This year’s theme is Sparks and I am confident there will be something here to spark your imagination, creativity, and delight. On the opening night, we have a re-telling of one of the world’s oldest stories, the Epic of Gilgamesh. Told with light and shadow by world-class artists, come along to see how something ancient still has the power to move people in the 21st century.

Then, on Friday you can see some real sparks in action with Rogú. Their fire shows have been a highlight of recent festivals and their all-new show, Mobius, will be performed at the foot of the Rock of Cashel. Garron Noone rounds out our Friday night. You’ll come for the jokes from the TikTok famous comedian, but you’ll stay for his glorious voice and musical performance.

Saturday night we have Gary Younge, an erudite speaker on everything from American gun violence, to Nelson Mandela, to Brexit. A captivating performer, he will prove another worthy addition to our Bolton Lecture series.

Then you can join Lisa Hannigan, who is bringing her effervescent music to Cashel. Along with local band Between//Roads, she will light up the stage in the intimate setting of Brú Ború.

Finish off the festival weekend with the Castle String Quartet playing songs from Bridgerton by candlelight in St. John The Baptist Cathedral in John Street.

Of course, there is always more. Our visual arts programme continues apace, we have a forensic science workshop, candle painting, Mark Fitzell’s photography and much more.

I would like to thank the many new and returning sponsors this year and encourage everyone to support our local businesses. It is local people and local enterprises that provide employment, interest as well as supporting local events like ours.

Every year the voluntary committee takes a few small sparks of inspiration and works hard to build them into a great festival weekend. But we couldn’t do it without our artists, our generous sponsors and, of course, you, our audience. I look forward to seeing what it will spark for you!