What's on today and tomorrow

BRIAN O'CONNELLalerts us to what is happening around us

HOPKINS LECTURE

Running until next Friday, the Gerard Manley Hopkins Literary Festival draws inspiration not only from the poet’s work, but also his literary and historical connections with Ireland. It takes place in Newbridge College, and features concerts, lectures, readings and workshops. Today’s lunchtime lecture is by Patrick Murray and it focuses on Hopkins and his influences. gerardmanley hopkins.org

POTTERY CLASSES

Ballymorris Pottery in Cratloe, Co Clare offers a range of courses and workshops for adults and children. The workshop and shop is located in a renovated cart house and classes can be tailored to suit groups or individuals. ballymorrispottery.com, 061-357118

PENELOPE

Enda Walsh’s new play Penelope, presented by Galway’s Druid Theatre Company, is attempting to follow the global success of his last outing, The Walworth Farce, and opens at the Everyman Palace Theatre in Cork tomorrow. It runs until Saturday and tickets on opening night are at a reduced rate of €15. everymanpalace.com, 021-4501673

FARMLEIGH HOUSE

Now open seven days a week to the public, this great house also hosts a series of summer events, from farmers’ markets to musical recitals. The boathouse café is a good spot for lunch, while the surrounding grounds in the Phoenix Park remain a popular picnic and walking area. Admission is free. farmleigh.ie

JOHN HEWITT SUMMER SCHOOL

This annual summer school opens today in the Market Place Theatre in Armagh. This afternoon, Eavan Boland gives a talk, while the lunchtime reading tomorrow is by Blake Morrison. Nightly entertainment is provided in the Stage Bar. Day tickets cost £35 (€42), while a week pass is £160 (€191) – both include lunch. johnhewittsociety.org