Farmleigh Music and Arts Festival - 30th of Nov - Stephen Rea and Des Bell - In Conversation

4 day festival of contemporary music, drama, literature and poetry (Nov 28th - Dec 1st)

30th Nov - Stephen Rea and Des Bell - In conversation/On film

Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea in conversation with director Des Bell about Rea's extraordinary career and their work together. Their acclaimed collaborations The Hard Road to Klondike and Child of the Dead End are screened either side of the interview. Farmleigh Composer-in-Residence Dave Flynn will join the conversation to discuss the unusual use of music by contemporary Irish composers, including himself, in these films.

2pm Film Screening #1 - The Hard Road to Klondike - 52 mins

"...starkly beautiful…compelling…the archival footage provides fascinating windows into the territory of the past." - The Irish Times

Based on the autobiography of Donegal-born Michael MacGowan, (1865-1948), this film is a stirring account of his life as a migrant worker and exile in America at the turn of the century. Narrated by Stephen Rea with music by Kevin Volans and Íarla O'Lionaird.

3pm – Stephen Rea and Des Bell – In Conversation

4pm - Interval

4.15pm - Film Screening #2 – Child of the Dead End

Child of the Dead End – 83 mins

Child of the Dead End is a creative documentary, starring Stephen Rea, which explores the rags to riches story of Irish writer and migrant worker Patrick MacGill. The story is set against the historical background of the rise of the labour movement, the first world war and the struggle for independence. Soundtracked with music by various Irish composers.

Tickets

Doors 1.30pm