Something for all ages and tastes at Ballina Arts Centre

There is a wide variety of events for all ages, and a broad range of tastes, at Ballina Arts Centre this week including two children’s shows, two art exhibitions, a chamber music ensemble and a showcase of international adult animation.

One of the highlights of the week will be an intimate evening in the centre's gallery space with chamber music ensemble, Cuar, on Saturday, April 27th. The band have been described by The Irish Times as “an elusive hybrid… making one of the most significant contributions in Irish music”. The concert coincides with the release of their latest album Tairseach (liminal space), which is a creative response to The Liffey Banks by Tommie Potts (1972). This is a great opportunity to experience the music of founding member Neil Ó’Lochlainn, (flute, double base, and composition), alongside regular collaborators Sam Comerford (saxophone) and Ultan O’Brien (fiddle) in a very intimate setting.

On Thursday, April 25, audiences will be treated to a free screening of Brain Vitamins, a showcase of animated films for adults. Yulia Bashakova, animation artist-in-residence at the centre, has chosen a series of pieces relating to women and femininity, which have been created by established and emerging animators from Japan, France, Hungry, Finland and the Ukraine. Entry is free but booking is advised.

On Wednesday, April 24, at 10am, children under six can join Teddy’s Zoo Adventure. They will work with the cheeky monkeys and other zoo animals to help Teddy escape by dawn. At 11.30am, children up to 10 can enjoy the Barking Dog Company’s retelling of Alice Through the Looking Glass with music, puppetry, mime, and lots of audience participation.

There are also two free art exhibitions running at the centre at present. Natalie Pullen’s Strata uses the mediums of oil bar, watercolour and oil paint on linen surfaces to reference landscape and organic forms, while Emma Zukovic’s Parallel Familiars delves into the theory of ‘post memory,’ examining how memories can transcend generations, especially in the aftermath of collective or cultural upheaval.

With such a wide range of art, music, events and screenings, there is something for everyone at Ballina Arts Centre this week.