Five for your radar: Olivia Rodrigo, Cork Choral Fest, Tony Cantwell
L-R: Olivia Rodrigo and The Big Sing's Gemma Sugrue are among some of the week's highlights
It has been a while since an Irish film has had such a buzz around it before it has even been released. Fresh from picking up the award for Best Film at the IFTAs, That They May Face the Rising Sun is finally hitting screens. Directed by Cork's Pat Collins, the film is a stunning adaptation of John McGahern's final novel. Set in rural 1970s Ireland, we spend a year in the life of a small, close-knit community filled with memorable characters. It is a beautiful depiction of the everyday that transforms their small pocket of the world into an everywhere.
The final performance in the Music of... with John O'Brien series, this show will see Karen Underwood take to the stage backed by virtuosic drummer Davie Ryan. The concert will showcase Underwood's natural soulful style while also pushing her out of her comfort zone making for a unique performance not to be missed. The series has sought to create a captivating journey through the depths of human experience. Also performing will be the Ora Quartet of Jennifer Murphy and Molly O'Shea on violins, accompanied by Ali Comerford on viola, and Aoife Burke on cello.
Tickets for this gig were like gold dust as both dates sold out in a heartbeat. It's no surprise as Rodrigo has been one of music's It Girls over the past four years. There was no fear of a sophomore slump with her latest album Guts producing several massive hits and showcasing her growth as a musician. Her Marquee gig in Cork received rave reviews so those heading to the 3Arena are in for a treat. Footage from the US leg of the tour offers a glimpse of the kind of high-energy fun fans can expect.
Marking 70 years since it was first founded, the Cork International Choral Festival is back once again with a packed programme of events taking place right across the county. Take in a concert, join one of the choral trails, take part in a workshop, or watch some of the finest choirs compete. There are seven gala concerts to choose from including Chamber Choir Ireland, the State Choir Latvija, and Exaudi Vocal Ensemble. One of the highlights each year is The Big Sing where everyone and anyone is invited to come together at City Hall to sing together.
Comedian, actor, podcast host - Tony Cantwell has proved he can do it all. He has built his career from a cult online following to the mainstream without losing his often strange sense of humour. The Dubliner's latest show promises a psychedelic night of stand-up, sketch, sexy cats, and one puppet. If you were looking for a two-puppet show then, I'm sorry, you will have to look elsewhere. There will be laughs-a-plenty on the night, the perfect way to kick off a long weekend.
