Youghal’s reputation as ‘Ireland’s Finest Coastal Resort’ will be significantly enhanced with the completion of the first phase (395 metres) of the long-anticipated 2000mm-wide mobility-disabled access boardwalk running from Youghal Front Strand to Claycastle.  The route is set to be completed by the end of January 2012.  (The second phase of the development will see the completion of the link between Claycastle and Redbarn).The boardwalk consists of hardwood timber deck supported on piled foundations, not requiring a railing, and once complete will span 1926 metres, eventually forming part of the National Coastal Walking Route.

Financed by Failte Ireland (under the Tourism Capital Investment Programme 2007-2013) in partnership with Youghal Town Council, the boardwalk will promote and enhance Youghal’s considerable ecological resources in a sustainable manner. The completion of the walkway will benefit both domestic and international visitors to Youghal, but also local Youghal residents, providing a safe and well marked walk-way for recreational use.  The amenity will further enhance the resort’s three blue flag beaches.   It is expected that families of all ages (the key target market for the area) staying in the Quality Hotel & Self Catering Resort in Redbarn will be provided with direct pedestrian access to the town.

In 2008, The Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group (YSEDG) commissioned consultants to prepare a report on the feasibility of an eco-friendly walkway from Youghal Town Centre to Ballyvergan Marsh and onto Redbarn. A boardwalk was considered the most appropriate method of providing controlled access to the route, having a low impact on the environment which would be accessible, for the most of its length, to wheelchairs and push chairs.  In 2010 Failte Ireland indicated that the proposed project would comply with the terms of their capital funding and in turn the YSEDG undertook the successful fund development of the first phase of the project which is in the jurisdiction of Youghal Town Council.  Failte Ireland allocated 75% of the costs of the project, totalling €137,434 with Youghal Town Council financing the remainder. Commenting on the project, Fiona Buckley, Head of Operations South West stated: “Investing in our tourism offering is critical to ensuring we are able to compete with other holiday destinations across the globe – offering visitors to Ireland a memorable holiday experience, which includes high quality activities and attractions. As a national tourism development authority we are continually working to ensure we do just that and this development here is Youghal is a great example of what can be done and further adds to the great visitor experience that is already available in the South West.”

Following a public tender process, Byrne Plant Hire & Civil Engineering Contractors were awarded the contract for the project which got underway in October 2011. It is expected that following on from the completion of Phase I of the project (Youghal Town Centre to Claycastle) in January 2012 Phase II of the development of this walking route linking Claycastle with Redbarn would get underway. Failte Ireland has indicated their support in financing capital works for Phase II following the completion of Phase I subject to availability of funding.  Phase II of the project is under the remit of Cork County Council and is the most ecologically sensitive and challenging in terms of access. An ecological impact assessment and the appropriate assessment screening on this section of the proposed walkway are currently underway.

Speaking ahead of the opening of the boardwalk, Town Clerk Liam Ryan said: “The delivery of this Boardwalk shows the commitment of Youghal Town Council to improving the tourism infrastructure of the Town, and is a further step forward in maximising the potential of our natural tourism assets for the economic benefit of business in Youghal. We will be actively encouraging Cork County Council to complete Phase 2 of the Boardwalk Project linking Redbarn and the Quality Hotel to the town. These linkages will benefit substantially the Strand area of the Town and help to develop further sustainable tourism jobs for the Town.”

Crucially, the environmental impact of the walkway will be minimal with the boardwalk providing a ‘buffer zone’ to help combat soil erosion.  Always central to the development of the boardwalk were that Youghal’s considerable ecological resources would be promoted and enhanced in a sustainable manner having a particular regard for Ballyvergan Marsh. The route traverses a number of natural habitats, thereby offering opportunities for the identification of various species of birds and plants as well as highlighting the value of biodiversity and the ecological value of the marshlands. The completed walkway will aim to build on this natural resource and promote a greater awareness of the natural and cultural heritage of the area in particular among international visitors to the town.

The potential for the development of educational tourism is significant, as the route will offer the possibility of developing a number of themes including urban development, ecology, geology and coastal processes.

The completion of the first phase of the project comes in the wake of the announcement that Youghal has secured a number of escorted tour series for 2012 and 2013 from CIE Tours International. Investment in heritage and tourism infrastructure is finally beginning to reap rewards for Youghal as the town delivers on the needs of its two key tourism markets – the cultural/heritage tourism visitor and the domestic family market.  These visitors will in turn contribute to the boosting of Youghal’s economic fortunes in the years ahead.

Issued by: Youghal Town Council

Contact: tourism@youghal.ie tel: 024-81814

‘Yew Wood Venues’- Youghals Premier Venues – The Mall Arts Centre & St. Mary’s Collegiate Church

‘Yew Wood Venues’ – the new name behind Youghal’s Premier Venues – The Mall Arts & St. Mary’s Collegiate Church contributed in excess of €280,000 to the local economy of Youghal in two years according to surveys undertaken in accordance with Failte Ireland’s Festivals and Cultural Events Research Template.  The venues are run by The Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group who currently lease the buildings from Youghal Town Council.
In building upon the success of the venues to date, the two venues are to be re-branded and will now fall under the title of ‘Yew Wood Venues’.  Yew Wood – the english translation of Eochaill – encapulates both unique venues of Youghal.  A new base and booking office will operate from ‘The Coach House’ of ‘Enterprise Youghal’ in Emmet Place.

The expansion plan of ‘Yew Wood Venues’ focuses on Youghal’s commercial and contemporary arts potential. Joyce Hosford, Events Manager of Yew Wood Venues commented “We are encouraging local artists to exhibit their works in the Mall Arts Centre and we are focusing on attracting and developing local and emerging talent. We are seeking to utilise the Mall Arts Centre to its full potential as well as seeking to explore contemporary arts events. In order to do so, we envisage a ‘bottom up’ approach to our developmental plan – that is, there is a hugely strong community arts base in Youghal and we aim to support and nurture such talent.  The vision is to ensure Youghal is a recognised centre of Arts excellence, built upon the strengths of the community”.

To date, the venues have delivered a range of productions across the arts spectrum, from visual to music, dance to drama.  This has made huge impact on the local economy – events which have been running in the Yew Wood Venues have contributed €280,000 over 2 years to the local economy.

Reffering to the economic spin-off to the local community, Manager of The Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group, Aileen Murray said: “The future plans of Yew Wood Venues also focuses on developing the local economy and boosting local businesses through ‘spin off’ revenue generated from events taking place. These venues share a common goal with many businesses and organisations within the Youghal community – to help increase the number of people visiting and investing in Youghal.  Failte Ireland identified that the average visitor attending an event in Youghal will spend on average between €30 and €55”, said Aileen.

The continued development of attendances at the venues will be crucial to the venues ongoing success. In order to achieve this, there will be several initiatives undertaken through marketing, education and outreach functions. For example, the well supported Sacred Roots events, which took place in St Marys Collegiate Church will recommence shortly. These events helped to promote the arts to the youths of Youghal as well as generating much support and recognition from the community and a far. Other such developmental programmes will encourage local artists to take residence in the Mall Arts Centre and exhibit their art on a monthly basis. Yew Wood Venues will also continue to support St. Raphaels and their future projects.

In aiming to develop new captive audiences within the community, Yew Wood Venues will commence a monthly film club hugely significant considering Youghal’s strong history of interest in film. This will be a low cost means of art and cultural activity and a means for those who wish to develop their interest in cinematic art.

David McSavage, the comedian of the infamous RTE production ‘Savage Eye’, will take to the stage of the Mall Arts Centre on Saturday 25th February at 8pm. Tickets are now available. 2012 will also see hilarity from the legendary Brendan Grace, a Shakesperean play, a Moby Dick production, the family favourite Lambert Puppet Theatre and the welcomed return of the Chamber Philharmonia Cologne to name a few.  Plans are also underway to host a number of large-scale contemporary cultural and arts events which at time of press are still under negotiation.

“It is imperative in such a close community with numerous venues, we target to our specific audience and market the event accordingly” states Joyce Hosford. “We are hugely enthusiastic about the year ahead. It is great to have a permanent base, an office where people can come and meet me, discuss future plans, propose ideas, highlight queries or book tickets” she added.

In the current climate, it is imperative that local resources are utlised to their maximum potential. Yew Wood Venues is starting 2012 with much enthuasism and positivity for the year ahead. With this rebranding, also brings a very strong and forward thinking developmental plan for the Mall Arts Centre and St Marys Collegiate Church to accompany this new title.

Yew Wood Venues office is in the Coach House of the Entreprise Centre, Emmet Place – just next to St. Marys Collegiate Church. The office will be open 5 days a week and contact number is 083-3606507 or 024-81823. Official office hours will be added shortly to the website www.themallartscentre.com

The winner of the ‘Queen of the Sea’ 2011 is Kate Mulcahy from Youghal. Kate, a former student of Pobalscoil na Tríonóide, is currently studying Psychology and French at Trinity College, Dublin. Report: YOL | Pictures: YOL

Representing the Quay’s Bar, Kate was escorted by her boyfriend, Dónal Breen, and presented with a tiara and sash by last year’s ‘Queen of the Sea’ Susie Fitzgibbon at the crowning ceremony last Saturday night on the ‘Myrtle Grooove’ gig rig stage.

Master of Ceremonies Shane Supple announced the winner in front of a large audience which was also broadcast live on CRY 104fm and on the internet.  Congratulations to Kate and her escort and all the contestants who entered this years event from all of us at YoughalOnline.com.

Youghal, Co. Cork confirmed its status and designation by Failte Ireland as a ‘centre of excellence’ in family fun with its 2nd Family Fun Festival over the weekend (15th – 17th July). A truly action packed festival programme of free family entertainment drew a crowd of in excess of 8,000 visitors to the coastal resort over the course of the weekend.

Events which kicked off in style on Friday evening, with a ‘Mardi Gras’ parade setting the seaside town ablaze with colour.  Highlights of the parade included the contestants in the ‘Queen of the Sea’ competition as they cruised through the town in a range of vintage cars, led out by the nationally renowned ‘Youghal Pipe Band’.  It was all about food food food on Saturday however, with TV celebrity chef Rachel Allen on hand to open the outdoor food emporium.  Over 40 food and craft producers served breakfast, brunch and lunch to the hungry festival goers, with media sponsors 96 FM broadcasting live only adding to the atmosphere!

Sal Tivy, Festival Chairperson commented on the festival weekend saying: “This year’s festival can be summed up as ‘elegance with fun’ in my opinion.  Thousands of people came to Youghal over the course of the weekend and we truly had something for everyone. There was a ‘buzz on the streets’ in Youghal again, something the town badly has been missing.  Hopefully, local traders reaped the economic benefits of the influx of visitors to the town.  We have now established one of the finest festivals in the country, which I have no doubt in the coming years, is set to rival the ‘Rose of Tralee’ said Sal.

Saturday night saw the crowning of Youghal’s very own ‘Queen of the Sea’; 19 year old Kate Mulcahy – who represented The Quay’s Bar, Youghal.  Kate was presented with a cheque for €500, along with a perpetual trophy.  The Queen of the Sea Competition was generously sponsored by Youghal Credit Union.  Sponsor cards taken by which each queen raised badly needed funds for ISPCC’s Childline and the local RNLI.

 

‘Sunday was Funday in Greenpark with the first dog show in Youghal in over 20 years attracting tens of happy hounds to the park.  Shrieks of laughter could be heard all over as couples battled each other and the obstacle course to claim the title in the ‘wife carrying competition’.

A new and exciting addition to this year’s event was the ‘Myrtle Groove’ gig rig, with live performances from quality bands and musicians all weekend long.  The internationally renowned ‘Kila’ took to the stage and received a rapturous welcome from crowds on Saturday evening. At the closing ceremony of the event, Sal Tivy paid tribute to the hard-working committee who worked behind the scenes to make the event possible.  “They were a small, but magnificent hard working team.  I would personally like to express my thanks and say it was these people who made it such a successful event for Youghal.  I would like to say it was my privilege to have worked with them.”  The Festival Committee wishes to thank the townspeople of Youghal and all its sponsors for their support of this event.

Click on image to start slideshow. Pics: YOL

 

Youghal, Co. Cork confirmed its status and designation by Failte Ireland as a ‘centre of excellence’ in family fun with its 2nd Family Fun Festival over the weekend (15th – 17th July). A truly action packed festival programme of free family entertainment drew a crowd of in excess of 8,000 visitors to the coastal resort over the course of the weekend.

Events which kicked off in style on Friday evening, with a ‘Mardi Gras’ parade setting the seaside town ablaze with colour.  Highlights of the parade included the contestants in the ‘Queen of the Sea’ competition as they cruised through the town in a range of vintage cars, led out by the internationally renowned ‘Youghal Pipe Band’.  It was all about food food food on Saturday however, with TV celebrity chef Rachel Allen on hand to open the outdoor food emporium.  Over 40 food and craft producers served breakfast, brunch and lunch to the hungry festival goers, with media sponsors 96 FM broadcasting live only adding to the atmosphere!

Sal Tivy, Festival Chairperson commented on the festival weekend saying: “This year’s festival can be summed up as ‘elegance with fun’ in my opinion.  Thousands of people came to Youghal over the course of the weekend and we truly had something for everyone. There was a ‘buzz on the streets’ in Youghal again, something the town badly has been missing.   Hopefully, local traders reaped the economic benefits of the influx of visitors to the town.  We have now established one of the finest festivals in the country, which I have no doubt in the coming years, is set to rival the ‘Rose of Tralee’ said Sal.

Click on image to see the Youghal Queen of the Sea 2011 Mardi Gras. Pics: YOL

Marine leisure strategy for South Cork coastline
By Leo McMahon

A MARINE Leisure Infrastructure Strategy (2010-2020) for around 500 kilometres of South Cork coastline stretching from Timoleague to Youghal was officially launched by Cllr Kevin Murphy at County Hall recently.

It complements a similar strategy for West Cork covering 700km from the Kerry border to Courtmacsherry which was completed in 2008 and is aimed at ensuring development of coastal inlets, bays, beaches and harbours in a coherent and sustainable manner by making the best use of existing and planned infrastructure and to create a quality brand for coastal tourism and leisure in Ireland’s largest county.

‘This publication contains an Action Plan with inputs from over 100 stakeholder organisations and a steering group with representatives from the county council, Kinsale, Cork and Youghal Town Councils, the Ports of Kinsale, Cork and Youghal, Failte Ireland, the Coast and Marine Resources Centre attached to UCC, South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD), West Cork Development Partnership and Inland Fisheries Ireland’, said Cllr Murphy, who is also a member of Kinsale Harbour Commissioners.

The motive behind both West and South Cork strategies, he pointed out, was to ‘use resources, reassess their value and tap into the potential of marine infrastructure to develop sustainable products, services and jobs and also encourage investment along the coast’.

County manager Martin Riordan said the Cork coastline was a unique asset and because its nature and uses had changed over the years, it was necessary to revisit it, build on the product and ensure its potential was maximised.

Complimenting the compilers of the 158 page report, he said Cork had for the first time, a detailed inventory of infrastructure and service providers. ‘We now need to maintain momentum behind this work because this strategy will engage and encourage many agencies to promote development and initiatives.

‘Tourism is one of the key sectors with potential for growth. We have the infrastructure we need to see how we can brand, package and market the unique product and services we have but it is important that we all understand and appreciate what we have along our coastline if we are to showcase it to visitors. Let’s build on the great potential identified in this strategy’, Mr Riordan added.

The strategy comprises an overview highlighting the importance of marine tourism and recreation etc, methodology, an action plan and proposals for its implementation. There are also several appendices including an audit of all coastal facilities in Kinsale Harbour, Crosshaven, Ringaskiddy, Monkstown and Passage West, Cork city, Cobh and other parts of Cork Harbour; from Timoleague to Harbour View and Coolmain, Garrettstown and Old Head, Oysterhaven, Nohoval, Roberts Cove to Myrtleville and along the coast of East Cork via Inch, Ballycotton and Knockadoon to Youghal. There are also sections on the riparian infrastructure of Inniscarra.

Fifty-two short and long-term actions are detailed in the strategy. A key proposal is to create a coastal brand or quality mark for the entire Cork coastline with a central information website.

Short-term priorities include the upgrading of parking and the slipway in Sandycove near Kinsale, develop a commercial tourism pick up/drop off point for angling and commercial tourism at Adams Quay, Kinsale; develop a boat park and slipway near Archdeacon Duggan Bridge, Kinsale; further develop water sports at Garrettstown and Oysterhaven, identify locations for public moorings in Cork Harbour and Oysterhaven, identify four key water access points in Cork Harbour, develop a pontoon or marina and public moorings in Youghal, install uniform water trail and bird watching signage, further develop Spike Island and Fort Camden for heritage tourism, develop a new access with trailer parking at Fountainstown, support the use of Dooneen Pier near the Old Head for angling and tour boats and improve water quality.

Encouraging non traditional users of the sea to engage in marine activities and promote the development of curricula for school children using existing adventure centre facilities are other proposals of which there are many in the strategy highlighting the many opportunities for the county.

Among those who attended the launch were Denis Healy, Port of Cork; Kinsale Harbour Master, Captain Phil Devitt, county councillors and various stakeholders.

Copies of the Marine Leisure Infrastructure Strategy are available from administrative officer Rose Carroll, Cork County Council, Corporate Affairs, Floor 14, County Hall, Cork, who had a major input into the project. It can also be viewed on the website www.corkcoco.ie

Source: www.southernstar.ie

BY LEO McMAHON Saturday July 16th, 2011

Lismore Music Festival 2011

Kindly supported by: Lord & Lady Burlington, the House of Waterford Crystal, Failte Ireland, Waterford County Council, Jonathan Ackroyd Jewellers, the Italian Institute of Culture & RTE LyricFM

Following the success of the inaugural LMF last June,   the programme for the weekend has been expanded to include a concert ‘Opera for Guitar and Voice’ at Lismore’s historic St. Carthage’s Cathedral on Sunday 5th June at 12.15;  a recital of Italian Repertoire sponsored by the Italian Institute of Italian Culture, featuring Irish Sopranos, Sandra Oman and Deirdre Masterson as part of the  LMF recitals on the Blackwater at Salterbridge House on Saturday 4th June at 2pm.

There will also be free musical performances at various locations around the town of Lismore including a choral performance in St. Carthages Cathedral on Saturday 4th June and an exhibition of local artists at Salterbridge House & Gardens featuring the work of Chris Yowell (Painter) Jane Jermyn (Ceramicist & Sophie Broadhead) Jeweller

The Lismore Farmers Market on the castle avenue and the Opera Supper Club at O’Brien’s Chop House will also feature as part of this year’s festivities.

This year, as part of the LMF access programme, local school children from transition year have been invited to attend the dress rehearsal on the Friday night.  The opera will be explained to the students beforehand and the students will get a glimpse behind the scenes of one of the most exciting artforms and for most it will be their first experience of opera.

LMF have assembled a fantastic cast of Irish and International singers and musicians for this unique Summer Musical event.  The Don Giovanni cast includes,  Anthony Kearns as Don Ottavio; Cara O’Sullivan as Donna Anna;  Andrew Ashwin as Don Giovanni,  John Molloy as Leporello;  Fiona Murphy as Donna Elvira;  Mary O’Sullivan as Zerlina;  Gerard O’Connor as Commendatore & Gavan Ring as Masseto

The LMF Chamber Orchestra includes,  Cora Venus Lunny – violin; Adrian Hart – violin;  Kate Ellis – cello;  Fiona Kelly – flute;  Nick Roth – saxophones; Colm O’Hara – trombone; David Adams – piano / harpsichord and Larrissa O’Grady – Viola & Violin.

Listings information

Lismore Music Festival 2011 presents

Don Giovanni by Mozart, New Arrangement by Nick Roth commissioned by LMF,  at the  Lismore Castle Stables, Co. Waterford

Castle Gardens & Prosecco Bar open to patrons at 6.30pm

Performances begin at 8.30pm each night

Two Act Opera with One 45min after Act i Interval

Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 June 2011

Tickets from €95 – €120 including  Anti Pasti, Caponata alla Pollo,  Tiramasu ice cream, glass of wine & Opera

Box office 00 353 87 1680 258 or 00 353 58 52769

email: boxoffice@lismoremusicfestival.com

Website: www.lismoremusicfestival.com

www.lismorecastle.com

Facebook: lismore music festival

LMF 2011 presents

Opera for Guitar & Voice – Concert recital by Redmond O’Toole & Guest Singers

At St. Carthage’s Cathedral,  The Mall,  Lismore, Co. Waterford

Sunday 5 June 2011 at 12.15

Tickets €25

Box office  00 + 353 + (0) 58 527 69 or 00 + 353 + (0) 87 168 02 58

Website: www.lismoremusicfestival.com

LMF Recital on the Blackwater at Salterbridge House & Gardens

Sponsored by The Italian Institute of Culture

Staring Irish Sopranos Deirdre Masterson and Sandra Oman

Saturday 4th June 2011 at 2pm

Tickets €20 (include Tea or Coffee & scone)

Box office  + 353 + (0) 58 527 69 or 00 + 353 + (0) 87 168 02 58

Website: www.lismoremusicfestival.com

www.salterbridge-houseandgarden.com

Exhibition of local artists at Salterbridge House & Gardens featuring the work of

Chris Yowell – Painter

Jane Jermyn – Ceramicist

Sophie Broadhead – Jeweller

Tickets €5 – Garden visit including the exhibition

www.salterbridge-houseandgarden.com

–
Jennifer

Jennifer O’Connell
00 + 353 + 87 972 1776

Fota Wildlife Park are hosting a special Family Fun event this coming Sunday in association with South & East Cork Tourism to promote a new website www.familyfunholidays.ie, which is promoting East Cork and West Waterford as a family fun destination.

The new website which is funded by Failte Ireland aims to bring more families to towns such as Cobh, Midleton, Youghal, Lismore and Ardmore in 2011 through special offers, news, events and easy access to required information online. The site will act as the main promotional tool for the family fun hub which was established with Failte Ireland back in 2009.

Speaking about the new site chairman of the Family Fun Steering group Stephen Ryan hopes it will provide more information to tourists, “we have a lot of things for people to see and do in the area but sometimes its not easy to find out about them and we hope that this new website will enable potential visitors to find out all they need to know on one site. The new site has been designed by award winning Cork company Studio Forty9 and is set to appeal to all age groups with its easy navigation and bright colours.

The site will be officially launched this coming Sunday March 13th at Fota Wildlife Park’s Education Complex in association with South & East Cork Tourism and will bring together 40 different tourist businesses under one roof showcasing what they have to offer the public in 2011. Speaking about the launch Stephen who is also head of marketing at Fota Wildlife Park added “each year both Youghal Chamber and South and East Cork tourism have networking events for tourism providers however this year we are looking to get some of the public involved here at park so they get to see what else is on offer in the area plus enjoy some food tasting, enter competitions and have some fun with an array of characters who will be here on the day”.

Amongst the stands on the day will be Trabolgan, Perks Entertainment Centre, Cobh Heritage, Lismore Heritage, Jameson Distillery and Carleton Resorts. The event itself will run from 12pm until 5pm at the newly refurbish education complex with free childrens activities at the parks entertainment marquee throughout the day.

To celebrate the launch of the new site they are giving away a number of fantastic prizes including membership to Fota Wildlife Park and a weekend break at Trabolgan Holiday Village. To win one of these prizes you have to enter a special online survey through the new website which is being done in association with 3rd year students from the tourism department in Cork Institute of Technology.

Lismore Music Festival 2011, presents, Don Giovanni at Lismore Castle and an expanded programme of events – 4th & 5th June
A unique Summer Music, Opera Festival at a spectacular outdoor venue

The Lismore Music Festival (LMF) box office is now open to the public 00 353 87 168 0258 or 00 353 58 52769 www.lismoremusicfestival.com.  The 2011 expanded programme of events take place over the June bank holiday (Sat 4th & Sun 5th) weekend in the historic and picturesque town of Lismore, County Waterford.

The festival which takes place over two days, Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 June will present a new production of Mozart’s much loved classic Don Giovanni, directed by Dieter Kaegi in the stunning surroundings of Lismore Castle.  A new arrangement has been commissioned by LMF and has been especially arranged by Nick Roth for violin, cello, flute, trombone, saxophones, harpsichord, piano and percussion.

LMF is an eclectic mix of musical genres with opera at its core and aims to become an annual event which will attract music lovers and visitors to the region.  Situated in what is often referred to as the Irish Riviera, Lismore Castle, the privately owned residence of the Duke of Devonshire and his family will play host to two performances of Don Giovanni in the transformed upper stables on the grounds of the castle by kind permission of Lord and Lady Burlington.  The LMF has transformed the former castle stables into a beautiful setting for its production and every effort has been made to weatherproof the venue and maximise comfort for its patrons including a roof and tiered seating.

Following the success of the inaugural LMF last June,   the programme for the weekend has been expanded to include a concert ‘Opera for Guitar and Voice’ at Lismore’s historic St. Carthage’s Cathedral on Sunday 5th June at 12.15; a recital of Italian Arias sponsored by the Italian Institute of Italian Culture, featuring Irish Sopranos, Sandra Oman and Deirdre Masterson as part of the  LMF recitals on the Blackwater at Salterbridge House on Saturday 4th June at 2pm.  There will also be free musical performances at various locations around the town of Lismore including the walled garden at Eamonn’s Place on Main Street, the  Millennium Gardens and the gates of St. Carthage’s Cathedral.  The Lismore Farmers Market on the castle avenue and the Opera Supper Club at O’Brien’s Chop House will also feature as part of this year’s festivities.

This year, as part of the LMF access programme, local school children from transition year will be invited to attend the dress rehearsal on the Friday night.  The opera will be explained to the students beforehand and the students will get a glimpse behind the scenes of one of the most exciting artforms and for most it will be their first experience of opera.

LMF have assembled a fantastic cast of Irish and International singers and musicians for this unique Summer Musical event.  The Don Giovanni cast includes,  Anthony Kearns as Don Ottavio; Cara O’Sullivan as Donna Anna; Andrew Ashwin as Don Giovanni, John Molloy as Leporello; Fiona Murphy as Donna Elvira;  Mary O’Sullivan as Zerlina; Gerard O’Connor as Commendatore & Gavan Ring as Masseto

The LMF Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Maestro David Brophy, includes,  Cora Venus Lunny – violin; Adrian Hart – violin ;  Kate Ellis – cello;  Fiona Kelly – flute;  Nick Roth – saxophones; Colm O’Hara – trombone & David Adams – piano / harpsichord

The musicians are all renowned soloists and share an interest in a wider musical world including their collaboration in gypsy and yiddish group ‘Yurodny’ among countless other collaborations. Taking their name from the memoirs of Dmitri Shostakovich, Yurodny was founded in 2007 by saxophonist and composer Nick Roth. The ensemble was built on the principle that in order for intelligent communication to take place between people, the language of one must be absorbed by the other.  A deep fascination with a range of diverse repertoire, leads to constant collaborations with leading musicians from around the world  in a constant quest for meaning, understanding and the ability to express this with the traditional powers of music.

“We are delighted with the reaction the inaugural festival received from audiences, critics and locals and have received overwhelmingly positive feedback and encouragement to build LMF into an annual event.  We intend The Lismore Music Festival to be a gem of a Summer Festival on the Irish and International calendar, providing a weekend to indulge all the senses with music, food & wine, gardens, historic architecture and art.  We have very ambitious plans for LMF, artistically and from a cultural tourism perspective.  Lismore and West Waterford is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets and we hope the festival attracts visitors from neighbouring counties, all over Ireland and beyond and provides economic stimulus to the town of Lismore, Blackwater, West Waterford and East Cork region.

“We are very grateful to Lord and Lady Burlington for their generous support, allowing us to use the grounds of what is in my opinion the prettiest castle in Ireland.  The people of Lismore and the surrounding area have embraced the idea of hosting an opera and music festival here.  The business, tourism and hospitality community have all contributed their time and enthusiasm. The hospitality and tourism sector are enthusiastically supporting us by providing weekend packages and pre opera menus as well as hosting events.  Failte Ireland and Waterford County Council are “onboard as funders and Jonathan Ackroyd Jeweller is also a festival sponsor.  The festival creates seasonal employment for musicians, singers and everyone involved in the production team as well as providing business for all the festival suppliers such as marquees,  printers,  designers and catering etc. “  said Jennifer O’Connell,  LMF Founder/Director.

Patrons are encouraged to arrive early,  enjoy some Anti pasti + Caponata alla polo + tirumasu ice cream prepared by Eunice Power with a glass of wine from the Power Wine Merchants cellar in the romantic and magical surroundings of the castle gardens.  The organisers have also set up a Prosecco and Wine Bar within the castle walls for the weekend.

Be one of the first to experience this unique Summer event in one of the most beautiful places in Ireland, tickets are selling fast and early booking of tickets and accommodation is recommended.
For  further  information, photographs or to arrange interviews please contact:
Jennifer O’Connell,  LMF Founder/ Director – 00 353 (0)87 972 1776 or jenniferjoconnell@gmail.com

Click on image to see the launch of the Lismore Music Festival 2011

Tickets & packages:

€95 Opera only

€120 Opera + Anti pasti/Caponata alla Polo + glass of wine + Tirumasu ice cream + Tea or Coffee.  (Vegetarian option available)  Food must be ordered in advance

€25 Cathedral Concert only

€20 LMF Recital on the Blackwater at Salterbridge House. (includes Tea or Coffee and scone)

* A Prosecco & wine Bar will be open pre opera and during the 45 minute interval
* Gardens and Castle gates open to LMF audience from 6.30pm. Enjoy the spectacular grounds and gardens of one of Ireland’s most beautiful castles in the beautiful heritage town of Lismore, Co.Waterford.
* Meet members of the cast in the Opera Supper Club, O’Briens, Main Street Lismore after the performance
* Dress code: Cocktail/Jacket. Please remember to bring something warm to wear when the sun goes down.

Quotes from media 2010 LMF:

“We just finished recording the Carmen piece. It was sensational. Fiona  sang beautifully, and looked great on camera, and the music brought such a wonderful flamenco feel to this operatic classic. One of our music highlights of the year. .. …..Thanks”

Betty Purcell – The View (RTE One TV)

“Ireland’s first-ever Lismore Music Festival,  was more than a local musical event – it was a bold statement that promising opportunities can be created even during financially trying times. Being there to witness the birth of opera in Co. Waterford,  I was happier than ever that my second country is, and always has been, Ireland.”

Brian Kellow, Features Editor, Opera News Magazine (the largest opera publication in the USA)

“Must See festival”

Sunday Times Culture Magazine

The spectacular setting of Lismore Castle provided the ideal backdrop for the opera Carmen.  From the start the musical arrangement and choice of instruments was devilishly clever,  the music complemented both the setting and the plot lines to perfection.”

Carl Dixon,  Irish Examiner

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Lismore Music Festival 2011, presents, Don Giovanni (Mozart) at Lismore Castle

A unique Summer Music, Opera Festival at a spectacular outdoor venue

Conductor: David Brophy

Director Dieter Kaegi

Lighting Thomas Maeker

Costumes Patsy Giles

Props/Sets Ciara Gormley

Producer Jennifer O’Connell

Don Giovanni Cast:

Andrew Ashwin            Don Giovanni
John Molloy                 Leporello
Anthony Kearns           Don Ottavio
Cara O’Sullivan            Donna Anna
Fiona Murphy              Donna Elvira
Mary O’Sullivan            Zerlina
Gerard O’Connor         Commendatore
Gavan Ring                Masseto

LMF Chamber Orchestra:

Cora Venus Lunny – violin
Adrian Hart – violin
Kate Ellis – cello
Fiona Kelly – flute
Nick Roth – saxophones
Colm O’Hara – trombone
David Adams – piano / harpsichord

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Listings information

Lismore Music Festival 2011 presents

Don Giovanni by Mozart, New Arrangement by Nick Roth commissioned by LMF,  at the  Lismore Castle Stables, Co. Waterford

Castle Gardens & Prosecco Bar open to patrons at 6.30pm

Performances begin at 8.30pm each night

Two Act Opera with One 45min after Act i Interval

Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 June 2011

Tickets from €95 – €120 including  Anti Pasti, Caponata alla Pollo,  Tiramasu ice cream, glass of wine & Opera

Box office 00 353 87 1680 258 or 00 353 58 52769

email: boxoffice@lismoremusicfestival.com

Website: www.lismoremusicfestival.com

www.lismorecastle.com

Facebook: lismore music festival

LMF 2011 presents

Opera for Guitar & Voice – Concert recital by Redmond O’Toole & Guest Singers

At St. Carthage’s Cathedral,  The Mall,  Lismore, Co. Waterford

Sunday 5 June 2011 at 12.15

Tickets €25

Box office 00 + 353 + (0) 58 527 69 or 00 + 353 + (0) 87 168 02 58

Website: www.lismoremusicfestival.com

LMF Recital on the Blackwater at Salterbridge House & Gardens

Sponsored by The Italian Institute of Culture

Staring Irish Sopranos Deirdre Masterson and Sandra Oman

Saturday 4th June 2011 at 2pm

Tickets €20 (include Tea or Coffee & scone)

Box office + 353 + (0) 58 527 69 or 00 + 353 + (0) 87 168 02 58

Website: www.lismoremusicfestival.com

www.salterbridge-houseandgarden.com

CARLETON VILLAGE MANAGEMENT are celebrating after the holiday complex was awarded 4 shining stars from Failte Ireland.

The Failte Ireland inspection carried out by TAMS (Tourist Accommodation Management Services) took over 3 hours to complete and the inspector was delighted with the ever improving standards visible throughout the complex. Not only complimenting the high house keeping standards but she was also delighted by the improvement to the facilities on offer at the complex. Manager of Carleton Village David Keane is thrilled with the results ‘It is a great achievement on behalf of both the management and staff at Carleton Village and we are delighted that our hard work has paid off again this year’.

The Family Friendly Holiday Complex now in its 9th year of operation has gone from strength to strength in proving itself to be the number one choice for families visiting the East Cork area. The bumper season in 2010 is set to continue this year with repeat customers already booking their summer 2011 break.  David says ‘When customers come back again and again it just shows us that we’re doing something right, our guests are our number one priority and that’s the way it should be’

The last number of years has seen vast improvements to the services and onsite activities that Carleton Village offer their guests. An outdoor heated pool, revamped playground, tennis courts and walled garden were joined last year by the resoundingly successful Family Fun BBQ night and free entertainment from renowned magician and children’s entertainers Tony Baloney, Victor  the balloonist and face painting with Noelle

The Carleton Village Family Fun holiday season is set to start in early July and run through to the end of August. Roll on the sunshine!

Further info contact: Katrina Griffin

Carleton Village

www.carletonresorts.com

Tel: 00353 24 90044

Fax: 00353 24 90045

The latest figures released by Fáilte Ireland on visitor numbers in 2010 which show an overall decline of 15% on the 2009 figure to levels last seen in 1998, are extremely disappointing as Government inaction has let this downward trend continue in towns like Cobh,Youghal, and Midleton and the many villages of East Cork.

Cork East Election candidate Cllr.John Mulvihill said: “2010 was certainly a difficult year for Irish tourism with adverse weather conditions and the paralysis from the Icelandic ash cloud adding to an already difficult trading environment. The severity of the decline, including an 18% drop in visitors from our largest market Britain is however most worrying.

Cllr Mulvihill continued “We must remember that behind these numbers are jobs and businesses in East Cork that are dependant on a buoyant tourism industry and today’s figures will not inspire confidence.

“In June last year, the Labour Party published a Tourism Policy document – Extending the Welcome: Labour’s proposals to sustain and develop the Tourism Industry – which outlined immediate steps to be taken to arrest this decline including abolishing the air travel tax, reforming our outdated visa processing system, addressing the issue of “zombie hotels” and introducing legislation to allow for the downward review of rents.

“To date, belated action has only been taken on one of these crucial steps, the travel tax. This delay is simply indefensible given the importance of tourism as an economic and employment generator across the country.

“Recent endorsements for the Irish tourism industry from Frommer’s travel guide, putting Ireland as the top tourism destination for 2011 and getting voted ‘Most Popular Destination 2010’ from a major Chinese newspaper, show the high regard in which our tourism product is held abroad and the opportunity that exists to develop this vital indigenous industry.

In conclusion the labour general election candidate stated“We have a world class tourism product in East Cork; however we do not have a Government to match and this is delaying action on the steps necessary to help our tourism agencies reverse the decline in tourist numbers and let tourism play its full role in stimulating our economic recovery.”