Into The Spotlight: An Exploration of Irish-Language Film and Music
This day of talks from leading experts will explore various facets of modern Irish-language media, from the diverse world of Irish popular music to the rise and rise of the Irish film industry.
The last few years have seen a flourishing of Irish-language music, television and film. From the international attention won by Irish rap group Kneecap to the first ever Oscar nomination for an Irish-language movie (An Cailín Ciúin in 2023), it is clear that Irish media is popular as never before.
Note:
There is no need to know any Irish to attend – all are welcome!
Talks will be in English or any Irish elements will be translated.
11:30 AM
Tickets: £7
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY’S EVENT
11:30 Welcome and Introduction to the Day
11:46 Tríona Ní Shíocháin – ‘Popular music in the Irish language from Black Metal to Rap’
12:15 Cian Mac Cárthaigh – ‘Ceol i nGaeilge / Music in Irish – The Future’
13:00 Lunch
13:45 Readings from Irish Students of the Irish Cultural Centre
14:00 Alan Esslemont – ‘TG4 & Cine4 – Shifting Attitudes’
14:30 Carrie Crowley – ‘The Right Socket, nó An Soicéad Ceart’
15:15 Closing Remarks, followed by music and drinks
SEE BELOW FOR OUR SPEAKERS
Carrie Crowley
Carrie Crowley is an actor, best known to international audiences for her role in the Oscar-nominated film An Cailín Ciúin, which earned her a Best Supporting Actress IFTA nomination. An acclaimed Gaeilgeoir and former radio and television presenter, she has a versatile career in Irish media. Born in Waterford, Carrie began her broadcasting career on local radio before moving to RTÉ, where she hosted various shows including the Eurovision Song Contest in 1997 alongside Ronan Keating. Her acting credits span popular series such as The Clinic, School Run, and Vikings. Passionate about Irish culture and language, Carrie continues to be a significant figure in Irish media. At our Irish Language Day, Carrie will present the talk “The Right Socket, nó An Soicéad Ceart.
Alan Esslemont
Alan Esslemont the Director General of TG4, Ireland’s national Irish-language TV station, and the driving force behind Cine4, which develops original Irish-language feature films. With a rich background in broadcasting and a key role in the re-launch of TnaG as TG4, Alan has significantly influenced Irish-language media. At our event, he will present the talk “TG4 & Cine4 – Shifting Attitudes,” exploring new attitudes and perceptions towards the Irish language.
Cian Mac Cárthaigh
Cian Mac Cárthaigh is a prominent TV presenter, producer, and the founder of Dublin-based musical collective IMLÉ. Passionate about promoting Irish-language music, Cian has been instrumental in showcasing diverse musical talents within the Irish-speaking community. At our event, he will share insights in his talk “Ceol i nGaeilge / Music in Irish – The Future,” exploring the evolving landscape and future directions of music in the Irish language.
Tríona Ní Shíocháin
Tríona Ní Shíocháin is Professor of Modern Irish and Performing Arts at Maynooth University, specialising in Irish-language poetry, oral tradition, and popular song. An interdisciplinary scholar and performer, she explores the intersections of music and Irish culture, with a focus on traditional arts and creative practices. Tríona’s research spans Irish-language literature, women poet-composers, and the historical development of Irish song and poetry. At our event, she will delve into “Popular music in the Irish language from Black Metal to Rap,” shedding light on the vibrant spectrum of Irish-language music.
You may also like
FOCAL IT! Gaeilge Games ⁊ Pop up Gaeltacht
What The Focal is a spás spraoi—a games night and a place for fun. Whether you want to learn, share, or speak a cúpla focal, this playful and inclusive space is for you! No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy easy-going board games, good company, and great vibes. Saor in aisce — Free event!
Mon 14 September 2026
Read More
Counting Swans
A powerful two-hander exploring grief, friendship, love and forgiveness, as a former All-Star hurler confronts the ghosts of his past in this moving and darkly humorous new play by Conor Montague. Performed by Kieran Kelliher and Conor Montague.
Sat 26 September 2026
Read More
Petrified Podcast – A live recording
This Halloween, the award-winning Irish horror audio drama Petrified comes to the stage for a spine-tingling live episode. Celebrate five chilling series with a brand-new supernatural tale performed live by Margaret McAuliffe, Michelle McMahon and Donncha O’Dea, followed by a Q&A with creators Peter Dunne and Liam Geraghty.
Fri 16 October 2026
Read More
Choosing the Struggle: In Conversation with Martina Anderson and Roy Greenslade
From IRA volunteer to European Parliament, Martina Anderson has lived an extraordinary life at the heart of Ireland’s turbulent recent history. Hear her tell her story in conversation with journalist Roy Greenslade, from conflict and imprisonment to the peace process and a remarkable political career. A book signing will follow the event.
Mon 26 October 2026
Read More
The Fallen: The Magdalene Laundries and Ireland’s Legacy of Silence by Dr Louise Brangan
A powerful evening exploring one of the darkest chapters in modern Irish history and the enduring legacy of the Magdalene Laundries. Through research and survivor testimony, this conversation brings to light the stories of the women whose lives were shaped by these institutions and asks how we remember a history too often silenced.
Tue 27 October 2026
Read More
Storm: An Irish Nigerian Family Story
Poet and playwright Gabriel Gbadamosi and storyteller Nicholas Gbadamosi bring their brother’s remarkable life to the stage through storytelling, poetry, film and music – a moving exploration of family, memory and belonging.
Thu 12 November 2026
Read More
