Ballina Fringe Festival welcomes author Colin Barrett home

Canadian-born Colin Barrett, who grew up in Knockmore, Mayo, will participate in the “Conversation with Colin Barrett” event during Ballina Fringe Festival on Saturday, October 11, from 3pm to 4.30pm. This afternoon of conversing between the author and the poet Finola Cahill will take place in the Presbyterian Church in the town.

Colin expressed his eagerness about the upcoming event: “I am really looking forward to this event. It is going to be special because I know that it is the first time that I will be speaking at home about my work.” 

Ballina has been an inspiration for much of Colin Barrett’s work since the beginning of his career. His first novel, 'Wild Houses', was longlisted for the Booker Prize in 2024. It told the story of ordinary and marginal characters involved in a crime caper during the week of Ballina Salmon Festival. Colin has featured widely in the international press (Guardian, The New York Times, Le Monde, Libération).

Susan Heffernan, Ballina Fringe Festival, emphasised the importance of showcasing North Mayo artists: “Colin Barrett has been in our sights for some time now, and it is a real privilege for us to host his first Ballina event and welcome him back to his homeplace to talk about his works.”

Finola Cahill also expressed her thrill for the event"I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to talk to Colin about his work in a place that has inspired so much of it - Ballina, Co. Mayo. It's sure to be a lively discussion, and we'll also reserve time for any lingering questions the audience might have about Wild Houses, Homesickness or Young Skins."

Ballina Fringe Festival is an eclectic cultural festival that will take place between October 3 and 14.

To book your place at Conversation with Colin Barrett, please visit: www.eventbrite.com. Admission: €10. Early booking is advised.

For full information about the Ballina Fringe Festival programme and how to book, visit: https://ballinafringefestival.ie.