Meath Tourism News

Swift Satire Festival July 5th-8th 2012

The Swift Satire Festival brings together distinguished guests from the arts, politics, media and comedy to celebrate satire in honour of Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), who had strong connections with Trim, Co Meath.

We have put together a unique programme of events including:

On Friday July 6th - The Swift Dinner Discussion features leading comedians, politicians, spin doctors and satirists. Over the past five years, we have had some of the biggest personalities involved such as Alastair Campbell, George Hook, Minister Leo Varadkar, Rory Bremner, John Waters and many others. This year’s guests include George Hook, Barry Murphy from Après Match, Noel Whelan, John Waters, Declan Ganley, Elaine Byrne (Trinity College), Dara Calleary and many others.

On Saturday July 7th the ‘Swift Satire Day’ curated by Paddy Cullivan (www.paddycullivan.com); a drop-in marquee featuring a unique gathering of satirists, comedians, writers, actors, musicians and politicians featuring Dara O’Briain. In gathering The Republic of Telly, Gerry Stembridge and Sean Hardie together, we have some of satire’s most interesting and creative practitioners all in one tent! George Hook’s panel are drawn from the worlds of publishing, social media, film and publishing. All for the incredible, recession-busting price of €10, in the shadow of Trim Castle with artisan food markets and entertainment for all the family.

On Saturday evening we bring youa brilliant variety show starring some of the best comedians and satirists in Ireland – Satire-Day Night Live. Sit back and let some of the greatest comedians in the country entertain you… Barry Murphy (Après Match), David McSavage (Savage Eye), John Colleary, Joe Rooney and Ding Dong Denny O'Reilly.

Our emphasis on participation is, to say the least, different sign up as one of the readers for the public reading of Swift’s A Tale Of A Tub (in a hot tub!) or join us on the streets of Trim for Poetry in Motion.

Cinema returns to Trim with a feast of films over 3 days in the luxury of the 100-seater Cinemobile.

On Sunday July 8th we will take you on a guided walk through Swift’s Trim, including visits to Talbot’s Castle and the Swift exhibition in St Patrick’s Cathedral in the company of Richard Haworth.  Followed by A Bite of Satire - A 2-course lunch with 2-course entertainment. The annual Battle of the Books: a satirical joust between Boyne Writers Group and Meath Writers Circle. Plus the national final of Five by Five: flash drama with five 5-minute plays written and performed by groups throughout Ireland.

For full details and tickets check out the festival website www.swiftsatirefestival.com

Look forward to seeing you in Trim!

Swift Satire Festival Team