A weekend of inspiration, intrigue, music and magic awaits
By SINÉAD CONNOLLY
THE hugely-popular Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas, which takes place this weekend, is now completely sold out and organisers have urged people not to travel to the event unless they have a ticket.
Now in its eight year running, the festival has gained a reputation for its relaxed and intimate atmosphere, along with an inspiring line-up of speakers.
Steeped in history, the magnificent Borris House, offers a spectacular backdrop to the festival in the picturesque village of Borris in neighbouring county Carlow. The idea behind the event was not just to promote books, but rather to provide a platform for exchange of ideas and stimulating dialogue. The speakers, who include journalists, novelists, academics, poets, political commentators and artists, will take part in discussions on five stages over the three days.
The programme includes names such as Sinead Gleeson, Emilie Pine, Joseph O’Connor, Martin Amis, Anne Enright, Kit de Waal, Lemn Sissay, Fintan O’Toole, Michael Morpurgo, Lara Marlowe, James Shapiro, Donal Ryan and Sonali Deraniyagala. Audiences can listen to the their favourite novelist speak or attend talks on a wide range of current affairs topics.
Glamrou and Panti Bliss will be discussing gender identity, while Sinead Burke will be discussing activism and fashion with Sinead Gleeson and Edie Campbell. Other topics include, the war in Yemen, climate change, true-crime, memoirs, Shakespeare, love, personal trauma, poetry and more.
A new addition to the festival, is a set of talks geared towards younger readers and their parents. These will be held on Sunday and hope to encourage the next generation of enquiring minds. Speakers at these talks include Shane Hegarty and Anthony Horowitz.
Live music can be enjoyed on the grounds of Borris House over the weekend and organisers are urging people to stay the night and soak up the atmosphere. Performers include David Kitt, Lisa O’Neill and Laura Quirke.
A weekend of inspiration, intrigue, music and magic awaits if you’re one of the lucky ones to secure a ticket this year.
