Chemistry in the Movies, magic and comedy galore for Kilkenny Science Festival events this week

Two new, free events have been added to this year’s Kilkenny Science Festival programme and both are taking place in breathtaking Rothe House over the coming days.

‘Chemistry in the Movies’ with Dr John O’Donoghue, Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Education Coordinator for Ireland, takes place in The Tudor Kitchen at Rothe House this coming Wednesday, November 12 from 7.30pm.

Anyone with an interest in film and television won’t want to miss this scientific and filmographic look at how chemists and chemistry have been portrayed in the movies – using short clips and graphics to talk about the topic.

“The movies chosen for this discussion are based around a number of themes; problem solving, plot devices, chemical companies, and people,” said Dr John O’Donoghue.
READ: Exciting lineup of events for ANOTHER Kilkenny festival taking place this November

“This talk is mainly aimed at adults and older teenagers since there are some references to movies and adult themes which are certified 15/16.”

The following evening, Thursday, November 13, Rothe House is also the venue for ‘Serial Killers: Fascination with True Crime’. Psychologists, Dr Lorraine Bowman Grieve and Dr Jennifer O’Mahoney will unravel the mystery behind why we are so drawn to the darkest stories. Pre-booking for this event is also essential and is open on www.stemkilkenny.ie and click on the events tab.

The duo will explore our fascination with true crime and serial killers. Exploring facts and fiction, and why these stories grip us so tightly. This event is suitable for adults only.

The same evening, the Medieval Mile Museum is the venue from 6.30pm for a stonemasonry workshop as part of Science Week at the Medieval Mile Museum. The workshop is supported by the South East Technological University and delivered by the School of Irish Archaeology and the McDonald Family of stonemasons.

The free event invites adults to explore how early innovation shaped our history, from the first farmers of the Stone Age to the stonemasons who built Kilkenny’s finest landmarks.

The engaging session offers a rare insight into the techniques, tools, and traditions that have shaped Ireland’s architecture for centuries. Through live demonstrations and shared stories, visitors will see how ancient knowledge continues to influence the craft today.

From 8pm, also the same evening, members of the public over 18 years of age are invited to attend the ‘Science of brewing’ at Sullivan’s Taproom on John Street. The event is set to be a fascinating and informative session with the master brewer.

On Sunday, Dr Ken Science will be in Langton’s ballroom with his much anticipated ‘It’s all Done with Mirrors?’ show. Families and the general public are invited to book their place now for the entertaining 45 minute science show where Dr Ken reveals how magicians secretly use science and engineering to create their astonishing tricks.

With eye-catching demonstrations, unusual props, and clever illusions, the show highlights how — just like in the real world — science and engineering often work invisibly behind the scenes, says organiser, Nollaig Healy, Project Manager with CALMAST, the South East Technological University’s STEM engagement centre.

Shows run from 10am at intervals right up until 12.30pm. For details, log on to www.stemkilkenny.ie.