Press Releases 2025

MEDIA INFO 02
For immediate release                                 Mountshannon, 27 March 2025

Festival Highlights:
The Must-See Moments of Mountshannon Arts Festival 2025

“We have worked hard to make this year’s event the best yet,” says Mel White, Chairperson of Mountshannon Arts. “This year’s festival boasts an exciting line-up of performances, exhibitions, and interactive experiences. Whether you're a long-time festivalgoer or visiting our beautiful East Clare village for the first time, here are the must-see moments you won’t want to miss!”

Charismatic Mary Coughlan, Dynamic Jiggy – and many more
Mary Coughlan’s concert at the Catholic Church on Friday, 30 May, promises an unforgettable evening. On Sunday, 01 June, Dublin-based Jiggy bring their energetic fusion of contemporary grooves and traditional Irish reels to the Community Hall. Known for viral hits like Silent Place and King of the Fairies, Jiggy’s dynamic show is bound to be a festival highlight.
Music is always at the heart of Mountshannon Arts Festival, offering a diverse array of talent for every taste. Throughout the weekend, a steady flow of high-class musical acts spanning various genres will perform at the Marquee in the Aistear Park and other venues in the village.

Landmark Visual Arts Exhibitions
Acclaimed artists John Kennedy, Terri Smith, and Brenda Kennelly will exhibit their spectacular works of art at the Market House. Glass artist Kathryna Cuschieri showcases luminous creations at the Aistear Gallery, while emerging artist Ailbhe Wheatley’s work is featured at the Snug Restaurant. Micheál Ó Fearghail presents his landscape paintings at the Berrytree Café. Additionally, Bonnie Boyle’s documentary on local figure Pat Starr screens at Anita’s Storehouse complemented by an exhibition of large black-and-white photographs.

Words That Resonate
Author Kate Kerrigan performs her acclaimed one-woman show, Am I Irish Yet?, exploring identity and belonging, on 31 May in the Community Hall. Literary highlights include Rachel Macmanus’s performance Perpetual Succour,  a play-reading of Isenheim, the launch of Greg Dinner’s new book “Fragments”, and a creative writing workshop led by Niamh McNally.

More great things to watch out for:
Fun for Kids and Families Enjoy storytelling, puppet theatre, face painting, interactive dance events, an open art table, creative workshops and much more designed for family participation.

Market Returns with Local Flair – and Alpacas! On Saturday and Sunday, the festival’s beloved market features local crafts, art, artisan food, and handmade goods, with a special highlight: alpacas returning for two days of furry entertainment.

Double Hit Deal – Just €35 Enjoy both headline acts - Mary Coughlan and Jiggy - for one great price, including festival wristband access to many more events. Available soon at mountshannonarts.ie.

Creative Workshops Ahead of the Festival Thanks to the support of the Creative Ireland Programme, Mountshannon Arts is delighted to offer three inspiring workshops in the lead-up to the Festival: The poetry and pottery workshops “Words for Mother E’ART’h”. On Saturday, 12 April, poet Niamh Twomey leads a nature writing workshop themed “From the Source” (11am–1pm, An Cupán, Main Street, Mountshannon). On Friday, 25 April, author Kerri Ní Dochartaigh hosts her workshop “The Trees You Grew Up With” (3–5pm, Aistear Building).These will be followed on Saturday, 26 April by a ceramics workshop with artist Eibhlín Dunne of Oak House Ceramics (11am–1pm, Aistear Building). All workshops are free to attend, but spaces are limited. Participants are encouraged to take part in at least two sessions. Contact Róisín to register. More info on the workshops here