Over 50 free events to take place across Wexford for Cruinniú na nÓg
This year's programme boasts over 50 free events for children taking place on the day across Wexford's five libraries. Additionally, the county's iconic cultural venues, from the National Opera House to the Wexford Arts Centre, will be alive with activities ranging from animation and coding workshops to creative writing, mural painting, printmaking, and much, much more.
Also announced in the programme, teenagers from Belfast and Wexford will present a unique virtual reality performance, while a special night time event has been announced for Enniscorthy's Vinegar Hill.
Speaking at the programme launch Elizabeth Howard, the creative communities Engagement officer, invited the young people of Wexford to come and be inspired.
'It's a fantastic free day for young people to try something new, show off their skills, or discover a hidden talent. The theme of this year's programme is inclusion and connection and we would encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to join celebrations.'
Speaking at the announcement Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council remarked,
'Cruinniú na nÓg is an incredible celebration of youthful creativity, providing a platform for children and young people to participate in the arts within their communities. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the local youth organisations, creative professionals, libraries, and community groups, without whom this event would not be possible. I would encourage all young people in the county to come join the celebrations.'
This year specially curated workshops will take place across Wexford's five libraries. Designed from toddlers to twelve year olds, activities can be booked on the official website.
At Wexford Town Library, children will have the opportunity to explore the art of weaving or create memory maps through collage, coloring, and drawing. Artist and designer Cuan Cusack will lead workshops focused on creating fine art prints using shadows and sunlight.
Young musicians can also participate in the 'music and movement for little ones' workshop. Additionally, theatre maker Alison Ni Mhairtin will conduct an Irish Sign Language drama storytelling workshop specifically designed for children with additional needs.
At Gorey Library, renowned painter Lillian O'Sullivan will conduct introductory oil painting classes for children. Young people can explore bookbinding and illustration, or participate in a bilingual singing workshop. Elizabeth Flynn will lead a weaving workshop using seasonal plants, and there will be an opportunity for aspiring computer scientists to learn coding through bracelet-making.
Additionally, neurodiverse children, or those who may feel overwhelmed, will benefit from the Sensory Hour facilitated by Cathy Coughlan.
At Enniscorthy Library the award-winning designer and upcycling advocate Lynn Haughton will lead a workshop where children can decorate large puzzle pieces with upcycled materials. The Wexford Youth Theatre WACT will offer acting lessons, while NCAD graduate Millie Case will conduct workshops in wet wool felting.
Additionally, children can take part in stop motion animation workshops or engage in a sensory activity where they will 'Create their own calm down bottle'.
Over at Bunclody Library there will be storytelling through LEGO games and musician Laura Hyland will be leading a workshop in singing and voice work. At New Ross Library artist Celeste Shimora Goedert will lead workshops in 'print making with natural materials' and there will be workshops in drama and music.
There are also many other activities geared towards teenagers, and fans of The Banshees of Inisherin.
At the Taghmon Family Resource Centre, filmmaker Leah O'Toole, known for her work on The Banshees of Inisherin, will be leading a filmmaking workshop. Additionally, the Red Moon Theatre Company will offer workshops for children.
Director Tony McLeane-Fay from Barecheek Theatre Company will conduct acting workshops at The National Opera House and at the Gorey Family Resource Centre there will also be workshops led by mixed media artist Elaine Tobin from the Gorey Arts Collective.
Teenagers can look forward to mural painting demonstrations at the Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy, as well as at the Wexford Arts Centre. Facilitated by The Walls Project, Wexford Arts Centre will also host coding workshops presented by Anyone4Science.
The Stella Maris Centre in Kilmore Quay will host 'Yola and Our Stories', an engaging theatre workshop for children focusing on heritage, history, and storytelling, facilitated by Chris Moran.
This year, teenagers from Wexford and Belfast will come together as part of an innovative 'Shared Island' project that aims to spark critical discussions about misinformation surrounding the topics of climate change and health. The groups will engage online and work with theatre professionals to create a scripted performance.
A 360-degree VR video expert will record the final performances, and members of the public will have the opportunity to experience the piece using Google Cardboard viewers that will be available at libraries throughout the county.
As part of this year's theme of inclusion and connection, Cruinniú na nÓg will partner with seven groups across Wexford identified as 'Seldom Heard.' These essential community groups provide support to young people on various issues, including LGBTQI+ support, young individuals in direct provision, and those living with long-term illnesses.
Each group will be matched with an artist or expert facilitator who comes from similar background or has been through similar life experiences as those participating in the groups.
The day will end with a bang on top of Vinegar Hill featuring 'The Night Belongs to Youth,' a collaborative project with Creative Places Enniscorthy. The sunset event on Vinegar Hill will be open to the public and will feature a movement piece led by young people of Enniscorthy to the summit of the hill.
The full schedule with details can be accessed on the website.
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