February Events To Fall For
Hear
Following two sold-out runs in 2022, Emmet Kirwan's Accents arrives at Galway's Town Hall Theatre on February 21st. Bringing the show to a larger audience, this tour is dedicated to the late musician Eoin French of Talos, whose powerful soundscape composed for the original run lives on through performances by musicians Ben Bix and Brian Dillon of Melty Brains.
Throughout Accents, Kirwan shares the story of the day of his son’s birth through eight poems that explore identity, class, belonging, and place in Dublin City, and its suburbs. Directed by Claire O'Reilly and nominated for Best Soundscape at the Irish Times Theatre Awards, this must-see and must-hear production is equal parts funny and moving. Tickets from €18.
Wander
Kicking off from January 31st and running until February 4th is a new initiative called Windows of the Westend. For it, businesses in the area will display tributes to St. Brigid, celebrating her legacy of strength, creativity, and renewal. Inspired by West End Art Collective artist Elena Dova's specially-commissioned piece, displays will incorporate traditional symbols like St. Brigid's Cross alongside contemporary interpretations.
Take a stroll in person or check out #WindowsOfTheWestend to see what’s happening. Those unveiling their interpretation include Just Art It, West End Art Collective, Greens & Co., Massimo, Kai, Plámás, Dela, Bell Book and Candle, Hooked, The Blue Note, and Ernie's.
Ig: @galwayswestend
Experience
Though billed as an immersive Tribute To Hans Zimmer and Film Favourites Illuminated, the setlist outlined for this performance of cinema’s most iconic music includes as much John Williams as it does Zimmer.
From that spine-tingling French horn solo that opens Jurassic Park to the heart-soaring score of E.T., Williams’ contributions to contemporary cinema are instantly recognisable that even the most disengaged film viewer will recognise the music from Jaws, Schindler’s List, Star Wars and Indiana Jones, all listed to be performed in Leisureland on Salthill Road Lower on Wednesday February 5th.
From Zimmer’s catalogue, expect music from Gladiator, Interstellar, Man of Steel and Inception. All will be performed by the Illuminated Orchestra, enhanced by a light show.
Sip & Shop
Looking to share the love with a locally-made gift this February 14th? Head to Barna on Sunday, February 9th, where Galway Gnó will host a Valentine’s Market at Súil Eile Space. Open from 9am to 6pm, this is your chance to shop thoughtful, handcrafted gifts from independent makers based in Galway.
Immerse
If you appreciate improv and storytelling, then make sure to check out the Moth & Butterfly Festival, happening January 30th to February 2nd. With performances, workshops, and bilingual events, this festival offers something for all ages, including online experiences and interactive trails.
On February 1st, enjoy bilingual family tales at Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop (11am), an improv workshop, and the flagship storytelling show, themed ‘Horizons’, at Blue Teapot Theatre (7pm). While on February 2nd, join Peter Chand’s storytelling workshop (12pm), Bring kids 6+ to The Feast for Fools in Athenry Heritage Centre (3pm), see Mangoes on the Beach at Rouge Restaurant (5:30pm), and close the festival with The Big Story Circle (8pm) in the same location. Many events are free, but booking is essential.
Dance
Every Saturday (3pm) and Thursday (7pm) is your chance to learn at the Afrobeats Choreography Dance Class, which runs for 90 minute sessions at Galway Dance.
Each inclusive class features new routines, and step-by-step guidance to the latest Afrobeats, and sometimes Dancehall tracks. Classes are suitable for all skill levels, even complete beginners.
Eat & Drink
JP McMahon teaming up with The Dough Bros with a special-edition Bolognese Pizza
JP McMahon has teamed up with The Dough Bros to create a special-edition Bolognese Pizza, available exclusively in February. Combining the classic Italian meat sauce with Irish artisan and foraged ingredients, including slow-cooked fennel sausage, Gubbeen cheese béchamel, pickled wild ramsons, and Achill Island sea salt, you pick it up for €16.50 at The Dough Bros on Middle Street.
Daróg wine bar presents its second Turas Fíona (Wine Journey), a special wine talk and tasting on Wednesday, 12th February at 6:30pm. Featuring Roberto Prandi, winemaker and second-generation custodian of Italy’s Rosanna Sandri winery, the event offers a guided exploration of five carefully-selected wines.
Tickets are €30 per person, which includes a curated wine flight.
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