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Harry Reid

Pictures: Summer festivals kick off with sunshine in Kilkenny

Billed as the start of the summer season, the Open Doors festival in Callan lived up to its promise with sparkling sunshine and lots of fun in creative and unexpected places.

Now an annual celebration of creativity and community, the festival invites the public into art spaces, bringing artists into community spaces, and bringing the arts outdoors in Callan town.

Four vibrant days of workshops, performances, exhibitions, and talks offered something for everyone to enjoy, share, and discover, from Thursday to Sunday.

“We are delighted to partner with so many local community and arts organisations and are grateful for the enthusiasm of all artists and creatives involved,” says Callan Open Doors coordinator David Teevan.

“With funding support from The Arts Council, Kilkenny County Council, Kilkenny Cruinniú na nÓg, a community sponsorship award from St Canice’s Credit Union and the generosity of businesses and individuals in Callan who responded to our fundraising call. We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped us make our four-day programme happen,” Mr Teevan added.

Rosie Lynch, Creative Director of Workhouse Union said: “Callan Open Doors is a relaxed weekend that celebrates the town’s art, creativity, nature, built environment, heritage, and, most importantly, its sense of community, all at a pace that encourages you to stroll and linger.” Callan Open Doors is devised and delivered by Trasna Productions.

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