Hawk's Well's New Brochure Arrives Sept-Dec 2024
We at the Hawk's Well are delighted to announce the upcoming season with the release of our new brochure, covering events from September to December. Packed with an exciting array of shows and events, the brochure is now available at the theatre, at various locations across Sligo, and online at www.hawkswell.com.
This vibrant new brochure offers an exciting glimpse into the months ahead, showcasing a fantastic lineup that’s sure to brighten the season. From local talents to touring artists, free lunchtime performances to lively festivals, there’s truly something for everyone.
We are especially thrilled to present our own productions, including the fun-filled children’s adventure The Whacky Witch and Her Magic Cauldron. Additionally, we are delighted to kick off the festive season with the beloved classic The Snowman, where this cherished story will be brought to life on stage with the enchanting accompaniment of a live band. And due to popular demand, Hawk’s Well’s laugh-out-loud musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change returns next spring, packed with all the hilarious ingredients for a perfect night at the theatre.
As a theatre deeply rooted in the community, Hawk’s Well remains committed to offering a diverse program that reflects and resonates with the people it serves. The new season is packed with opportunities for every voice to be heard. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store…
THEATRE
This September, the season kicks off with The Grange Players performing the hilarious comedy Always A Convent Girl. Later in the month, Mikel Murfi returns with his acclaimed trilogy, featuring The Man in the Women’s Shoes, I Hear You And Rejoice, and The Mysterious Case of Kitsy Rainey, performed back-to-back over three nights.
Power, politics, family feuds, and violence take center stage in SPLODAR Theatre Company’s historical drama The Sceptical Suffragette, which tells the compelling story of activist Sylvia Pankhurst’s remarkable life.
October offers a diverse mix of performances, including a unique blend of Kabuki dance and Irish storytelling in Pat Kinevane’s Forgotten, an international success for Fishamble over the past decade. Kabosh Theatre Company also presents Callings, an exploration of the daily struggles faced by queer communities. Toward the end of the month, Conal Gallen’s comedy After Ours brings laughter with the story of the infamous Bridie Murphy and her hapless husband Willie as they inherit their own pub.
In November, Sligo Drama Circle brings Oscar Wilde’s classic The Importance of Being Earnest to the Hawk’s Well stage. Fishamble Theatre returns with Outrage, a gripping play that examines the role of women in Ireland’s revolutionary wars, focusing on the impact of the Civil War on their minds, bodies, and souls. Seamus O’Rourke also takes the stage in November with Indigestion, a heartwarming tale where laughter and tears intertwine across fifty years of a life well-lived.
December rounds out the season with a rehearsed reading of short plays written by participants in our New Voices teenage playwriting program, followed by wall-to-wall comedy as the Crokey Hill Players return with Matches and Old Flames.
THEATRE & SCHOOLS
Join Paddy Cullivan this September for I Can’t Believe It’s Not Ireland, a hilariously insightful journey through the history of partition and a glimpse into the ‘Ireland of the future’.
MUSIC
This season is packed with a diverse lineup of gigs for music lovers of all tastes. In September, don’t miss A Night At The Opry, featuring three of Ireland’s top Country stars. Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with iconic hits from legends like Don Williams, Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette, John Denver, Hank Williams, Jim Reeves, Vince Gill, and more.
Also in September, following sold-out shows, TV and radio appearances and new releases, The Highstool Prophets continue to make their mark on Irish folk music with a performance on the Hawk's Well stage.
The same month sees Stephen Gormley aka 'Moon Looks On' perform true to the bone contemporary folk and roots music ahead of his eagerly awaited new album Way Out West. He will be joined by special guests Seamie O'Dowd, Felip Carbonell, Jessie Whitehead, Stephen O'Dowd & Emma Gormley.
The world’s leading Coldplay tribute band, Coldplace, will also take the stage at Hawk’s Well. Seasoned performers, Coldplace have played at major festivals alongside legends like Bob Geldof, KT Tunstall, Ringo Starr, The Kaiser Chiefs, Razorlight, and Roxette.
In James Nelson’s solo show Singing for his Supper, hear his ‘up close and personal’ take on life - on the road and at home - with a selection of songs to warm the heart. Toward the end of September, Grammy-nominated Irish-American supergroup Cherish The Ladies will once again demonstrate why they are considered one of the finest ensembles in the world.
Boasting some of Ireland’s most experienced musicians, Bruised Orange—John Prine Tribute Band—is led by front man Mike "Mack" McGarry, who masterfully captures John Prine’s vocal range. This talented ensemble will grace the Hawk’s Well stage for an unforgettable performance at the end of September.
As October begins, Ireland’s favorite country music singer, Robert Mizzell, will bring his heartfelt performance to the Hawk’s Well stage. With every song, he’ll prove once again why he’s one of the nation’s top country music recording artists!
The 13-piece band The Seeger Sessions Revival also return in October to revive the spirit, energy and musical exuberance that was Bruce Springsteen’s Seeger Sessions album and live shows.
Following the success of May’s event at Vicar St, Kieran Quinn’s Theme Nights are making a return this October for four exciting nights of entertainment. This time, the theme is “Let’s Dance!”— promising an energetic and fun-filled show.
Later in the same month, celebrated singer Cathy Jordan, of traditional powerhouse Dervish, brings The Crankie Island Song Project to life with music, sound, and visuals, preserving them for future generations. And back due to phenomenal demand, 80s Icons Show also returns to the Hawk’s Well stage in October.
Running from October 24th to November 3rd, the international music festival Sligo Live is back with a fantastic lineup of incredible artists, including four-time Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter and co-founder of Single Lock Records - John Paul White - and very special guests Campbell Jensen & Thor Jensen.
This Flight Tonight will be a celebration of Joni Mitchell’s music. The carefully crafted set will feature songs from Joni’s million-selling albums such as Clouds, Ladies of the Canyon, For The Roses, Court and Spark and her 1972 landmark release Blue. Crash Test Dummies add a Sligo date to their mammoth 30th anniversary tour of Grammy nominated and platinum certified album God Shuffled his Feet. Jargon, the highly talented multi-instrumentalist acoustic quartet, has returned to launch their new album recorded at Sligo Live last year, revisiting their interpretations and original songs in Ragtime, Blues, Folk and Bluegrass styles.
Susan O’Neill, a songwriter with a voice that's both soothing and powerful, embodies audacity and free-spirited performance. She will be performing with guest Brídín at the festival. Hawk’s Well Theatre and Sligo Live are proud to co-produce Trad @ Lunch: Arrivals at the Well; a special lunchtime show with four superb musicians who retain a freshness and sparkling rhythm in their music.
Into November, The Felice Brothers gloriously ramshackle sounds drawn on everything from Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan to Walt Whitman and Flannery O’Connor.
A Sligo Live Double Bill features two unmissable ensembles delivering cutting-edge Irish traditional and folk music. Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta, winners of the Best Emerging Artists at the 2024 RTÉ Folk Awards, will bring their dynamic brother-and-sister synergy to the stage. Joining them are Dylan Carlos, Dave Sheridan, and John McCartin, renowned for their exceptional North Connacht fiddle/flute/guitar combination. Remarkably, none of them hail from Sligo, making their performance a unique highlight of the festival.
At the festival’s close, Luka Bloom—accompanied by guest Sabrina Dinan—brings the energy and power of rock to his music. Rising to international acclaim, he has become one of Ireland’s most beloved contemporary folk artists.
Still in November, Europe’s very top ABBA show returns to Hawk’s Well with Abba Forever! It’s always party time when ABBA comes to town but when it’s the Christmas Show, then that’s a real excuse to let your hair down! The same month sees 17-year-old Muireann Bradley from Ballybofey, County Donegal, take to the stage. This gifted folk and blues guitarist and singer excels in acoustic fingerpicking, showcasing country, Piedmont, and ragtime blues from the 1920s, '30s, and '40s, alongside a repertoire of later folk, country, and Americana.
With a band made up of some of UK’s finest country musicians, Made in Tennessee: A Night of Country Music takes you through the decades of the nation's fastest growing music genre, from Country’s origin in the Southern States of America to modern day Country heard around the world.
With self-effacing humor and tales of growing up on a remote Irish island, singer-songwriter Niall McCabe graces the our stage. His effortless charm captivates and liberates audiences, whether performing in Dublin’s intimate venues or on grand stages across the UK and Atlantic.
And towards the end of November, don’t miss the opportunity to join iconic singer Mary Coughlan in celebrating 40 years of the most uncompromising, wholly personal, and universal music by any Irish artist. Broadcaster and Singer Ronan Collins looks forward to bringing his new show Showbands Hits and Stories to the Hawk’s Well stage. Then lastly in November, high octane, classic rock show Rock Rising will take the audience on an edge of their seats journey through the evolution of classic rock.
In December, Altan will take the stage as arguably the most iconic band in traditional Irish music today. The authenticity and allure of the music transports listeners to a bygone time in rural Ireland while simultaneously forging a connection between the past and modern times. At the end of the festive month, Indian return for a one off gig in tribute and appreciation to their longtime manager, friend and mentor Aidan Mannion.
WORDS & MUSIC
In November, join us for a warm and entertaining variety show in honour of the UN International Campaign of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (25th Nov – 10th Dec). Featuring uplifting music, inspiring poetry, as well as an opportunity to weave your own stars, this afternoon event is open to all and family-friendly. All donations to Songs, Poetry, & One Million Stars will go towards supporting local charity, Domestic Violence Advocacy Service.
MUSICALS
Experience the magic of musicals this season at Hawk’s Well Theatre! In November, running for four nights, Sligo Fun Company present the worldwide phenomenon Annie, bringing to life some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including the iconic 'Tomorrow'.
Then in October get into the Halloween spirit with The Whacky Witch and her Magic Cauldron - an interactive family friendly hilarious show which tells the story of three sisters who try to win the heart of a human boy.
This December, we are delighted to kick off the Christmas season with the beloved classic The Snowman. Watch this timeless story come to life on stage, complete with a live band.
In April next year, the hilarious Hawk’s Well production of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change returns by popular demand. With stunning music and brilliant lyrics, this hit musical offers something for everyone who has experienced love — from the agony of rejection and first date jitters to the trials of marriage, parenting, aging, and loss.
COMEDY
Get ready for nights of nonstop laughter this season at Hawk’s Well, featuring brilliant stand-up comedy that’s sure to leave you in stitches.
In September Anne Gildea brings her keen comedic skills to How To Get The Menopause & Enjoy It. What is it? Why does it happen? Is the moustache inevitable? Later in same month Bernard O’Shea, the Desperate House Husband, invites you on a hilarious escapade into the stay-at-home parenting world.
October sees Rory O’Connor of Rory’s Stories back on the road with his brand new show, Keep ‘Er Lit, as he tries to navigate and survive in this ever changing world. Later in October, David O’Doherty, the disheveled prince of €10 eBay keyboards, returns with Tiny Piano Man. Get ready to feel alive as he brings fresh bouts of laughter, song, and the occasional leap from his chair.
As part of Sligo Live later this month, Enya Martin, joined by special guest Dame Stuffy, delivers razor-sharp comedy with her signature storytelling.
Into November, comedian Vittorio Angelone returns with a new show following his 5-star, sold-out, award-nominated debut (which, incidentally, solved every problem in the world). This time, he turns his focus inward to figure out who he really thinks he is. The same month is fueled by warped personal insights as comedic fireball Deirdre O’Kane returns to the Hawk’s Well with her hilarious show O’Kaning It.
CHILDREN
From September through December, experience the magic of live music and theatre with the ever-popular Broadway Babies, Spooky Babies, and Santa Babies.
Join Jackie and Trisha on Culture Night on 20th September for a fun and interactive performance all about soil! Meet fascinating characters that inhabit the earth, including earthworms, springtails, and ants. At the end of September Anna Newell Theatre Adventures & Riverbank Arts Centre present An Attempt To Talk With The Beginning Of The World created especially for babies by a team of award-winning artists.
The Speks return in October with a lively show of nursery rhymes and sing-along songs set to acoustic Irish music which will have adults and kids jumping in their seats!
And celebrate the magic of Christmas with Christmas Toons with Anything Goes, the annual festive family concert led by the brilliant David Flynn, Eddie Lee, Kieran Quinn, Sinéad Conway and Ken McDonald (Tonto).
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.
OPERA
As part of Culture Night 2024 on Friday 20th September, take a seat in the hallowed grounds of Sligo’s grand Cathedral as Hawk’s Well Theatre & Sligo Baroque Music Festival present Opera After Dark (Live in person and online).
At the end of September, the Sligo Baroque Music Festival presents a unique new production of The Fairy Queen. This performance features an exceptional cast of young Irish and international singers, baroque dancers, and a full period orchestra, including the London Handel Players and the Croatian Baroque Ensemble.
SCREENING
In early September, we will screen May-17-74: Anatomy of a Massacre. This poignant feature-length documentary gives voice to the families and survivors of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings as they recount that tragic day and their 50-year struggle for the truth.
Also this September, step into the enchanting world of The Gruffalo with your little ones — and plenty of popcorn — as we present a special screening of the beloved story.
SCHOOLS
In October, Maas Theater en Dans presents BullyBully, offering a Duplo-level glimpse into the clash between two world powers that eventually find common ground. The performance humorously explores the politics of the kindergarten and the childishness that persists among serious, powerful adults.
Also in October, the WhistleBlast Quartet returns with a nationwide multimedia performance featuring Stravinsky's Petrushka and Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. This engaging concert introduces young secondary school students to the power of live symphonic music through a fantastic and accessible presentation of these celebrated compositions, along with other great repertoire.
FESTIVALS
The Change Your Mind Festival is back on 13th October with new guests such as Brent Pop (RTE Broadcaster, rugby player, and Motivational Speaker), Aimee-Louise Carton (CEO of KeepAppy wellness app), Podcasters lockstockand2jokingaddicts, Ryan Scanlon (music), Dr Lorcan Martin, President of the Irish College of Psychiatrists, and a full line-up of family and wellness activities to enjoy.
TALK
In October, Dr. David Coleman will visit to present Helping Children and Teenagers Cope with Anxiety. In this discussion, Dr. Coleman will explore how anxiety impacts children, teenagers, and their families, offering concrete and practical strategies to help young people manage the stresses and pressures in their lives.
Rewilding the Mind arrives in November, featuring Manchán Magan. He will delve into the growing connection people are developing with the spirit and lore of the Irish landscape.
TAKE PART: CHILDREN
There is a number of exciting creative workshops for children where lots of fun is guaranteed. The ever-popular Drama at the Well Camps—Toddler Drama and Kids Drama—will run from September to November. Facilitated by Isabel Claffey and Orla McSharry, these tremendously fun drama camps encourage children and young people to act and participate in many different activities specifically designed to explore creativity and build confidence.
New Voices with Miriam Needham kicks off in October and runs through December. This 9-week playwriting program is designed for 15-18 year olds interested in creative writing and theatre, offering an opportunity to develop their skills and explore the art of playwriting.
TAKE PART: ADULTS
We warmly invite older members of the community to join us for our Coffee Mornings, a delightful feature of our Cultural Companions program held on the last Friday of every month.
Reignite your passion for singing, learn new songs, and enjoy a lively atmosphere at Hawk’s Well’s singalong sessions with Seamie O’Dowd and Sandy Kelly every Wednesday throughout September.
Acting for Adults with Isabel Claffey returns from September through October. This six-week course provides adults with a space to explore, create, and be challenged—all while having fun.
If you’ve ever wanted to explore the world of Shakespeare, Speak the Speech: Shakespeare Monologues is a six-week course designed for you. This engaging, fast-paced program delves into the Bard’s language using Broadway veteran Monica McCarthy’s popular approach to decoding Shakespeare.
In September, Ursula McHugh will help you discover talents you never knew you had with The Creative Path; a project that illuminates the creativity in everyone.
Also in September, step out of your comfort zone and unleash your creativity with our exciting one-day Comedy Writing course for adults, led by the talented John Colleary.
Then, join Brian Leyden for an all-day workshop titled Writing with a Purpose. This session will revisit the art and craft of writing, offering valuable insights and techniques for writers at all levels.
And we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to our fun sing-a-long evenings hosted by the inimitable Dave Flynn. No musical experience is required for Sing for the Hell of It! It’s all about just having fun and singing together!
Lastly, the Hawk’s Well Theatre and Sligo Academy of Music’s Sligo Community Adult Orchestra returns this autumn! Led by conductor Niamh Crowley, this enjoyable initiative offers a chance to refresh old music skills or practice new ones in a friendly and relaxed setting.
That’s just a glimpse of the excitement awaiting you this season! With something for everyone at Hawk’s Well Theatre, you won’t want to miss out. Grab the new brochure today and dive into all the incredible events and performances we have lined up!
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.