Cork all set for baptism of fire

CORK city is set for take-off this weekend with a 3.5-tonne fireworks display to mark its tenure as European Capital of Culture.

A hefty supply of equipment, performers and events has been organised to mark the official opening of the prestigious year in the city this weekend.

The Awakening weekend will use around 11 miles of cabling, 18 articulated trucks full of equipment, 14 giant creatures, 10 35-foot air-filled characters, 300 performers and 10 carnival stages.

Thousands of revellers will travel from all over the country to see President Mary McAleese officially open the Cork European Capital of Culture 2005 on Saturday.

The National Lottery/Cork 2005 Awakening Ceremony and fireworks display will be broadcast live on RTÉ between 5pm and 6pm on Saturday - involving some 20 TV cameras, 12 control desks and 50 transmitting frequencies.

The opening theme is based on the ancient myth that the River Lee was formed by the gorging tail of a giant serpent defeated in battle by St Finbarr. It will be highlighted by a 1,600-metre serpent.

Some of the highlights of the year-long celebration will include the Cork French Film Festival, the Lee Swim, the EU Chess Championships, the Cork Jazz Festival, the Fete de la Danse and the Lesbian Fantasy Ball.