In Pictures: Glorious weather as special event in Abbeyleix draws the crowds

Celebrating the return of audiences to the arts, Dunamaise Arts Centre presented ‘A Sunday Afternooon’ in Abbeyleix as part of re:CENTRING Laois last weekend.

Abbeyleix was transformed into a haven for the arts that featured an extravaganza activities and performance led by curator Emily Kilkenny-Roddy.

The Main Square in Abbeyleix was a hive of activities with performances by the towns inimitable folk group Abbeyfolk.

This was followed by various performances by local groups including Laois Youth Dance Ensemble, Ohr Dance Company, Abbeyleix NS and Music Generation Trad Group.

Local musicians Alannah and Jonathon Murray took to the stage for sumptuous jazz tunes while artist talks also took place from Aileen Donovan and Abbeyleix FETC.

More music followed by Brian Killeen and Shadybird while an amazing performance by dance artist Sibeal Killeen, with accompanied by Goitse supergroup founders and members Áine McGeeney and Colm Phelan had the audience astounded.

This was then topped off with Afro Brazilian dance performance by Criola Dance.

Yoga workshops also took place at The Mind & Body House which featured live accompaniment by percussionist Dale McKay and harpist Siobhan Buckley.

There was also a series of basket weaving workshops in the Community Gardens, run by Cathy Hayden.

Alongside the amazing entertainment on the day, there was also an arts/crafts market and small food market in the main square as well as walkabout performances by circus artist Maria Corcoran of Circo Coranco.

re:CENTRING Laois has been bringing a range of free arts events across seven months, to open spaces and venues in seven towns across Laois including Stradbally, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney, Portarlington, Mountrath, Mountmellick and Portlaoise.

Curated by seven artists, who are leaders in their field of expertise, programmes in each town will feature a colourful mix of music, theatre, visual art, dance, poetry and film for all to enjoy.

The artists curating the project include musicians Jack L and Siobhan Buckley, dancer Emily Kilkenny Roddy, poet Pat Boran, circus and street theatre artist Maria Corcoran, visual arts curator Kevin Kavanagh and filmmaker Ken Wardrop.

Photographer Alf Harvey was there to capture the best of the action.

Check out his images below:

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