THE Irish News and Féile an Phobail are teaming up once again – continuing a long-standing media partnership.
The festival, now in its 36th year, has grown into Ireland’s biggest community arts event with thousands of visitors coming to West Belfast every year to take in a packed programme of events and The Irish News has been there every step of the way.
This year’s itinerary is another eye-catching one with trade union leader Mick Lynch set to give the James Connolly lecture and musical highlights including Frances Black, a new country fest and, of course, The Wolfe Tones.
Kevin Gamble, Director of Féile an Phobail, said: “The Irish News has been a long standing partner to Féile an Phobail.
“Over the years, Féile an Phobail has enjoyed a meteoric rise to become Ireland’s largest community arts festival, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors from near and far, with an increasingly international audience.
“Rooted in the West Belfast community, the festival has grown immeasurably since 1988 to become an island-wide celebration of global culture, reflecting our changing societal landscape.
“With over 75 events, bringing together voices from authors, poets, politicians, broadcasters, historians, socialists, activists and more, the programme is open to everyone to come along and listen, challenge, and debate the issues that matter.
“Covering a wide range of topics from politics and economics to human rights, culture and history, the Debates and Discussions programme serves to both educate and celebrate our diverse community through open and respectful conversation.
“Everyone will be welcome to St. Mary’s University College for ten days of stimulating talks.”
The Irish News editor-in-chief, Chris Sherrard, said: “The Irish News has a mission to use its independent voice to play a positive role in society, informing conversations and inspiring debate by telling compelling stories, and the festival’s Debates and Discussions programme perfectly complements our shared vision to connect and challenge.
“We are proud to play a central role in bringing this culturally rich aspect of the festival programme to growing audiences on our platforms and I wish everyone involved in this year’s Féile best wishes for what will undoubtedly be another memorable year.”
Sinead Cavanagh, Deputy CEO of IntoMedia Group, added: “We are delighted to support this year’s Féile an Phobail, a beacon of cultural celebration and community spirit.
“Its rise to become Ireland’s largest community arts festival reflects its significant local and international impact. The festival’s commitment to fostering dialogue, diversity, and the arts aligns with our values at The Irish News and Q Radio.
“It is a privilege to be part of such a dynamic and transformative event, and we are excited to witness the incredible talent and ideas showcased this year.”
The full programme for this year’s Feile, which kicks off on August 1, is available on the website and you can follow updates on The Irish News.
