October 2022
Kildare Readers Festival: This Woman’s Work with Sinéad Gleeson and Patrick Freyne
Sinéad Gleeson and Kim Gordon’s collection of essays by female writers about female artists that matter to them, This Woman’s Work: Essays on Music was published in April this year. The book “seeks to challenge the male dominance and sexism hard-coded in the canons of music, literature, and film and has forced women to fight pigeon-holing or being side-lined by carving out their own space.” Author and journalist Sinéad Gleeson talks inspiration and fandom with Patrick Freyne. Sinéad Gleeson’s essay…
Find out more »Kildare Readers Festival: Ten Banned Books You Should Read
Join us for this year’s Ten Books where former Irish Censor, John Kelleher and self-declared ‘dirty-minded historian’ and host of the Censored podcast Dr Aoife Bhreatnach discuss their top picks from the world of banned books. Dr Aoife Bhreatnach is a researcher, writer and podcaster. Since March 2020, she has written and presented Censored podcast, which explores the censorship culture of twentieth-century Ireland. In each episode, Aoife tells the story of a banned book, reading out the rude bits and…
Find out more »Kildare Readers Festival: Yeah, But Where Are You Really From? Conversation with Marguerite Penrose
Author Marguerite Penrose in conversation with Noelle Brown reflects about her life, work and inspiration in her memoir ‘Yeah, But Where Are You Really From’ – an open and thought provoking read which explores Marguerite’s life and her thoughts and experience of; needs of people born in institutions, on being a Black Irishwoman and about living with a disability. Marguerite Penrose was born in St Patrick's Mother and Baby Home on Dublin's Navan Road in 1974 and grew up in…
Find out more »Kildare Readers Festival: Dennis O’Driscoll Awards
Regarded as one of the best European poets of his time, Dennis O'Driscoll was a poet, essayist, critic, editor and mentor who made Naas, Co Kildare his home until his death. The Dennis O'Driscoll Literary Bursary Award, an initiative of Kildare County Council, is open to both established and emerging writers and critics in all genres. The award for professional writers is to augment their professional practice, particularly research towards the production of new writings. The award for emerging writers…
Find out more »Kildare Readers Festival: Emerging Northern Irish Authors
Recent years have seen an unprecedented volume of exciting new fiction coming out of the North. Kildare Readers’ Festival is delighted to welcome Derry writer Kerri ní Dochartaigh speaking with Michelle Gallen and Olivia Fitzsimons about their new books and the current thriving literature scene in Northern Ireland. Kerri ní Dochartaigh is from the North West of Ireland but now lives in the middle, in an old railway cottage with her partner and dog. She writes about nature, literature and…
Find out more »Kildare Readers Festival: Sunday Sessions with Dermot Bolger
Kildare Readers Festival regular Dermot Bolger returns with Sunday Sessions for a conversation with our guests Billy Roche and Bernard Farrell about life as playwrights, seeing the work on stage and how plays appear and disappear. In this relaxed and intimate discussion, Dermot and guests will look at how past life experience has influenced their work. Born in Dublin in 1959, the poet, playwright and novelist Dermot Bolger is one of Ireland’s best known writers. His fourteen novels include The…
Find out more »Kildare Readers Festival: Introducing Writers in Residence, with Belinda McKeon, Fíona Scarlett and Catherine Talbot
Since 2015, Maynooth University Department of English and Kildare County Council Arts and Library Service have collaborated on an annual writers-in-residence programme, supporting writers in their practice and to bring their work to university and community audiences. The resident writers in 2022/23 are Fíona Scarlett and Catherine Talbot. Recently appointed Associate Professor of Creative Writing/ Co-Ordinator, MA in Creative Writing Belinda McKeon will moderate a conversation about writing, community and creativity, while sharing thoughts on the MA course, a new…
Find out more »CINEMA: Operation Mincemeat
It’s 1943. The Allies are determined to break Hitler’s grip on occupied Europe, and plan to launch an all-out assault on Sicily; but they face an impossible challenge - how to protect the invasion force from potential annihilation. It falls to two remarkable intelligence officers, Ewen Montagu (Colin Firth) and Charles Cholmondeley (Matthew MacFadyen) to dream the most inspired and improbable disinformation strategy of the war - centred on the most unlikely of secret agents: a dead man. Operation Mincemeat is the extraordinary and true story…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: Music & Sensory Play with Catherine Hartnett
Music and sensory play class for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years and parents in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Toddlers will be given the opportunity to learn through music, movement and play, and explore different textures and sounds. This class, led by music teacher Catherine Hartnett promotes adult-child interaction as well as interactions between children. Dance, sing, listen, learn and play with musical instruments, scarves, mirrors, parachutes and more! Duration 60 mins Catherine Hartnett is a music teacher with…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: An Ant Called Amy
This is a story about an ant called Amy (an award-winning ant I might add), her brother Andy and a Brown Spider. A story about a busy little ant who learns to slow down. An Ant Called Amy is a story about an Ant called Amy, her brother Andy and a brown spider. Amy the ant works very hard. When she wins the Employee of the Month Award Amy feels happiness that drives her to work even harder. But with…
Find out more »FAMILY: An Ant Called Amy
This is a story about an ant called Amy (an award-winning ant I might add), her brother Andy and a Brown Spider. A story about a busy little ant who learns to slow down. An Ant Called Amy is a story about an Ant called Amy, her brother Andy and a brown spider. Amy the ant works very hard. When she wins the Employee of the Month Award Amy feels happiness that drives her to work even harder. But with…
Find out more »FREE MUSIC EVENT: Tebi Rex & Guests
Presented by Riverbank Arts Centre and Word Up Collective, this all ages show offers an opportunity to see some of Ireland's most exciting artists in an intimate setting. Alternative hip-hop duo Tebi Rex (Matt Ó and Max Zanga) have created a stir not only at home but in the US and UK via their high energy live show, radio friendly singles, witty videos and engaging social media presence. Their 2019 debut album The Young Will Eat The Old was lauded as…
Find out more »SCHOOL SCREENING: Klammer: Chasing the Line
Set in 1970s Austria and based on true events, we follow skier Franz Klammer in the five-day lead-up to what will be the biggest event of his career to date; the 1976 Winter Olympics. Enduring an overbearing marketing campaign, grumpy coaches and the pressure of a nation, all while balancing a blossoming relationship with girlfriend Eva, this nostalgia-hued biopic offers a charismatic portrait of the legendary skier and his desire to go against the grain. Austria • 2021 • Biopic/Sport…
Find out more »CINEMA: Everything Went Fine (Tout S’est Bien Passé)
Eighty-five year old André is a wealthy and successful art-collector, used to doing everything on his own terms. So, when he suffers a stroke, which leaves him unable to continue life as before, he asks his two daughters for help with his assisted suicide. The burden of dealing with this falls to his eldest daughter Emmanuèle, who must navigate the challenging consequences and practicalities of André’s decision. Acclaimed director François Ozon’s handles this difficult subject, which is based on the…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Drawing Workshop with Clodagh Kelly
This series of Autumn Drawing Workshops invites experienced and non-experienced artists to explore drawing. Just bring yourself and join a creative, friendly and supportive environment at Riverbank Arts Centre, where you can explore drawing and find your own unique creative voice, facilitated by visual artist Clodagh Kelly. All materials provided.
Find out more »THEATRE: Selvage
Selvage (a line of self securing knitting), is a show about unravelling tightly wound modern anxieties and a boy's triumph over his 'gnaw'. It is a creative examination of the countless avenues people trudge in an effort to calm themselves while a ‘gnaw’ waits not far from the surface. Following the incarceration of his beloved granny, Selvage follows Joe as he navigates an often cruel world, seeking solace in consumerism, charity and religion. Written by James Riordan, Directed by Lara…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Fighting Words Creative Writing Workshop
Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge is the Kildare Partner of Fighting Words. We present creative writing workshops for primary and secondary schools. Fighting Words workshops are always free of charge to the participants. Upcoming Fighting Words Workshops for Secondary School: Monday 19 September, 10.30am Friday 21 October, 10.30am Wednesday 2 December, 10.30am These workshops will be conducted in our venue by an experienced Fighting Words tutor, Pierina Campbell, and supported by 2-3 volunteers from Riverbank’s Fighting Words team. The workshop will…
Find out more »COMEDY: Deirdre O’Kane Demented
There's a point beyond burnout where all you can do is laugh, and funnywoman Deirdre O'Kane has well and truly reached it. Catch her brilliant new stand-up show, Demented, at Riverbank Arts Centre. "Unique star quality." – The Guardian
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Route 66 Big Band – Live in Concert
Route 66 is a 16 piece Big Band with big sound! Route 66 make a very welcome return to Riverbank, bringing their unique mix of music which has proved a huge success in theatres all over Ireland. Fronted by a male and female singer and with a mix of brass, saxes and rhythm, Route 66 produces a fabulous sound. Their programme, which includes numbers made famous by Adele, Frank Sinatra, Amy Winehouse, Tom Jones plus many more , will have…
Find out more »CINEMA: Róise & Frank
Róise, a woman still in mourning following the death of her husband Frank, is initially annoyed when a mysterious dog shows up at her door. But a series of eerie coincidences soon has Róise convinced that the dog is Frank, reincarnated. As this new canine companion helps Róise overcome her grief, ‘Frank the dog’ also proves an unlikely new friend for shy, hurling-loving local boy Maidhchi. But as Frank wins over the town, Róise’s neighbour Donncha has some sinister plans…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: I Wish I Was a Mountain
On the day of the famous annual fair, the town of Faldum receives an unexpected visit. A wanderer offers to grant a wish to anyone who wants one. Before long, the city is transformed. Mansions stand where mud huts once squatted, and beggars ride around in horse drawn carriages. And one man wishes to be turned into a mountain. Written and performed by former Glastonbury Poetry Slam Champion Toby Thompson, I Wish I was a Mountain uses rhyme, live music,…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: I Wish I Was a Mountain
On the day of the famous annual fair, the town of Faldum receives an unexpected visit. A wanderer offers to grant a wish to anyone who wants one. Before long, the city is transformed. Mansions stand where mud huts once squatted, and beggars ride around in horse drawn carriages. And one man wishes to be turned into a mountain. Written and performed by former Glastonbury Poetry Slam Champion Toby Thompson, I Wish I was a Mountain uses rhyme, live music,…
Find out more »MUSIC: Ye Vagabonds
Ye Vagabonds are brothers Brían and Diarmuid Mac Gloinn, who grew up playing music together around their hometown of Carlow, a small town in thesouth east of Ireland. After moving to Dublin in 2012, they quickly became a staple of the live music and session scene in Ireland, playing their own original songs as well as folk songs from Ireland, Scotland, England and America. Following two critically acclaimed studio albums, Ye Vagabonds released their third album, Nine Waves, on Rough Trade’s River Lea label…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Fighting Words Creative Writing Workshop
Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge is the Kildare Partner of Fighting Words. We present creative writing workshops for primary and secondary schools. Fighting Words workshops are always free of charge to the participants. Upcoming Fighting Words Workshops for Primary School: Friday 30 September, 10.30am Friday 28 October, 10.30am These workshops will be conducted in our venue by an experienced Fighting Words tutor, Pierina Campbell, and supported by 2-3 volunteers from Riverbank’s Fighting Words team. The workshop will last 2 hours and…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Samhain Illustration Workshop with Brian Fitzgerald
Join illustrator and Kildare native Brian Fitzgerald for a fun workshop exploring the basics of designing, sketching and illustrating scary (or not) characters for your own Halloween story. Children will also have an opportunity to make their own Halloween mask. This workshop is suitable for any child who likes to draw, doodle and paint! Duration 90 mins | Ages 8-12 years About the Artist Brian Fitzgerald is an experienced and professional illustrator based in Dublin. A graduate of the National…
Find out more »FAMILY CINEMA: The Addams Family 2
Just in time for Halloween and perfect for your little Ghouls and Ghosts! Everyone’s favourite spooky family is back in the animated comedy sequel, The Addams Family 2. In this all new movie we find Morticia and Gomez distraught that their children are growing up, skipping family dinners, and totally consumed with “scream time.” To reclaim their bond they decide to cram Wednesday, Pugsley, Uncle Fester and the crew into their haunted camper and hit the road for one last miserable family vacation. Their adventure across America takes…
Find out more »November 2022
WORKSHOP: BrickFlicks Stop Motion Animation Halloween Camp
In this special Halloween BrickFlicks Stop Motion Animation Camp, witches will fly, houses will be haunted and graves will be creepy as you learn how to make your own spooky animations. With plenty of hands-on learning and simple demonstrations, Createschool will take you on a journey from having a cool idea to making it into an awesome movie. You will learn the different elements of stop motion animation as well as how to create sets, storyboards and plan for your…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Griese Youth Theatre Presents – Grimms Fairy Tales
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm were German authors who made it their mission to collect and publish the folklore of their native land, Germany. We have all heard some version of the stories they collected, be it Snow White or Cinderella, but the stories the brothers originally recorded are very different to the ones we are familiar with. The original folktales were far darker, and used to scare children, teaching them valuable lessons. It’s safe to say that the original stories…
Find out more »COMEDY: David O’Doherty whoa Is Me
Here he comes again, trotting on to the stage with all of the misplaced confidence of a waiter with no pad. Is he going to remember it? HOPEFULLY! There'll be lots of talking, some apologising and some songs on a glued together plastic keyboard from 1986. As seen on BBC's 'Live at The Apollo' and Channel 4's '8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown'.
Find out more »MUSIC: The Liverpool Quartet
Róisín Walters, violin Sareah Hill, violin Dani Sanxis, viola Nick Byrne, cello Founded in 2010 , the Liverpool String Quartet is made up of musicians who met whilst playing together in the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Róisín Walters’ Liverpool Quartet brings an exciting and varied programme including their own arrangement of the impassioned tangos of Piazzolla’s extraordinary Four Seasons of Buenos Aires. Shostakovich’s third quartet is a heart-breaking musical commentary on the futility and pain of war and ranks amongst the finest quartets…
Find out more »FAMILY: Super Paua Family Storytelling Day
Welcome! Bine ati venit! Graltcha! Let’s celebrate storytelling in all its shapes- through language, movement, and play with local families! Listen to and create stories with words and movement, play games and take in some music, or just enjoy chats over a cup of tea. Super Paua be sharing snippets of new audio stories for young people in the Listening Party where you might hear a story that makes you dance in the streets of São Paulo, or an underwater…
Find out more »CINEMA: Tigers
Tigers is based on the enthralling true story of a young Swedish football prodigy who's plunged into the seductive and cut-throat industry of global professional sport. Erik is a dedicated 16-year-old footballer whose childhood dream comes true when he is signed by the world famous club Inter Milan. However, he is not prepared for the competitive nature of the sport and the hostility he is met with by his peers. Based on Martin Bengtsson’s autobiographical record of his experiences, Tigers…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: The Odd Theatre Company Presents – First Date
The Odd Theatre Company presents First Date, a hilarious new Broadway musical that follows two young New Yorkers on a high-stakes blind date. When Aaron, a buttoned-up banker, and Casey, an artist a bit too wild for Wall Street, first meet, sparks don’t exactly fly. However, when other restaurant-goers transform into their inner critics, best friends, manipulative exes, and protective parents, their evening becomes more than they bargained for. Can the couple turn apparent dating disaster into something that will…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: The Odd Theatre Company Presents – First Date
The Odd Theatre Company presents First Date, a hilarious new Broadway musical that follows two young New Yorkers on a high-stakes blind date. When Aaron, a buttoned-up banker, and Casey, an artist a bit too wild for Wall Street, first meet, sparks don’t exactly fly. However, when other restaurant-goers transform into their inner critics, best friends, manipulative exes, and protective parents, their evening becomes more than they bargained for. Can the couple turn apparent dating disaster into something that will…
Find out more »VISUAL ART: Dētrīmentum by Katie Whyte
Dētrīmentum is a video and photographic installation by Kildare artist Katie Whyte. A Latin word meaning harm, loss, or damage, Dētrīmentum is an exploration of the journey of an object from an intact historical/archival piece, to an object that has fallen into disrepair and out of the collective memory. This installation focuses on presenting hidden and lost historical narratives in photographic form. Using new media glitching techniques, the detached narrative histories of these objects are interlaced with the code of…
Find out more »VISUAL ART: FIBRE Felted by Tamzen Lundy
Tamzen Lundy’s colourful exhibition FIBRE Felted introduces young people to the wonders and possibilities of felt making, the oldest textile making process in the world. Using 100% wool (and sometimes other natural fibres), soap and water plus rubbing, rolling and a little magic, the artist creates intriguing 2D and 3D objects and many familiar characters inspired by much-loved children’s books. The woollen textiles in FIBRE Felted are playful and experimental, the only tools required to create them are the artist’s…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: The Odd Theatre Company Presents – First Date
The Odd Theatre Company presents First Date, a hilarious new Broadway musical that follows two young New Yorkers on a high-stakes blind date. When Aaron, a buttoned-up banker, and Casey, an artist a bit too wild for Wall Street, first meet, sparks don’t exactly fly. However, when other restaurant-goers transform into their inner critics, best friends, manipulative exes, and protective parents, their evening becomes more than they bargained for. Can the couple turn apparent dating disaster into something that will…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: Music & Sensory Play with Catherine Hartnett
Music and sensory play class for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years and parents in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Toddlers will be given the opportunity to learn through music, movement and play, and explore different textures and sounds. This class, led by music teacher Catherine Hartnett promotes adult-child interaction as well as interactions between children. Dance, sing, listen, learn and play with musical instruments, scarves, mirrors, parachutes and more! Duration 60 mins Catherine Hartnett is a music teacher with…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Drawing Workshop with Clodagh Kelly
This series of Autumn Drawing Workshops invites experienced and non-experienced artists to explore drawing. Just bring yourself and join a creative, friendly and supportive environment at Riverbank Arts Centre, where you can explore drawing and find your own unique creative voice, facilitated by visual artist Clodagh Kelly. All materials provided.
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents – Calendar Girls by Tim Firth
With heartache can come good. When Annie loses her husband to leukemia, she and her best friend, Chris, decide to raise money for the hospital by making a calendar… in the nude. The biggest challenge? Convincing their friends to drop everything for a good cause. Based on a true story of 11 Women’s Institute members, Calendar Girls is about letting go, accepting love, and giving yourself permission to enjoy life. Directed by Carol Duffy May contain nudity, suitable for ages 12+
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Up-Close
A performance about friendship, trust and building resilience together. Hello! How are you? Do you want to play with me? An energetic dance piece where two strangers meet, connect and celebrate their new friendship. Together they look to the future with hope, optimism and an appetite for life. Up-Close is about trusting each other, building resilience together, and letting go of the past. A highly physical dance show blending contemporary and street dance styles, peppered with humour, Up-Close is suitable…
Find out more »TALK: H U D D L E
H U D D L E is an informal art discussion reading group devised by Saidhbhín Gibson. The huddles have been taking place since 2017 and in various locations including The Curragh, IMMA and VISUAL. This is an inclusive event for the discussion around contemporary art and associative narratives. A piece of text is provided to read. If you are interested in attending H U D D L E, or would like further information, please email hellohuddle@gmail.com . There’s limited…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents – Calendar Girls by Tim Firth
With heartache can come good. When Annie loses her husband to leukemia, she and her best friend, Chris, decide to raise money for the hospital by making a calendar… in the nude. The biggest challenge? Convincing their friends to drop everything for a good cause. Based on a true story of 11 Women’s Institute members, Calendar Girls is about letting go, accepting love, and giving yourself permission to enjoy life. Directed by Carol Duffy May contain nudity, suitable for ages 12+
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Up-Close
A performance about friendship, trust and building resilience together. Hello! How are you? Do you want to play with me? An energetic dance piece where two strangers meet, connect and celebrate their new friendship. Together they look to the future with hope, optimism and an appetite for life. Up-Close is about trusting each other, building resilience together, and letting go of the past. A highly physical dance show blending contemporary and street dance styles, peppered with humour, Up-Close is suitable…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents – Calendar Girls by Tim Firth
With heartache can come good. When Annie loses her husband to leukemia, she and her best friend, Chris, decide to raise money for the hospital by making a calendar… in the nude. The biggest challenge? Convincing their friends to drop everything for a good cause. Based on a true story of 11 Women’s Institute members, Calendar Girls is about letting go, accepting love, and giving yourself permission to enjoy life. Directed by Carol Duffy May contain nudity, suitable for ages 12+
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents – Calendar Girls by Tim Firth
With heartache can come good. When Annie loses her husband to leukemia, she and her best friend, Chris, decide to raise money for the hospital by making a calendar… in the nude. The biggest challenge? Convincing their friends to drop everything for a good cause. Based on a true story of 11 Women’s Institute members, Calendar Girls is about letting go, accepting love, and giving yourself permission to enjoy life. Directed by Carol Duffy May contain nudity, suitable for ages 12+
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Ger Carey: A Comic Journey Inside the Teenage Mind
Ger Carey is back with his hilarious stand-up comedy show for transition year students. By secretly observing his subjects in their natural habitat, such as leaning on lampposts, in chippers, outside chippers, in shopping centres and sitting on any kind of steps, Ger has uncovered the weird and frightening world of the teenager! The aim of the show is to get teenagers to laugh at themselves and appreciate the differences of others. Duration: 100 mins To book a class for…
Find out more »CINEMA: Small Body (Piccolo Corpo)
Set in north-eastern Italy, Laura Samani’s feature debut follows a grieving mother on an impossible journey to safe the soul of her stillborn daughter. In an isolated island community at the beginning of the 20th century, Agate gives birth to a little girl; sleeping. Terrified that her child will forever drift in spiritual limbo, she flees husband and family, with her baby’s body, embarking on a desperate, dangerous journey to the mountains, where there may be someone somewhere who can…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Pictures at an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky
This unique WhistleBlast performance of Mussorgsky’s wonderful symphony Pictures at an Exhibition, musically arranged by the quartet’s own Dr. Kenneth Edge, is accompanied by a multimedia video of paintings relating to each movement. An accessible performance especially created to inspire young main stream and special-needs secondary school students and anyone to enjoy a gripping, dramatic masterpiece through live music performance and visual art. WhistleBlast Quartet: Dr Conor Linehan; piano Dr Kenneth Edge, saxes and clarinet; Oonagh Keogh, violin and Mary…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Glitch Workshop by Katie Whyte
Discover Data Bending and Glitch Art with Artist Katie Whyte. Katie Whyte is an artist who uses data insertion to create glitches in digital photography and video (Glitch Art, Data Moshing and Data Bending). In this workshop Katie will introduce and explore the topic of Glitch and Glitch Art. Participants will then be guided through the process making their own unique glitch artworks. Participants should bring their own laptops if possible. Duration: 2hrs Katie Whyte is a Kildare based artist…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Riff Raff Drama Group Presents – The Work of Art
Riff Raff are back with The Work of Art by Dave Tiernan! Set in 1960 rural Ireland, Biddy Smith’s husband Mick is away in the Congo and Biddy is left to keep her home and family in order. But with her son Tommy wheeling and dealing with Biddy’s brother-in-law they get on the wrong side of the parish priest. The situation isn’t helped when her daughter Peggy’s new boyfriend Morgan claims an old painting is the real deal. Madness, Sadness and…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Riff Raff Drama Group Presents – The Work of Art
Riff Raff are back with The Work of Art by Dave Tiernan! Set in 1960 rural Ireland, Biddy Smith’s husband Mick is away in the Congo and Biddy is left to keep her home and family in order. But with her son Tommy wheeling and dealing with Biddy’s brother-in-law they get on the wrong side of the parish priest. The situation isn’t helped when her daughter Peggy’s new boyfriend Morgan claims an old painting is the real deal. Madness, Sadness and…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Riff Raff Drama Group Presents – The Work of Art
Riff Raff are back with The Work of Art by Dave Tiernan! Set in 1960 rural Ireland, Biddy Smith’s husband Mick is away in the Congo and Biddy is left to keep her home and family in order. But with her son Tommy wheeling and dealing with Biddy’s brother-in-law they get on the wrong side of the parish priest. The situation isn’t helped when her daughter Peggy’s new boyfriend Morgan claims an old painting is the real deal. Madness, Sadness and…
Find out more »SCHOOL SCREENING: Delfín
Delfín, an 11-year-old boy, lives alone with his father in the muddy outskirts of Buenos Aires, and dreams of playing French horn in an orchestra. His life is tough and far from charmed, but upon discovering a nearby town is forming a children’s orchestra Delfín is determined to attend the auditions. Supported by his ageing music teacher who taught him to play the French horn, and his boss in the local bakery, Delfín will do the impossible to show up…
Find out more »CINEMA: Where the Crawdads Sing
From the best-selling novel by Delia Owens comes a captivating mystery. Where the Crawdads Sing tells the story of Kya, an abandoned girl who raised herself to adulthood in the dangerous marshlands of North Carolina. For years, rumours of the “Marsh Girl” haunted Barkley Cove, isolating the sharp and resilient Kya from her community. Drawn to two young men from town, Kya opens herself to a new and startling world; but when one of them is found dead, she is…
Find out more »December 2022
MUSIC: Andy Irvine & Dónal Lunny
Andy Irvine and Dónal Lunny, in their separate ways, have contributed to a veritable renaissance in Irish traditional music. Between them, Dónal Lunny and Andy Irvine have careers that read like a 'Who's Who' of popular music. Lunny has produced albums for Elvis Costello, Paul Brady, Clannad, and The Indigo Girls, and composed the soundtracks for Eat the Peach, and Teardrops. As a musician, Lunny has performed on more than a dozen Christy Moore albums and was an integral part…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Fighting Words Creative Writing Workshop
Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge is the Kildare Partner of Fighting Words. We present creative writing workshops for primary and secondary schools. Fighting Words workshops are always free of charge to the participants. Upcoming Fighting Words Workshops for Secondary School: Monday 19 September, 10.30am Friday 21 October, 10.30am Wednesday 2 December, 10.30am These workshops will be conducted in our venue by an experienced Fighting Words tutor, Pierina Campbell, and supported by 2-3 volunteers from Riverbank’s Fighting Words team. The workshop will…
Find out more »COMEDY: Dirtbirds #No Filter
In a world where women are expected to have the patience of Mother Teresa, the arse of Jennifer Lopez, the social media profile of Kim Kardashian and the BMI of Elle McPherson the pressure is relentless. Dirtbirds the comedy duo and internet sensation present their hilarious new show ‘No Filters’ which takes a close look at the barrage of bullshit we are subjected to on a daily basis and reminds us that despite what we’re told there is NO SUCH…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Wet Felting with Tamzen Lundy
In this fun morning, children will learn the basics of wet felting, the worlds oldest form of textile making. This is a fabulous introduction to a very sensory craft, suitable for beginners. There will be plenty of soapy bubbles and soft fibres. Roll up your sleeves and rub a dub dub! 10am Magic Wand Pencils 7-9 years Tamzen will introduce the group to the basics of wet felting, then move on to felting around a pencil, each student will go…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Wet Felting with Tamzen Lundy
In this fun morning, children will learn the basics of wet felting, the worlds oldest form of textile making. This is a fabulous introduction to a very sensory craft, suitable for beginners. There will be plenty of soapy bubbles and soft fibres. Roll up your sleeves and rub a dub dub! 10am Magic Wand Pencils 7-9 years Tamzen will introduce the group to the basics of wet felting, then move on to felting around a pencil, each student will go…
Find out more »FAMILY: Niall de Búrca – The Christmas Turkey & Other Tales
Michael’s mother has sent him on an important errand. He must collect the Christmas turkey from the Butchers and come straight home. No Messing! Can Michael do what he’s told just this once.... or will he stuff it up?! Join legendary storyteller Niall de Búrca for this cracker of a storytelling show that is perfect for all ages. A fantastic family experience to kick off the lead up to Christmas. Niall de Búrca has performed on 6 continents in countries…
Find out more »MUSIC: Tom Dunne – Been There, Seen That, Dunne That
Enjoy an evening with Tom Dunne, accompanied by Alan Connor on keys (The Late Late Show Band), where Tom will perform a selection of favourites from Something Happens along with some new songs. Audiences will be treated to Tom telling stories of interviews he has had with some of the biggest artists in the world during his radio career, such as Paul McCartney and Brian Wilson.
Find out more »CINEMA: Both Sides of the Blade
Claire Denis’ piercing exploration of married life features a trio of powerful performances by Juliette Binoche, Vincent Lindon and Grégoire Colin. Sara (Binoche) and Jean (Lindon) have been together for ten years. Happy in their relationship, the couple first met when Sara was living with François (Colin), Jean’s best friend. Now, years after she last saw him, Sara catches a glimpse of François on the street. He doesn’t see her, but shortly after the encounter, he reconnects with Jean. Slowly,…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Christmas Felting Workshop with Tamzen Lundy
Make your very own Scandinavian style Santa Claus! Your Santa Claus can be used as a wine bottle topper to gift to a neighbour or to dress your own Christmas table! Adult participants will be introduced to a few wet felting techniques, including an introduction to wet felting in 3D. All materials will be provided and each participant will take away their Santa project. This is an easy, fun and practical workshop suitable for beginners and those that would like…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Whistleblast Quartet
A very WhistleBlast Christmas Show including lots of favourites from Tchaikovsky to the Snowman, a sing along WhistleBlast Christmas Tale and other seasonal songs! Bell ringing and percussion for you to join in a joyful concert finale… Performed by fun loving musicians: Conor Linehan, piano; Ken Edge, saxes and clarinets; Oonagh Keogh, violin; and Mary Curran, French horn, in a highly accessible presentation. Suitable for everybody, of all ages. Come along and get yourself into the mood for a wonderful…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: Whistleblast Quartet
A very WhistleBlast Christmas Show including lots of favourites from Tchaikovsky to the Snowman, a sing along WhistleBlast Christmas Tale and other seasonal songs! Bell ringing and percussion for you to join in a joyful concert finale… Performed by fun loving musicians: Conor Linehan, piano; Ken Edge, saxes and clarinets; Oonagh Keogh, violin; and Mary Curran, French horn, in a highly accessible presentation. Suitable for everybody, of all ages. Come along and get yourself into the mood for a wonderful…
Find out more »FAMILY: Whistleblast Quartet
A very WhistleBlast Christmas Show including lots of favorites from Tchaikovsky to the Snowman, a sing along WhistleBlast Christmas Tale and other seasonal songs! Bell ringing and percussion for you to join in a joyful concert finale… Performed by fun loving musicians: Conor Linehan, piano. Ken Edge, saxes and clarinets. Oonagh Keogh, violin. Mary Curran, French horn in a highly accessible presentation. Suitable for everybody, of all ages. Come along and get yourself into the mood for a wonderful musical…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Musical Theatre Presents – Tale As Old As Time
Newbridge Musical Theatre presents Tale As Old As Time - a concert celebrating magical music from childhood classics and family favourites. You are invited to take a trip down memory lane, as some of the most iconic songs from Disney and beyond are brought to life by our award-winning ensemble of local performers. Both the young and young at heart are guaranteed to enjoy singing along to classic hits from celebrated composers such as Alan Menken, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Elton John,…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Musical Theatre Presents – Tale As Old As Time
Newbridge Musical Theatre presents Tale As Old As Time - a concert celebrating magical music from childhood classics and family favourites. You are invited to take a trip down memory lane, as some of the most iconic songs from Disney and beyond are brought to life by our award-winning ensemble of local performers. Both the young and young at heart are guaranteed to enjoy singing along to classic hits from celebrated composers such as Alan Menken, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Elton John,…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Musical Theatre Presents – Tale As Old As Time
Newbridge Musical Theatre presents Tale As Old As Time - a concert celebrating magical music from childhood classics and family favourites. You are invited to take a trip down memory lane, as some of the most iconic songs from Disney and beyond are brought to life by our award-winning ensemble of local performers. Both the young and young at heart are guaranteed to enjoy singing along to classic hits from celebrated composers such as Alan Menken, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Elton John,…
Find out more »CINEMA: See How They Run
In the West End of 1950s London, plans for a movie version of a smash-hit play come to an abrupt halt after a pivotal member of the crew is murdered. When world-weary Inspector Stoppard (Sam Rockwell) and eager rookie Constable Stalker (Saoirse Ronan) take on the case, the two find themselves thrown into a puzzling whodunit within the glamorously sordid theatre underground, investigating the mysterious homicide at their own peril. Directed by Tom Georgre | 98 mins | Cert 12A
Find out more »SCHOOLS WORKSHOP: Tamzen Lundy Wet Felting Workshop
In this fun morning, children will learn the basics of wet-felting, the worlds oldest form of textile making. This is a fabulous introduction to a very sensory craft, suitable for beginners. There will be plenty of soapy bubbles and soft fibres. Roll up your sleeves and rub a dub dub! Tamzen (former chairperson Feltmakers Ireland and textile professional of 20yrs+ experience with experience teaching in schools as well as herding her own 3 free range kids) will introduce the group…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: Music & Sensory Play with Catherine Hartnett
Music and sensory play class for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years and parents in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Toddlers will be given the opportunity to learn through music, movement and play, and explore different textures and sounds. This class, led by music teacher Catherine Hartnett promotes adult-child interaction as well as interactions between children. Dance, sing, listen, learn and play with musical instruments, scarves, mirrors, parachutes and more! Duration 60 mins Catherine Hartnett is a music teacher with…
Find out more »MUSIC: ABBA Sensations
ABBA SENSATIONS brilliantly perform Abba's timeless classics, bringing you the authentic ABBA sound, with stunning vocals, beautiful harmonies, musicianship and musical arrangement. Relive the magic of a live ABBA concert featuring all the big hits with choreographed dance routines and fabulous ABBA costumes. This show captures all the magic and excitement of one of the world’s most successful and entertaining bands.
Find out more »MUSIC: Freddie White
Freddie White has long been synonymous with music of the highest quality. He has been part of the fabric of the live music scene in Ireland since the 1970’s and his albums continue to sell well, amongst his loyal and newfound fan base. Born in Cobh, Co. Cork into a musical family, by age 17 he was playing professionally. At 19, he moved to London, where he busked in subways, and developed his unique voice and guitar style. His earliest…
Find out more »FAMILY CINEMA: The Greatest Showman Sing-a-long
Ladies and gents, this is the moment you’ve waited for…a special sing-a-long screening of The Greatest Showman! It’s your time to shine – have fun, sing loud and ‘Come Alive’ – It’s Showtime! Step right up and into the spellbinding imagination of a man who set out to reveal that life itself can be the most thrilling show of all. Inspired by the legend and ambitions of America’s original pop-culture impresario, P.T. Barnum, comes an inspirational rags-to-riches tale of a brash…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Highly Strung
Welcome to Highly Strung’s Mid-Winter Musical Gathering. The ladies are delighted to return to Riverbank for their annual festive performance. The four friends’ diverse musical backgrounds create a mellow blend which hallmarks the spirit of Christmas for their audiences. Highly Strung casts a little star light on the darkest time of the year with a quirky perspective on favourites from Bach to Berlin. Featuring an acoustic blend of voice (Angela O’Toole), flute (Jeanette Behan), violin (Lisa Lazenby) and harp (Mary…
Find out more »CINEMA: Robust (Robuste)
George, an aging film star, who is known for being difficult, relies heavily on his security guard, Lalou, who is more of a personal assistant than security detail. When Lalou needs to take some leave, Aïssais appointed as his replacement. She Is a semi-pro wrestler who earns a living as a security officer. Between this pragmatic young bodyguard and disenchanted renowned actor, a singular bond begins to take root. Despite their individual differences, life has shaped them in ways more…
Find out more »February 2023
COMEDY: Jason Byrne Unblocked
Jason Byrne has had an upgrade. In his brand new show Unblocked Jason 2.0 talks about his new lease of life following heart surgery. The Six Million Dollar Byrne has cleared his arteries, his mind and his schedule to bring you an evening of pure unadulterated old fashioned fun. This is the ultimate celebration of life and never giving up brought to you by “The Outright King of Live Comedy”
Find out more »March 2023
MUSIC: The Fureys
When The Fureys make their first appearance on our stage they will treat their audience to one of popular music’s richest legacies. They are one of Ireland’s all-time most acclaimed and influential middle of the road, folk and traditional bands. Fureys classics like I Will Love You, When You Were Sweet 16, Red Rose Café, Leaving Nancy, The Old Man, From Clare to Here and The Green Fields of France have become the soundtrack to the lives of fans all over…
Find out more »April 2023
COMEDY: Neil Delamere – Delamerium
Neil Delamere is back with a brand new show, Delamerium. Expect the usual hilarious stories, wry observations and quick-witted improvisation as our comedy hero tries to makes sense of the world around him. "No TV camera could accurately measure the lightning speed of Delamere's wit"- The Irish Times
Find out more »