Rí rá agus RoolaBoola

‘CHARMING’ Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Young King’ will be staged as part of RoolaBoola.

RoolaBoola, The Linenhall Arts Centre’s annual children’s arts festival, takes place from October 24 to 29, bringing a wonderful line-up theatre for young people and families, as well as a packed programme of workshops, films and more.
The theatrical offerings open on Wednesday, October 26 at 6.30pm, when internationally acclaimed Australian group, Slingsby Theatre, will stage a captivating adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Young King’ suitable for children aged eight years and over, and families.
The achingly beautiful and tender language of Oscar Wilde’s story is woven into an intimate and magical production that has become part of Slingsby’s trademark, taking audiences on a journey of wonder to a land of challenging choices and rich rewards. Described by Limelight Magazine as ‘charming, majestic and utterly delightful’, ‘The Young King’ promises an unforgettable theatrical treat for young and old alike,.
RoolaBoola’s theatre programme also includes top Irish children’s theatre company Branar with its latest production, ‘How Catch a Star’ (for children aged four and over), which will be staged on Saturday, October 27, at noon and 3.30pm. Based on the beloved book by award-winning Irish author Oliver Jeffers, Branar presents a non-verbal adaptation combining puppetry with original music, in a tale that reminds us all to follow our dreams.
And Amadan’s brand new show ‘Pink & Blue’ (also for children aged four and over) asks the question, ‘Are girls and boys really that different?’. Clowning, comedy, mime and dance and a whole bunch of silliness and fun for all the family, ‘Pink & Blue’ will have young ones in stitches on Monday, October 29 at 12.30pm and 3pm.
Theatre makes way for Film Day on Sunday, October 28, with screenings of new animated films ‘Long Way North’ (12 noon) and ‘Mary and the Witch’s Flower’ (4.30pm). And of course there are lots of workshops, drop-ins and opportunities to catch artist Eamon O’Kane’s interactive playful installation ‘A History of Play’ over the whole weekend.

For more on RoolaBoola’s programme, contact the Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, on 094 9023733 or online at www.thelinenhall.com. Booking advised, and essential for workshops.