StormFest to bring international children’s theatre to Kilkenny

Barnstorm Theatre Company has unveiled the programme for StormFest 2026, its annual festival of theatre for young audiences, which returns to Kilkenny from August 10–16 as part of Kilkenny Arts Festival.

Now firmly established as a highlight of Kilkenny's summer cultural calendar, StormFest presents an exciting programme of Irish and international theatre designed to spark imagination, creativity and adventure for children and families.

StormFest is Barnstorm Theatre Company's annual theatre festival for young audiences and is presented in partnership with Kilkenny Arts Festival. This year's festival welcomes acclaimed Irish theatre-maker Paul Curley alongside internationally renowned Lempen Puppet Theatre Company from the UK, bringing three engaging productions to audiences across the week.

The 2026 programme includes:

The Dig – an exciting theatrical archaeology adventure following Mac, a young dreamer determined to prove himself in a world where facts often outweigh fantasy. Created by performer and writer Paul Curley with designer Ger Clancy and director Robert Alan Evans, this imaginative production is suitable for audiences aged six and over.

The Fisher and His Wife – a delightful new interpretation of the classic Brothers Grimm tale, performed from a puppet theatre mounted on the front of a penny-farthing bicycle. This inventive production explores ambition, wishes and contentment in a unique theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

Penny and The Far Thing – a beautifully crafted visual puppet theatre performance celebrating nature, the changing seasons and the journey of growing up. Featuring enchanting music and exquisite puppetry, this heartwarming production is perfect for the whole family.

StormFest continues Barnstorm Theatre Company's commitment to creating memorable, high-quality theatre experiences for children and young people while bringing world-class performances to Kilkenny audiences. StormFest runs from August 10-16.

Festival Information – Performance Schedule

The Dig: August 10-12, 12.30pm and 2pm.

The Fisher and His Wife: August 14-16, 11am and 12.30pm.

Penny and The Far Thing: August 14-16, 2pm and 3.30pm. Tickets: €10 | Family of four: €36