft Gallery
Tear, fold, cut, read, write, print, and colour: Modified Expression, this year’s CRAFT strand exhibition, is all about books.
Artists’ Talk - Craft
The National Craft Gallery
Angela O’Kelly will introduce an artists’ talk at 3pm on Saturday 6 August in the National Craft Gallery (Gallery 1).
Bookbinding with Rachel Hazell
The National Craft Gallery
Join bookbinder and artist Rachel Hazell for interactive bookbinding activities based on the 1911 Kilkenny Census
Celebration of the Year of Craft
The National Craft Gallery
Join us for a glass of wine in the company of festival musicians and writers.
Solas Supreme Workshop
Butler Gallery
Come along to these outdoor children's workshops using household objects to create fantastical sculptures
Fintan O’Toole: The Power of the Object
The Parade Tower
Explore our continuing fascination for objects with Fintan O'Toole and Prof. Daniel Miller
Paper Craft Laboratory
The National Craft Gallery
Explore the art of bookmaking, shadow puppetry, jewellery-making and more in the Crafts Council's free paper art workshops for children
Birdsong Workshop
Gallery 3G Castle Yard
Workshops by musician Laoise O'Brien and visual artist Lorna Donlon.
Other Selections - Commonage
Commonage
Situated in historic locations in Callan, COMMONAGE 2011 includes temporary built structures by artists, designers and architects.
Other Selections - Jerpoint Studio
Jerpoint Glass Studio
This group exhibition showcases the work of several 'hot glass divas', both up-and-coming artists and internationally-renowned names
Other Selections - Ross Stewart & Andrew Ludick
Castle Yard Gallery
An exhibition of work by ceramicist Andrew Ludick and painter Ross Stewart
Other Selections - Made in Kilkenny
Butler House
This year’s exhibition - A Maker’s Journey: from inspiration to creation - traces the process of design, exploring the different elements each craftsperson takes into consideration to produce a finished piece
Other Selections - Ceann
Shankill Castle
Ceann 2011 offers a visual feast in the historic setting of Shankill Castle
Other Selections - Lucy McKenna
Kilkenny Castle Park
This installation in Kilkenny Castle Park explores the darker side of the human psyche
Other Selections - Niall Harkin
Berkley Gallery
This exhibition, Votive Offerings, presents the fruits of two years’ work with sheet bronze
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Brendan Brennan
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Clive Nunn
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Kirsty O’Keeffe
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Nicola Brown
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Trini Kenny
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Maire Gartland
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
The Three Sisters
Kieran Street
View colourful street decorations in Kieran Street made by local volunteers of all ages.
Festival Trail
Gather a group of intrepid explorers to discover Kilkenny on foot, following our ‘treasure hunt’ style Festival Trail
Fanzini Brothers
Canal Walk
The Fanzini Brothers proudly present their brand new madcap street show Cannonball Circus.
Beowulf - A Thousand Years of Baggage. Free Taster
The Parade
Come along to the Parade to see a free taster of Beowulf – A Thousand Years of Baggage.
anybody waitin’?
ponydance are back, and this time they’re free! Join these incorrigible flirts on their quest through the streets of Kilkenny to find a man
Festival Trail
Gather a group of intrepid explorers to discover Kilkenny on foot, following our ‘treasure hunt’ style Festival Trail
David Donohue
The Parade Tower
The bestselling author and backwards-speller extraordinaire rides into town to talk about his backwards-spelling hero, Walter Speazlebud
Bookbinding with Rachel Hazell
The National Craft Gallery
Join bookbinder and artist Rachel Hazell for interactive bookbinding activities based on the 1911 Kilkenny Census
Solas Supreme Workshop
Butler Gallery
Come along to these outdoor children's workshops using household objects to create fantastical sculptures
Paper Craft Laboratory
The National Craft Gallery
Explore the art of bookmaking, shadow puppetry, jewellery-making and more in the Crafts Council's free paper art workshops for children
Star Boy
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Joe Brennan presents this delightful early years theatre performance, telling the tale of a small boy who just loves to explore
Holy Mary
The Watergate Theatre
A magical and hilarious new play by Eoin Colfer, bestselling author of the Artemis Fowl series, that takes an honest look at life through the eyes of eight-year-old Majella Barnes
Birdsong Workshop
Gallery 3G Castle Yard
Workshops by musician Laoise O'Brien and visual artist Lorna Donlon.
The Amazing Few
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
This exciting, interactive show will really get the kids jumping!
David Beattie
St. Mary’s Hall
An artist who encourages a sense of curiosity and exploration in his act of displacing quotidian objects.
Ann Craven
Castle Yard Gallery
Ann Craven is a compelling New York-based artist whose work focuses on recurring subject matter such as flowers, birds and the moon.
Nick Miller
The Heritage Council
In this multimedia piece Nick Miller draws our attention to the tradition of the reclining nude in art.
Jacco Olivier
The Courthouse
Jacco Olivier fuses painting and filmmaking, continually reworking his paintings with generous, casual brushstrokes and photographing each stage of their development
Michael Thomas Murphy
Kenealy’s Art Shop
Michael Thomas Murphy’s work is multidimensional and multi-layered incorporating many materials.
Maria McKinney
Rothe House
Maria McKinney is concerned with ideas of boredom and escapism and works with familiar objects and materials.
Liam O’Callaghan
Muniments Room, Kilkenny Castle
Playful – even satirical – installations, sculptures and photographs exposing the methods or mechanics in their construction.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari: Silent film with live score by Eric Sweeney & 3epkano
St Canice’s Cathedral
Eric Sweeney joins 3epkano to perform a live score to the silent film The Cabinet of Dr Caligari in St. Canice's Cathedral
Sunday Miscellany: RTE Radio 1
The Watergate Theatre
Join Clíodhna Ní Anluain and a terrific selection of writers and musicians for a special recording of Sunday Miscellany Live from the Watergate Theatre
Beowulf - A Thousand Years of Baggage
Set Theatre
New York ensemble Banana Bag & Bodice bring you a riotous, raw and rowdy retelling of this ancient tale, set to the rhythms of an explosive seven-piece band
Request Programme
Acclaimed Cork-based theatre company Corcadorca presents an intimate show staged in a real apartment and starring IFTA-winning actress Eileen Walsh.
The Three Sisters
Kieran Street
View colourful street decorations in Kieran Street made by local volunteers of all ages.
Festival Trail
Gather a group of intrepid explorers to discover Kilkenny on foot, following our ‘treasure hunt’ style Festival Trail
Strand 2 - Rachel Dickson & Alison Lowry
Kilkenny County Council Arts Office
Kilkenny County Council Arts Office presents this joint exhibition of ceramics and glass from two emerging Irish makers: Rachel Dickson and Alison Lowry.
Strand 2 - We Are All in This Together
The Watergate Theatre
Exhibiting artists: Maeve Coulter, Sylvia Hemmingway, Emma Hogan, Alé Mercado and Aiseling Noone.
TrioVD
Set Theatre
TrioVD, one of the most innovative jazz bands in the UK, are coming to the Set for an unmissable high-energy gig.
Strand 2 - Ian Burns
Butler Gallery
Ian Burns’s sculptures and installations investigate the expectations of art viewing with wry humor and audience engaging invention.
Modified Expression
The National Craft Gallery
Tear, fold, cut, read, write, print, and colour: Modified Expression, this year’s CRAFT strand exhibition, is all about books.
The Arts Are A Luxury We Can’t Afford Right Now! - Panel Discussion
The Pembroke Hotel
A panel discussion on the position of the arts in a time of recession. Come along and have your say!
Tabernacle
The Watergate Theatre
Fearghus Ó Conchúir, one of Ireland’s leading independent choreographers, presents an exciting new dance piece that takes a thoughtful look at changing attitudes to religion
Dermot Healy & Patrick McCabe
Set Theatre
Two acclaimed Irish writers share their latest work in the Set
Resurgam & the Irish Baroque Orchestra, directed by Christophe Rousset
St Canice’s Cathedral
Celebrated choir Resurgam joins forces with festival favourites the Irish Baroque Orchestra to perform Baroque masterpieces, directed by Christophe Rousset
William Butt
St. John’s Priory
Acclaimed cellist William Butt performs an intimate lunchtime concert in St.John's Priory
Brunch with the Artists
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
Join the artists for a free, informal brunch with special guests including curator Hugh Mulholland, art critic Gemma Tipton and journalist John Waters.
This event is free but ticketed.
Guo Yue - Cookery Demonstration
Set Theatre
Guo Yue, author, chef, composer and flute player awakens the senses at a Chinese cookery masterclass.
David Donohue
The Parade Tower
The bestselling author and backwards-speller extraordinaire rides into town to talk about his backwards-spelling hero, Walter Speazlebud
Artists’ Talk - Craft
The National Craft Gallery
Angela O’Kelly will introduce an artists’ talk at 3pm on Saturday 6 August in the National Craft Gallery (Gallery 1).
Fanzini Brothers
Canal Walk
The Fanzini Brothers proudly present their brand new madcap street show Cannonball Circus.
Beowulf - A Thousand Years of Baggage. Free Taster
The Parade
Come along to the Parade to see a free taster of Beowulf – A Thousand Years of Baggage.
Hubert Butler Lecture Professor Morgan Kelly
St Canice’s Cathedral
A rare chance to hear, and question, one of Ireland's most forthright and prescient economists
Bookbinding with Rachel Hazell
The National Craft Gallery
Join bookbinder and artist Rachel Hazell for interactive bookbinding activities based on the 1911 Kilkenny Census
Cathal Coughlan and the Grand Necropolitan Quintet
The Watergate Theatre
Cork’s Cathal Coughlan showcases his extraordinary voice in the company of long-term collaborators, the Grand Necropolitan Quintet.
OKO
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
OKO brings together some of the finest players on the Dublin jazz scene for a night of innovative sounds.
European Union Baroque Orchestra
The Black Abbey
This dynamic orchestra, featuring Europe's finest young musicians, explores the musical legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach through the music of his sons
Christophe Rousset
St. John’s Priory
Flamboyant harpsichordist Christophe Rousset performs works by Francois and Louis Couperin
Guo Yue - Performance
The Hole in the Wall
Guo Yue, author, chef, composer and flute player plays an intimate show at the Hole in the Wall.
Celebration of the Year of Craft
The National Craft Gallery
Join us for a glass of wine in the company of festival musicians and writers.
Susan McKeown & Christine Tobin
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Grammy-winning vocalist Susan McKeown and eclectic singer/songwriter Christine Tobin use poetry as their inspiration for this unique gig.
James Vincent McMorrow
St Canice’s Cathedral
Discover James Vincent McMorrow's soulful voice and wistful melodies in the awe-inspiring surrounds of St. Canice's Cathedral.
Gerard Smyth and Leanne O’Sullivan
The Parade Tower
Dubliner Gerard Smyth and Leanne O’Sullivan, from the Beara peninsula, have more in common than you might think: both were teenage prodigies.
The Sea and Cake
The Watergate Theatre
Harmonic presents The Sea and Cake who bring their distinctive jazz/rock/lounge/pop sound to Kilkenny in the company of The Buzz Aldrin Allstars.
Kilkenny 100 Years Ago
Newpark Hotel
A distinguished panel of speakers reveal what the 1911 Census can tell us about the world of our great-grandparents
Brian O’Kane & James Willshire - Change of Venue
St Canice’s Cathedral
Two outstanding young Irish musicians present a lunchtime programme featuring cornerstones of the repertoire for violin and cello
Living Colour: Film Screening
Set Theatre
Living Colour is a documentary film exploring the world of an extraordinary artists' collective in Callan, Co. Kilkenny.
anybody waitin’?
ponydance are back, and this time they’re free! Join these incorrigible flirts on their quest through the streets of Kilkenny to find a man
Barry Guy & Evan Parker
St. John’s Priory
A rare chance to see these giants of jazz improv play together as a duo, sharing the intuitive musical understanding they’ve built up over more than forty years.
Solas Supreme Workshop
Butler Gallery
Come along to these outdoor children's workshops using household objects to create fantastical sculptures
Belinda McKeon, Kevin Barry & Paul Murray, Introduced by Cormac Kinsella
The Parade Tower
The future of Irish fiction comes to Kilkenny in the form of three fresh and exciting new voices
Fintan O’Toole: The Power of the Object
The Parade Tower
Explore our continuing fascination for objects with Fintan O'Toole and Prof. Daniel Miller
New Music Night
Set Theatre
Presenting Somadrone, Geppetto, Thread Puls, Margie Lewis and Toby Kaar.
T with the Maggies with Donal Lunny
St Canice’s Cathedral
A very special night in St. Canice's with Tríona and Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Moya Brennan.
Paper Craft Laboratory
The National Craft Gallery
Explore the art of bookmaking, shadow puppetry, jewellery-making and more in the Crafts Council's free paper art workshops for children
The Big Deal
Barnstorm Theatre
Una McKevitt returns to Kilkenny with the extraordinary real-life story of two women who knew from a very young age that they were born into the wrong bodies
The Great Natural Resources Debate
The Parade Tower
Join a distinguished panel of speakers to debate the pros and cons of Ireland's energy policy.
TC Boyle, Introduced by Colm Toibin
The Parade Tower
The charismatic American author brings his unforgettable characters and corruscating satire to Kilkenny
Kaleidoscope
Design Centre
This laidback salon-style night comes to Kilkenny for two nights of music, song and surprise, mixing the classical with the cutting edge
Title & Deed
Barnstorm Theatre
Gare St Lazare Players Ireland are back with the world premiere of Title and Deed, a new piece specially-written for the company by acclaimed American playwright Will Eno
Amarilli Trio
The Parade Tower
Kilkenny's Maria Ryan makes a welcome return with the Amarilli Trio, performing sparkling string trios from Beethoven and Schubert
Camerata Kilkenny
The Black Abbey
The acclaimed ensemble return to Kilkenny with a breathtaking range of works by Bach and Telemann
Star Boy
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Joe Brennan presents this delightful early years theatre performance, telling the tale of a small boy who just loves to explore
Hanggai
Set Theatre
Hanggai bring their unique blend of Mongolian instruments and Western sensibility to Kilkenny.
Tobias Wolff & David Vann
The Watergate Theatre
David Vann makes a welcome return to the festival in the company of one of the greatest of contemporary American writers, Tobias Wolff
Laoise O’Brien
The Parade Tower
A special concert celebrating all things avian, with early music specialist Laoise O'Brien and some of Ireland's finest musicians from both classical and traditional worlds
Mari Kvien Brunvoll
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
A genuine original with a captivating voice that straddles jazz, electro pop and acoustic blues with ease.
Agnes Obel with Cian Nugent
St Canice’s Cathedral
Harmonic presents Agnes Obel who can weave a spell with little more than a voice, a piano, and an array of deceptively simple melodies. Supported by Cian Nugent.
Alessandro Taverna
St Canice’s Cathedral
An outstanding young Venetian pianist presents a mouthwatering programme of popular favourites
John Banville writing as Benjamin Black
The Parade Tower
The acclaimed crime writer discusses literature, crime and alter egos with literary critic Michael Wood
Rebecca and Kirsten Capova
St Canice’s Cathedral
Two sisters, both accomplished pianists, pool their considerable talents (and four hands!) for an exhilarating programme of piano duets
Holy Mary
The Watergate Theatre
A magical and hilarious new play by Eoin Colfer, bestselling author of the Artemis Fowl series, that takes an honest look at life through the eyes of eight-year-old Majella Barnes
Emmy The Great
St. John’s Priory
Emma-Lee Moss's exquisite melodies and thoughtful lyrics guarantee this to be one of the stand-out gigs of the festival.
Birdsong Workshop
Gallery 3G Castle Yard
Workshops by musician Laoise O'Brien and visual artist Lorna Donlon.
Drums Off Chaos and Philip Jeck
Set Theatre
Since 1982, Jaki Liebezeit, Reiner Linke and Maf Retter have been creating headspinning storms of multi-layered groove using odd meters and unconventional rhythms.
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Their raw, exuberant sound, melding hip hop with jazz, is like the soundtrack to the coolest movie you ever saw.
Paul Muldoon & Michael Longley, Introduced by Olivia O’Leary
St Canice’s Cathedral
A rare chance to hear these two great Northern Irish poets as they share the stage at St Canice's. This will be a memorable night.
Kilkenny Arts Festival Choir
St Canice’s Cathedral
A 100-strong choir joins forces with leading singers and performers for a rousing finale in St Canice's
Francisco Goldman
The Parade Tower
The acclaimed American writer reads from Say Her Name, his most personal and moving work to date
Gemma Hayes with Ann Scott
St. John’s Priory
Tipperary’s Gemma Hayes's eclectic blend of folk, prog rock and electronica has been winning over audiences at home and abroad.
Body Duet
The Watergate Theatre
John Scott’s Irish Modern Dance Theatre presents an energy-packed performance featuring two outstanding dancers
Luka Bloom & Friends
Set Theatre
A night of rousing, heartfelt songs and outstanding musicianship in the Set.
Cashell Trio
St Canice’s Cathedral
Multi-talented siblings join forces to perform piano trios by Beethoven, Shostakovich and Lalo
Claire Keegan & Janice Galloway
The Parade Tower
Two acknowledged masters of the short story reveal the secrets of the form
The Amazing Few
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
This exciting, interactive show will really get the kids jumping!
Mark Kozelek with Geese
St Canice’s Cathedral
Harmonic presents former frontman of the Red House Painters, Mark Kozelek, an acclaimed lyricist known for his achingly beautiful songs, delivered in a melancholy baritone.
The Amazing Few - End of Festival Party
Set Theatre
An 11-piece band (and counting) who play ‘psycho-pop’; a unique style of music that leans heavily on ska, nicks pop’s lunch money and gives punk a wedgie.
Other Selections - Commonage
Commonage
Situated in historic locations in Callan, COMMONAGE 2011 includes temporary built structures by artists, designers and architects.
Other Selections - The Workhouse Test
Dunnes Bakery
The Workhouse Test presents a collaborative exhibition that aims to establish links with international art spaces
Other Selections - Jerpoint Studio
Jerpoint Glass Studio
This group exhibition showcases the work of several 'hot glass divas', both up-and-coming artists and internationally-renowned names
Other Selections - Ross Stewart & Andrew Ludick
Castle Yard Gallery
An exhibition of work by ceramicist Andrew Ludick and painter Ross Stewart
Other Selections - KCAT - The Empty Heat of Neanderthal Man
The Workhouse
An exhibition of recent sculpture work by five studio artists, comprising a range of materials such as stone, clay, wood, and mixed media
Other Selections - Made in Kilkenny
Butler House
This year’s exhibition - A Maker’s Journey: from inspiration to creation - traces the process of design, exploring the different elements each craftsperson takes into consideration to produce a finished piece
Other Selections - Ceann
Shankill Castle
Ceann 2011 offers a visual feast in the historic setting of Shankill Castle
Other Selections - Lucy McKenna
Kilkenny Castle Park
This installation in Kilkenny Castle Park explores the darker side of the human psyche
Other Selections - KCAT - Mary Cody
L’Arche Cafe
Sky, Stones, Sea features work inspired by famous beauty spots in the Irish landscape
Other Selections - Daithi O hUallachain [David Holohan]
Kitchen Corridor - Kilkenny Castle
An exhibition of Daithi's recent paintings, full of light and vibrancy
Other Selections - On the Surface
The Courtyard Bar and Grill
A joint exhibition by artists Bernadette Kiely and Paul Mosse. While Kiely’s and Mosse’s work appears very different on the surface, there is a slowly emerging resonance at play.
Other Selections - Niall Harkin
Berkley Gallery
This exhibition, Votive Offerings, presents the fruits of two years’ work with sheet bronze
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Brendan Brennan
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Clive Nunn
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Kirsty O’Keeffe
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Agnes Obel with Cian Nugent
St Canice’s Cathedral
Harmonic presents Agnes Obel who can weave a spell with little more than a voice, a piano, and an array of deceptively simple melodies. Supported by Cian Nugent.
Alessandro Taverna
St Canice’s Cathedral
An outstanding young Venetian pianist presents a mouthwatering programme of popular favourites
Amarilli Trio
The Parade Tower
Kilkenny's Maria Ryan makes a welcome return with the Amarilli Trio, performing sparkling string trios from Beethoven and Schubert
Ann Craven
Castle Yard Gallery
Ann Craven is a compelling New York-based artist whose work focuses on recurring subject matter such as flowers, birds and the moon.
anybody waitin’?
ponydance are back, and this time they’re free! Join these incorrigible flirts on their quest through the streets of Kilkenny to find a man
Artists’ Talk - Craft
The National Craft Gallery
Angela O’Kelly will introduce an artists’ talk at 3pm on Saturday 6 August in the National Craft Gallery (Gallery 1).
Barry Guy & Evan Parker
St. John’s Priory
A rare chance to see these giants of jazz improv play together as a duo, sharing the intuitive musical understanding they’ve built up over more than forty years.
Belinda McKeon, Kevin Barry & Paul Murray, Introduced by Cormac Kinsella
The Parade Tower
The future of Irish fiction comes to Kilkenny in the form of three fresh and exciting new voices
Beowulf - A Thousand Years of Baggage
Set Theatre
New York ensemble Banana Bag & Bodice bring you a riotous, raw and rowdy retelling of this ancient tale, set to the rhythms of an explosive seven-piece band
Beowulf - A Thousand Years of Baggage. Free Taster
The Parade
Come along to the Parade to see a free taster of Beowulf – A Thousand Years of Baggage.
Birdsong Workshop
Gallery 3G Castle Yard
Workshops by musician Laoise O'Brien and visual artist Lorna Donlon.
Body Duet
The Watergate Theatre
John Scott’s Irish Modern Dance Theatre presents an energy-packed performance featuring two outstanding dancers
Bookbinding with Rachel Hazell
The National Craft Gallery
Join bookbinder and artist Rachel Hazell for interactive bookbinding activities based on the 1911 Kilkenny Census
Brian O’Kane & James Willshire - Change of Venue
St Canice’s Cathedral
Two outstanding young Irish musicians present a lunchtime programme featuring cornerstones of the repertoire for violin and cello
Brunch with the Artists
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
Join the artists for a free, informal brunch with special guests including curator Hugh Mulholland, art critic Gemma Tipton and journalist John Waters.
This event is free but ticketed.
Camerata Kilkenny
The Black Abbey
The acclaimed ensemble return to Kilkenny with a breathtaking range of works by Bach and Telemann
Cashell Trio
St Canice’s Cathedral
Multi-talented siblings join forces to perform piano trios by Beethoven, Shostakovich and Lalo
Cathal Coughlan and the Grand Necropolitan Quintet
The Watergate Theatre
Cork’s Cathal Coughlan showcases his extraordinary voice in the company of long-term collaborators, the Grand Necropolitan Quintet.
Celebration of the Year of Craft
The National Craft Gallery
Join us for a glass of wine in the company of festival musicians and writers.
Christophe Rousset
St. John’s Priory
Flamboyant harpsichordist Christophe Rousset performs works by Francois and Louis Couperin
Claire Keegan & Janice Galloway
The Parade Tower
Two acknowledged masters of the short story reveal the secrets of the form
David Beattie
St. Mary’s Hall
An artist who encourages a sense of curiosity and exploration in his act of displacing quotidian objects.
David Donohue
The Parade Tower
The bestselling author and backwards-speller extraordinaire rides into town to talk about his backwards-spelling hero, Walter Speazlebud
Dermot Healy & Patrick McCabe
Set Theatre
Two acclaimed Irish writers share their latest work in the Set
Drums Off Chaos and Philip Jeck
Set Theatre
Since 1982, Jaki Liebezeit, Reiner Linke and Maf Retter have been creating headspinning storms of multi-layered groove using odd meters and unconventional rhythms.
Emmy The Great
St. John’s Priory
Emma-Lee Moss's exquisite melodies and thoughtful lyrics guarantee this to be one of the stand-out gigs of the festival.
European Union Baroque Orchestra
The Black Abbey
This dynamic orchestra, featuring Europe's finest young musicians, explores the musical legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach through the music of his sons
Fanzini Brothers
Canal Walk
The Fanzini Brothers proudly present their brand new madcap street show Cannonball Circus.
Festival Trail
Gather a group of intrepid explorers to discover Kilkenny on foot, following our ‘treasure hunt’ style Festival Trail
Fintan O’Toole: The Power of the Object
The Parade Tower
Explore our continuing fascination for objects with Fintan O'Toole and Prof. Daniel Miller
Francisco Goldman
The Parade Tower
The acclaimed American writer reads from Say Her Name, his most personal and moving work to date
Gemma Hayes with Ann Scott
St. John’s Priory
Tipperary’s Gemma Hayes's eclectic blend of folk, prog rock and electronica has been winning over audiences at home and abroad.
Gerard Smyth and Leanne O’Sullivan
The Parade Tower
Dubliner Gerard Smyth and Leanne O’Sullivan, from the Beara peninsula, have more in common than you might think: both were teenage prodigies.
Guo Yue - Cookery Demonstration
Set Theatre
Guo Yue, author, chef, composer and flute player awakens the senses at a Chinese cookery masterclass.
Guo Yue - Performance
The Hole in the Wall
Guo Yue, author, chef, composer and flute player plays an intimate show at the Hole in the Wall.
Hanggai
Set Theatre
Hanggai bring their unique blend of Mongolian instruments and Western sensibility to Kilkenny.
Holy Mary
The Watergate Theatre
A magical and hilarious new play by Eoin Colfer, bestselling author of the Artemis Fowl series, that takes an honest look at life through the eyes of eight-year-old Majella Barnes
Hubert Butler Lecture Professor Morgan Kelly
St Canice’s Cathedral
A rare chance to hear, and question, one of Ireland's most forthright and prescient economists
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Their raw, exuberant sound, melding hip hop with jazz, is like the soundtrack to the coolest movie you ever saw.
Jacco Olivier
The Courthouse
Jacco Olivier fuses painting and filmmaking, continually reworking his paintings with generous, casual brushstrokes and photographing each stage of their development
James Vincent McMorrow
St Canice’s Cathedral
Discover James Vincent McMorrow's soulful voice and wistful melodies in the awe-inspiring surrounds of St. Canice's Cathedral.
John Banville writing as Benjamin Black
The Parade Tower
The acclaimed crime writer discusses literature, crime and alter egos with literary critic Michael Wood
Kaleidoscope
Design Centre
This laidback salon-style night comes to Kilkenny for two nights of music, song and surprise, mixing the classical with the cutting edge
Kilkenny 100 Years Ago
Newpark Hotel
A distinguished panel of speakers reveal what the 1911 Census can tell us about the world of our great-grandparents
Kilkenny Arts Festival Choir
St Canice’s Cathedral
A 100-strong choir joins forces with leading singers and performers for a rousing finale in St Canice's
Laoise O’Brien
The Parade Tower
A special concert celebrating all things avian, with early music specialist Laoise O'Brien and some of Ireland's finest musicians from both classical and traditional worlds
Liam O’Callaghan
Muniments Room, Kilkenny Castle
Playful – even satirical – installations, sculptures and photographs exposing the methods or mechanics in their construction.
Living Colour: Film Screening
Set Theatre
Living Colour is a documentary film exploring the world of an extraordinary artists' collective in Callan, Co. Kilkenny.
Luka Bloom & Friends
Set Theatre
A night of rousing, heartfelt songs and outstanding musicianship in the Set.
Mari Kvien Brunvoll
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
A genuine original with a captivating voice that straddles jazz, electro pop and acoustic blues with ease.
Maria McKinney
Rothe House
Maria McKinney is concerned with ideas of boredom and escapism and works with familiar objects and materials.
Mark Kozelek with Geese
St Canice’s Cathedral
Harmonic presents former frontman of the Red House Painters, Mark Kozelek, an acclaimed lyricist known for his achingly beautiful songs, delivered in a melancholy baritone.
Michael Thomas Murphy
Kenealy’s Art Shop
Michael Thomas Murphy’s work is multidimensional and multi-layered incorporating many materials.
Modified Expression
The National Craft Gallery
Tear, fold, cut, read, write, print, and colour: Modified Expression, this year’s CRAFT strand exhibition, is all about books.
New Music Night
Set Theatre
Presenting Somadrone, Geppetto, Thread Puls, Margie Lewis and Toby Kaar.
Nick Miller
The Heritage Council
In this multimedia piece Nick Miller draws our attention to the tradition of the reclining nude in art.
OKO
Cleere’s - Festival Hub
OKO brings together some of the finest players on the Dublin jazz scene for a night of innovative sounds.
Other Selections - Blackbird Gallery
Blackbird Gallery
The Blackbird Gallery presents a selection of works by three emerging artists
Other Selections - Ceann
Shankill Castle
Ceann 2011 offers a visual feast in the historic setting of Shankill Castle
Other Selections - Commonage
Commonage
Situated in historic locations in Callan, COMMONAGE 2011 includes temporary built structures by artists, designers and architects.
Other Selections - Daithi O hUallachain [David Holohan]
Kitchen Corridor - Kilkenny Castle
An exhibition of Daithi's recent paintings, full of light and vibrancy
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Brendan Brennan
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Clive Nunn
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Kirsty O’Keeffe
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Maire Gartland
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Nicola Brown
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Grennan Mill Craft School - Trini Kenny
Grennan Mill
Grennan Mill Craft School welcomes six Irish artists/crafts people showing an exciting new range of work in a wide variety of media
Other Selections - Jerpoint Studio
Jerpoint Glass Studio
This group exhibition showcases the work of several 'hot glass divas', both up-and-coming artists and internationally-renowned names
Other Selections - KCAT - Mary Cody
L’Arche Cafe
Sky, Stones, Sea features work inspired by famous beauty spots in the Irish landscape
Other Selections - KCAT - The Empty Heat of Neanderthal Man
The Workhouse
An exhibition of recent sculpture work by five studio artists, comprising a range of materials such as stone, clay, wood, and mixed media
Other Selections - Lucy McKenna
Kilkenny Castle Park
This installation in Kilkenny Castle Park explores the darker side of the human psyche
Other Selections - Made in Kilkenny
Butler House
This year’s exhibition - A Maker’s Journey: from inspiration to creation - traces the process of design, exploring the different elements each craftsperson takes into consideration to produce a finished piece
Other Selections - Niall Harkin
Berkley Gallery
This exhibition, Votive Offerings, presents the fruits of two years’ work with sheet bronze
Other Selections - On the Surface
The Courtyard Bar and Grill
A joint exhibition by artists Bernadette Kiely and Paul Mosse. While Kiely’s and Mosse’s work appears very different on the surface, there is a slowly emerging resonance at play.
Other Selections - Ross Stewart & Andrew Ludick
Castle Yard Gallery
An exhibition of work by ceramicist Andrew Ludick and painter Ross Stewart
Other Selections - The Workhouse Test
Dunnes Bakery
The Workhouse Test presents a collaborative exhibition that aims to establish links with international art spaces
Paper Craft Laboratory
The National Craft Gallery
Explore the art of bookmaking, shadow puppetry, jewellery-making and more in the Crafts Council's free paper art workshops for children
Paul Muldoon & Michael Longley, Introduced by Olivia O’Leary
St Canice’s Cathedral
A rare chance to hear these two great Northern Irish poets as they share the stage at St Canice's. This will be a memorable night.
Rebecca and Kirsten Capova
St Canice’s Cathedral
Two sisters, both accomplished pianists, pool their considerable talents (and four hands!) for an exhilarating programme of piano duets
Request Programme
Acclaimed Cork-based theatre company Corcadorca presents an intimate show staged in a real apartment and starring IFTA-winning actress Eileen Walsh.
Resurgam & the Irish Baroque Orchestra, directed by Christophe Rousset
St Canice’s Cathedral
Celebrated choir Resurgam joins forces with festival favourites the Irish Baroque Orchestra to perform Baroque masterpieces, directed by Christophe Rousset
Solas Supreme Workshop
Butler Gallery
Come along to these outdoor children's workshops using household objects to create fantastical sculptures
Star Boy
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Joe Brennan presents this delightful early years theatre performance, telling the tale of a small boy who just loves to explore
Strand 2 - Ian Burns
Butler Gallery
Ian Burns’s sculptures and installations investigate the expectations of art viewing with wry humor and audience engaging invention.
Strand 2 - Rachel Dickson & Alison Lowry
Kilkenny County Council Arts Office
Kilkenny County Council Arts Office presents this joint exhibition of ceramics and glass from two emerging Irish makers: Rachel Dickson and Alison Lowry.
Strand 2 - We Are All in This Together
The Watergate Theatre
Exhibiting artists: Maeve Coulter, Sylvia Hemmingway, Emma Hogan, Alé Mercado and Aiseling Noone.
Sunday Miscellany: RTE Radio 1
The Watergate Theatre
Join Clíodhna Ní Anluain and a terrific selection of writers and musicians for a special recording of Sunday Miscellany Live from the Watergate Theatre
Susan McKeown & Christine Tobin
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
Grammy-winning vocalist Susan McKeown and eclectic singer/songwriter Christine Tobin use poetry as their inspiration for this unique gig.
T with the Maggies with Donal Lunny
St Canice’s Cathedral
A very special night in St. Canice's with Tríona and Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Moya Brennan.
Tabernacle
The Watergate Theatre
Fearghus Ó Conchúir, one of Ireland’s leading independent choreographers, presents an exciting new dance piece that takes a thoughtful look at changing attitudes to religion
TC Boyle, Introduced by Colm Toibin
The Parade Tower
The charismatic American author brings his unforgettable characters and corruscating satire to Kilkenny
The Amazing Few
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel - Kilbride Suite
This exciting, interactive show will really get the kids jumping!
The Amazing Few - End of Festival Party
Set Theatre
An 11-piece band (and counting) who play ‘psycho-pop’; a unique style of music that leans heavily on ska, nicks pop’s lunch money and gives punk a wedgie.
The Arts Are A Luxury We Can’t Afford Right Now! - Panel Discussion
The Pembroke Hotel
A panel discussion on the position of the arts in a time of recession. Come along and have your say!
The Big Deal
Barnstorm Theatre
Una McKevitt returns to Kilkenny with the extraordinary real-life story of two women who knew from a very young age that they were born into the wrong bodies
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari: Silent film with live score by Eric Sweeney & 3epkano
St Canice’s Cathedral
Eric Sweeney joins 3epkano to perform a live score to the silent film The Cabinet of Dr Caligari in St. Canice's Cathedral
The Great Natural Resources Debate
The Parade Tower
Join a distinguished panel of speakers to debate the pros and cons of Ireland's energy policy.
The Sea and Cake
The Watergate Theatre
Harmonic presents The Sea and Cake who bring their distinctive jazz/rock/lounge/pop sound to Kilkenny in the company of The Buzz Aldrin Allstars.
The Three Sisters
Kieran Street
View colourful street decorations in Kieran Street made by local volunteers of all ages.
Help me Choose
Every year the Kilkenny Arts Festival brings so many amazing events to our city that its almost impossible to make sure you find all the events that may appeal to you. So we've put on our thinking caps and come up with this simple reference to suggest events you may not have considered.
My First Festival
This is my first time at an arts festival. I want to see what this festival is all about. I haven't heard of a lot of these names before and I'd like suggestions on what might be great to see.
My Inspiring Festival
I want to think. I want to get out of my comfort zone and confront the world head on. I don't want to be spoon fed. I want to be blown away. I want to argue.
My Surprising Festival
I want to find those hidden gems - things I may not have heard of but once I've experienced I will never forget.
My Alternative Festival
I want to see edgier, grittier more experimental stuff. I want to dance, have some fun. I want to stay up late.
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