Hawk’s Well Unveils Spectacular 2025 Season: Brochure Out Now!

We at the Hawk’s Well Theatre are delighted to announce another new bumper season with its latest brochure for January - April 2025 out now. Featuring all the incredible shows and events taking place during the coming months, the booklet is available to pick up at the theatre, at locations all over Sligo, and to view or download at www.hawkswell.com.
Hawk’s Well Theatre invites you to join us in a vibrant celebration of creativity and community. At the heart of our new brochure are two unmissable highlights: the return of Ladies Night, an electrifying event in honor of International Women’s Day that shines a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of women in the arts, and the laugh-out-loud musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Back by popular demand, this beloved production features the incredible talents of Sligo’s own Sinead Conway, Luke Devaney, and Katelyn Ressler, alongside visiting artist Warren McCook.
And that’s not all! Spend an evening with the Hawk’s Well team as we share exciting updates about our renovation plans and give you a sneak peek into their ambitious 2025 programme, all accompanied by wine and refreshments.
Kicking off this New Year with a jam-packed season of plays, music, comedy, workshops, talks, and productions of all shapes and sizes…
THEATRE
In December, come and enjoy the New Voices Showcase; a rehearsed reading of short plays written by participants from our New Voices Teenage Playwriting Programme, and don’t miss the hilarious Irish comedy Matches & Old Flames by Tommy Marren – writer of It’s The Real McCoy, Three Hail Mary’s
and Nobody’s Talking To Me – as it promises audiences another night of rip-roaring comedy.
January brings Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit, a tug-of-love comedy with a difference: one of the lovers is a ghost! Mid-January sees Little John Nee in association with First Fortnight Festival bringing his immersive theatre experience Zeitgeist Jukebox to Sligo; a testament to the healing power of music.
At the beginning of February, Skreen/Dromard Drama Group presents Mammy’s Boy; a 3-Act Comedy by Jimmy Keary. Time At The Well recipient Fiona Maria Fitzpatrick performs her original “gritty but witty” work in progress Nothing But An Aul’ Weed.
Into March, Triple Fringe First and Olivier Award winning Fishamble present HEAVEN by Eugene O’Brien; a delicately drawn two-hander set in the Irish midlands during the weekend of a local wedding. At the end of the same month GBL Productions presents Thursdays with Elvis, a comedy with music.
And in April Sligo Drama Circle’s production of Sive by John B. Keane tells the story of an illegitimate 18-year old girl being forced into an arranged marriage with an elderly man by her relatives.
THEATRE & SCHOOLS
Join Paddy Cullivan at the end of April and beginning of May on a hilariously insightful journey through the history of partition and the Ireland of the future with I Can’t Believe It’s Not Ireland.
MUSIC
For music lovers, the new year sees an abundance of gigs of all genres. At the end of December, Indian return for a one off gig in tribute and appreciation to their long-time manager, friend and mentor Aidan Mannion.
In early January Flash Harry presents a show that embraces the very essence of Queen's live performances. Then, don’t miss this fantastic night of talent that combines some of Sligo’s most musically accomplished families - the O’Dowds, Grennans, Carbonells and Kellys for an epic night of music with Folk Families. Neil Young Tribute Harvest also grace the Hawk’s Well stage in January, an 8-piece band who have been thrilling audiences and fans of Neil Young for 15 years. Chicago-based bluegrass outfit Special Consensus offer a thoughtfully curated collection of well-known and obscure songs from some of the world’s most notable bluegrass and folk musicians. Irish country sensation Derek Ryan is also back with a brand-new concert show for January 2025. The Theme Night Academy showcases the best original music from the teenagers of Sligo and the North West with their Young Songwriter’s Showcase. And the end of January sees multiple Grammy Award winner Tim O’Brien and singer Jan Fabricius team up with iconic traditional players Seamie O’Dowd and Dermot Byrne for a night of acoustic instrumentation and sweet harmony singing.
Join Kieran Quinn and the Theme Nights crew in February as they team up with the talented community of musicians for an unforgettable evening with Theme Night # 36. Then, why not join one of the finest, Patrick Feeney, for an unmissable night of inspirational Country and Gospel.
Join Dee Armstrong in March as she launches her debut solo album which features original compositions, recorded and produced at her home in County Leitrim. Dee will be joined by her sons Diarmuid & Lughaidh Armstrong, Seamie O Dowd, Grainne Horan and Sarah Jane Barry. A very special acoustic show from the Gemma Hayes Trio will feature songs from her new album Blind Faith as well as other hits from her extensive back catalogue. Help Hawk’s Well celebrate International Women’s Day by celebrating ladies in the Arts. Hosted by Pauline McLynn, Hawk’s Well will gather some fabulous ladies for a great night out filled with music, laughter, drama, poetry and dance. The UK's leading Carpenters show, The Carpenters Experience features the amazing voice of Maggie Nestor and eight top-class musicians, capturing the sights and sounds of the amazing talents of Richard and Karen Carpenter. March also sees Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri’s The Long Ride Home Tour continue to captivate audiences with their spellbinding acoustic live show. Transition year students from Grange Post Primary School will host Get Your Act Together; a night of music, song and dance where students from 1st to 6th year get their acts together and take to the stage to entertain us. It will be an evening to remember. One of popular music’s most thrilling and affecting performers Eddi Reader will perform with support from the magnificent Jill Jackson.
Still in March, whether you're a fan of Irish folk music or Celtic rock, The Whistlin' Donkeys are a band that you won't want to miss. Just The Five Of Us will also provide an evening of Musical Theatre featuring Ireland's Eurovision National Treasure Niamh Kavanagh, Les Mis's West-End Paul Wilkins, Kathy Nugent, Simon Morgan and Kerry Golding! One thing is for sure if it’s Country Music you like then this is a rare chance to see real Country Music Royalty with Philomena Begley and Ray Lynam’s We Go Together Tour (with special guest Mick Flavin). America’s Got Talent star and Irish singer-songwriter Stephanie Rainey will also bring her headline show to the Hawk’s Well Theatre this March. At the end of the month, join Hawk’s Well for an unforgettable evening of Irish music and song, featuring three of the leading figures in the traditional music scene: Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Dónal O'Connor, and Michael Rooney.
In April, An Evening of Music by Ryuichi Sakamoto is to be curated and performed by one of Ireland’s leading pianists, Ruth McGinley. Nationwide favourite Reeling in the Showband Years returns to send you home with great memories of wonderful and never-to-be-repeated time in Irish popular music.
In April, Sligo Academy of Music Teachers and Students, past and present, host a very special evening of music celebrating 25 years and featuring the Sinfonietta, Jazz Orchestra, Junior Orchestra, Perfect Harmonies Choir, SAM Harp Ensemble, Sligo Community Orchestra and performances by the SAM Tutors.
Towards the end of the month, enjoy a unique night of music and song featuring an exceptional lineup of performers from diverse platforms. A Celebration of Music & Song – North West Suite Premier will showcase the talents of Seán Keane, Michael Rooney, Stephen Doherty, and the Ceol na nÓg Trad Orchestra. The 4 Of Us will continue to perform the highlights of their award-winning career, along with new material from their latest album, Crescent Nights. And lastly, Sligo Parkinson’s Choir assisted by their friends from the Orpheus Choir host an evening of entertainment. The event, which will be compered by Robert Fitzpatrick, will also feature other local talents. All proceeds to Parkinson’s Ireland, North West Branch.
MUSICALS
Join Hawk’s Well in January as the Transition Year students of Ursuline College Sligo bring to life Disney’s High School Musical which promises a feel-good night that celebrates talent, teamwork, and staying true to who you are.
In February Sligo Musical Society brings us Roald Dahl’s beloved Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, immortalized in the movie versions of 1971 (Gene Wilder) and 2005 (Johnny Depp) known and loved by children and adults all over the world. Prepare to be entertained and uplifted as Sligo’s own talented Mad Ravens take the stage with Notes From A Tattered Manuscript IV, a chance to experience the magic of musical storytelling.
Mercy College Sligo and Summerhill College present the fabulously fun musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde the Musical, in March with memorable songs and dynamic dances.
Back by popular demand, April brings back Hawk’s Well’s own production of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, a hilarious musical that sees four supremely talented actors take on 50 characters in an outrageous, cheeky and side splitting look into love and its consequences! Bring a loved one, a friend, go in a first date, but whatever you do… don’t you dare miss it!
COMEDY
Want to un-wreck your head and de-stress your life in January? Drop into Hawk’s Well Theatre to see comedian, author, podcaster and meditation expert Dermot Whelan who’s back with a hilarious and enlightening brand-new show. Then, fasten your seatbelts for Pat and Faye Shortt's slick sketch comedy show Knuckle Down. The sharp wit and physical comedy genius of this comedic duo will have you in pain with laughter. Comedian Jason Byrne returns to Hawk’s Well the same month for Jason Byrne: No Show. At the end of January, Sligo native comedian John Colleary also returns with his show Head Like A Shed.
Into February, come vote for the future of comedy with Ha! Ha! Hawk’s Well Comedy Award Final, with judges Sharon Mannion, Terry Markey and Eddie Mullarkey and....YOU as they compete to make you laugh with a grand prize of €1,000 for best act. For SO Sligo Comedy Festival, Kendy
and Raybo give their thoughts on the world and Sligo with Kendy & Raybo Live Show.
Gearóid Farrelly follows his mammoth 'Glamour Hammer' tour in March with a hilarious new stand up show touching on the many, many, MANY things that make his blood boil in Gearóid Rage. The hilarious Neil Delamere is back on the road with his brand new epic standup show Achilles Neil.
The David O’Doherty of comedy is back in April! Having trained his body and mind to the point of peak perfection, he has used a very nice pen to write a new concert of talking and songs with Ready, Steady, David O’Doherty.
FOR KIDS
A host of exciting children’s shows and events will carry us through the season! We’re kicking off the new year in January with Folk Families for Babies featuring the O’Dowds as part of the beloved Music for Babies series - perfect for little ones and their parents alike. As part of Hawk’s Well’s Little Cinema series, there will be a special screening of The Gruffalo’s Child.
Kyle Riley is back in February with his wildly popular family concert for young children; Little Folk - On the Road, perfectly suited for 2-7yr olds and their adults. Children with autism and their grown-ups are invited to enter and journey through a sensory world of teddies, marbles and marshmallows with Teddy Play; an interactive relaxed performance with Hawk’s Well’s Time at the Well Artist Ben Lucent. Colm Dawson brings his hilarious comedy magic show suitable for the whole family to the Hawk's Well Theatre as part of the 'So Funny' Sligo Comedy Festival 2025.
Into March, join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, and help him in his quest to complete the bubble game and make the ultimate bubble. Fionnuala Maxwell and Rodney Lancashire introduce the joy of traditional music to toddlers with Traddler Tunes.
Then, in April, Lisa Cannon and Steph Pawula provide Springtime Tunes on ukulele and percussion for lively little ones!
SCHOOLS
In February, High Rock Productions presents Caith amach é, A smash hit comedy based on the Leaving Cert Irish Oral picture sequences. It’s a fast-paced, physical, comic sketch show covering each of the 20 sraith pictiúir for the Leaving Cert Irish Oral Examination and is accessible to students of all levels.
March sees Paul Curley presenting Grey Matter, a New Play for Young Audiences by Paul Curley
and Ger Clancy exploring the joyful relationship between a boy and his pet (African Grey) parrot as they journey through life together.
And at the end of April, join Paddy Cullivan on a hilariously insightful journey through the history of partition and the Ireland of the future with I Can’t Believe It’s Not Ireland.
TAKE PART: CHILDREN
There is a number of exciting creative workshops for children where lots of fun is guaranteed, including drama workshops running from February to April; a nine-week course facilitated by Isabel Claffey and Órla McSharry that offers both Toddler Drama and Kids Drama, designed to explore creativity and build confidence.
On Monday 13 January, Monday 10 February and Monday 7 April, enjoy special, unhurried time with your little one in a nurturing space as artist Jackie Maguire hosts Tiny Trees, an ‘early years’ workshop.
Calling all Taylor Swift fans who love to sing! In March, unleash your inner Swiftie in Swiftie Sunday Singalong with Sligo’s singing sensation Sinead Conway.
Then in April, children aged 8 and up can dive into a three-day Easter camp, Worlds of Adventure. Led by Wayne O’Connor, participants will blend creative writing and art to craft their own fantasy settings - an imaginative experience not to be missed.
TAKE PART
From January to February, join Lisa Cannon for a fun and welcoming introduction to playing the ukulele in a five week course: Beginner Ukulele Lessons. Then, join acclaimed author Brian Leyden for a one-day creative writing workshop, Writing with a Purpose Again. Also running from January to February, Isabel Claffey leads Acting for Adults, a six-week course that offers a space to explore, create, and embrace challenges—all while having fun.
January to May will see the return of the Pop Up Community Choir led by choir master Michele Feeney. So come along a sing your heart out!
Then finally, in March, step out of your comfort zone and unlock your creativity with a full one-day Comedy writing course with John Colleary.
From January to March, Hawk’s Well Theatre & Sligo Academy of Music host Sligo Community Orchestra led by conductor Niamh Crowley. This fun initiative will give you the chance to renew old music skills or put new-found ones into practice in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The last Friday of every month sees Cultural Companions welcome older members of the community to the Hawk’s Well to network with people interested in arts and culture.
In February, The Creative Path with Ursula McHugh returns to help you discover talents you never knew you had.
Throughout April, rekindle your love of singing, learn new songs and have some fun at Hawk’s Well’s singalong sessions on Wednesdays with Seamie O’Dowd and Friends. And lastly, through a mixture of movement, writing and making, you can strengthen your connection to your ability to Play with Ben Lucent.
PANTO
In December, Coolera Dramatic Society are delighted to return with this year's pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. All your favourite actors will be back on stage to entertain you including Bobby Jones, Brian and Stephen Devaney, Kieran O'Doherty and Orla McSharry. With some exciting new talent, wonderful music and dance and of course lots of exciting adventures, this will be one not to miss.
After a five-year break, the much-loved Sligo Hospital Pantomime is back with an exciting production of Hansel & Gretel. This year’s return comes with mixed emotions for the cast and crew, as they remember their late co-director, Deirdre Staunton, who passed away last year.
GAMING
Join Hawk’s Well in January for an exciting mid-season event with popular FPL content creator, Niall Crossan aka FPL ÉIRE! Whether you’re climbing the ranks or just aiming to stay ahead, this event is your chance to meet fellow FPL fans, exchange insights, and ask Niall your burning questions.
SCREENING
Presented in association with First Fortnight Festival, The Days of Trees screens in January. In this IFTA award-winning documentary, Tómas Hardiman confronts repressed childhood abuse by the Christian Brothers, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing, seeking redemption over vengeance. Followed by a post-show Q&A with the filmmaker.
OPERA
February sees Johann Strauss’ most popular opera, Fledermaus, grace the Hawk’s Well stage. Best-known for its tunefulness, upbeat musicality and Viennese lilt, the story has hilarious twists and turns, with disguises, double crossings and rivers of champagne.
VR EXPERIENCE/TALK
To mark Daffodil Day 2025 in March, Hawk’s Well Theatre hosts Mammary Mountain (VR experience) by Sligo based artist Tara Baoth Mooney, Camille Baker, and Maf’j Alvarez. An intimate immersive story and embodied haptic experience that explores dis-ease within the body and its relationship to the broader context of the land through the breast cancer journey. Tara Baoth Mooney will also talk about the experience in an informal panel conversation with special guests on Sunday 23rd March at 6pm.
TALK
The RTS Sligo are hosting a night of social connection in March; wellness and engagement with our community. Tommy Marren shares some of the highlights of his broadcasting career and will also present a number of extracts from his comedy writings.
TALKS/LITERARY
Join Michael Harding in March as he brings to life the Camino walk and the father who shaped his life. Michael Harding’s father had a profound effect on his life. In 2023 Michael walked the Camino de Santiago, and wrote a volume of memoir entitled 'I Loved Him from the Day he Died'.
The An Post Irish Book Awards in April showcases a diverse mix of outstanding writing from new and established Irish writers. Hosted by Una Mannion, join Hawk’s Well for Writers from the West as they celebrate some of the nominees from 2024 based in the North West.
SEASON LAUNCH
And last but not least, in January come and spend the evening with the Hawk’s Well Team, get an update on our renovation plans and get a sneak preview into our wider 2025 programme. There will be wine and refreshments.
That’s just a taste of what’s to come this new year. There’s something for everyone at Hawk’s Well Theatre, so pick up the new brochure today!
Full details of all Hawk’s Well events are available online, and in the new brochure. For ticketing, visit the website or call the box office on 071 916 1518.