THURSDAY past at Conway Mill marked the launch of the jam-packed 2014 Féile an Phobail programme.
The festival, taking place over eleven days, features over three hundred different events, showcasing a range of talents, from musicians to authors, in around sixty venues across Belfast.
The launch proceedings commenced with a speech from Feile’s Director, Kevin Gamble. Welcoming every-one present to the launch, Kevin highlighted the importance of the festival as it reaches its 26th year. He said the festival will stretch across Belfast this year as well as its more traditional venues at the Falls Park marquee and the Cultúrlann.
Cáral Ní Chuilín, the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, was at the event and she remarked on the “sense of inclusivity” that the festival promotes. “It has something for all,” she said, “and 2014 is the most exciting line-up Feile has ever had. If you want to see the transition of the political scene here, look no further than the history of Féile.”
Roisin McDonough, the Arts Council Chief Executive, spoke on a similar theme, praising “this joyous occasion” as well as “our desire to share our joy”.
Colin McGill from sponsors Tennent’s NI said his company was proud to support the annual event, which, he added, has “such a diverse cultural programme”.
Howard Hastings, the Chairman of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, also spoke at the launch.
A scene from Pearse Elliott’s popular play, Man In the Moon, was performed by Ciarán Nolan, who, it was revealed at the launch, is taking the play to Manhattan for a month in September. Of course, you can see it before then at the Roddy McCorley Social Club in the first week of August.
