The Arts Council has revealed it has withheld hundreds of thousands of euro in funding for the Abbey Theatre, amid concerns the venue’s direction has resulted in fewer opportunities for Irish artists.

Kate Ellis lives in Dublin and is artistic director of Crash Ensemble. The new music group play at a number of events at Clonmel Junction Festival over the next few days.

From Bloomsday for Joycean lovers to al fresco dining in Dublin, from the fun side of the arts in Carlow to the annual Summer Show in Cork, this weekend promises a feast of festivals nationwide.