37th Westport Arts Festival

Christopher Lee as Dracula
Established in 1976, Westport Arts Festival is not only one of Ireland’s longest running festivals, but an on-going celebration of the arts in and around Ireland. With over 100 events spanning two weeks, this year’s festival – which runs from 1st – 14th October - represents one of the most ambitious to date. Amongst the array of events are screenings of the dark and sensual In the Realm of the Senses, Hitchcock’s masterful thriller North by Northwest, Hammer’s classic adaptation of Dracula, and many other titles. For those less inclined to the darker side of cinema, fear not - other titles to be screened include Singing in the Rain, Pink Floyd: The Wall, Moulin Rouge and Where the Wild Things Are.

Aside from the film screenings, festival goers can look forward to a staggering amount of live music, comedy, theatre, visual art, literature readings and workshops. This year’s programme is as diverse, interesting and exciting as last year’s, with the work of both local and international artists promoted throughout.

Organised entirely by volunteers, the annual Westport Arts Festival has been a fixture in the Irish arts calendar since 1976, making it one of the longest-running festivals in the country. It has proved itself time and again to be a beacon in Clew Bay for both aspiring and internationally famous artists, performers, writers and musicians, giving them an opportunity to showcase their talents to a passionate West coast audience.

For further information, the low-down on all other festival events and to buy tickets, visit their website.

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