Kinsale Arts Weekend presents a landmark contemporary opera performance at the stunning Joseph Walsh Studio, reimagining one of Ireland’s most powerful expressions of grief, love and resilience.

Set against the extraordinary backdrop of the studio’s grounds in Fartha, Lament for Art O’Leary draws inspiration from Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire, the celebrated 18th-century lament composed by Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill following the death of her husband, Art O’Leary. This moving new interpretation combines contemporary opera, keening and live performance through a haunting score by composer Irene Buckley and text by award-winning poet Vona Groarke.

The evening begins in the outdoor Hedge Theatre with an introduction to the tradition of keening by Professor Tríona Ní Shíocháin. Audiences will then move indoors for an intimate concert performance conducted by Gary Beecher, featuring sopranos Emma Nash and Kim Sheehan alongside the Kinsale Arts Weekend Ensemble, led by violinist Katherine Hunka and featuring members of the Cork Opera House Concert Orchestra.

Following the performance, guests are invited to enjoy a wine reception and explore workshop displays within the studio.

Presented by Kinsale Arts Weekend in partnership with Joseph Walsh Studio.

Schedule

4.30pm – Arrival & Parking

5.00pm – Gathering in the Hedge Theatre

5.30pm – Workshop Displays Open

6.00pm – Opera Performance

Followed by a Wine Reception

Venue: Joseph Walsh Studio, Fartha, Riverstick, Co. Cork, P43 X898

Date: Saturday, 11 July 2026