Open-air screening set to breathe new life into park

A man with a passion for film is converting his local park, which lies in the shadow of a Cork landmark, into an open-air cinema for heritage day.

Dominic O’Callaghan, who as a young boy played in St Anne’s Park in Shandon, dreamt of bringing the world of big screens and movies to his neighbourhood. Now that dream is about to come true.

He has organised for a giant screen to be installed in the park on Aug 18, Heritage Day, for a screening of the War of the Buttons.

He hopes the event will breath new life into the park and demonstrate its potential for hosting other events.

“This is the type of event that communities need to be working together to make happen.

“We need to be active in our communities and Shandon is an area with a lot to offer.

“An event like this brings local residents together but also promotes the area.”

Dominic worked with Cork Community Art Link and the Shandon St Festival to organise the screening, which is being supported by dozens of local businesses and organisations, such as Coffa House, Goldie Fish Events, The Eason Hill Men’s Club, and The Button Factory, where the buttons used in the film were produced, and SARA.

Filmed in West Cork and starring Colm Meaney, War of the Buttons takes a humorous nostalgic look at childhood in Ireland, friendship, loyalty and the pointless nature of war.

It is suitable for all ages and gates will open at 6.30pm.

Patrons have been encouraged to brings rugs and a picnic.

It is a free but ticketed event. Tickets are available from St Anne’s Church, Shandon.