Kilkenny Arts Festival Kicks Off Today with 11 Days of Music

UPDATE: The highly anticipated Kilkenny Arts Festival officially begins today, bringing an exciting eleven-day lineup of music and performances to the heart of Kilkenny. Attendees can expect a vibrant array of artists from around the globe, set to create unforgettable musical experiences across various venues.

Starting today, August 3, festival-goers will enjoy a packed calendar featuring standout performances. Among the highlights, Aoife Ní Bhriaín and Cormac McCarthy, who first collaborated at the festival in 2022, will present their unique sound at the Set Theatre on August 10. Their fusion of traditional music with innovative elements promises to captivate audiences.

On August 11, renowned contemporary violinists Maria Ryan and Lucia Mac Partlin will perform at Cleere’s, showcasing their talents both as a duo and as part of the Irish music ensemble Strung at St. John’s Priory. This dual performance highlights the festival’s commitment to diverse musical styles.

Festival-goers can look forward to an extraordinary blend of genres on August 13 as RÓIS takes the stage at the Set, seamlessly merging folk, sean-nós, electronic, and jazz influences. The following day, Anna B Savage, acclaimed for her powerful voice, will perform at Cleere’s, offering an emotional experience that has garnered praise from Rolling Stone.

The festival continues to impress with the appearance of button accordion champion Danny O’Mahony, who will perform alongside Martin Hayes at Cleere’s on August 15. Later that day, the four-piece band Sudden Wells will showcase their lyrical prowess ahead of their debut album release.

On August 16, Dug, comprised of Lorkin O’Reilly and Johnny Pickett, will deliver a performance drawing from both Irish and American musical traditions, following their Grammy-nominated debut single.

A special residency featuring Kate Ellis and Francesco Turrisi from August 8-13 will offer audiences a behind-the-scenes look at collaborative processes, culminating in performances that blend sound and movement. Notably, on August 10, a concert featuring Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Rakhi Singh, and Simmy Singh will take place at the Set at 2:30 PM, showcasing an innovative string quartet experience.

Festival organizers are thrilled to announce a grand finale on August 16 at St. Canice’s Cathedral, where Martin Hayes and Friends will bring together leading musicians, including Cormac McCarthy and Aoife Ní Bhriaín, to celebrate the festival’s spirit of musical innovation.

Tickets are selling fast! Secure your spot now by booking online at kilkennyarts.ie, by phone at 056 775 2175, or in person at the festival box office located at 76 John Street, Kilkenny. Don’t miss this chance to experience eleven days of artistic brilliance!