The Marine Institute’s headquarters in Oranmore, Co Galway will host a free evening of marine-themed music, drama, art and poetry from 7pm next Friday 20 September for Culture Night 2024.
Oranmore’s drama group, Bualadh Bos, will perform the one-act play ‘Adrift’ by George Infini. This comedic play centres on three men set adrift at sea after a failed mutiny, who must set aside their differences and await rescue.
The Culture Night programme also includes readings of poetry and prose by the Oranmore Creative Writing Group, and a choral performance from the Marine Singers Choir.
There will be visual art and sculpture on display, such as the exhibition ‘Bringing Ireland’s Wildlife Back to Life’, which combines art and science to raise awareness of the effects of pollution and climate change on seabirds. Artworks about the importance of the ocean to the coastal communities of Ireland and Wales, produced as part of the EU-funded project BlueFish, will also be on show.
Experienced street and documentary photographer, Steve Scott will also exhibit ‘Lobster Man AKA Frank’ which showcases the life of Frank Flanagan, a local dedicated lobsterman from Rinville, Co Galway.
Visitors can also view maritime heritage displays such as the Galway Bay Flat Bottom Boat, commissioned by South-East Galway Bay community group Cuan Beo.
“For centuries, the sea has been a source of inspiration for writers, poets and artists and it still captures our imagination today,” said Dr Rick Officer, chief executive of the Marine Institute. “We are delighted to open the Marine Institute’s headquarters in Galway to the public for a special Culture Night programme on September 20th.
“I’m thrilled with the response of local community groups who have come together to stage an evening of entertainment which will celebrate our maritime heritage through music, literature, visual arts and performance.”
Culture Night/Oíche Chultúir 2024 will take place on Friday 20 September in cities and towns across the country with 1,700 free events highlighting Ireland’s rich and varied culture.