Kilkenny Arts Festival: Top-class opening weekend of music, history, and wonder

A medieval priory, a 13th-century abbey, and the magnificent St Canice’s Cathedral were the hosts for three concerts of extraordinary scope and beauty

The Curing Line's music is played by an ensemble of multi-instrumentalists, all present on stage

★★★★★

It’s not hard to imagine certain areas of Kilkenny life that would baulk at the idea of a Cork manager, but when it comes to jewel in the Marble City’s cultural crown, its August arts festival, now in its 53rd year, Cork woman Olga Barry is doing a superb job at the helm, exploring new ground while being true to the festival’s uncompromising tradition of presenting the best in classical and new music.