Culture Night 2024: Celebrating the Power of Spoken Word Across Ireland
As the 19th edition of Culture Night approaches on September 20th, 2024, Ireland is gearing up for an evening of cultural exploration and artistic expression. This year, spoken word events are set to take centre stage, offering a diverse range of performances that highlight the rich tradition of storytelling, poetry, and narrative arts across the country. From Galway to Cork, Tipperary to Wexford, here’s a look at some of the standout spoken word events that will make this Culture Night unforgettable.
In Galway City, Scéalarious promises an engaging evening of modern storytelling in the traditional seanchaí style. Led by Mars Duignan, this event will weave together various performances, poems, and spoken word pieces, offering a contemporary twist on Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. Taking place from 8:00pm to 10:00pm.
In Wexford, Outspoken’s “Áit Dhúchais” at Red Books is a spoken-word competition celebrating the theme of 'homeplace.' Running from 7:30pm to 9:15pm, this event invites performers of all ages and backgrounds to share pieces inspired by their cultural roots.
Tipperary’s Write Minds presents A Poetic Walk Through Hidden History at the Museum of Hidden History. From 7:00pm to 9:00pm, attendees can explore the museum’s artifacts through the poetic lens of local writers, bringing history to life with humor, heartache, and honesty.
In Cork City, the Long Valley Bar, home to Ó Bhéal, features a mix of poetry films, a Five Words poetry challenge, and performances by poets Anna D. and Farah Chamma. Running from 8:30pm to 11:50pm, this event will also include an open-mic session, allowing local poets to share their work with a wider audience.
Meanwhile, YMCA Cork will host a Music, Spoken Word, Art – Youth Showcase from 5:00pm to 9:00pm, featuring spoken word performances by young participants and celebrating the creativity and talent of Cork’s youth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The Scéal Sessions presents the Culture Night Open Mic featuring vibrant performances in Balbriggan from 8:30pm to 11:00pm. The Warehouse on Vauxhall Street will be transformed into a hub of music and spoken promising an unforgettable evening for all who attend.
In Wexford, Stephen James Smith hosts his spoken word event So Say So, a monthly gathering that shines a spotlight on poetry, storytelling, and music. For Culture Night, So Say So features an incredible lineup of guests, including Cal O'Reilly, Peter Murphy, Álanna Hammel, Phil Lyons, Deirdre McGarr, Holly Doyle, Jonathan Murphy, and Basciville. Doors are 8.30pm at the Wexford Arts Centre.
In Galway, the Solstice Arts Group invites you to a Fun Open Mic Night at Campbell's Tavern. From 9:00pm to midnight, this lively event promises a celebration of the area’s rich and diverse talent, featuring music, poetry, dance, comedy, and more. The night is open to all, whether you're a seasoned performer or a local artist looking to share your work. No booking is required, but attendees must be 18 or older.
In Monaghan, the Drumlin Yarnspinners event at Monaghan County Museum will take place from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. This live storytelling session, hosted in a unique historical setting, will bring together professional storytellers for a night of tales that promise to captivate audiences of all ages.
For the younger crowd, Children’s Storytelling and Craft Creation in Watergrasshill, Cork, offers a magical experience from 5:45pm to 7:15pm. Led by storyteller Deirdre O'Mahony and preschool teacher Minna Murphy, this event will guide children through an imaginative journey filled with stories and crafts, making it an ideal family activity for Culture Night.
In Louth, Voices of Pride and Power at the Outcomers LGBT+ Centre will be held from 8:30pm to 11:00pm. This event will feature a diverse array of performances, including music, drama, and spoken word, all centered around the experiences and stories of LGBT+ individuals. It’s a powerful celebration of diversity and inclusion, offering a space for voices from different cultures and backgrounds to be heard.
In Dublin, the Irish Writers Centre invites you to join their bilingual open mic Takin’ the Mic from 7:00pm for an engaging evening of bilingual poetry and prose in both Irish and English. Hosted by comedian Bláithín de Burca, the event features readings from guest poet Gustav Parker Hibbett and an open mic session for writers, poets, and musicians. Book tickets through Eventbrite.
Also in Dublin, experience the electrifying energy of JyellowL live at Meeting House Square at 8:00pm. Known for his impactful lyricism and dynamic performances, JyellowL brings a powerful fusion of genres to the stage, blending rap, afrobeat, dancehall, RnB, and soul. His music is both personal and urgent, designed to make you move while touching your heart. No booking required.
In Cork, Grace Church presents More Than Words, a powerful evening of rap, spoken word, and poetry featuring two of the world’s top 10 battle rappers, LOSO from Florida and A.Ward from Kansas City. Known for their Christian-influenced wordplay, these renowned spoken word artists will captivate the audience with thought-provoking and dynamic performances. Joining them on stage will be Cork poet and rapper Gerry D, among others. This family-friendly event will be held at Grace Church on 53 MacCurtain Street from 7:00 to 9:30pm, welcoming all ages.
Culture Night 2024 is set to be a night of connection, creativity, and celebration across Ireland. With a rich program of spoken word events, from intimate storytelling sessions to competitive poetry slams, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a seasoned performer or an eager listener, this year’s Culture Night promises to inspire and entertain. For more details on these events and to explore other cultural happenings on Culture Night, visit the official Culture Night website or contact the venues directly. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural life of Ireland!