Culture

Culture Night to mark its 17th year in September with over 300 free events

Museums, galleries, libraries and cathedrals are just some of the venues that will open their doors to the public across the country

The launch of Culture Night, Dublin. Lord Mayor Caroline Conroy with artist Tadhg and performers Louis and Grainne. Photograph: Julien Behal Photography

Michael Bolton
Mon Aug 22 2022 - 21:58

Culture Night will mark its 17th year with a theme of “one night for all” on Friday, September 23rd, with more than 300 free events across 250 venues.

Museums, galleries, libraries, cathedrals, parks and Government buildings are just some of the venues that will open their doors to the public across the country.

The announcement of the Dublin programme was made on Monday by the city’s Lord Mayor Caroline Conroy and this year’s Culture Night Dublin ambassador Niall Byrne of music site Nialler9.

“Culture and the creative arts enable us to understand ourselves and where we sit in the world. They also provide a platform to engage positively with new communities,” Ms Conroy said.

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“For me, Culture Night is a moment where visitors and locals alike can engage and learn about the diverse range of cultures that make Dublin a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, or to simply discover a hidden gem right on your doorstep.”

Running alongside this year’s programme is Awaken the Metropolis, a series of artist commissions funded by Dublin City Council. This includes a multiform performance by emerging artist Tadhg at the Meeting House Square.

Visual artist Fionnuala Halpin will be hosting an open-air exhibition with a live mural painting at Spencer Dock. While Acid Granny, who is set to perform at Electric Picnic, will have a number of pop-up performances.

An early evening panel discussion on the future of Ireland’s nightlife will take place at the fruit and veg market in Springfield, followed by performances from Ireland’s electronic dance community.

Here are some highlights of this year’s programme.

Phoenix Park and Museum Quarter

People can learn about the history of soldiers who lived in Collins Barracks through a tour from the National Museum of Ireland. For those looking for something practical, the Damn Fine Print in Stoneybatter will allow visitors to create their own limited edition screenprint.

Casa Mexico on the Phibsborough Road will be hosting an art exhibition with 20 Mexican artists.

Liberties and Historic Quarter

Explore the history of the Vikings at a Viking workshop at Dublinia on St Michael’s Hill. At Bernardo Square on Dame Street, there will be a special screening of the Academy award-winning film Once, supported by Screen Ireland.

Artist Maser will be hosting an open studio at his gallery Atelier Now on Charlemont Street, while Pallas Projects/Studios in The Coombe will present an exhibition by the artist collective Art Nomads.

There will be a variety of cultural walks on themes from historical hotels to coffee houses. Music will take place at the Wood Quay Amphitheatre at the civic offices.

Temple Bar and Creative Quarter

Kids can enjoy the puppet show The Gruffalo at the Meeting House Square at 5.30pm, followed by a performance by Pólca 4, presented by tOireachtas.

People can see the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Dublin through the LGBTQ+ walking tour.

The evening closes out with performances by emerging artist and designer Tadhg, followed by a closing party by Dublin Modular.

Monto and North Georgian Quarter

Dublin City Comics will host a market with local writers, artists and creatives, while audiences are invited to explore the rich traditions of Traveller and Roma culture on Charles Street Great.

To get the opportunity to contribute to a live radio broadcast visit the Dublin Digital Radio at the complex, while there will be late night music from the D-Light Studios housemates on North Great Clarence Street.

Michelle Malone will be presenting an exhibition in the LAB Gallery on Foley Street, while people can explore the historic home of Na Píobairí Uilleann on Henrietta Street.

Learn to dance with classes from Mind the Step, or swing by Sin É for a comedy club, Night of 100 Comedians, on Ormond Quay Upper.

Trinity and the Docklands

People can view the city from the Liffey through the Old Liffey Ferry historical river tours.

Step back in time to the Wild West with a live performance by Flying Turtle Productions at the Ireland Institute on Pearse Street, or listen to Ulysses 2.2 artists at the Pumphouse at Dublin Port.

There will be musical performances from the canal, along with hands-on workshops and mural paintings.

1 Windmill Lane will host the Chamber Choir Ireland and an exhibition from 150-year-old Dublin painting and sketching club.

Dublin suburbs

RS Rowen will be performing at Rathfarnham Castle in the 18th century ballroom. In Tallaght, the Civic Theatre will be hosting screening and workshops, followed by DJ performances until 2.30am.

Visitors can explore the Casino Model Railway Museum in Malahide or visit the crypt of Daniel O’Connell at Glasnevin cemetery, among other attractions which are free for the night.

The full programme will be updated before September 23rd at culturenight.ie.

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