Heritage week to retell an old story

WHETHER it is nature and wildlife, medieval re-enactments or displays of ancient weaponry, National Heritage Week has all you can ask for.

Running nationwide from August 20 to August 28, there are more than 1,300 events planned, with the majority free of charge.

This year will celebrate the old Irish tradition of storytelling, as the first day of the week is designated National Tell Tale Day.

Heritage Council chairman Conor Newman hopes the day will encourage people to bring back the art of storytelling.

“The simple act of telling a tale brings an added dimension to our sense of place, connecting us to our landscape and historic sites, as they are brought to life. The utterance of a place name makes us think of all kinds of memories — the feel of the neighbourhood; gangs of kids playing, different characters, smells,” he said.

In Dublin, art lovers are in for a treat on August 23 as Sarah Montague participates in a Picture in Focus talk at the National Gallery of Ireland looking at the Opening of the Sixth Seal by Francis Danby. The gallery will also host free tours throughout National Heritage Week.

There are plenty of other attractions in the capital offering tours, including the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Merrion Mews and Stables, and the Tailors Hall.

In Limerick, the Hunt Museum is offering tours where you can discover the myths and legends that haunt the ancient building, with a costumed tour taking place on August 21.

On August 25 in Newcastle West, storytelling for children will take place in the beautiful surroundings of the 15th-century medieval banqueting hall.

Galway, meanwhile, is going to teach people the ancient art of weaving with rushes. Mairéad Sharry will demonstrate the oldest Irish craft of them all throughout the week in Lurgan Village, Inishere.

In the MAAM Community Centre on August 20, attendees can experience arts, crafts, music, dance, butter making, bread making and watch as a fleece of wool is carded, spun and knitted on the day.

Waterford’s Christ Church Cathedral plays host to family portraits from the Annie Brophy photographic collection, dating from the 1920s-1970s.

Children can uncover the story and history of Lismore at the Heritage Centre on August 20, while an illustrated talk on the history and heritage of the River Suir, given by Michael Fewer, will take place in the evening of August 25.

Muckross Peninsula in Kerry will play host to a guided tour of the woodlands of Killarney folklore on August 20.

The Rose of Tralee festival takes pride of place during Heritage Week and visitors can experience 50 years of fashion and fairytales throughout the week.

Cork people can prepare to step back in time as 38 historic buildings open their doors to the public for free on August 27.

The city centre will be a hive of activity as Bishop Lucey Park plays host to medieval reenactments.

* For much more on the 1,300 events planned throughout National Heritage Week, go to heritageweek.ie