The Kilkenny Arts Festival from 7 to 17 August in Kilkenny City, will offer an 11-day programme of music, theatre, opera, literature, visual arts, and family-oriented events across the city’s historic venues.
Visitors can expect a diverse lineup, with highlights including three world premieres: “Custom of the Coast,” an opera by Kamala Sankaram with a libretto by Paul Muldoon, blending Irish and Indian musical traditions to explore the stories of Savita Halappanavar and Anne Bonny, performed at St. Canice’s Cathedral; “What Are You Afraid Of?” by Peter Hanly, a theatrical production with Rough Magic at the Watergate Theatre, examining stage fright; and “Neon Dusk,” an acrobatic spectacle by Jonah McGreevy, Daniel Seabra, and Mafalda Conclaves at Kilkenny Castle’s Castle Yard.
Classical music features prominently, with Chamber Choir Ireland, led by Paul Hillier, performing Arvo Pärt’s works, and the Irish Chamber Orchestra, under Henning Kraggerud, presenting a programme of nocturnal music. Other musical acts include Martin Hayes, Anna B Savage, RÓIS, and the Rollercoaster Sessions with Seamus Fogarty at Cleere’s Theatre.
Literature events include Paul Muldoon’s “History of Ireland in 12 Poems,” Annemarie Ní Churreáin’s “Ghostgirl,” and Martina Evans reading from “Drunken Driving” at the Parade Tower. Visual arts offerings feature “The Known and Unknown World” at KCAT Art Centre in Callan, celebrating 25 years of KCAT Studio, and Laura Sheeran’s audio-visual projection “Because You’re Free” at Kilkenny Castle.
Free events, such as the Secret Garden Music series at Rothe House and Butler House, and intimate Encounters concerts, ensure accessibility. Family-friendly workshops and performances are available, with many events unticketed, though some free events require booking. Visitors can explore Kilkenny’s medieval streets, Kilkenny Castle, and the River Nore, with accommodation options like the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel and dining at local venues.
Established in 1974 by a group of local arts enthusiasts, including members of the Kilkenny Arts Society, the festival was founded to showcase high-calibre arts in the city’s historic settings, starting with a focus on classical music.
Over its 51 years, it has grown into one of Ireland’s longest-running multi-disciplinary festivals, hosting over 250 artists and 150 events annually, attracting both local and international audiences. The festival has earned praise for its innovative programming, notably during the 2020 pandemic with KAFX, a mix of online and socially distanced events.
Olga Barry, the current director, has led the festival since 2013, fostering new commissions and collaborations, such as the 2025 premieres and residencies with artists like Aoife Ní Bhriain and Colin Dunne. Her leadership has strengthened ties with partners like the Arts Council and Fáilte Ireland, ensuring the festival’s cultural and economic impact, with past events contributing significantly to local tourism.
The 2025 festival, marking its 52nd year, will continue to blend traditional and contemporary arts, with venues like St. Canice’s Cathedral, the Black Abbey, and Rothe House providing a historic backdrop. Tickets for announced performances are available from www.kilkennyarts.ie, with the full programme to be released in June. Visitors are advised to book early, particularly for ticketed events, and to check the festival website for updates on free and family events.
