Shakefest 2012 rocks Charleville

With the weather on its side last Saturday's Shakefest 2012 in the grounds of Charleville Castle could be described as nothing but a success. Large crowds of arts and culture enthusiasts descends on the venue to avail of the diverse activities on offer that included for the first time this year combat re-enactments by Living History Knights Hospitaller. The event also included multicultural dance performances in disciplines including hip hop, bachata, jazz, Irish dance, fire poi and ribbon dance. All proceeds from last weekend's event will go towards Charleville Castle's restoration fund. In particular money raised will help towards covering the cost of putting a protective roof on the castle chapel. Shakefest is supported by the Offaly Local Development Company, Offaly County Council, the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, the European Commission, and the Offaly Arts Office.