March 2023
WORKSHOP: Wet Felting a Funky Feline with Tamzen Lundy
In this full day course, participants will learn the basics of wet-felting, the world's oldest form of textile making. This is a fabulous introduction to a very sensory craft, suitable for complete beginners and/or intermediate felt-makers who wish to explore 3D felting around a resist template. Tamzen (former chairperson Felt-makers Ireland and textile professional of 20yrs+ experience) will introduce the group to the basics of wet-felting, then move on to felting around a resist to produce a 3D item, you will…
Find out more »THEATRE: GomBean
GomBean is a comedy set in a sleepy town in Sligo. Delivering a lockdown dose of caffeine fuelled fun GomBean opens a lid on Grace O’ Malley’s new coffee van venture. But then a blast from her past, wrestling rival Ruby Stephens, arrives in town decades after making it big. Her arrival literally turns Grace’s world upside down, as she contends to win back her title which she lost at the U18’s Community Games in ’94. Some dreams can’t be…
Find out more »FAMILY: The Speks
The Speks present a lively show of nursery rhymes and sing-along songs set to acoustic Irish music which will have adults and kids jumping in their seats! Their hand-clapping, toe-tapping, hearty-laughing show is all about life on Glasses Island – a magical island off the coast of Co. Clare where everybody wears glasses! The Speks have won a Parents’ Choice music award in the US where their music has been described as “Riverdance for kids” and they encourage everyone to…
Find out more »CINEMA: Mrs Harris Goes to Paris
In 1957 London, Mrs. Ada Harris, (Lesley Manville) a widowed cleaning lady, becomes taken with one client's haute couture Dior dress. Inspired to buy her own, Ada starts to save her pennies to fulfil her dream. After suddenly receiving a back-dated war-widow's pension windfall, she travels to Paris to do so. She stumbles into a showing of Dior's 10th anniversary collection and is befriended by André, the Dior accountant, and Natasha, a Dior model. However, the Dior director, Claudine (Isabelle…
Find out more »THEATRE: Brokentalkers Presents The Examination
‘I’d like the people to know I’m not an animal. Did I cause harm? Yes. Should I be punished? Of course. But do I deserve my human rights? Absolutely I do.’ The Examination is the award-winning production by Brokentalkers exploring mental health and human rights in the prison system. Performed by Brokentalkers’ Gary Keegan and stand-up comedian and former prisoner Willie White. Featuring Brokentalkers’ distinctive blend of biography, socio-political discourse and breath taking theatricality, The Examination draws on…
Find out more »April 2023
NT CONNECTIONS 2023: Straffan Drama Club Presents – Model Behaviour by Jon Brittain
Riverbank Arts Centre is delighted to host the National Theatre Connection Festival in 2023 Connections is the National Theatre's annual, UK and Ireland youth theatre festival. The programme has been established for 27 years with a celebrated history of championing the talent of young people from across the UK and Ireland. Every year, NT Connections commission ten new plays for young people to perform, bringing together some of the UK's most exciting writers with the theatre-makers of tomorrow. They work…
Find out more »NT CONNECTIONS 2023: Waterford Youth Arts Presents – Is This Good Enough? By Avaes Mohammad
Who is the mysterious and enigmatic Cyroe? On a cold winters night, young people from all over the city converge on the park; the Rudeboys, the Party Girls, the Footballers, the Chess Players, the Skateboarders, the Drug Runners and the Uniformed Schoolkids. Summoned there by Cyroe, no-one one really knows who Cyroe is, or has ever really met him. All they do know is that when Cyroe calls, you answer . . . Directed by Nicholas Kavanagh of Curious State,…
Find out more »NT CONNECTIONS 2023: County Limerick Youth Theatre Presents – Model Behaviour by Jon Brittain
Riverbank Arts Centre is delighted to host the National Theatre Connection Festival in 2023 Connections is the National Theatre's annual, UK and Ireland youth theatre festival. The programme has been established for 27 years with a celebrated history of championing the talent of young people from across the UK and Ireland. Every year, NT Connections commission ten new plays for young people to perform, bringing together some of the UK's most exciting writers with the theatre-makers of tomorrow. They work…
Find out more »NT CONNECTIONS 2023: Mr. Sands Youth Theatre Presents – The Heights by Lisa McGee
Riverbank Arts Centre is delighted to host the National Theatre Connection Festival in 2023 Connections is the National Theatre's annual, UK and Ireland youth theatre festival. The programme has been established for 27 years with a celebrated history of championing the talent of young people from across the UK and Ireland. Every year, NT Connections commission ten new plays for young people to perform, bringing together some of the UK's most exciting writers with the theatre-makers of tomorrow. They work…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Easter Art Camp with Marta Golubowska
Join us for an adventure with Arts this Easter! In this camp children will have a chance to experience working with artists and art educators from County Kildare. Under the lead of visual artist Marta Golubowska we will get creative with drawing, designing, clay, paper, painting and more. Each day a guest artist will join us to inspire participants to get creative! Marta will be joined by a different artist on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Monday 3 April - Friday…
Find out more »CINEMA: Return to Dust
In the rural Gansu region of China, Ma and Cao are two people who are only seen as inconveniences by their respective families. They are cast off and forced into an arranged marriage. Living a simple but challenging farming life, the couple gradually fall in love. Together, they decide to build their own house. However, a state-ordered demolition process threatens their very way of life. The latest film from director Li Ruijun is a patient, tender story of survival and…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyGROOVE
A chilled out 70’s-inspired adventure for babies under 12 months, full of gorgeous harmony singing and immersive video created by Anna Newell Theatre Adventures, one of Ireland’s leading theatre-makers for young audiences whose work for early years has been seen on six continents. babyGROOVE is part of the 2023 programme from The Network For Extraordinary Audiences and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. Co-production with The Civic. Touring to the Network For Extraordinary Audiences. Funded by Arts Council…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyGROOVE
A chilled out 70’s-inspired adventure for babies under 12 months, full of gorgeous harmony singing and immersive video created by Anna Newell Theatre Adventures, one of Ireland’s leading theatre-makers for young audiences whose work for early years has been seen on six continents. babyGROOVE is part of the 2023 programme from The Network For Extraordinary Audiences and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. Co-production with The Civic. Touring to the Network For Extraordinary Audiences. Funded by Arts Council…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyGROOVE
A chilled out 70’s-inspired adventure for babies under 12 months, full of gorgeous harmony singing and immersive video created by Anna Newell Theatre Adventures, one of Ireland’s leading theatre-makers for young audiences whose work for early years has been seen on six continents. babyGROOVE is part of the 2023 programme from The Network For Extraordinary Audiences and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. Co-production with The Civic. Touring to the Network For Extraordinary Audiences. Funded by Arts Council…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyGROOVE
A chilled out 70’s-inspired adventure for babies under 12 months, full of gorgeous harmony singing and immersive video created by Anna Newell Theatre Adventures, one of Ireland’s leading theatre-makers for young audiences whose work for early years has been seen on six continents. babyGROOVE is part of the 2023 programme from The Network For Extraordinary Audiences and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. Co-production with The Civic. Touring to the Network For Extraordinary Audiences. Funded by Arts Council…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyGROOVE
A chilled out 70’s-inspired adventure for babies under 12 months, full of gorgeous harmony singing and immersive video created by Anna Newell Theatre Adventures, one of Ireland’s leading theatre-makers for young audiences whose work for early years has been seen on six continents. babyGROOVE is part of the 2023 programme from The Network For Extraordinary Audiences and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. Co-production with The Civic. Touring to the Network For Extraordinary Audiences. Funded by Arts Council…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyGROOVE
A chilled out 70’s-inspired adventure for babies under 12 months, full of gorgeous harmony singing and immersive video created by Anna Newell Theatre Adventures, one of Ireland’s leading theatre-makers for young audiences whose work for early years has been seen on six continents. babyGROOVE is part of the 2023 programme from The Network For Extraordinary Audiences and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. Co-production with The Civic. Touring to the Network For Extraordinary Audiences. Funded by Arts Council…
Find out more »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 »FAMILY CINEMA: Cinderella
Disney's classic film Cinderella tells the story of a young girl whose cruel stepmother and stepsisters prevent her from attending the Royal Ball. With help from the lovable mice Gus and Jaq, her Fairy Godmother (and a little bit of magic!) she makes it to the Royal Ball where she wins the heart of the Prince. Directed by Clyde Geronimi & Wilfred Jackson | 74 mins | Cert G Images Courtesy of Park Circus/Walt Disney Studios
Find out more »MUSIC: The Celtic Tenors
Over 20 years together, The Celtic Tenors are marking their return to Riverbank Arts Centre with this ever-popular show featuring snippets from their 9th studio album, An Irish Songbook. Their show will present a selection of some of the best of Irish songs with Rocky Road to Dublin, Red is the Rose and Sweet Sixteen and a healthy dose of the tenor classics like Nessun Dorma and La Donna e Mobile. The Celtic Tenors are delighted to be back doing…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Digi-Creators Camp
Welcome to a world of storytelling using technology! During this 4 day Digi-Creators Camp you will get lots of hands-on experience making your own movies, podcasts and stop motion animations. Create stories, build worlds and tell them in different ways. VIDEO: Lights, camera, action!. Think of an idea, build a story and script a short film. Learn how to film, create & edit footage on mobile devices, add credits & music and how to share & showcase their film. PODCAST:…
Find out more »Run of the Mill Presents – An Evening of Song and Samba
Celebrating their return to live performance, Run of the Mill's Community Group invites you to share in an evening of song and dance - carefully curated and performed by participants following a residency with musician Kasia Eliasz. Expect an eclectic mix of our favourite tunes, live music from the Ta Tum Tum! samba ensemble, and some of the 'Greatest Showman-ship' in Kildare; as our weekly community group come together in a celebration of what performance and music means to them.www.runofthemill.ie Co-created and performed…
Find out more »TALK: Michael Harding – All the Things Left Unsaid
An Evening with Michael Harding For almost fifty years, Michael Harding has been crafting words in a bid to express himself, and to explore truths about the human condition. But even still he found himself unable to say certain things he really wanted to. Then, while in recovery from surgery, he travelled to a cottage on the Atlantic coast and thought again about life and the people who had profoundly affected him over the years: mentors, loves and old friends.…
Find out more »TALK: Michael Harding – All the Things Left Unsaid
An Evening with Michael Harding For almost fifty years, Michael Harding has been crafting words in a bid to express himself, and to explore truths about the human condition. But even still he found himself unable to say certain things he really wanted to. Then, while in recovery from surgery, he travelled to a cottage on the Atlantic coast and thought again about life and the people who had profoundly affected him over the years: mentors, loves and old friends.…
Find out more »MUSIC: Karan Casey
Irish singer-songwriter Karan Casey celebrates the release of her new album Nine Apples of Gold. The album is an ode to the natural world featuring the songbirds of Portglenone, the moon, conversations from the grave, returning to the wild, listening for the cuckoo as she sleeps. Joined by Sean Óg Graham and Niamh Dunne she will be singing songs from the new album as well as from her extensive back catalogue. Singing songs charged with a sense of social responsibility…
Find out more »CINEMA: Vengeance
Vengeance, the directorial debut from writer and star B.J. Novak (The Office), is a darkly comic thriller about Ben Manalowitz, a journalist and podcaster who travels from New York City to West Texas to investigate the death of a girl he was hooking up with. With an ensemble cast that includes Issa Rae, Ashton Kutcher, Boyd Holbrook, J. Smith-Cameron and Dove Cameron. Directed by B.J. Novak | 107 mins | Cert 15A https://youtu.be/hRZE9W7zWIs
Find out more »THEATRE: The Wrens by Dan Colley
An odd collection of tricksters live in the gorse bushes at the edge of the town. They’re best left alone, the townsfolk say. We’ve nothing to do with them. What they don’t say is; except the odd healing spell, love cure, hair-cut, or to burn them out of their nests once a year. This magic-realist piece for audiences aged 8+ is a poignant, funny, and wildly speculative interpretation of history and myths. A new piece from Dan Colley (A Very…
Find out more »CINEMA: The Rose Maker
Eve was once a champion rose grower, but after years without a big success her business is on the verge of collapse. She reluctantly starts to consider selling to a successful competitor. In a last-ditch effort to save their livelihoods, Eve’s secretary Rosa brings on three inexperienced workers to help out. Despite her initial hostility to the idea, the new arrivals soon inspire Eve to give rose-designing one last shot… A charming and witty comedy-drama, The Rose Maker is a…
Find out more »IFI SCHOOL SCREENING: Mediterraneo: The Law of the Sea / Mediterráneo
As he learns of the growing humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Mediterranean Sea, Spanish lifeguard Òscar Camps decides to head to the Greek island of Lesbos along with his reluctant colleague Gerard. Once on the island, they’re faced with the enormity of the situation. With limited resources, the pair struggle to do what they can to help the continued stream of people arriving, working against determined people smugglers and inert local coastguards. Contains dramatised scenes of rescue from refugee crisis…
Find out more »MUSIC: The Illegals with Niamh Kavanagh
The Illegals return to Riverbank with their ever-popular, classic-rock revue. Every year, The Illegals delve deeper into the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac back-catalogues to keep their dynamic live show fresh but familiar to packed venues throughout Ireland. This year sees Niamh and the band belting out a superb set from the Big Two and ‘connected’ others from the West Coast sound. Led by Niamh Kavanagh, she of the mesmerizing voice and mischievous spirit, The Illegals will take you on a…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Design Manga Characters with Amy Louise O’ Callaghan
Seen in Pokémon, Studio Ghibli films and much more, Japanese manga and anime is well-known for its particular style, including big, expressive eyes, creative hairstyles and playful character design. In this introductory workshop, participants will be shown how to draw “anime” style, including heads and faces, different expressions and colouring tips. In the end, they will be able to draw themselves as an anime character. Duration: 60 minutes, suitable for 7-9 years
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Manga Comic Book Workshop with Amy Louise O’Callaghan
Comics and manga are a fun and creative way to tell a story, exercising your skills in both drawing and writing. In this workshop, participants will be introduced to the world of comics, including character design, idea generation and storytelling, as well as how to use panels, sound effects and other useful tips for telling your story, with the aim to create a simple 1-2-page comic. Duration: 90 mins, suitable for 10-12 years.
Find out more »FAMILY CINEMA: Belle
Suzu is a 17-year-old high school student living in a rural village with her father. For years, she has only been a shadow of herself. One day, she enters “U,” a virtual world of 5 billion members on the internet. There, she is not Suzu anymore but Belle, a world-famous singer. She soon meets with a mysterious creature. Together, they embark on a journey of adventures, challenges and love, in their quest of becoming who they truly are. Directed by Mamoru…
Find out more »May 2023
SCHOOLS: KYT Presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Featuring a cast of young people from Kildare schools who are studying the play. They are joined by young volunteers from abroad, making it a truly multicultural production. Kildare Youth Theatre is a project of Crooked House Theatre Company. Each May we stage a play by Shakespeare, usually the text that is prescribed for current 5th years for their Leaving Certificate. This production emphasises the zealous nature of Hamlet’s quest to be the ‘scourge and minister’ of the age. He is…
Find out more »YOUTH THEATRE: Kildare Youth Theatre Presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Featuring a cast of young people from Kildare schools who are studying the play. They are joined by young volunteers from abroad, making it a truly multicultural production. Kildare Youth Theatre is a project of Crooked House Theatre Company. Each May we stage a play by Shakespeare, usually the text that is prescribed for current 5th years for their Leaving Certificate. This production emphasises the zealous nature of Hamlet’s quest to be the ‘scourge and minister’ of the age. He is…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: KYT Presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Featuring a cast of young people from Kildare schools who are studying the play. They are joined by young volunteers from abroad, making it a truly multicultural production. Kildare Youth Theatre is a project of Crooked House Theatre Company. Each May we stage a play by Shakespeare, usually the text that is prescribed for current 5th years for their Leaving Certificate. This production emphasises the zealous nature of Hamlet’s quest to be the ‘scourge and minister’ of the age. He is…
Find out more »YOUTH THEATRE: Kildare Youth Theatre Presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Featuring a cast of young people from Kildare schools who are studying the play. They are joined by young volunteers from abroad, making it a truly multicultural production. Kildare Youth Theatre is a project of Crooked House Theatre Company. Each May we stage a play by Shakespeare, usually the text that is prescribed for current 5th years for their Leaving Certificate. This production emphasises the zealous nature of Hamlet’s quest to be the ‘scourge and minister’ of the age. He is…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: KYT Presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Featuring a cast of young people from Kildare schools who are studying the play. They are joined by young volunteers from abroad, making it a truly multicultural production. Kildare Youth Theatre is a project of Crooked House Theatre Company. Each May we stage a play by Shakespeare, usually the text that is prescribed for current 5th years for their Leaving Certificate. This production emphasises the zealous nature of Hamlet’s quest to be the ‘scourge and minister’ of the age. He is…
Find out more »YOUTH THEATRE: Kildare Youth Theatre Presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Featuring a cast of young people from Kildare schools who are studying the play. They are joined by young volunteers from abroad, making it a truly multicultural production. Kildare Youth Theatre is a project of Crooked House Theatre Company. Each May we stage a play by Shakespeare, usually the text that is prescribed for current 5th years for their Leaving Certificate. This production emphasises the zealous nature of Hamlet’s quest to be the ‘scourge and minister’ of the age. He is…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Sean-Nós Workshop with Inni-K
Join Eithne Ní Chatháin (Inni-K) for this interactive, fun 1.5 hour workshop in sean-nós and traditional singing, where Eithne will teach two songs - one in Irish and one in English in her characteristic informal, welcoming and informative manner. No previous experience required. Lyrics will be provided. Fáilte roimh gach éinne / Everyone welcome. Note: Ní gá Gaeilge líofa a bheith agat le páirt a ghlacadh, ach suim a bheith agat sa teanga agus in amhrán a fhoghlaim / Fluency in Irish…
Find out more »MUSIC: Inni-K
“One of the most acclaimed voices in the extraordinary revival of traditional and folk music we have witnessed in recent years.” RTÉ Radio 1, Arena Inni-K’s music draws on her extensive background in folk and traditional Irish music, even as she ventures into new musical territories. Her original song-writing (The Hare & the Line 2019 and The King has Two Horse’s Ears 2015), combines ethereal vocals with deft musicianship, evocative lyrics and a unique approach to song-writing. Inni-K’s highly celebrated…
Find out more »CINEMA: Armageddon Time
New York City, 1980. Paul is a middle-class Jewish-American boy who dreams of being an artist, much to the disapproval of his strict parents Esther and Irving. As a new school year starts, Paul befriends Johnny - the only Black student in his class. Their friendship solidifies as they repeatedly find themselves getting into trouble at school. However, both boys learn difficult lessons about inequality and privilege when social workers come searching for Johnny. James Gray’s (The Lost City of…
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 »THEATRE: Country and Irish by Patrick McCabe
Peter Gowen takes the lead in Patrick McCabe’s Beckett-esque one-man show. Meet Donie Burris who overcomes his troubles (which include his treacherous girlfriend, his overbearing Mum and the Midford Mafia) by imagining himself as “The star of his own gangster movie”. Country and Irish is essentially the story of a man at the end of his tether who sets out to tell a story like no other; none you’ve ever heard before. Directed by Conor Hanratty, McCabe’s triumphant theatrical display has…
Find out more »SCHOOL SHOW: StrongWomen Science
StrongWomen Science is a circus science show for children and families starring two women scientists turned circus performers. Aoife Raleigh is an engineer, Maria Corcoran an environmental scientist. Ever wanted to know how you balance a chair on your chin, if you can juggle liquid, or how circus performers eat fire? StrongWomen Aoife and Maria reveal the scientific secrets behind their astounding tricks. In a fun, lively and fast-paced family circus performance, find out how jugglers, acrobats and hula hoop…
Find out more »MUSIC NETWORK PRESENTS: Liz Knowles, Niwel Tsumbu & Niall Vallely
Three musicians, multiple traditions and an abundance of talent would be one way to describe the specially curated powerhouse ensemble of Knowles, Tsumbu and Vallely. Liz Knowles - fiddle/hardanger fiddle Niwel Tsumbu - guitar/vocals Niall Vallely - concertina Genre-bending and label-defying would be another, and this trio will immerse listeners in the striking melodies, beautiful harmonies, and deep rhythmic grooves that result from their collaborative onstage joie de vivre. Bringing together stellar hardingfele and fiddle player Liz Knowles from Kentucky, masterfully elegant Congolese…
Find out more »FAMILY: StrongWomen Science
StrongWomen Science is a circus science show for children and families starring two women scientists turned circus performers. Aoife Raleigh is an engineer, Maria Corcoran an environmental scientist. Ever wanted to know how you balance a chair on your chin, if you can juggle liquid, or how circus performers eat fire? StrongWomen Aoife and Maria reveal the scientific secrets behind their astounding tricks. In a fun, lively and fast-paced family circus performance, find out how jugglers, acrobats and hula hoop…
Find out more »COMEDY: Deirdre O’Kane – Demented
Deirdre O'Kane returns to Riverbank Arts Centre with her sell-out show Demented! There’s a point beyond burnout where all you can do is laugh, and funny woman Deirdre O’Kane has well and truly reached it. "Unique star quality." – The Guardian
Find out more »CINEMA: The Beasts
French couple Antoine and Olga have fulfilled their lifelong dream of moving to the Galician countryside to set up their own small farm. Their refusal to sell their land to developers has created tensions with their neighbours, local brothers Xan and Loren, who want the development money for a chance at a new life in the city. Tensions boil over after an act of sabotage leads to increasingly tense and violent confrontations between the neighbours. Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s engrossing thriller is…
Find out more »IFI SCHOOL SCREENING: The Path / Der Pfad
Based on the novel by Rüdiger Bertram and inspired by true events, Der Pfad follows 12-year old Rolf, as he flees Nazi terror alongside his father and dog in 1940. Assisted by young Núria, their route to freedom is the Pyrenees Mountain Range across France and Spain. What follows is a gripping yet heartwarming tale that speaks on ever-relevant issues of fleeing war and persecution, as two young people learn to support and rely on one another for help. Junior…
Find out more »SCHOOLS: FILMORE! Interactive Installation
Filmore! is a transmedia experience consisting of an interactive installation, live performance and online spaces both apparent and otherwise. It tells the story of fictional school Safety Patrol officer Maximus C. Filmore. As to what that story is about it's up to you to decide. You’ll be asked to revisit a past that never really existed as you try to uncover what happened to Filmore and why? It’s a murder mystery meets scavenger hunt across digital and physical spaces. Like…
Find out more »Filmore! Interactive Installation
Filmore! is a transmedia experience consisting of an interactive installation, live performance and online spaces both apparent and otherwise. It tells the story of fictional school Safety Patrol officer Maximus C. Filmore. As to what that story is about it's up to you to decide. You’ll be asked to revisit a past that never really existed as you try to uncover what happened to Filmore and why? It’s a murder mystery meets scavenger hunt across digital and physical spaces. Like…
Find out more »Filmore! Interactive Installation
Filmore! is a transmedia experience consisting of an interactive installation, live performance and online spaces both apparent and otherwise. It tells the story of fictional school Safety Patrol officer Maximus C. Filmore. As to what that story is about it's up to you to decide. You’ll be asked to revisit a past that never really existed as you try to uncover what happened to Filmore and why? It’s a murder mystery meets scavenger hunt across digital and physical spaces. Like…
Find out more »Filmore! Interactive Installation
Filmore! is a transmedia experience consisting of an interactive installation, live performance and online spaces both apparent and otherwise. It tells the story of fictional school Safety Patrol officer Maximus C. Filmore. As to what that story is about it's up to you to decide. You’ll be asked to revisit a past that never really existed as you try to uncover what happened to Filmore and why? It’s a murder mystery meets scavenger hunt across digital and physical spaces. Like…
Find out more »Filmore! Interactive Installation
Filmore! is a transmedia experience consisting of an interactive installation, live performance and online spaces both apparent and otherwise. It tells the story of fictional school Safety Patrol officer Maximus C. Filmore. As to what that story is about it's up to you to decide. You’ll be asked to revisit a past that never really existed as you try to uncover what happened to Filmore and why? It’s a murder mystery meets scavenger hunt across digital and physical spaces. Like…
Find out more »Filmore! Interactive Installation
Filmore! is a transmedia experience consisting of an interactive installation, live performance and online spaces both apparent and otherwise. It tells the story of fictional school Safety Patrol officer Maximus C. Filmore. As to what that story is about it's up to you to decide. You’ll be asked to revisit a past that never really existed as you try to uncover what happened to Filmore and why? It’s a murder mystery meets scavenger hunt across digital and physical spaces. Like…
Find out more »MUSIC: Max Zanga presents Filmore! – Live Music Performance
Max Zanga of Tebi Rex is back with his alter ego Filmore! and he's coming for your sanity. High energy and experimental punk music that’s sporadic in nature but brings with it a cathartic release. Filmore! is the moniker of Irish singer, songwriter, rapper and visual artist Max Zanga, leaning into the absurdity of the world today with a strong focus on power and violence using immersive storytelling throughout his music. Max was commissioned by Dublin Fringe Festival to create…
Find out more »CINEMA: Till
Till tells the heart-breaking true story of the historic lynching of 14-year-old Emmett Till —for whistling at a white woman in Money, Mississippi in 1955 —through the eyes of his mother Mamie Till-Mobley. Till-Mobley becomes a revolutionary by insisting that the world witness the horror of her brutally maimed son’s body in an open casket viewing as an act of defiance against oppression and hate. Told from her perspective and experience Till is a compelling drama exploring a mother’s audacity…
Find out more »MUSIC: Far East Sounds
Far East Sounds is an interactive and immersive performance featuring works that meld the distinctly different musical languages and cultures of east and west, especially the sound world of the Balinese Gamelan. An interactive video installation projects the richness and biodiverse sounds from the natural landscape of South East Asia, enveloping the performance space. This installation plays an equal role with the performers on stage, prompting musical dialogues, and draws the audience into a realm filled with wild resonances. Performed by…
Find out more »Bealtaine Concert: With a Little Help From My Friends
Past Times Community Choir and Voices of Spring will combine forces for this celebration of friendship and song to mark Bealtaine Festival 2023. Join the choirs as they take you on a musical journey from the 1800’s right up to the 1960’s, presenting the work of Burt Bacharach, The Beatles, Perry Como and lots more along the way. Supported by Kildare County Council Arts Service. Based in Naas and Celbridge respectively, Past Times and Voices of Spring are two large…
Find out more »MUSIC: Lisa Lambe – NightVisiting
Songs and stories from the hearth with Lisa Lambe Based on her work with the National Folklore Collection and her recent M.A in Irish Folklore, internationally acclaimed Irish folk singer Lisa Lambe brings us her new project NightVisiting, first commissioned by The National Famine Museum in Strokestown, County Roscommon. NightVisiting reconnects us to the social role that night time social house visits once played in our oral traditions and folklore, and in the preservation of our songs and stories from tender love…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: 4-Panel Comic Workshop with Kate Escolin
There are hidden storytellers among us! But many kids have the same dilemma that professional writers face when confronted by a blank sheet of paper- “I don’t know what to write!” Encouraging kids to write is no easy feat. What makes comics a great fit for young storytellers is that they require only a few simple things to get started: a pencil, paper, and a basic understanding of important comic elements. A four panel comic strip is like a fun…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Zines are Cool! with Kate Escolin
A whizz-bang introduction into zines, the little booklets that could. In this 90 minute workshop you’ll be learning to make your own 8 page folded zine, bringing your own idea to life. Discover the world of zine making. Zine (like magazine) is a handmade publication or mini book that you make yourself with a focus on being low cost to make, produce and can be about almost anything. If you know about it, you can make a zine about it.…
Find out more »THEATRE: John B. Keane’s The Matchmaker
One of Ireland's leading dramatic actresses Norma Sheahan joins Jon Kenny (who was part of the Irish comic duo d’Unbelievables with Pat Shortt) for John B. Keane's The Matchmaker. Together they play a myriad of characters in this hilarious and earthy dramatic comedy. The play follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn. Using his inimitable way with words and his sense of “devilment” and wit, Keane delves into the longings, hungers, fears and foibles of this collection of…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Newbridge Drama Group are delighted to return to Riverbank Arts Centre to present Oscar Wilde's best loved play this Summer - filled as it is with sparkling comedy, both in words and situation. The language, which is sometimes drily acidic and at other times startlingly apt, combined with absurd and hilarious situations make this play an unforgettable and heart-warming experience. The director is blessed with a superb cast for this wonderful play and all involved are looking forward to doing…
Find out more »June 2023
LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Newbridge Drama Group are delighted to return to Riverbank Arts Centre to present Oscar Wilde's best loved play this Summer - filled as it is with sparkling comedy, both in words and situation. The language, which is sometimes drily acidic and at other times startlingly apt, combined with absurd and hilarious situations make this play an unforgettable and heart-warming experience. The director is blessed with a superb cast for this wonderful play and all involved are looking forward to doing…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Newbridge Drama Group are delighted to return to Riverbank Arts Centre to present Oscar Wilde's best loved play this Summer - filled as it is with sparkling comedy, both in words and situation. The language, which is sometimes drily acidic and at other times startlingly apt, combined with absurd and hilarious situations make this play an unforgettable and heart-warming experience. The director is blessed with a superb cast for this wonderful play and all involved are looking forward to doing…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Newbridge Drama Group Presents The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Newbridge Drama Group are delighted to return to Riverbank Arts Centre to present Oscar Wilde's best loved play this Summer - filled as it is with sparkling comedy, both in words and situation. The language, which is sometimes drily acidic and at other times startlingly apt, combined with absurd and hilarious situations make this play an unforgettable and heart-warming experience. The director is blessed with a superb cast for this wonderful play and all involved are looking forward to doing…
Find out more »YOUTH THEATRE: The Indigo Collective by Kildare Youth Theatre
The Indigo Collective is a group of young people from Kildare who made theatre about LGBTQI+ identity. They met weekly since January, exploring issues that concern them, and using narrative and theatre-making forms developed by artists Peter Hussey and Casey Hallahan. The performance forms part of an international project called Prism created by Crooked House Theatre. All week young people from around Europe are meeting to make theatre and explore how to be in solidarity with other young people from…
Find out more »THEATRE: Decadent Theatre Company Presents – From a Low and Quiet Sea by Donal Ryan
Decadent Theatre Company presents From a Low and Quiet Sea, adapted for the stage from Donal Ryan’s acclaimed, Booker Prize-nominated novel. "It is not very often that four demanding and intense roles come together with absolute perfection, but they do in this production. Not a moment, a nuance, a gesture is less than perfect throughout, as each of the characters in turn drag the heart from your body… This play will haunt you." - Irish Independent, July 2022 Four souls. Each searching for…
Find out more »THEATRE: Decadent Theatre Company Presents – From a Low and Quiet Sea by Donal Ryan
Decadent Theatre Company presents From a Low and Quiet Sea, adapted for the stage from Donal Ryan’s acclaimed, Booker Prize-nominated novel. "It is not very often that four demanding and intense roles come together with absolute perfection, but they do in this production. Not a moment, a nuance, a gesture is less than perfect throughout, as each of the characters in turn drag the heart from your body… This play will haunt you." - Irish Independent, July 2022 Four souls. Each searching for…
Find out more »FAMILY: Family Drumming Workshop
Enjoy the energy of Group drumming in a friendly Group environment with Jabba JabbaJembe. This interactive workshop is family friendly allowing all ages to learn and play a vast range of Drums and Percussion instruments. Learn about the origins of the instruments, how to play rhythms with your body and voice, discover rhythms from across the globe. Jabba JabbeJembe has been providing workshops for over 18yrs to people of all ages creating a unique learning environment. Playing rhythms in a group environment is a fantastic introduction to creative…
Find out more »FAMILY: CBI Book Clinic
Are you a young reader? Looking for a new series to delve into? Feeling uninspired by your bookshelves at home? Then pop along to Children’s Books Ireland Book Clinic! Chat to the Book Doctor, consult on your favourite reads and leave with a prescription for your next book which you can take to your local bookshop or library! Children’s Books Ireland Book Doctors give guidance about books to children and their families. Based on an informal chat, the white coat-clad Children’s Books…
Find out more »MUSIC: Sharon Shannon
In June 1989 Sharon was rehearsing and demoing tracks for her first album, when she was whisked away to Glastonbury festival with The Waterboys. In the 30 years that have elapsed since then, Sharon has recorded 10 studio albums; 5 live albums, 4 best of compilations and 3 live concert DVDs. She has received many awards including being the youngest ever recipient of the Meteor Lifetime Achievement Awards in 2009 She has collaborated, recorded and toured with everyone from Willie…
Find out more »CINEMA: EO
EO is a grey donkey, living in a travelling circus where he performs alongside his beloved owner Sandra. But when circumstances outside of his control separate him from his mistress and the only life he has ever known, EO begins an adventurous journey through the modern European countryside. Along the way he has many encounters and experiences … Unfolding through a series of vignettes and intermittently told from EO’s innocent viewpoint, 84-year old Polish writer-director Jerzy Skolimowski (Deep End, The…
Find out more »MUSIC: Music Network Presents Linda May Han Oh & Fabian Almazan
Music Network closes its Spring 2023 season with bass and piano duo, a jazz combination that is refreshing in its simplicity. Linda May Han Oh bass Fabian Almazan piano The lingering days of midsummer will be the perfect time to delight in the music of two leading jazz artists of our time: Malaysian-Australian bassist Linda May Han Oh and pianist Fabian Almazan. These two hugely accomplished performers, improvisers and composers visit Ireland this year with over a decade of stunning…
Find out more »MUSIC: Anton Jablokov with Stefano Mocetti
Join violin sensation Anton Jablokov as he returns to Riverbank Arts Centre for a memorable performance with Swiss guitarist Stefano Mocetti. This unique fusion of blending violin and guitar in classical, traditional, and jazz music makes this duo truly dynamic. Anton was born into a family of classical musicians in Bratislava. While Anton’s musical upbringing was Classical, he is also a natural in Jazz, Gypsy, Folk and many other musical styles. At the age of 9 he discovered the music…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyLovesMusic
BabyLovesMusic is a unique concert for babies. BabyLovesMusic is an informal concert for babies aged 0-12 months and their carers featuring four award-winning musicians – Tim Doyle, Kate Hearne, Anna Newell, and Eamon Sweeney – with musical arrangements by Malachy Robinson, of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. An eclectic musical journey with a distinctly Irish feel, BabyLovesMusic features a rich variety of instruments including guitar, cello, accordion, fiddle, uilleann pipes, treble recorder, and lots more. ‘My baby was transfixed and I…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyLovesMusic
BabyLovesMusic is a unique concert for babies. BabyLovesMusic is an informal concert for babies aged 0-12 months and their carers featuring four award-winning musicians – Tim Doyle, Kate Hearne, Anna Newell, and Eamon Sweeney – with musical arrangements by Malachy Robinson, of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. An eclectic musical journey with a distinctly Irish feel, BabyLovesMusic features a rich variety of instruments including guitar, cello, accordion, fiddle, uilleann pipes, treble recorder, and lots more. ‘My baby was transfixed and I…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyLovesMusic
BabyLovesMusic is a unique concert for babies. BabyLovesMusic is an informal concert for babies aged 0-12 months and their carers featuring four award-winning musicians – Tim Doyle, Kate Hearne, Anna Newell, and Eamon Sweeney – with musical arrangements by Malachy Robinson, of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. An eclectic musical journey with a distinctly Irish feel, BabyLovesMusic features a rich variety of instruments including guitar, cello, accordion, fiddle, uilleann pipes, treble recorder, and lots more. ‘My baby was transfixed and I…
Find out more »SPECIAL SCREENING: Blue Jean
England, 1988. New education laws from Thatcher’s government threaten to further stigmatise homosexuality. Jean, recently divorced, is now in a happy relationship with her girlfriend Viv. Jean works as a PE teacher in a secondary school, but there she keeps her sexuality a secret. However, everything changes for her after she’s spotted by a student at a local gay bar. Georgia Oakley’s award-winning debut feature is a moving coming out story and a reminder of the challenges the gay community…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyLovesMusic
BabyLovesMusic is a unique concert for babies. BabyLovesMusic is an informal concert for babies aged 0-12 months and their carers featuring four award-winning musicians – Tim Doyle, Kate Hearne, Anna Newell, and Eamon Sweeney – with musical arrangements by Malachy Robinson, of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. An eclectic musical journey with a distinctly Irish feel, BabyLovesMusic features a rich variety of instruments including guitar, cello, accordion, fiddle, uilleann pipes, treble recorder, and lots more. ‘My baby was transfixed and I…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyLovesMusic
BabyLovesMusic is a unique concert for babies. BabyLovesMusic is an informal concert for babies aged 0-12 months and their carers featuring four award-winning musicians – Tim Doyle, Kate Hearne, Anna Newell, and Eamon Sweeney – with musical arrangements by Malachy Robinson, of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. An eclectic musical journey with a distinctly Irish feel, BabyLovesMusic features a rich variety of instruments including guitar, cello, accordion, fiddle, uilleann pipes, treble recorder, and lots more. ‘My baby was transfixed and I…
Find out more »EARLY YEARS: BabyLovesMusic
BabyLovesMusic is a unique concert for babies. BabyLovesMusic is an informal concert for babies aged 0-12 months and their carers featuring four award-winning musicians – Tim Doyle, Kate Hearne, Anna Newell, and Eamon Sweeney – with musical arrangements by Malachy Robinson, of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. An eclectic musical journey with a distinctly Irish feel, BabyLovesMusic features a rich variety of instruments including guitar, cello, accordion, fiddle, uilleann pipes, treble recorder, and lots more. ‘My baby was transfixed and I…
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 »LOCAL ARTS: Riff Raff Drama Group Presents – What are the Odds?
Set in the 1980s, Doreen and Peter have just moved into a rundown suburban apartment and finances are at an all-time low. But when Peter brings home a stranger who suddenly dies in their home, Doreen concocts a scam to pretend it is Peter who has died so that they can claim the insurance money from his death. But things don’t go according to plan when their secret is exposed to an array of unusual characters who also want in…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Riff Raff Drama Group Presents – What are the Odds?
Set in the 1980s, Doreen and Peter have just moved into a rundown suburban apartment and finances are at an all-time low. But when Peter brings home a stranger who suddenly dies in their home, Doreen concocts a scam to pretend it is Peter who has died so that they can claim the insurance money from his death. But things don’t go according to plan when their secret is exposed to an array of unusual characters who also want in…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Riff Raff Drama Group Presents – What are the Odds?
Set in the 1980s, Doreen and Peter have just moved into a rundown suburban apartment and finances are at an all-time low. But when Peter brings home a stranger who suddenly dies in their home, Doreen concocts a scam to pretend it is Peter who has died so that they can claim the insurance money from his death. But things don’t go according to plan when their secret is exposed to an array of unusual characters who also want in…
Find out more »CINEMA: The Fabelmans
New Jersey, 1952. Sammy Fabelman is the young son of Mitzi (Michelle Williams) and Burt (Paul Dano). A trip to a Cecil B DeMille movie is a transformative experience for Sammy, and his parents encourage him to start making 8mm home movies. As the years pass, Sammy’s filmmaking ambitions continue to grow… but he also starts noticing some troubling cracks in his parents’ marriage. Now a half century into his extraordinary career, Steven Spielberg tells some of his own life…
Find out more »July 2023
SUMMER CAMP: Song-Writing Summer Camp with Megan O’Neill
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! Chart topping and multi-award winning singer- songwriter Megan O’Neill returns to Riverbank to host a week long musical workshop for young people aged 9-12 years exploring song-writing, lyric writing, collaborating and performance. Each student will write at least one full song in these four days (although some will write more) and there will be the option to design your own artwork and record your song towards the end of the workshop. The week will explore the…
Find out more »LOCAL ARTS: Route 66 Big Band
Route 66 Big Band are delighted to make a very welcome return to the 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 the 14 piece Band, with a mix of brass, saxes and rhythm, produces a fabulous sound and their programme includes numbers made famous by Adele, Frank Sinatra, Amy Winehouse, Tom Jones plus many more will have you calling for more at…
Find out more »SUMMER CAMP: BrickFlicks Stop Motion Animation Workshop
In this special BrickFlicks Stop Motion Animation Camp, learn all the basics of how to animate in stop motion using your favourite LEGO character. Shoot spells, fight superheroes, blast rockets or fall through portals, use your imagination to make your very own movies. 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…
Find out more »YOUTH THEATRE: Kildare Youth Theatre Double Bill
Kildare Youth Theatre presents two new productions. The Leaving by Tom Swift. This is a play about the impact of excessive drinking on a group of teenagers at a pivotal stage in their lives. Directed by Sinead Mooney. Citizenship by Mark Ravenhill Citizenship brings us two teenagers, Tom and Amy, who are both exploring their identity and trying to find out who they are. They both want to be loved. Tom thinks he might be gay, but is unsure. And Amy wants someone…
Find out more »WORKSHOP: Creative Writing Summer Camp with Emma-Jane Leeson
Join the author of the popular The Adventures of Johnny Magory series, Emma-Jane Leeson for a Creative Writing Summer Camp for 7-13 year olds. Learn how to write your own book in this 5 day camp. The camp will help students to develop their writing skills and to explore their love of writing in a fun, creative, encouraging environment.
Find out more »August 2023
YOUTH THEATRE: Mouth Off
Mouth Off is an international youth theatre project between Crooked House and FOCO, Spain. It is funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union. Twenty-four young people will spend one week working together to explore how to use various theatre methods in the service of making theatre to challenge hate speech and fake news. This performance is a showcase of their work, an interactive performance created in a few days, followed by a discussion with the audience. All are…
Find out more »September 2023
THEATRE: The Ballad of Mossy Flood
Mossy Flood has a knack of going the long way around a story. In so doing, he makes us laugh and examine ourselves in a way we haven’t done before. He might be an unsociable odd-ball with a big thick head, but his wrestle with the everyday is pure gold. He will always land on his feet or at least somewhere near his feet... because he is Mossy Flood... and he’s from Longford. After a couple of appearances on social…
Find out more »FAMILY: Joe the Magician Presents It’s Magic!
Joe the Magician is back! Yes, it's Joe from RTÉjr’s abraKIDabra and Dizzy Deliveries He’s back to Riverbank with his brand-new show It’s Magic! All new impossible magic and illusion that will have children all ages roaring laughing one minute and in complete awe the next. The show fuses magic, music, special effects and illusion that will bring kids (and grown-ups!) on an unforgettable journey. An audience member will levitate live on stage, someone could win all of Joe’s money…or his…
Find out more »COMEDY: How to Get the Menopause & Enjoy It
Anne Gildea is waxing her moustache, slathering on the Oestrogel and boiling with excitement about bringing her fabulous hit show back to Riverbank Arts Centre! How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It has been wowing audiences and critics alike, and playing to packed house all over Ireland, since it’s sell-out launch last year. On Valentine’s Day 2022 Anne Gildea launched her new show, How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It. After a 30-date tour around Ireland, it returns to Riverbank Arts…
Find out more »October 2023
MUSIC: The Ennio Morricone Experience
This recital highlights Ennio Morricone’s masterpieces and brings the listener on a wonderful journey in celebration of the Maestro’s great contribution to Italian & International music and to the world of film. Accompanying his wonderful pieces, The Ennio Morricone Experience will also perform compositions by the musicians that inspired him, and his fellow Italian composers of the time such as Rota & Piovani. Morricone has scored over 400 compositions for film – more mainstream film scores than any other composer,…
Find out more »November 2023
COMEDY: Chris Kent – Back At It
Cork man Chris Kent makes his first appearance on Riverbanks stage with his brand new show Back At It. After a dose of the real world (having gone back to the day job as an electrician), Chris found himself with two jobs and the ridiculous notion of trying to buy a house. It turns out he did not have enough jobs. Something had to give and shur there’s no future in electricity anyway… “Chris is effortlessly hilarious, an incredible storyteller…
Find out more »