The chequered history of a Viking prison island, a sinister story about a hidden beach known as the “Back of Beyond”, and how seaweed restored the fortunes of a seaside town are themes in a new aerial documentary about Ireland due to be broadcast on TG4.
The two-part documentary explores Ireland’s south and east coasts, focusing on the landscape, architecture, history and human experience.
Entitled Rúin ón Spéir, it was filmed from the air during the autumn at various locations, including Bull Rock island, Charles Fort, Newgrange, Merrion Square and Boland’s Mills in Dublin, Birr Castle, Powerscourt waterfall and Glendalough.
Limerick’s “Living Bridge”, Lough Hyne in west Cork, Dursey Island, the Burren, Cahergal Stone Fort, Sneem, Dunguaire Castle, the Cliffs of Croaghaun, Derryclare lough and Achill island are also covered, along with Ben Bulben, Glenveagh National Park and Fanad Head lighthouse in Donegal.
The series is narrated by Doireann Ní Bhriain, with contributions from Anthony Murphy, author and historian; Siún Ní Raghallaigh, former chief executive of Ardmore Studios; Edel Tobin, founder of Waterford Walls art project; Martin Shehan, farmer on Dursey Island; Jenny Beale, founder of Brigit’s Garden in Co Galway; Sean Corcoran, sand artist; and Helena Byrne, storyteller.
The Irish Sky Garden at Liss Ard Estate in West Cork
It has been produced and directed by international filmmaker Stephen Rooke, whose past work includes Sacred Sites - Seasons 1&2, Aerial Britain, Saving the Titanic and Waterways.
Rúin ón Spéir is produced by Tile Films Ltd. for TG4 and the international television market, and will be broadcast on TG4 from Wednesday, October 19th at 9:30 pm or anytime on the TG4 Player.
