Kinsale Arts Weekend 2025 Promises to Ride 'The Ninth Wave' This July

• The coastal town prepares for its ninth annual arts celebration with over 60 events spanning music, theatre, visual arts and immersive experiences from 10-13 July

Kinsale is set to transform into a creative wonderland this summer as the town's beloved Arts Weekend returns for its ninth year. Running from 10-13 July 2025, this year's festival embraces the evocative theme of "The Ninth Wave", drawing inspiration from Celtic mythology and maritime mystery to create what organisers promise will be the most ambitious programme yet.

Anna Mulcahy, festival chairperson, explained the significance of this year's theme: "The Ninth Wave represents a threshold, between the known and the unknown, the safe and the daring. This year, we wanted the programme to push past the expectations, and I'm so proud of what our team and artists have created. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, I can promise there's mystical creativity waiting for you in Kinsale this July."

The festival will feature over 60 events across the town, with venues ranging from traditional spaces like St. Catherine's Cultural Centre to more unconventional locations including cafes, streets and the newly redeveloped town library. Cork County Council has granted access to the award-winning library building, which has served as a cultural hub since opening in 2023.

Lisa O'Brien, this year's programme curator and Kinsale native, brings experience from festivals including Kilkenny Arts Festival to her hometown role:

"Kinsale Arts Weekend has become a beacon for creativity and connection, locally rooted but open to the world. I've always believed that art should surprise, challenge and welcome in equal measure. I hope that that spirit comes through in every corner of the programme."

Music lovers can look forward to acclaimed singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes performing at St. Catherine's on Saturday, 12 July, featuring material from her critically acclaimed album "Blind Faith". Sunday's programme includes Cork five-piece Cardinals, fresh from supporting Fontaines D.C. at Finsbury Park, who will bring their electrifying blend of 60s pop, gothic shoegaze and Irish folk influences to the festival.

Theatre and immersive experiences feature prominently, with Brú Theatre presenting "Ar Ais Arís", a groundbreaking Irish-language virtual reality storytelling experience exploring themes of migration and return. More intimate performances include "Under the Ivy", a Kate Bush reimagining by Annette Buckley and Ronan Holohan at OHK café, and "Sounds Queer to Me", Ivy Favier's personal exploration of identity through music and storytelling.

A special highlight comes courtesy of sisters Linda and Irene Buckley from the Old Head of Kinsale, who will perform their haunting original score live alongside the iconic silent film "Nosferatu" on Sunday, 13 July. The accomplished composers previously created the score for the 2022 Sinead O'Connor documentary "Nothing Compares".

Visual arts enthusiasts can explore the KAW Walking Gallery, open studios, and a special exhibition of folk artist Seanie Barron's renowned walking sticks. Barron, from Askeaton, West County Limerick, transforms found branches, roots and bones into unique works now displayed in international museums.

The festival also embraces contemporary issues through talks on climate and wave energy with Prof. Tony Lewis and Dr. Tara Shine, whilst "The Ninth Step", choreographed by international ballerina Patricia Crosbie, will see audiences follow a vibrant dance spectacle through Kinsale's streets.

Kinsale Arts Weekend maintains its commitment to sustainability, accessibility and community engagement, offering family-friendly programming with something for all ages. The festival receives support from the Arts Council and Cork County Council, alongside generous sponsors and Festival Friends.

Tickets are available now through www.kinsaleartsweekend.com, with early booking recommended for flagship events.