This January, First Fortnight Festival invites music lovers to experience an extraordinary lineup of performances celebrating creativity, connection, and resilience. With a range of events showcasing Ireland’s finest musicians, composers, and spoken-word artists, these music highlights promise to inspire, entertain, and open up conversations about mental health.
MUSIC HIGHLIGHTS
- Au Revoir Tristesse
Joe Chester and Steve Wickham
- Dates: January 6–24
- Time: Mon–Fri: 9am–7pm, Sat: 1pm–5pm
- Location: Axis Ballymun, Dublin
- Tickets: Free
A captivating collaboration by Joe Chester and Steve Wickham, Au Revoir Tristesse features classical guitar compositions paired with evocative visual works. Inspired by Françoise Sagan’s Bonjour Tristesse, this multimedia piece explores sadness, resilience, and the emotional spectrum of the human experience.
- Nollaig na mBan
Mary Coughlan and Paula Meehan
- Date: January 6
- Time: Doors 7:30pm
- Location: Whelan’s, Dublin
- Tickets: €30 (booking essential)
Celebrate Women’s Christmas with a night of music and poetry featuring jazz and blues icon Mary Coughlan and acclaimed poet Paula Meehan. Together, they’ll honour the strength and creativity of Irish women in this intimate and powerful event.
- Therapy Sessions Dublin
Featuring Stephen James Smith, Harry Baker, Sammy Copley, and Shy
- Date: January 10
- Time: 7:30pm
- Location: Workman’s Club, Dublin
- Tickets: €15–20 (Sold Out)
A festival favourite, Therapy Sessions returns with a stellar lineup of spoken-word and musical talent. Headlined by Poetry World Slam Champion Harry Baker, this sold-out event promises an evening of diverse and dynamic performances.
- Songs from Near and Far
- Date: January 12
- Time: 3pm
- Location: Imaal Hall, Dunlavin
- Tickets: Free
This community concert celebrates diversity through music, dance, and spoken word, blending traditional Irish music with performances by refugee groups from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Tongue Fu
- Date: January 12
- Time: 7:30pm
- Location: Workman’s Club, Dublin
- Tickets: €20 (booking essential)
Experience the magic of live improvisation at Tongue Fu, where poets, storytellers, and musicians collaborate in real time. Led by Chris Redmond, this high-energy show blends creativity and spontaneity for an unforgettable night.
- Cistin
Emma Langford, Luke Clerkin, and Dagogo Hart
- Date: January 16
- Time: 6pm
- Location: St. Patrick’s University Hospital, Dublin
- Tickets: Pay what you can
Join us for an uplifting evening of music, poetry, and storytelling. Featuring the enchanting Emma Langford, rising star Luke Clerkin, and spoken-word artist Dagogo Hart, Cistin celebrates the transformative power of the arts in fostering connection and community.
- The Art of Mental Health
Norah Walsh and the Laetare Vocal Ensemble
- Date: January 16
- Time: 7pm
- Location: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin
- Tickets: €25/€20 concession
A choral masterpiece inspired by the festival’s mission, The Art of Mental Health will be performed by the Laetare Vocal Ensemble under conductor Róisín Blunnie. This event highlights the joy and mental health benefits of group singing in the majestic setting of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
- Therapy Sessions Belfast
Featuring Stephen James Smith, Harry Baker, Vera, and Roe
- Date: January 11
- Time: 7:30pm
- Location: The Duncairn, Belfast
- Tickets: £7
First Fortnight returns to Belfast for another powerful edition of Therapy Sessions. Hosted by renowned poet Stephen James Smith, the evening will feature spoken-word artist Harry Baker alongside musicians Vera and Roe. Set in the welcoming atmosphere of The Duncairn, this event celebrates creativity and connection as tools for personal and community resilience.
For the full First Fortnight Festival 2025 programme and ticket information, visit www.firstfortnight.ie.