Acclaimed author for Ballina Fringe Festival

Ballina Fringe Festival will welcome internationally-celebrated local author next month.

Born in Canada, Colin Barrett grew up in Knockmore and his connection with Ballina remains strong. The critically acclaimed writer will participate in the 'Conversation with Colin Barrett' event during Ballina Fringe Festival on Saturday, October 11th, from 3 to 4.30pm. This conversation between the author and the poet Finola Cahill will take place in the Presbyterian Church in the town.

“I am really looking forward to this event. It is going to be special because I know that it is the first time that I will be speaking at home about my work,” explained Colin.

Ballina has been a backdrop and inspired much of Colin Barrett’s work since the start of his career over a decade ago. His first novel Wild Houses was longlisted for the Booker Prize in 2024. It told the story of ordinary and marginal characters involved in a crime caper during the week of Ballina Salmon Festival. Colin has featured widely in the international press ( Guardian, New York Times, Le Monde, Libération). Two earlier short story collections Young Skins (2013) and Homesickness (2022) have also been widely acclaimed. The author describes young people in minute detail underlining the richness of their experiences even in their difficulties.

Susan Heffernan, Ballina Fringe Festival, said: “We have always found it important to spotlight the incredible artistic and creative talents in North Mayo. Colin Barrett has been in our sights for some time now, and it is a real privilege for us to host his first Ballina event and welcome him back to his homeplace to talk about his works.”

Finola Cahill added: "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to talk to Colin about his work in a place that has inspired so much of it - Ballina, Co. Mayo. It's sure to be a lively discussion, and we'll also reserve time for any lingering questions the audience might have about Wild Houses, Homesickness or Young Skins."

Ballina Fringe Festival is an eclectic cultural festival that will take place between October 3rd and 14th.

Irish singer songwriter, Gemma Hayes, will play a special solo concert in St Michael’s Church on October 10th. Ballina Smartphone Film Festival will take place on Saturday, October 11th (12 noon to 5pm) in Ballina Methodist Church. Queer Shed Mayo - Pot Luck Sunday Social will take place at the Mary Robinson Centre on October 5th (1.30 to 4.30pm). Ballina Global Kitchen is back by popular demand this year at St Dymphna’s School, Convent Hill on October 12th (2 to 5pm).

To book your place at 'Conversation with Colin Barrett', please visit: www.eventbrite.com. Admission is €10. Early booking is advised.

For full information about the Ballina Fringe Festival programme and how to book, visit www.ballinafringefestival.ie.