Wednesday, 30 April 2025
Tuesday, 29 April 2025
NORTH CORK DEMENTIA ALLIANCE EVENTS
NORTH CORK DEMENTIA ALLIANCE EVENTS
Newmarket Dementia Café
Takes place this Thurs 1st May in the Culturlann in Newmarket, 11am-1. Margaret McEntee and I will be doing a Brain Gym taster session which is guaranteed to be both cognitively stimulating and fun! All are welcome.
Charleville Sip and Social
We were so pleased with the wonderful atmosphere and turn out at the first Charleville Sip and Social in April. Many thanks to Ber Browne for providing such wonderful musical entertainment and to the Charleville Park Hotel for providing the space free of charge
The next Sip and Social will take place on Tuesday 20th May, 3-4.30. For catering purposes please let us know if you are coming, contact Sinead on sinead@ncdementiaalliance.ie or phone or text 087 338 9387
Bealtaine Variety Concert
We are so looking forward to the second year of the Bealtaine Variety Concert taking place on Sunday 11th May 3-5.30 in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow 3-5.30. There will be performances from many great acts including Johnny Bongos, Sheila Fitzgerald and the Singing for the Brain Songbirds.
Many thanks to Mecca Barrett and Ber Browne for organising this event which is a fundraiser for the North Cork Dementia Alliance. For more information contact Margaret on 087 690 2898
Tickets are €10 and can be purchased at the door.
Art for your Brain
Our ‘Try it for your Brain’ classes are six week groups which provide participants with the opportunity to challenge their brains by trying a new activity. These groups are stimulating, sociable and fun, factors that are really important for brain health
So far we’ve done a ‘Ukulele for your Brain’ group and ‘Writing for your Brain’.
Next up is ‘Art for your Brain’. These sessions will take place over five Monday mornings from 11am-12.30 in Adair Hall, Fermoy, beginning on May 19th
They will be facilitated by Niamh Towey of Healing with Art. To book your place contact on sinead@ncdementiaalliance.ie or phone or text 087 338 9387. A voluntary contribution of €20 is requested to go towards art supplies.
Memory Group
A five week group for people with mild cognitive impairment or a dementia diagnosis is being facilitated in Mallow Primary Healthcare Centre, beginning Monday 12th May, 11am-12.30. Each week we will explore a different brain health topic and a memory strategy. There will also be the opportunity to share experiences with others in similar situations. For more information or to book your place contact sheena.cadoo@hse.ie or phone
OTHER SERVICES AND RESROUCES
Balancing Stress Programme
The HSE have launched a new online Balancing Stress Programme. Over 6 sessions, you will learn practical ways to deal with stress, worry, anxiety, low mood and depression. You do not need to register for the programme and can watch the videos any time, at your own pace. Each video is around 35 minutes long.
To find out more or to begin, cut and paste this link into your browser https://www2.hse.ie/mental-
Community Garda, Fermoy and Surrounding Areas
We were delighted to have Dane Murphy, the Community Garda covering Fermoy & surrounding areas attend some of our events recently to tell us about the service.
The Community Gardaí can be a great support for people when living independently with dementia. Dane told us that if you, or someone you know is living alone with dementia, it can be helpful to link in with your local Community Garda who can call in for a cup of tea, maybe have a check that the house is secure, and keep an eye out while on patrol.
Dane covers the following areas – Watergrasshill, Rathcormac, Fermoy, Conna, Glanworth, Kilworth, Mitchelstown, Castletownroche and Ballyhooley
His email address is dane.j.murphy@garda.ie.
Concert in St. James's Church, Sunday 4th May at 2pm.
Cultural Companions going to Concert in St. James's Church, Sunday 4th May meeting from 1.15pm at the Hibernian Hotel. Meet and greeters are Mary McGrath and Pauline Grady
The free concert is open to all (no tickets required) in St James’s Church of Ireland in Mallow on Sunday 4th May at 2pm. The Welsh all-ladies choir Cân Aderyn Singers (‘birdsong’ in Welsh) will perform rock, pop, gospel and classical. This concert is part of the Cork International Choral Festival (now in its 70th year). St James’s is offering this free event to the people of Mallow and the surrounding area to enjoy some great music over the May bank holiday weekend.
The choir is from South Wales numbers over 70 members, and has performed at international rugby matches in the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, as well as appearing with the touring cast of Back to Bacharach. Their performances are enjoyable, infectious and uplifting.
The Rector of Mallow Union of parishes, Rev Meurig Williams, is delighted the choir is coming to Mallow. As a Welshman, he said it would be a particular pleasure to welcome a choir from his home country. ‘In Wales, when people get together, they tend to start singing - and it will be real thrill to welcome such an energetic group who will raise the roof and give us all something to celebrate’ he said.
Cultural Companions meeting from 1.15pm at the Hibernian Hotel. Meet and greeters are Mary McGrath and Pauline Grady
Cultural Companions Creative Seasons Bealtaine: Deep Ecology & Creative Reflection with Paddy Doyle May 17th 2pm
📍 Kinship Ecolab, Tramore Valley Park, Cork
🗓️ Saturday 17th May
🕙 2pm
🎟️ Free | Booking required
Explore creativity, nature and identity through this reflective workshop led by Paddy Doyle. Drawing from deep ecology and land connection practices, this Bealtaine event offers a space for quiet thought, journaling, creative writing and community dialogue.
➡️ Email to book: culture@muintircork.com places are limited
Cultural Companions Creative Seasons Workshop: Plant Medicine & Skincare with Aurora & Gabi May 8th 11.30am
📍 Kinship Ecolab, Tramore Valley Park
🗓️ Thursday 8th May
🕙 10.30am – 1.00pm
🎟️ Free | Booking Required
As part of our 2025 Creative Seasons workshop series, this unique workshop invites participants to reconnect with nature through the ancient craft of plant-based skincare.
Join facilitators Aurora Planels and Gabi Mariposa for a hands-on, nourishing session where you’ll:
🌼 Explore the properties of seasonal herbs and flowers
🧴 Create simple, effective skincare remedies
🧘 Learn how creativity and nature can support wellbeing
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Kinship Ecolab, this event offers a relaxed space to learn, create, and share in the spirit of Bealtaine – a time of renewal, growth creativity and connection.
👉 Limited places available – advance booking essential.
📩 Reserve your place: culture@muintircork.com
Bealtaine Variety Concert in Mallow Sunday 11th May 2025
Celebrate Community and Music at the Bealtaine Variety Concert in Mallow
Get ready for an afternoon of uplifting performances and community spirit at the Bealtaine Variety Concert, taking place on Sunday, 11th May from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow (P51 HE63). This special event brings together a diverse line-up of talented local artists, all in support of a great cause.
Organised by Mecca Barrett and Ber Browne, the concert is held in aid of The North Cork Dementia Alliance, making it a meaningful outing for all who attend.
🎶 Featured Artists:
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The Songbirds (Singing for the Brain Choir)
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Maureen Flynn
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Johnny Bongos
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Frances Kennedy
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The Sunday Session Band
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Shelia Fitzgearld
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Kathleen Mannix
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Mecca Barrett
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Ber Browne
From choral harmonies and soulful solos to lively band sessions and heartfelt performances, the variety show promises something for everyone.
🎟️ Entrance Details:
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Entrance Fee: €10
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Tickets: Purchased at the door
All proceeds go towards supporting dementia-related services in North Cork, so your attendance will directly benefit local families and individuals.
📩 Queries?
For more information, contact:
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Sheena Cadoo at Sheena.cadoo@hse.ie
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Margaret Mc Entee at 087 690 2898
Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and come enjoy an afternoon of music, laughter, and generosity at the Bealtaine Variety Concert!
Thursday, 3 April 2025
Making History at the Everyman
How to avail of the Cultural Companions discounted tickets for Making History at the Everyman Theatre – Matinee show on Saturday April 19th at 2PM
We’re delighted that the Everyman have kindly offered Cultural Companions members a special discount for the upcoming production of Making History at the Everyman Theatre on Saturday, April 19th at 2PM.
How to Book:
- Click HERE to access the booking page.
- Select your seats from the dedicated Cultural Companions allocation (marked in pink on the seating chart).
- At the checkout, enter the discount code CC20 to receive the discount off full-price tickets.
- The discount will be applied at the payment stage.
Important Details:
This offer is available for new bookings only. The discount is valid for the Saturday, April 19th, 2PM show. Usual booking fees apply. The discounted allocation is available until Friday, April 11th – book early to secure your seat!
Cultural Companions are meeting from 1pm in the Metropole Hotel close to the theatre for a cuppa and chat beforehand
You can also call the Everyman Box Office and use the promocode to purchase ticket over phone or alternatively call in in person.
We hope you enjoy the show! 
Tuesday, 1 April 2025
Midleton Arts Festival 7-11th May 2025
The Midleton Arts Festival (MAF) is an annual celebration in Midleton, County Cork, dedicated to fostering community through diverse artistic expressions.
The 2025 festival, themed 'Treedom,' emphasises creativity, community, and our connection to trees, featuring public art and interactive experiences that unite artists and attendees in shared spaces.
Festival Highlights:
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Fine Art Exhibition: "Variables IV" by Mór Artists Collective at MyPlace.
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Featured Artist: East Cork's Yvonne Condon, showcasing vibrant tree portraits, supporting artists with health and social needs.midletonartsfestival.com
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Midleton Art Market and Music Stage: A platform for local artists to display and sell their work, accompanied by performances from emerging musicians.
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Shop Front Gallery: Over 40 local shop fronts transformed into galleries featuring East Cork artists, with guided tours available.
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Cruinniú faoin Crainn: An interactive eco-art installation under Midleton’s Fair Green beech trees, encouraging community collaboration.midletonartsfestival.com
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Wander and Wonder through the Woods: A guided nature walk blending storytelling, music, and environmental advocacy.
MAF offers free, family-friendly events that showcase local talent and promote environmental stewardship. For the latest updates and full event details, visit the official website midletonartsfestival.com or follow MAF on social media.
Noggin Theatre Co. present Baggage MY PLACE Midleton May 8th
Experience 'BAGGAGE' – A Theatrical Journey of Adventure and Self-Discovery
Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
Time: 8:00 - 9:30 PM (Doors open at 7:45 PM)
Location: My Place, Community Centre, Mill Road, Midleton
Tickets: €20 Available via Eventbrite
Refund Policy: Refunds up to 7 days before the event
Free Venue Parking
Prepare for a rip-roaring adventure as BAGGAGE, written and performed by the brilliant Nicole Rourke, takes to the stage at My Place, Midleton. Brought to life by Noggin Theatre Company, this electrifying one-woman show fuses theatre, dance, and comedy to deliver a night of laughter, passion, and self-discovery.
What to Expect
BAGGAGE is not your typical coming-of-age tale—it’s a coming-of-rage! This dynamic performance follows the journey of a woman who leaves her small Irish town behind and sets off for the intoxicating dance floors of Buenos Aires. Through witty storytelling, expressive movement, and moments of pure hilarity, Rourke masterfully unpacks the emotional and cultural baggage we all carry.
About Nicole Rourke
An accomplished performer, writer, and creative powerhouse, Nicole Rourke is known for her compelling storytelling and fearless performances. Her ability to blend humour with heartfelt moments ensures that BAGGAGE will leave audiences both entertained and deeply moved. For more about her work, visit Nicole Rourke Creative.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It
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A unique mix of theatre, dance, and comedy
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A relatable yet wildly entertaining journey of self-discovery
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A chance to experience top-tier storytelling and performance art
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Free parking and a lovely welcoming community venue
Join Cultural Companions for an unforgettable evening where adventure meets hilarity, and self-discovery takes centre stage. Secure your tickets now and get ready to laugh, reflect, and maybe even dance a little!
As an actor and writer, Nicole has been part of the Irish Theatre and Spoken Word arena for more than three decades. She has featured with many theatre companies including Theatreworks, Storytellers, Yew Tree and Tmu-Na; and her international appearances include those at the London and Edinburgh Fringe Festivals, Glasgow International, Craw Festival Berlin, Singapore Arts Festival, and Konfrontacje Teatraine Poland. Rourke’s one-woman play, Baggage, was a smash hit at the SoloSIRENS festival in Dublin in 2019, and went on to be adapted to film reaching a global audience. Baggage will tour internationally in 2025.BVOF Open Air Lunchtime Recitals May 2025 Book early!
BVOF Open Air Lunchtime Recitals - 12pm / 1pm
This year, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival continue their pop-up programme of free lunchtime festival recitals. These free concerts provide a perfect opportunity to enjoy some highlights of the classical and operatic repertoire in a less formal way. BVOF present these recitals as an opportunity to enjoy a flavour of the festival with some beautiful music, at outdoor settings around the Blackwater Valley, with classical and opera highlights performed by artists from this year’s Blackwater Valley Opera Festival.
To celebrate the 2025 festival, we are continuing to offer our free BVOF Open Air Lunchtime Recitals across both Cork and Waterford counties – into Youghal, Castlemartyr, Lismore and Dungarvan. Attendance is free of charge however pre-booking is essential in advance.
Book Early - don't miss out
DATES & TIMES:
LISMORE: Millennium Park – Tuesday 27 May at 12pm
DUNGARVAN: Walton Park – Friday 30 May at 12pm
YOUGHAL: Green Park – Saturday 31 May at 12pm
CASTLEMARTYR: Castlemartyr Resort – Sunday 1 June at 1pm
The BVOF Open Air Lunchtime Recitals are kindly supported by both Cork County Council and Waterford City and County Council.
Choirs at the Sirius Arts Centre
Experience the Magic of Choirs at the Sirius Arts Centre
Date: Friday, 2nd May 2025
Time: 1 PM
Location: Sirius Arts Centre, Cobh, County Cork
Admission: Free
Get ready for an afternoon of breath-taking choral performances at the Sirius Arts Centre, as two distinguished international choirs—Junges Consortium Berlin from Germany and Mixed Choir "Ventspils" from Latvia—bring their vocal mastery to Cobh.
This special event, free to the public, promises an enchanting musical journey through diverse cultures and time periods.
About Sirius Arts Centre
Sirius Arts Centre is a dynamic cultural hub in Cobh, dedicated to supporting and presenting art across various disciplines. The centre is committed to fostering artistic talent through exhibitions, performances, and artist residencies, making it the perfect venue for this celebration of choral music.
Performing Choirs & Programme
Junges Consortium Berlin (Germany)
This renowned German ensemble will present a moving selection of works, including:
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Wo ist ein so herrlich Volk – Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)
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Even when he is silent – Kim André Arnesen (b. 1980)
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My soul, there is a country – C. H. H. Parry (1848-1918)
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Tyger, tyger – Emil Råberg (b. 1985)
Mixed Choir "Ventspils" (Latvia)
Hailing from Latvia, Mixed Choir "Ventspils" will bring a vibrant selection of traditional and contemporary choral works, including:
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Zvirbuli, zvirbuli – Latvian folksong, arr. Andris Sējāns (b. 1978)
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Neba maize pati nāca – Latvian folksong, arr. Selga Mence (b. 1953)
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Ik rudeni valodiņa – Valts Pūce (b. 1962), Inese Zandere (b. 1958)
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Sasala jūrina – Latvian folksong, arr. Raimonds Pauls (b. 1936)
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Es izjāju Prūšu zemi – Latvian folksong, arr. Edgars Linde (b. 1971)
Why You Should Attend
This concert is a rare opportunity to witness exceptional choral talent in an intimate and acoustically rich setting. Whether you're a seasoned choral music enthusiast or new to the genre, this event offers something for everyone. The combination of powerful harmonies, evocative melodies, and cultural storytelling through music makes for an unforgettable afternoon.
Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of choral music at the Sirius Arts Centre!
Cork International Choral Festival celebrate 70 years 30th April-4th May.
Cork’s longest running festival, Cork International Choral Festival, is getting ready to celebrate 70 years this May Bank Holiday, from 30th April-4th May.
For seven decades, the festival has been a cornerstone of Ireland’s cultural calendar, bringing together world-class choirs and music lovers for an unparalleled celebration of choral excellence. Established in 1954 with a mission to nurture and develop choral music in Ireland, the festival has evolved into one of Europe’s most prestigious choral events, drawing thousands of singers and spectators to the heart of Cork each year. This year the festival will fill more than 5000 bedrooms in hotels and accommodations across Cork City.
As Cork’s longest-running festival and its largest international cultural event, the Cork International Choral Festival has become synonymous with great events and great fun. From its earliest days, Cork City Hall has remained the festival’s beating heart, hosting world-class performances in one of the city’s most striking and acoustically superb venues. Meanwhile, the entire city—from its streets to its restaurants and bars—comes alive with spontaneous choral magic.
At the core of the festival is the prestigious Fleischmann International Trophy Competition, which has, for decades, attracted some of the world’s finest amateur choirs to compete at the highest level. Beyond competition, the festival’s reach extends across the city and county, with fringe concerts, the Church Interchange programme, and informal public performances, ensuring that choral music is truly woven into the fabric of Cork.
As it steps into its 70th year, the festival promises an extraordinary celebration, honouring its remarkable legacy while embracing fresh voices and new traditions. Whether attending a breathtaking gala performance, discovering emerging talent, or simply soaking in the festival’s unique atmosphere, there has never been a better time to experience the magic of the Cork International Choral Festival.
The programme will be announced on April 2nd.
For more information, visit www.corkchoral.ie
West Cork Literary Festival 2025
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