BOOK: NATURE BOY
Ornithologist Seán Ronayne has become somewhat of a national treasure over the past year, via a memorable Tommy Tiernan Show interview followed by the remarkable RTÉ documentary Birdsong (watch it here). Now he tells his own remarkable story in a tender and illuminating memoir - his passion to help spread awareness of the beauty of the natural world is positively infectious (Hachette Books Ireland, in bookshops now)
STREAMING: GOOD BOY
Comedian, podcaster social media sensation Tony Cantwell makes his sitcom debut with this autobiographical tale following the personal and professional adventures of a thirty-something aspiring comedian juggling a day job he loathes, a tumultuous love life, and a mounting drive to make a name for himself in comedy, while stumbling toward an ADHD diagnosis - a quest which turns out to be emotional, heartfelt and very amusing (RTÉ Player, all episodes streaming here)
FILM: THE WILD ROBOT
Already a firm favourite to bag the Best Animated Picture Oscar next spring, this adaptaion of the beloved children's book from director Chris Sanders (How to Train Your Dragon, The Croods, and Lilo & Stitch) features the voice of Lupita Nyong'o as a robot shipwrecked on an uninhabited island who becomes the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling - and the island's brave protector. Be prepared - it's a proper tear-jerker (Cinemas nationwide)
DANCE: FLOATING ON A DEAD SEA
Choreographer Catherine Young's immersive and visceral reflection on life in the West Bank Palestine prior to the 2023/24 war features a cast of international dancers, including three that have travelled from Palestine. Two interconnected works are presented: Young and Luca Truffarelli's documentary film, exploring her company's 2017 visit to the region, alongside a live dance performance. Both pieces weave movement, film, live music, and text to illuminate Palestinian daily life. The show tours nationally until November 2nd - find a date near you here.
EVENT: HARP DAY 2024
Young people take centre stage in a celebration of Ireland's national instrument and its music, presented by Cruit Éireann/Harp Ireland (CÉHI) and taking place on Saturday, 19th October, with more than 100 events happening worldwide. This year's theme, 'Cothú,’ meaning 'Nurture‘, highlights the harp’s unique ability to inspire, uplift, and connect communities while focusing on empowering the next generation of harpers - find out more here.
✨Harp Day at @KingHouseBoyle ✨
— Harp Ireland (@cruiteireann) October 14, 2024
10.30: @eadaoin_music harp workshop
1-2: Hands on Harps with Elisabeth Affolter & Emma Benson
3-4: Lecture Recital w/ Teresa O'Donnell
5: Recital from Teresa O'Donnell, Emma Benson & Music Generation Leitrim and Roscommon Harp Ensembles pic.twitter.com/nKd7FQDR8V
Hear the Culture 5 every Friday on Aedín in the Afternoon on RTÉ lyric fm, from 1pm - listen back here.
