Category Archives: News
As Barnstorm celebrates its 33rd year we are looking for an exceptional Artistic Director to follow in the footsteps of its founder Philip Hardy. Philip is stepping down and the Board are now seeking a dynamic and creative Artistic Director to develop and deliver an ambitious artistic policy & programme of events that inspires and enthuses audiences, stakeholders and staff alike.
The Artistic Director is responsible for the artistic vision and public representation and ambassador of Barnstorm. They will be jointly responsible, with the General Manager, for ensuring the organisation’s strategic development. The Artistic Director must continue to build on the strong internal culture of teamwork as well as foster excellent external relationships with partners and stakeholders to enhance the reputation and vision of Barnstorm.
The responsibilities of the Artistic Director will span from artistic leadership and programming to communications and relationship building. If you are an enthusiastic and positive creative leader and passionate about the craft of Theatre, this could be the role for you!
Full job description and application details are available HERE and you can email your application to anja@barnstorm.ie using Barnstorm Theatre Company — Artistic Director as the subject of your email.
It is Barnstorm’s policy to ensure that as much accommodation as possible is provided to facilitate the participation of individuals with support needs in the recruitment process and the workplace. If you require any specific accommodations, please let us know.
Deadline for applications: 06/09/2024 15:00
Ten days until StormFest 24, a captivating week of plays for children and their families, and young adults. Set against the picturesque backdrop of John’s Quay, StormFest promises laughter, adventure, and heartwarming stories that will leave audiences of all ages spellbound.
Three renowned productions will visit our festival in August with exciting experiences for all; and a world-premiere of a site-specific show in development.
BOOK your tickets HERE
Barnstorm is grateful for the continued support from funders and partners.
StormFest is supported by The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon, Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny Arts Festival
2024 Youth Drama and Dance Camp for young people this summer.
Develop confidence & interpersonal skills through drama and dance
and have some fun…
8 – 11 years 10am – 1pm
12 – 15 years 2pm – 5pm
Book Online Here:
Just €100 10% concessions for siblings
Join us at Barnstorm Theatre Company for a summer filled with creativity, laughter, and unforgettable memories! 🌞🎭💃
Barnstorm Theatre Company has been a cornerstone of Kilkenny’s arts scene, nurturing young talent and producing exceptional theatre for over three decades.
Our facilitators:
Jo Hennessey is a trained actor and qualified with a Masters of Teaching Primary and a Secondary Diploma of Education. She has taught across both sectors as a Primary Classroom Teacher and a Specialist Teacher in Drama and is committed to fostering collaborative educational environments.
Cindy Cummings is a dance artist (choreographer/performer/tutor) whose practice integrates dance, theatre and live art. Since 1986 she has created collaborative works with dance, theatre, visual, sound, literary and media artists around the world for live performance, installation and film. Cindy is based in Co Kilkenny where she worked on The Local, The Big Chapel X and Everything Must Go with Asylum Productions. Cindy has also worked extensively with Equinox Theatre Company and is currently a facilitator on the Inclusive Dance Cork course at Dance Cork Firkin Crane. Since 2007 Cindy has been a member of Aosdána.
Tara Landers started dancing from a very young age. She commenced her professional dance training in The College of Dance, Dublin and then went on to study in Fontys, The Netherlands where she studied contemporary, dance theatre and choreography. After returning to Ireland, she began working with Janice de Broithe and Slapdash Theatre Co. Tara choreographed and produced numerous shows and Cabarets with Janice, such as, The Wizard of OZ, Alice in Wonderland and, an original production of Treasure Island, to name but a few. Tara also works with transition year students in local schools doing drama, vocal, and dance workshops. Tara also produces and choreographs their school musicals. Tara’s ethos is to encourage everyone, regardless of race, gender, identity, to gain confidence in themselves and to help everyone express themselves in an open, free and friendly environment.
In a delightful collision of wit, tragedy, and unexpected connections, “Commencing” by Jane Shepard takes centre stage at Barnstorm’s Lunchtime Theatre series. This award-winning short play invites audiences to witness the magic of a blind date gone awry, where two people find themselves on a journey that defies expectations.
Kelli and her blind date, both quick-witted and unafraid to speak their minds, are deeply marked by their past experiences. Their hope for the future shines through, even as they grapple with unexpected twists.
“Commencing” invites us to reflect on life’s complexities, all while keeping the audience guessing. Prepare for a blend of humour and unexpected connections that will leave you pondering long after the curtain falls.
Performance Details:
- Venue: Barnstorm Studio, 3 John’s Quay, Kilkenny R95T382
- Dates: 24 to 28 June 2024 weekdays at 1pm sharp
- Tickets: Available online at Gr8 Events or on the door
Don’t miss this lunchtime treat—join us for “Commencing” and experience the magic of unexpected encounters.
For media inquiries, please contact: Philip Hardy 056 7751266
Barnstorm’s Lunchtime Theatre series is dedicated to bringing quality theatrical experiences to our community during the lunch hour. Our intimate venue provides a unique setting for short plays, allowing audiences to escape the daily grind and immerse themselves in captivating stories while eating lunch.
Barnstorm Youth Theatre (BYT) runs from September to May/June and takes in new members each September.
The closing date each year for applications is the 31st of August.
Those interested can express their interest by using the link HERE.
‘Barnstorm has been one of the best experiences of my life and I will forever treasure the laughs, the shows, the workshops and the incredible friends I made. The confidence and acceptance you gain from being part of this group is unparalleled’ Stephanie (member 2018 to date)
‘Coming out of lockdown and working with such a lovely, fun and talented group of people, getting to know them and work with them, has been amazing. Barnstorm is a place where we can all come and be ourselves, as loud and as mad as we want without being judged, and I am very grateful for it.’ Ruby, 16 (member 2019 – to date)
‘The Youth Theatre is one of my favourite organisations in Kilkenny. Through it I managed to make friends and enjoy myself immensely.’ Matthew (member 2016 to date)
‘’ …thank you so much for all your hard work and effort over the past two years and I can honestly say that those two years have benefited me tremendously….’ Eimear, 17
How do I join Barnstorm Youth Theatre?
Barnstorm Theatre Company has three youth theatre groups:
Senior (SYT) for those at least 14+ yrs,
Middle (MYT) for those in 1st and 2nd year
Junior (JYT) for those in 5th and 6th class
We to make room for everyone who is interested, this is not always possible due to resources and numbers. If there needs to be a selection of new members, it is based on the gender, geographical and age breakdown of the current group.
Senior Youth Theatre
Tuesday from 5.30 – 7.30pm. The annual production takes place shortly after the Easter school holidays. There is an additional time commitment expected for rehearsals, however consideration is given to other commitments e.g. exams, school etc.
Middle Youth Theatre
Wednesdays from 4.30 – 6.00pm. The year comes to an end with a performance for family and friends. There may be some extra time commitment around the time of production which takes place in the middle of May.
Junior Youth Theatre
Thursdays from 4.00 – 5.30pm. The year finishes in summer with a performance showcase for parents and friends, which normally takes place on Saturday 15th June as part of Cruinniú na nÓg 2024 – A day of free creativity for children and young people
Cost
The annual membership fee is €250. This includes a registration fee of €70 to secure a place & the balance of €180 is due by December. There is a discount of €25 per sibling and there are a limited number of scholarships available. Just ask Anja anja@barnstorm.ie
About Barnstorm Youth Theatre (BYT) in Kilkenny
Founded in 1991, BYT’s main aim is to produce theatre by young people for young people. The youth theatre is child and young person centered and concentrates on drama and theatre skills. No previous experience required. The programme includes weekly workshops during the school year and one production a year.
SYT:
Macbeth by William Shakespeare (2023)
XIV Fourteen by Droichead Youth Theatre (2022)
Alice in Wonderland adapted for stage by Anna Galligan (2019) – new production
There is Only Now by Anna Galligan, devised with SYT (2018)
A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare (2017)
The House of Oedipus by Anna Galligan (2016)
Alice in Wonderland adapted for stage by Anna Galligan (2015)
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare (2014)
KoHL devised by Droichead Youth Theatre with Sharon Cromwell (2013)
Gormanghast by Mervyn Peake, adapted by John Constable (2012)
Paving Paradise by Richard Conlon (2011)
A Vampire Story by Moira Buffini (2010)
Burying Your Brother in the Pavement by Jack Thorne (2009)
The Exam by Andy Hamilton (2008)
MYT:
Scenes of Dracula by Don Fleming (2024)
The hysterical history of the Trojan War (2023)
Us and Them by David Campton (2022)
(Note: MYT was formed in 2019 and due to the pandemic did not put on staged productions)
JYT:
Us and Them by David Campton (2022)
Scattered by James Butler (2019)
Don’t Shoot the Messenger by John Morton in collaboration with JYT (2018)
The Girl with The Golden Hair by Anna Galligan, devised with JYT (2017)
Trapped devised by Physically Phishy written by Geraldine O’ Neill (2016)
Grandad’s Diary devised by JYT with Anna Galligan (2015)
School Lockers three one acts designed and directed by JYT (2014)
In Quest of a Play devised by Physically Phishy written by Geraldine O’ Neill (2013)
Don’t Shoot the Messenger by John Morton in collaboration with the JYT (2012)
Beowulf devised by JYT, written by Anna Galligan (2011)
Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare – abridged (2010)
Mythika devised by JYT (2009)
The Dahl Project devised by JYT (2008)
Barnstorms’ Adult Theatre Club is starting again in 2024 with a one-year part-time programme, Theatre Production Skills.
An exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and dynamic programme of both training and performances. The 2024 Adult Theatre Club will act as an introduction to local adults who wish to explore, investigate and create theatre as a hobby. In the past, club members have experienced training in everything from improvisation, basic acting and stagecraft to theatre directing and scriptwriting. In the past, club members have experienced training in everything from improvisation, basic acting and stagecraft to theatre directing and scriptwriting. The ATC was first introduced in 2007 in answer to many requests from adults in the region who wanted to know more about theatre and how to make a performance. With a maximum of 14 members each year the alumni from successive groups formed the Barn Owl Players, a vibrant local amateur theatre company that still creates its own unique blend of theatre and theatrical happenings from Tennessee Williams, to John B Keane and from One-Act Festivals to full length plays.
“The Adult Theatre Club is an ideal way of introducing anyone new to acting and theatre in a fun environment; as well as offering local actors a means of honing their skills.” says Participation & Education Officer Jo Hennessy. “No experience is necessary just a keen interest, an open mind and a willingness to try new things” she says.
If you are interested fill in an online Registration Form by Friday 5 January. You can also contact Jo, 056 7751266 or jo@barnstorm.ie, to get a Registration Form
The first session is on the 11 January 2024 and every Thursday evening thereafter from 7.00 to 9.00pm at 3 Johns Quay, Kilkenny R95 T382. Booking is essential, as places are limited
Following the amazing success of its inaugural lunchtime theatre presentation last summer, Barnstorm has another treat for Kilkenny audiences who will be spellbound by Tennessee William’s classic short play ‘Something Unspoken’ this June
“Williams’ masterpiece, which delves into the depth of forbidden love, is an emotional rollercoaster, and this Kilkenny production has been an absolute pleasure to develop” says Joanne Hennessy who directs. “We chose this piece in response to Pride Month in Kilkenny and we are looking forward to sharing the work with everyone.”
Two stalwarts of local theatre, Mags Whitely and Natasha Murray are set to present the new show in Barnstorm’s studio theatre in a lunchtime offering that should entertain and intrigue audiences. Both actors have a long history in the Kilkenny theatre community, having been part of the Barn Owl Players for many years. This lunchtime performance of ‘Something Unspoken’ will be no exception. Whitely and Murray have already earned the praises of their peers for their professional and committed approach to their craft.
Something Unspoken by Tennessee Williams, is set in Meridian, Louisiana in 1958. In the opening scene we find Cornelia Scott, a southern aristocrat, and her widowed secretary, Grace Lancaster. A new age is approaching the Southern aristocracy, and as a result, Cornelia is struggling to keep up with the changes and how to navigate them.
Grace has been Cornelia’s secretary and companion for 15 years, but lately their relationship has become ambiguous.
Cornelia wants to discuss the truth of their hidden emotions, but tensions build as Grace finds it difficult to express her feelings. She has been holding it all in for far too long, and now she is struggling to face the truth. Cornelia is determined to have an honest conversation with Grace, and to finally address the feelings that have been so carefully hidden away for over a decade.
This one-act play is the perfect way to take a break from the office and enjoy a light lunch while being entertained. The performance lasts only 45 minutes, so our office workers can easily fit it into their lunch break and be back in plenty of time.
Tickets are €17 and includes lunch which is presented by the Home Rule Club.; and can be booked HERE
Dates: Limited run from Mon 19th to Sat 24th June at 1pm daily
Following last year’s successful run of XIV, Barnstorm’s Kilkenny Youth Theatre return to Ionad Dara, Goresbridge with their annual production. This year they bring their version of William Shakespeare’s classic Macbeth to the stage.
Macbeth tells the story of the tragic downfall of the warrior Macbeth, whose ambition causes him to abandon his morals and bring about the near destruction of the kingdom he seeks to rule.
The cast of Macbeth includes Matthew Hickey, Chris Power, Liam O’Neill, Anna Eustace, Diarmuid Maher, Eoin Cleary, Medha Trehan, Nell Snyder, Anna Purcell Duff, Ruby Woods, Matthew Downey, Lara Strauss, Jack Hoyne, Helen Doran, Katie Lawlor, Aoibhne Murphy, Aislin Konings Ferrari, Rionach Brady and Charlotte Lockwood Hutchinson.
Macbeth is running on Friday April 28th and Saturday April 29th at 8pm, with a matinee on Saturday at 3pm, in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge, R95 D654.
Tickets are €12.50 /€10 (Under 18’s) and can be booked online HERE
Barnstorms’ Adult Theatre Club is starting in 2023 with a one-year part-time programme, Theatre Production Skills.
The ATC, originally a 2-year course, was first introduced in 2007 in answer to many requests from adults in the region who wanted to know more about theatre and how to make a performance. With a maximum of 14 members each year the alumni from successive groups (2007-2015) formed the Barn Owl Players which has remains a vibrant local amateur theatre company that still creates its own unique blend of theatre and theatrical happenings from Tennessee Williams, to John B Keane and from One-Act Festivals to full length plays.
The 2023 Adult Theatre Club will act as an introduction to local adults who wish to explore, investigate and create theatre as a hobby.
With the support of Kilkenny’s professional theatre company behind the club, this really is an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and dynamic programme of both training and performances. In the past, club members have experienced training in everything from improvisation, basic acting and stagecraft to theatre directing and scriptwriting.
“The Adult Theatre Club is an ideal way of introducing anyone new to acting and theatre in a fun environment; as well as offering local actors a means of honing their skills.” says new Participation and Education Officer Jo Hennessy. “No experience is necessary just a keen interest, an open mind and a willingness to try new things” she says.
If you are interested fill in an online Registration Form by Friday 27 January. You can also contact Jo, 056 7751266 or jo@barnstorm.ie, to get a Registration Form
The first session is on the 2 February and every Thursday evening thereafter from 7.00 to 9.00pm at 3 Johns Quay, Kilkenny R95 T382. Booking is essential, as places are limited.