
Festival Highlights:
Photography exhibitions: The festival features a special showing by internationally renowned photographer Govert de Roos, with live shots of Rory Gallagher and portraits of other music stars from that era. These works honor Gallagher’s creativity and enduring legacy. The exhibition was opened by Eoin Gallagher, Rory’s nephew.
Live music performances and theatre: Attendees can enjoy live performances by musicians inspired by Gallagher’s innovative guitar approach. On Saturday, the Haulbowline Theatre Group presents new short plays titled “Lost and found…and lost again!”, promising a delightful experience.
Film screenings and discussions: The festival screens Rory’s 1974 Irish Tour and includes a discussion with Donal Gallagher, exploring Rory’s musical journey from Ireland to international fame.
Milton and the Cobh Connection: A special talk on John Milton by Simon Avery highlights the festival. Milton, one of the most influential poets in the English language, is known for his epic poem Paradise Lost. Simon Avery, a London-based Milton expert, has discovered a Cobh connection to Milton.
Spoken word and poetry: The Cobh Readers and Writers International Poetry Competition returns, with winners announced during a poetry evening in The Mauritania on Saturday 22nd. Cobh-based artist John Adams hosts an open mic on Sunday afternoon at his home and studio, Coliemore – The Artists House, offering music, song, storytelling, and spoken word.
The Cobh Readers and Writers Creative Arts Festival is an essential event for literature, music, art, and creativity enthusiasts. Celebrating Rory Gallagher’s life and work, the festival inspires a new generation of artists to follow in his footsteps.
Mark your calendar and join us at the Cobh Readers and Writers Creative Arts Festival this year for an unforgettable celebration of creativity and inspiration, with a remarkable lineup of performances, workshops, and exhibitions.