This is Galway - July/August Edition - Issue #3 by This is Galway

JULY // FREE // THISISGALWAY.IE

ISSUE # 3

4-5 6-8 9-10 11-12 13-16 18-19 20-22 24-30 25

Sex, violence, drugs: Druid Theatre’s “Crestfall”

Galway’s buzzing coffee culture

Galway’s own Emma Eliza Regan produces a short film

Shop Galway’s unique boutiques

Festival Guide: everything you need to know

Fresh places, new faces: get to know Galway’s newest spots

Where to find tradition Irish tunes in Galway

The story with massive busking group, the Galway Street Club

What’s on in Galway: the best of events

WHO WE ARE... Art Direction & Design Martin Browne info@thisisgalway.ie

PAGE.3.

Cover & Additional Photography Boyd Challenger boyd@thisisgalway.ie

Editor Caitlin Foley caitlin@thisisgalway.ie

Advertising Queries Maxi Browne maxi@thisisgalway.ie

‘three stunningly written monologues with as much sex, violence and cruelty as 10 Quentin Tarantino films.’ T H E NEW Y O R K T IM E S

M A R K O ’ R OW E AN N AB E LLE COM YN

D IR EC TED B Y

T HE MICK L AL LY T HEAT RE AS PART O F GALWAY INT ERNAT IO NA L A RTS F E S TI VA L 14–29 JULY

FEATURE

A COLLISION OF

SEX

VIOLENCE AND DRUGS throws the lives of

Olive, Alison and Tilly

DRUID !"#$%&'()*%+,'#-%.',$/%.012%#3/4%/453% 5#/"%60,2%78945:8$%;45:,<'(%;(0)*% !"#$%&'(()0</:,%$#=%>43/"$%;:,<4,>#3?%#3% @:5%A4,2*%B4$/43*%6#1"#?03*%C#//$.',?"*% +'.(#3%03-%D"0,(:$/43%ED%5#/"%*+#) ,#'-%.)/-##0)1&)2##0'0#%.)%60,/#3% 61+430?"%03-%3'4%405)&1")6171%%.)% E0>':(%B:12://F%D,#/#1$%"0G:%-::>:-% WKH SUROL´F WKHDWUH FRPSDQ\ ¬ZRUOG FODVV DQG ¬XQPLVVDEOH $Q\ FKDQFH /4%10/1"%/":>%#3%01/#43%$"4'(-%34/%.:% ;0$$:-%4G:,*%:$;:1#0(()%5":3%;(0)#3?% /4%/":%"4>:%1,45-%43%+,'#-%H03:%I%#/8$% /":%/":0/,:%:J'#G0(:3/%/4%!":%B:0/(:$% ,412#3?%4'/%0/%/":%D0G:,3%D('.F%% %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

together, bringing

them to the precipice

OF CATASTROPHE.

KATE STANLEY BRENNAN, SIOBHÁN CULLEN & AMY MCELHATTON M=;:1/%/4%.:%.(453%050)%.)%/"#$%"'?:()% /0(:3/:-%10$/%0$%/":)%:>.4-)%/",::% IHURFLRXV IHPDOH FKDUDFWHUV $OLVRQ 7(#G:%03-%!#(()F%!":,:%0,:%34%-0>$:($% #3%-#$/,:$$%":,:%0$%:01"%?,0.$%":,%453% $/4,)%.)%/":%"4,3$%03-%/:0,$%/",4'?"%/":% 3#?"/*%<':((:-%.)%0%-:$#,:%/4%(4G:%03-%.:% (4G:-F %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

Their stories converge MARK O’ROWE

IN ONE PLACE,

on one evening, under an

UNFORGIVING SKY. Told in Mark O’Rowe’s

UNIQUE RHYTHMIC STYLE,

:ULWHU RI KLW ,ULVK ´OP 80%#"94$$410*%03-% 0%$/,#3?%4<%011(0#>:-%;(0)$%#31('-#3?% :1;4#)%+#)<11=4#*)*#"940-$%03-%>-") ?#;)'07)@A4()B'.$*%+'.(#3%5,#/:,%60,2% 78945:%"0$%0%'3#J':%$/)(:%03-%-4:$38/% $")%050)%<,4>%/":%?,#//)%$#-:%4<%(#<:F% ([SHFW KDUG KLWWLQJ WKHPHV GHOLYHUHG LQ ,")/">#1%G:,$:%-4$:-%5#/"%K,#$"%#-#4>$F% %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

CRESTFALL

is a play about

LOVE IN A DOG-EAT-

DOG WORLD. PAGE.5.

ANNABELLE COMYN 'LUHFWRU RI V VHOO RXW SURGXFWLRQ :#(#0)'07)8%.)%6:0-"."%61L'?"*% $QQDEHOOH &RP\Q LV RQH RI ,UHODQGV OHDGLQJ WKHDWUH GLUHFWRUV DQG FR IRXQGHU 4<%L0/1"%!":0/,:%D4>;03)F%D4>)3% #3/:,,4?0/:$%":,%54,2%5#/"%0%1(0,#/)%03-% #3/:((#?:31:%/"0/%"0$%543%":,%/":%K,#$"% 7LPHV ,ULVK 7KHDWUH $ZDUG DQG D VHULRXV ,:;'/0/#43F% %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

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€ORF% E::%!"#$!%$&%<4,%-:/0#($%S%.442#3? !"#$%&'((%0($4%;(0)$%% 7KH 3HDFRFN 6WDJH DW WKH $EEH\ % 'XEOLQ VW ¨ WK $XJXVW

COFFEE CULTURE

FOOD

COFFEE COFFEE BUZZ BUZZ. Recently Galway has gone mad for coffee, with new coffee houses springing up all over the place. If you’re looking for a really good cuppa and a snack or maybe a bit of lunch, check these places out.

Badger & Dodo For a quick, high-quality cup of coffee, there’s nowhere like artisan coffee roasters Badger & Dodo. They roast all their own coffee in Fermony, Co. Cork, and have expert coffee-loving staff behind the counter to help you choose your perfect roast. From espresso to filter-based coffee, each one is uniquely delicious. It’s a popular spot for folks on the go, handy as it’s right next to the bus and train station. It’s also a lovely, sunny spot to sit down for a cuppa and a panini. Fairgreen, Galway CIty // +353 (0)86 3380366

Urban Grind Galway’s chilled-out Westend welcomed this first speciality coffee shop in Galway. They’re supported by coffee that is roasted in Dublin by ex Irish barista champion, Colin Harmon. The sweetness and lightness of their coffee will keep you going all day. 3FE is the name to know. Urban Grind also serve up some amazing breakfast and lunch, and it’s a popular spot to relax with a book or some friends – in the garden if you get some sunshine! 8 William Street West, Galway’s Westend // +353 (0)91 375000

Cafe Temple For those of you who like your coffee plain and simple, this is your place. Café Temple is a not-for-profit café that supports local charities. It’s also one of the best places to snag yourself some vegan treats! It’s a great place to hang out for a while, with a bright and sunny interior and a specials menu that always brings something unique and exciting to your plate. 12 The Cornstore, Augustine St, Galway City // +353(0)91 452405

PAGE.7.

FOOD

Salthill Social Here’s Galway’s newest coffee shop, built to bring people together over coffee and food. Their coffee is carefully prepared by Tom, and is your best option in Salthill. Their coffee roasters are Irish as well, called Silverskin, based out of Dublin. A massive brunch menu, tons of sweet treats and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect answer to a seaside stroll down the Prom! 14 Lenaboy Gardens, Salthill, Galway // +353(0)91 441420

Coffeewerk + Press They bring all sorts of Nordic beauty to the streets of Galway, and stand at the forefront in Galway’s coffee scene. Their regular events and coffee-related workshops are perfect for the real coffee lovers among us. Most of their roasts are Nordic brands, and they’re constantly bringing amazing coffees from around the world to Galway. You can enjoy your coffee outside and watch the world go by, or head upstairs to the design spaces where there’s seating, and a host of interesting items and art on display and for sale from Nordic designers. It’s a seriously aesthetic spot. 4 Quay Street, Galway CIty // +353 (0)91 448667

Espresso 44 Here’s a very popular coffee shop in Galway, serving Fixx coffee from Dublin. It’s a light, aromatic home-roasted coffee, popular with both diehard coffee lovers and those who just need a caffeine buzz. Their freshly-made treats are always a delight. It’s prime location on William Street makes it the perfect spot to pull up a chair outside and listen to the buskers! 44 William Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 562537

Written in association with Coffee Town Galway, a community group dedicated to coffee, barista education and enjoyment. Find them online at CoffeeTownGalway.com and on Facebook @coffeetowngalway.

EMMA ELIZA REGAN WILD FIRE NIGHTS

Photo by: Boyd Challenger

FEATURE

ost people would be absolutely floored by the idea of writing, directing, producing, and starring in their own film. But not Galway native, Emma Eliza Regan. Her film Wild Fire Nights is a sixteen-minute short film, which will premiere in Galway this summer at the Galway Film Fleadh. The film deals with ideas of womanhood and motherhood, and pre-empts a feature-length film, Wild Summer Nights (also written by Regan) which is currently in pre-production. The short film centres around a young millennial named Lila in Galway, who finds herself caught up in a blur of drinking and one-night stands, until a startling discovery forces her to take control and make a serious decision. We’re going to throw in a spoiler alert here, because none of this will make sense without it: the “startling discovery” is an unexpected pregnancy. That shouldn’t ruin anything, though, because the film is a slow-burning dramatic look at one woman’s choices. We sat down to talk with Emma about the process of creating Wild Fire Nights, as well as her hopes for the future.

Where did the inspiration for Wild Fire Nights come from? It came from several sources. I was out one night in a bathroom and there was no toilet paper, so I went into another cubicle, and there were all these pregnancy tests on the floor and bottles of vodka. I thought, ‘That’s a story. That’s a character.’ Also, I was getting [cast in] a lot of roles and it seemed like the ‘good girls’ were always one thing, and the ‘bad girls’ were another. There was never [that reflection of the reality] that I see around me, that actually there are a lot of middle-class girls who come from pretty nice, stable backgrounds – and by night, they go into a club and have this much vodka in their handbag. It’s sort of a weird grey area. [Wild Fire Nights] is about all those girls that you see at 3 in the morning, carrying their shoes down Shop St, [who] have great jobs on Monday morning. I wanted to dig into that.

Who is the intended audience for this? I think it’s 20’s to mid-30’s. I think it’s just interesting to have more women’s stories, written by women. Giving female characters more than a black and white [portrayal is important]; there’s a huge scope of grey area. [Women] can be a juxtaposition of all these things. There’s a turning point in [Lila’s] life – she’s becoming a mother, unexpectedly. She has to decide, in herself, what to do, and how to deal with it, and I think it’s something [most women her age] think about.

Does the movie delve into abortion rights and the Eighth Amendment? Well, I wanted to make it as real as possible. I didn’t want to make a political film. I wanted to tell a story that could happen to anyone. So she’s there, Googling abortion before she goes out. It’s not a film to tell people what to do – it’s her, responding to her situation. At the end, it’s not quite clear – people who have seen it already have very divided opinions on how it ends. But the fact that the option [for termination] isn’t there, changes how she has to deal with it. It’s very of its time, because it happens to girls every day of the week and it’s a secretive thing, as well. People don’t talk about [unexpected pregnancy] very much

What made you want to tackle writer, director, producer and lead all yourself? Well, initially I wasn’t going to act in it. We had two actors that had to leave for other films... In the end, it was quite hard to cast. And I knew the character very well, from writing her. I spent about two and a half years writing it – it was a feature film, at first, Wild Summer Nights. Producers asked me to make a short first, so I adapted it into a short. In the future, I wouldn’t want to act in it as well as direct. I’d rather stay behind the camera.

What kind of reaction are you hoping for in audiences, once the short hits screens?

I just hope people react to it. I wanted to shine a light on a character that people don’t always get to see. I think if people have a reaction to it, I’ll be happy. It’s an honest story, and it’s subtle. It’s not a big, dramatic story – it’s very much a single day in the life of one girl in Galway, and how circumstances change, and the consequences of that. I can think that can sometimes be more difficult as a filmmaker, the subtle story-telling. It’s a slowburner.

Wild Fire Nights will premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh, which runs from July 11 to 16, and will be shown at film festivals internationally. For more information, follow Emma Eliza Regan on Facebook @emmaelizaregan and Twitter @emmaelizar

PAGE.10.

SHOP

Galway is more than just a pretty Aran sweater.

Here’s a few of our favourite independents for you to check out...

Nine Crows

The Galway location is the little-sister shop of the popular Dublin location. Everything inside is pre-loved or re-worked vintage, in the very best way possible. It’s all super-trendy and makes great festival wear or Insta-worthy OOTD’s: think 90s Adidas, mom jeans, letter jackets. Most pieces are totally unique and the stock is always changing, so keep coming back!

Cross Street Upper, Galway

Public Romance

The perfect place to round out your look with some hand-selected and trendy pieces that are as unique as you are! On the ground floor, you’ll find clothing and accessories from independent retailers. It’s a great spot for a unique outfit for a night out, the perfect festival outfit, or a 90s-inspired bomber. Upstairs, there’s a serious collection of vintage clothing for men and women, all hand-picked and different. The staff will give you styling tips, too, ‘cause they’re super sound.

52 Upper Abbeygate Street, Galway

1984 Miracles

1984 Miracles is a brand-new streetwear clothing boutique in Galway City, full of vibrant designs exclusive in Ireland. If you like to be super-comfy and stylish as hell at the same time, this is the shop for you. You won’t find their two brands, FemiStories for women and Elade for men, anywhere else in Ireland. And stock is limited and once it’s sold out, you won’t find it again – so it’s a great way to build a unique wardrobe. Shop online at www.1984miracles.ie and look out for their monthly open-format Community Skratch Music sessions! 5 Augustine St, Galway

PAGE.11.

DC Store Galway

Nestled in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter, DC Store is a refreshing family-run shop, stocked with DC’s collection of no-nonsense classics. For men, they’ve got all your staples: denim, chinos, jackets, tees and sweats for the active person, with an edgy street style. For women, the ROXY collection features sporty casual clothing for the beach and festival season. Plus, of course, everyone’s favourite: every shape, size and style of skateboard for cruising the Prom, sliding or bombing hills in the countryside, or grinding and shredding the city’s streets. 3 Cross Street, Latin Quarter, Galway

House of Portobello

This modern designer shop gives you access to big names like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vutton at a fraction of the price, since it’s lightly used. You’ll find everything from occasion-wear to date night outfits and gorgeous casual pieces, too. They also do accessories, from shoes to watches and purses. For the thrifty girl with a taste for elegance, this little shop is heaven. Cross Street Lower, Galway

´ STANDUN E

scape the festival madness of Galway City for a few relaxing hours, shopping in the Gaeltacht of Spiddal. Just twenty minutes from the city, Standún is a must for shoppers seeking international fashion at its best. You’ll find gifts, jewellery, quality traditional Irish fashion and outerwear, as well as a comfortable place to unwind and sample some home baking and coffee. Sisters Clíona and Laragh Standún stock the third-generation familyowned department store with an eclectic array of contemporary products, and theirethos is to have something on offer for everyone. It’s a great place to shop for occasion wear, whether for the Galway Races or a summer wedding. Match the huge array of dresses, jumpsuits, skirts and tops with some of the gorgeous fascinators, bags, wraps and jewellery for a unique, sophisticated look! Labels include Tahari, Wolf and Whistle, Louche, Darling, and Bourne. The choice for men is a Magee or Scott jacket, teamed with a Bailey’s or Giordano shirt. They also stock children’s clothes, so you can get the whole family kitted out in one go! Call in for a lovely summer afternoon along the coast; you’ll receive a warm family welcome, and be sure to find something for all tastes.

Follow Standún on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or at www.standun.com Summer Opening Hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 7pm and Sun: 12pm - 6pm. Tel: 091 553115

Summer Festival Round-up There’s nowhere quite like Galway during festival season! Tons of live music, theatre, family events, great nights out and more await you this summer. Check it out.

GALWAY FILM FLEADH The Peacemaker

From July 11-16, Galway will be all about film and cinema. The Fleadh brings audiences together with filmmakers to enjoy quality feature films and shorts. The 2017 programme includes a focus on Polish film, new Irish cinema, and a human rights programme that highlights pressing global concerns. When: July 11 – 16 Tickets: tht.ie // www.galwayfilmfleadh.com

The Peacemaker is an intimate portrait of international peacemaker Padraig O’Malley, who helps make peace for others but struggles to find it for himself. Variety says, “The deep heart and mystery of The Peacemaker are most keenly felt in the personal struggles of its central character, whose recovery from alcohol addiction has profoundly influenced his work.” Wednesday, July 12 // Town Hall Theatre // 14:00

WRITING HOME Celebrity author Daniel Doran returns home to the rural Irish village where he was raised after his estranged father falls ill, determined to escape back to his jet-setting life in London as soon as possible. But in this modern comedy about re-discovering your past, Daniel will soon learn that while there’s no substitute for a good cup of coffee, there really is no place like home. Wednesday, July 12 // Town Hall Theatre // 22:00

PAGE.13.

The real-life story of Kumail Nanjiani, whose one-night stand with Emily V. Gordon turns into the real thing, complicating the life expected of him by his traditional Muslim parents. When Emily becomes sick, it forces Kumail to navigate the crisis with her parents, while dealing with the emotional tug-ofwar between his family and his heart. Wednesday, July 12 // Town Hall Theatre // 20:00

GALWAY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 40 YEARS On 17 July, the curtain will rise on the 40 th Galway International Arts Festival, presenting its largest and most ambitious programme to date with over 200 events. This year, as every year, the festival looks forward to celebrating new work, new writing, new talent and encouraging new audiences to dive into its 14-day programme!

Visual Arts Programme Two major highlights include a commission from the internationally acclaimed John Gerrard, Flag, and a major exhibition by Brazilian artist Ana Maria Pacheco, Dark Night of the Soul. There’s also a spectacular Street Art programme featuring Olivier Grossetête’s The People Build, which will be supported by a 150-strong volunteer team who, together with Grossetête, will construct a life-sized cardboard building in Eyre Square. The audience will then join forces in a celebratory demolition as the structure comes tumbling down. For the full line-up of events at this year’s Galway International Arts Festival, please see giaf.ie

LOAH

You saw her face on the cover of this magazine (take another look if you need to, we’ll wait). You might recognise her sound from Hozier’s single, “Someone New”, which she co-wrote with him and jointly won a BMI songwriting award. Her music is a mix of jazz, soul and folk, with West African influences which she calls “Artsoul”. Wednesday 19 July // 8.30pm // Roisin Dubh // €14 - 12

The Second Violinist The festival is excited to mark this year with a number of largescale projects, including its own co-production with Landmark Productions of Woyzeck in Winter. This promises to be one of the theatrical highlights in Ireland this year, fusing Büchner's Woyzeck and Schubert's Die Winterreise for a dark and atmospheric performance. Multiple shows // Black Box THeatre // €22 - €32.50

The festival will also present the first opera ever in its history, The Second Violinist, a new thriller opera by Donnacha Dennehy and Enda Walsh and a major achievement for contemporary opera in Ireland. Ireland’s own Aaron Monaghan, seen before in Druid’s Waiting for Godot and The Beauty Queen of Leenane, will be wowed by his performance. You can see its world premiere in Galway before it goes on to play Dublin in October. Multiple shows // Black Box Theatre // €32 - €40 Photo of Loah by: Boyd Challenger

This festival captures everything from music, visual art, comedy, dance and theatre, from acts across the world. They put an emphasis on home grown national talent, and especially Irish-language talent, to present Galway as a centre of Irish language. When: July 14 – 30 // Tickets: GalwayFringe.ie

Oh Boland / Dott / Martin's Party /Skinner Oh Boland are a three-piece noisy guitar pop band from Tuam, Co. Galway. Catching them live is wholly recommended, the music joins visible in the best early-pavement way. Their unstoppable momentum continues to boil & grow making their late show in The Loft one of the highlights of this years Fringe Festival, support on the night from Dott, Field Trip, Martin’s Party & Skinner. Saturday 29th July 10pm // The Loft, Seven Bridgestreet // Price: €8 - 5 The Fia Rua live show has won Burke the “Best Live Act” in previous Fringe Festivals and this gig will showcase his latest work, which he describes as “a kind of return to a pleasurable sense of being lost, a good scream at the crossroads.” Enda Reilly is a singer, guitarist and songwriter from Dublin whose projects include New Songs In Irish Amhráin Nua i nGaeilge, his Climate Change Songs Workshops, Arise and Go! a collaboration with poet Stephen James Smith. Saturday 22nd July 9.30pm // Price €10 - 8

THE INVISABLE JUG BAND They’re bringing back a forgotten tradition of playing music with instruments made from household items. The Invisible Jug Band are a rag tag collective of some of Galway’s finest musicians. Expect harmony singing, fiddle, tenor banjo, guitar, double bass, washboard, mandolin, kazoo, harmonica and more. Thursday 27th July 9.30pm Galway Folk Club @Deburgos €10/8

Agu /Let’s Set Sail A night of great music in store… Agu’s music is grounded in folk, but with strong influences of post-rock, and ambient music. Let’s Set Sail began as a songwriting project for two university students, studying classical music composition. The project has gradually evolved into a 4-piece band, tastefully blending acoustic and synthetic textures to produce well-crafted electronic folk songs. Wednesday 19th July 8.30pm The Quay's Music Hall // Price €10 - 8

FIA RUA & ENDA REILLY

SUNRISE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL Brigit’s Garden hosts the Sunrise Children’s Festival over one weekend every summer, and it’s always a magical experience for children and their families. Come for the day or camp overnight to enjoy music, creativity, puppet shows, yoga and artisan food in the Gardens and surrounding woodland. When: July 29–30 Tickets: brigitsgarden.ie

The goal of this year’s festival is to build community bridges and bring everyone together. The entire festival is open to everyone so come out to events, participate, walk in the parade, bring your family and celebrate. In their own words: “Be brave, be bold, but above all, be proud!” When: August 11–20 Tickets: galwaypridefestival.com

People from all over come to the Galway Races for the horses, the fashion and the atmosphere. It’s a fun excuse to get out of work, dress up and enjoy a few pints by daylight. Ladies’ Day on the Thursday is always a big deal with exciting best-dressed prizes. If you know your horses, it’s great craic – and if you don’t, it’s still fun! Catch a coach from Ballybrit to some of the big hotels around Galway. They’ll be having massive after parties with food, live music, prizes and more! Or just head to a pub… Your choice! Galway will be buzzing wherever you go When: Monday, July 31–Sunday, August 6 Races tickets: GalwayRaces.com

PAGE.16.

GALWAY PRIDE FESTIVAL

LOUGHREA MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL Bring the family out for this fun, educational festival celebrating Loughrea’s medieval heritage. All of the events are free and designed to appeal to people of all generations. Educational talks and workshops, medieval fighting demonstrations, walking tours and games are just a few of the events that will take place throughout the weekend. When: August 25–27 Information: LoughreaMedievalFestival.com

Fill your RaceCard with Events at the g Hotel & Spa during Galway Race Week Celebrate in style with the g Hotel & Spa at this year’s Galway Races Summer Festival! Wednesday at the Races kicks off with a Bubbly Tipster Brunch. Treat yourself to prosecco, a full brunch menu and expert racing tips with a return coach to Ballybrit! The day finishes with a live band, finger food, raffle and auction in aid of the Irish Injured Jockey Fund, in memorial of JT McNamara. Thursday is Ladies Day – one of the biggest days at the Races! The g Hotel are the official sponsors of the g Hotel Best Dressed Lady and Best Hat, so it’s only fitting they’re throwing a massive after party. Expect gorgeous cocktails, flowing champagne and tasty bites! Friday starts with a pre-racing lunch with live music and return coach, followed by an après racing party to kickstart your bank holiday weekend! Food will be served til 11pm in the Signature Lounges with live music til late. Catch the direct coach from Ballybrit! For tickets or more information, head to theghotel.ie

THE g HOTEL & SPA

FRESH PLACES NEW FACES! Brand spanking new businesses to check out in Galway!

Kasbah Wine Bar This new addition to Galway’s Latin Quarter features an extensive wine list with a broad range of wines, old world and new. Inside you’ll find wines from Australia, New Zealand, Slovenia, and Portugal as well as many regions in France and Italy. Food is served tapas style, with small plates designed to share. They put a focus on Irish producers and suppliers like Flaggy Shore Oysters, Friendly Farmer Chicken, The Burren Smokehouse, Herterich's Pork, Irish Cheeses and Charcuterie. Where: 3 Quay Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter

PAGE.18.

New to Galway O’Reilly’s Bar and Kitchen This casual, maritime-themed restaurant serves some of the best local seafood options with lovely views of the Prom and Galway Bay beyond. From mussels to Galway Bay fish cakes, they’ve got all kinds of seafood to make you happy as well as favourites like chicken burgers, steak and stew. Their side bar has a wide selection of gin and whiskey, and they’ve got the shortest Guinness draw in all of Galway -- which means the tastiest pint! Where: 232 Upper Salthill

1520 Bar This brand-new bar on Quay Street is destined to become one of Galway’s hot spots. It’s got plenty of space for dancing and drinking when live bands take the stage. Or if you’d prefer a few quiet pints with your mates, the Penny Bar at the back is the perfect snug. And their menu is full of top-quality gourmet pub grub with options like nachos, burgers and stew! Where: 14 Quay Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter

Just Art It Galway’s Westend welcomes a new cultural, multi-faceted art space for artists and the public alike! Just Art It will be stocking specialty art supplies that are otherwise hard to find, tailored to the needs of shoppers. It’s going to be a real community space, made to bring people together over art and creativity. With this in mind, they’ll be hosting art workshops, children’s camos, corporate events and more! They also have a gallery display for local artists and printmaking facilities. Follow them on Facebook @justartitgalway or online at JustArtItGalway.com for regular updates! Where: 33 Dominick Street, Galway’s Westend

PINT? COLD PINT, COSY PUB, GREAT TRAD MUSIC !

DRINK

TOE TAPPINGLY GOOD TRAD. Traditional Irish music, or trad, is best enjoyed in a pub with a cold pint in hand. Here are some of Galway’s favourite venues for just that!

Murty Rabbitt’s Inside this warm, cosy pub, there’s a long-standing tradition of trad on Thursday evenings, going back about ten years. You’ll find anywhere from 15 to 30 musicians joining in on a session, and any traditional player in the audience is welcome to break out an instrument and join in! The music starts at 9.30 pm. Where: 23 Forster Street, Galway

Tig Coili This family-run pub has a few great musicians of their own among them – if they’re not busy behind the bar, you might catch them joining in on the music. The sessions always take place by the front door, so seven nights a week you can see people gathered there to listen. It’s also a great place to sit outside and watch the world go by. Where: Mainguard St, Galway

The Crane The heart of trad music in Galway has got to be the Crane, located over the bridge in the Westend, with two floors of bars and music to choose from. Generations of Galwegians have been knocking back a pint or two to some great trad inside those doors. Where: 2 Sea Rd, Galway’s Westend, Galway

DRINK

An Pucan If ever “trad for young people” were a thing, you’d find it at An Pucan. In the early evening, you can usually catch a younger trad band set up and doing their thing at the front bandstand. Enjoy the tunes with some dinner, and catch more mainstream gigs in the back bar as it gets later. Where: 11 Forster St, Galway

Tigh Neachtain Here’s a perfectly formed Irish pub with snugs, nooks and crannies, and wrap-around bars everywhere you look. The outside seating area is immensely popular with locals, but duck your head inside – that’s where you’ll catch some trad tunes of a night. Where: 17 Cross St, Galway

PAGE.22.

NEVER STOP EXPLORING!

FEATURE

GALWAY STREET CLUB It usually takes around 10 minutes to stroll from the bottom of Quay St to the top of Shop St, but if Galway Street Club are busking that particular day you may as well call it half an hour; such is the sheer volume of the crowds that stop to watch them perform, that it is impossible to make your way through. The hysteria surrounding this motley crew of 15 buskers is more akin to that of a boy band, and it is showing no sign of easing up. They have already sold out the Roisin Dubh twice -- and played outside it at their own street party when 500 plus showed up. They have garnered over 11,000 followers on Facebook and, following a successful tour of the continent, a second phase of European dates is on the horizon! Not bad going for a band that just over 14 months ago got together more by accident than anything else; just a bit of fun, likeminded buskers jamming together on the same pitch with no real plans....but here we are. It's hard to believe that during the first year of their ascendancy

they didn't even rehearse, instead relying on nonverbal quirks and motions from each other to indicate an upcoming chorus or lead break, the kind of borderline telepathy that only comes from living in each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pockets every single day. Logistically this shouldn't work, but it does. Everyone of the 15 were already strong individual musicians and through sheer work ethic, camaraderie and an obvious lust for chaos, Galway Street Club have become one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading lights on the music scene. Where better to hone your talent than on the street, without the pressure that a gig can sometimes bring? Pigeonholing their sound is a tough one as they are as much a visual experience as an aural one. They are great musicians, as much punk as they are folk, their vast repertoire of cover versions have very much their own stamp on them With all 15 apparently bringing original material to the table, and a debut album on the way, the world is very much at their feet. As a side note, certain city counsellors trying to implement bylaws on busking might want to look at what this band have achieved and how, when buskers police themselves (as they have for many a year), they can produce something quite extraordinary.

Galway Street Club play Roisin Dubh Friday 14th July & Saturday 5th August - For more info see: www.roisindubh.net Photo by Boyd Challenger

PAGE.25.

Eat, Drink & Dance N

o one quite does the Eat, Drink & Dance brand like Electric, Garden & Theatre. Part late night party and performance space, part Bohemian Glasshouse cocktail bar, part rooftop garden and part Disco Diner; 4 very individual spaces encapsulated into one impressive establishment.

The Glasshouse cocktail bar on the top floor is the real ace up their sleeve; Opulant decor and a unique environment unrivalled anywhere in Galway. An attractive menu including classic and home crafted inventions while keeping it down to earth and using local ingredients where possible.

The Electric Theatre itself is very much the beating heart of this house. An 800 capacity ballroom that has staged many a memorable night in it's 5 yr tenure: Tiga, Felix Da Housecat, Dimitri from Paris and 2 many DJs are just a few of the huge names to grace the decks here. On Saturday 29th July it will be the fantastic Hot Chip to dj the 5th Birthday on Saturday 29th which is already selling out!

With the heated rooftop garden next door, a nightclub in its own right with its own entrance and fully functional smoking area expect the consistently best parties in town.

By contrast, Factory fosters the more underground whilst providing a great platform for new ideas to grow. At only a 70 person capacity and with one of the best sound systems in the country it makes for a more unique experience, playing host to some of Galway's coolest club nights such as Epoch, Bap to the future and Get Deeper, regularly bring in international guests.

Biteclub is the final piece of the puzzle, a disco diner where the team believe in high quality, freshly prepped food made with heart and soul - tasty food, at reasonable prices, with a buzzy atmosphere is always a winning combination here. They also love throwing a good party and regularly host Disco Brunches with Brunch , Drinks and DJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all day as well as hosting the likes of Queens and Disco, The Disconauts and Telephones. For 5 years Electric, Garden & Theatre has constantly provided Galway with a night out

JULY HIGHLIGHTS James Lavelle presents UNKLE Sounds UNKLE's progression in the studio from a classic hip hop aesthetic to breakbeats-meet-house to electronica to rock has also been instrumental in UNKLE manifesting as a live band that’ s successfully toured the world. The music released today under the banner of UNKLE is very different from early UNKLE records. The spirit is the same. When: July 27 // 8pm // Roisin Dubh // €26 Where: Roisin Dubh, Dominick Street, Galway’s Westend

Aine Cahill At just 21, this singer-songwriter from County Cavan, Ireland is already making a big name for herself. Inspired by current music as well as her love of classic jazz from the 1950’s, Aine’s unique sound and writing style captivates her listener. Her storytelling evokes emotion and vivid imagery, allowing the audience to escape into her world. When: July 28 / 8pm / €18 Where: Monroe’s Live, Dominick Street, Galway’s Westend

Trad on the Prom Traditional Irish music performed live, paired with some of the most awarded step dancers in Ireland make this a show not to be missed. It’s a great experience for visitors and locals alike, showcasing some of the incredible talent and culture of Galway. When: Every Tues, Thurs & Sun until September Where: Leisureland, Salthill

PAGE.27.

Hound’s Hotel: a horror comedy A combination of wacky characters, slapstick comedy and musical farce, Hound's Hotel is a horror comedy which harks back to the classic British 70's sitcom, an adult pantomime which will grab your attention from the first line and hold you by the neck until the final bow. When: July 20-22 / 7pm / €12 Where: Seven, Bridge Street, Galway’s Latin Quarter

Silent Disco Street Party Nothing says Bank Holiday Weekend like an all-night party in the street! The Roisin Dubh’s weekly silent discos are legendary, but their bank holiday street parties are even better. Get your headphones on, grab a drink and dance in the street all night. Get your tickets from roisindubh.net in advance! When: 7 August, 8pm Where: Roisin Dubh

Live at the Garden Get that Friday feeling at the Garden! The Biteclub nibbles are complimentary, the slushies are boozy and the music is always swinging. Each Friday features different local favourite at the bandstand. Head on down for that Friday feeling! When: every Friday, 6pm Where: The Garden @ Electric Garden & Theatre

Galway Hearts Festival A locally-fuelled and brand new festival, celebrating all the brilliant talent Galway has to offer! Most events are free, but those that aren’t are just €6. Live music, DJ sets, art exhibitions, piss-ups… Pure Craic and Divilment! Find more on Facebook @craicanddivilment When: July 16 –30 Where: Various locations

PAGE.28.

Hot Chip DJ Set, Karen Gwyer, Mr Mendel Electric Garden & Theatre have an incredible weekend line-up to celebrate their fifth birthday. Friday night: Shivers with Tama Sumo, seamlessly blending House, Disco, Afro and Techno with her trademark soulful sound. Saturday night: Hot Chip DJ set, responsible for more successful dancefloors than you’ve had avocado toast. Saturday night: GASH Collective, a platform for women DJs and producers, and Telephones, bringing big parties in small spaces. When: Friday, July 28 and Sunday July 29 from 10pm to 2.30am. Where: Electric, Abbeygate Street Upper, Galway

Arts and Crafts Markets Creative Makers Galway, a collective of professional designs and artisan crafters, are hosting a pop-up shop in the Galway 2020 shop during the Galway International Arts Festival. You’ll find jewellery, pottery, woodcarving and more, all made by Galway locals. When: July 17–30 Where: Galway 2020, Cornstore, Middle Street

Then the Galway Fringe Arts & Crafts Market is also coming to town! You’ll find 30 stalls of vintage clothing, retro decor, art, books, musical instruments, antiques and collectibles. When: Saturday, July 22 and July 29 from 10am to 3pm. Where: Galway Mechanics Institute, Middle Street

Christy Moore One of the most compelling and inspirational musicians Ireland has ever seen, Chirsty Moore makes a welcome return to the Black Box for a rare Galway gig. Don’t miss it! When: August 17 - 18 / 8pm / €40 Where: Black Box Theatre, Dyke Road, Terryland

AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS

Holy Fuck

Death Do Us Part Danger Show

Cruinniú na mBád Festival

Holy Fuck took the world by surprise around 2005 because there was just nothing like them: a hardcore thrift-store found-object punk band with a relentless commitment to rhythm and a sense for atmosphere better matched to a close encounter of the third kind than a simple rock concert.

The world famous Death Do Us Part Danger Show is a thrilling, sexy cabaret show like no other! Featuring knife-throwing, sword-swallowing, fireeating, roller-skating, escapology, burlesque, magic and lots of adult humour. Danger never looked so good!

Galway Hookers, with their unique red sails and dark hulls, are iconic. The Cruinniú na mBád Festival in Kinvara celebrates Galway’s maritime heritage, drawing on great boating traditions that go back hundreds of years. There will be sailing competitions, crafting workshops, and a parade of boats in the bay.

August 14 / 9pm / Roisin Dubh / €20

August 4 / 8pm / Monroe’s Live / €15

August 19-20 / Kinvara

American Buffalo

David McSavage

Sky Road Film Festival

In a Chicago junk shop, three small-time crooks plot to rob a man of his coin collection, the showpiece of which is a valuable “Buffalo nickel”. American Buffalo is a triumph of language and a devastating snapshot of what human beings are capable of doing to each other when they run out of options.

One of Ireland’s most cutting-edge comedians, David McSavage’s unique brand of humour is derisive, honest and caustic, but he’ll have you laughing at it all.

The festival will work closely with producers and broadcasters to bring the latest content in Irish cinema and television, in both Irish & English language to the programme. The goal is to engage with filmmakers by providing a platform for discussion regarding media, trends and finance options available.

August 16-18 / 8pm / Town Hall Theatre / €20

August 19 / 8pm / Roisin Dubh / €15

August 5 / Station House Theatre, Clifden / €TBA

PAGE.30.

COMMERCIAL PRINT

QUICK PRINT

DESIGN STUDIO

QUICK PRINT

SIGN & DISPLAY

Unit 4, Glenrock Business Park, Ballybane, Galway T: 091-755705 F: 091-755707 E: sales@isupply.ie

Arts/Science Building, NUI Galway T: 091-492350 F: 09 1-494571 E: printthat@nuigalway.ie

Unit 6, Glenrock Business Park, Ballybane, Galway. T: 091 725864 E: info@id3.ie

Unit 1, Ballybane Industrial Estate, Ballybane, Galway. T: 091 725 875 E: sales@isupply.ie

www.printthat.ie

www.id3.ie

10-12 Sea Road, Galway T: 091-585770 F: 091-589089 E: searoad@isupply.ie