Creative Writing: 2-Morning Workshop in the Short Story With Éilís Ní Dhuibhne

Apr 27, 2026

Creative Writing: 2-Morning Workshop in the Short Story With Éilís Ní Dhuibhne

Date:Friday 29th May 2026 and Saturday 30th May 2026

Venue: TBA

Time: FROM 9.30 AM – 12.30 PM

This intensive 2 morning workshop will explore the craft of short story writing through close reading, discussion, and practical exercises. Participants are invited to read in advance works by Claire Keegan (Foster), John McGahern (Gold Watch), James Joyce (The Dead), and Éilís Ní Dhuibhne (The Coast of Wales).

Together, we will analyse how these stories are constructed and consider what they reveal about voice, structure, and style. The session also includes guided writing exercises, with opportunities for participants to share and workshop their own stories in a supportive group setting. Ideal for emerging and experienced writers alike.
Éilís Ní Dhuibhne is a well-known writer of fiction, drama and memoir. She is the current Laureate for Irish Fiction and has published over thirty books, won many literary awards, including the PEN Award for an Outstanding Contribution to Irish Literature and a Hennessy Hall of Fame Award. She is an experienced teacher of Creative Writing, and has taught at University College Dublin, Trinity College, Boston College, and the Irish Writers Centre.

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Creative Writing Masterclass – Our Stories Are the Glue of What We Are

Apr 27, 2026

CREATIVE WRITING MASTERCLASS – Our Stories Are the Glue of What We Are

Date: Thursday 28th May 2026

Venue:TBA

Time: 10:00 AM

A Story Exchange Workshop with Colum McCann & Narrative 4

Experience the transformative power of storytelling in this inspiring two-hour masterclass led by internationally acclaimed author Colum McCann and facilitated by Narrative 4.

This unique workshop invites participants to discover how stories can connect us, deepen empathy, and create meaningful change in our communities. Through the acclaimed Story Exchange model, attendees will listen, reflect, write, and share in a safe and engaging space.

Narrative 4 is a global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to equipping young people and communities with the tools to harness the power of stories to drive positive change. Co-founded in New York by Colum McCann, who also serves as Chairperson of Narrative 4 Ireland, the organisation has impacted thousands worldwide through its innovative storytelling programmes.

What to Expect:

Welcome and introduction
The power of stories and listening
Guided Story Exchange experience
Creative writing prompts and reflection
Group discussion and closing circle

Who Can Attend:
Limited to 16 adults to ensure an intimate and meaningful experience.

What to Bring:
An open mind, willingness to listen, and a notebook.

Your story matters. Someone needs to hear it.

Come. Listen. Share. Be Changed.

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Colum McCann & Colm Mac Con Iomaire – An Evening with Words & Music

Apr 27, 2026

Colum McCann & Colm Mac Con Iomaire – An Evening with Words & Music

Date: Thursday 28th May 2026

Venue:Listowel Arms Hotel Main Room

Time: 9:30 PM

Listowel Writers’ Week proudly presents an extraordinary evening with two of Ireland’s most celebrated artists —Colum McCann and Colm Mac Con Iomaire — in a unique performance where literature and music meet in powerful harmony.

Colum McCann found deep inspiration in Colm Mac Con Iomaire’s music while writing his internationally acclaimed novel Apeirogon. In turn, Colm composed music inspired by the book, creating a remarkable artistic exchange between two creative voices at the height of their powers.

This twinning of two exceptionally talented Irish artists brings together ideas of peaceful engagement, community, empathy and the transformative power of art. Through words, conversation and live music, McCann and Mac Con Iomaire create a moving dialogue that speaks to the heart of our shared humanity.

The two Col(u)ms have performed together on stages across the world, in an experience described as provocative, courageous and life-changing. Their connection, friendship and artistry make for an unforgettable evening of reflection, inspiration and beauty.

Sin an scéal…

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Personalised Masterclass on Writing a Novel with Christine Dwyer Hickey

Apr 20, 2026

Personalised Masterclass on Writing a Novel with Christine Dwyer Hickey

Date: Friday 29th May 2026

Venue:TBA

Time: 10:00 AM

From developing the first idea to submitting the final draft – all aspects of the novel will be covered. Bring your concerns and questions to the table; Christine Dwyer Hickey will bring her long years of experience. As this is an intense session, designed to give individual attention, numbers are limited.

Christine Dwyer Hickey is a renowned novelist and short story writer. Her novels have won The Kerry Group Novel of the Year, The Walter Scott Prize, The Dalkey Literary Award and been chosen as The UNESCO One City One Book.

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Evening Theatre: Inishfallen Fare Thee Well

Apr 16, 2026

Evening Theatre: Inishfallen Fare Thee Well

Date: Sunday 31st May 2026

Venue: St John’s Theatre & Arts Centre

Time: 8 PM

Based on the life of socialist writer and playwright Sean O’Casey, Inishfallen finds him at age 78, living far from his inner-city Dublin tenement upbringing in Devon.

Ronan Wilmot, famous for his film roles in In The Name of the Father, The Field and The General, but well-acquainted with stages like the Abbey, the Gate and the UK’s most famous playhouses, is captivating as O’Casey.

Audience members will be invited to walk down memory lane with the writer as he reminisces about life-changing events like the 1913 Dublin Lockout and the Easter Rising, and how he was inspired to write plays like the Shadow of a Gunman, Juno and the Paycock, the Plough and the Stars and the Silver Tassie.

Written by Eddie Naughton, whose Zelda was a critical hit in 2014, Inishfallen Fare Thee Well is a unique window into the mind of one of Ireland’s most celebrated creatives and not to be missed,

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