ENTERTAINMENT: A seasonal story and absorbing art in Castlebar

Art, performance and festive magic are among the Linenhall Arts Centre’s diverse winter programme, which includes an adaptation of a classic seasonal tale as well as two fascinating new exhibitions.

First up is Dyad Productions’ ‘A Christmas Carol’, a captivating solo adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale of redemption and compassion, which will be presented in the Linenhall this evening (Tuesday), November 26.

Performed by Andrew Margerison and directed by Rebecca Vaughan, inspiration is drawn from Dickens’ original performances. Audiences will journey with Scrooge and beloved characters through a transformative night, exploring timeless themes of hope and generosity. Praised as ‘intelligently adapted, beautifully performed…entrancing’ (British Theatre Guide), this magical show embodies the true spirit of Christmas.

Visual art

‘Book as an object’, a visual arts exhibition by artist Tzu Ning Chiang (Viola Chiang), is launching in the Linenhall gallery this Friday, November 29, at 5pm.

Innovatively exploring the multifaceted nature of books beyond their conventional role as vessels of text, Chiang invites viewers to reconsider how books are read, felt and interacted with.

Inspired by her photography of a Venetian process of boat repair, Chiang connects the craft of bookmaking with the intricate work of restoring a boat. The exhibition highlights the concept of the book as both an object and a dynamic medium – something that exists between the readable and unreadable. Influenced by the works of Bruno Munari, a key figure in the development of artist books, Chiang examines how books can be more than just readable content; they can be poetic spaces, installations, performances and reflections of personal experience.

Chiang’s exploration includes books as diverse forms – as objects of art, as accessories, and even as maps or gardens. The exhibition invites visitors to engage with books not only as sources of information but as experiences that challenge how we perceive and interact with the world around us, while simultaneously encouraging dialogue about books as transformative objects that transcend their conventional uses. 

The Linenhall is also hosting ‘Rising 2024 - The Prism of My Landscape’, an uplifting exhibition by the Luisne Art Project, in the foyer’s community gallery. Displaying works created by artists of differing abilities alongside facilitator Noreen Lydon and artist Michael Gannon, this show celebrates creativity, inclusivity, and community.

Through diverse mediums, these amazing artists express their unique perspectives, fostering understanding and appreciation for their artistic achievements.

Both exhibitions will run until Saturday, January 11.

• For more information on what’s on at the Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, visit www.thelinenhall.com or contact the box-office team on 094 9023733.