Luan Parle and Clive Barnes to appear at Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival

Meteor award winner Luan Parle and songwriter and blues guitarist Clive Barnes are just one of the highlights happening this week during the Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival, Friday August 4 to Friday August 11!

Over 100 events are programmed to showcase the best of Birr.  Browse the many stalls at the Artisan Food and Craft Market, enjoy wonderful musical entertainment by members of Midland Musical Youth, discover treasure at Hibernian Antiques Fair, marvel at the breathtaking aerobatics display at the Ormand Flying Club and delight at the Festival Parade which will transform sleepy Sunday streets into a carnival of vintage vehicles, street theatre, marching bands, floats, dance and music. 

Other highlights include lunchtime theatre at Birr Theatre &. Arts Centre, the Gig Rig with live music from Smash Hits and the spectacular Fireworks Display which will light up the skies above the town.  Free children's events, sporting activities, historical walks and talks and musical treats also feature, promising great entertainment throughout the Festival Week.

For movie buffs, there will be two free film screenings, including Sanctuary on Tuesday August 8 at 8pm; and John Connors: The Travellers on Thursday August 10 at 7pm,  in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

Locals and visitors, old friends and new, are invited to step back in time, enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Birr; its history and heritage, and to revel in its contemporary culture with the dynamic range of vintage and modern events in its all-inclusive Programme throughout the Festival Week.  

The Arts have played a central role since the Festival began in 1968, and this year's Visual Arts Trail is no exception, with over a hundred visiting and local artists showcasing work in all media.  Exhibitions and pop-up studios will transform previously vacant spaces into creative hubs, with master-classes, workshops, artist talks and demonstrations also taking place.

With annual favorites and new events, vintage flavour and modern entertainment throughout, the 49th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival promises to be a memorable event inspiring participation & enjoyment in all those who come out and sample the events in this wonderful setting, proudly part of Ireland's Ancient East and recently voted one of TravelMag.com's 20 Most Charming Towns in Ireland.

To catch the Luan Parle and Clive Barnes show in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Friday August 11, go online at www.luanparle.com or www.birrtheatre.com.

Further information: Festival Information Line 087-9226961, www.birrvintageweek.com or on Facebook.

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