ELEMENTAL, that much loved annual Limerick event, takes place this year from September 14 to 16 inclusive. With the backing of the JP McManus Benevolent Fund, Elemental has restructured this year, presenting a thoughtfully chosen programme of quality events.
Jennifer Allen, artistic director (and Limerick Post columnist) elaborates. “We have developed some lovely relationships over the years of running Elemental, with organisations who deliver at the highest level in their chosen field.
“We are delighted to showcase that quality and it seems our audience really appreciates what’s on offer. This year, for example, we are associated with a performance by the Irish Chamber Orchestra, with dynamic conductor and violinist Jean-Christophe Spinosi at the helm.
“That’s at UCH and unbelievably, the concert hall is celebrating 25 years this year. We’re so fortunate to have such calibre on our doorstep.
“We’ve also invited Cartoon Saloon back. The three-times Oscar nominated animation company, based in Kilkenny, will be delivering a storyboard workshop at Elemental where those taking part will get a behind the scenes look at how the world of the film ‘The Breadwinner’ was created.
“Aardman too are returning as their workshops at FabLab last year proved so popular, with adults and children alike.
“We’ve restructured Elemental, as part of how we see it developing a more sustainable future. Events will take place within venues rather than on the street. There is one very special exception to this though.
“Local artist Mary Conroy is creating a piece of work specially for Elemental, which really chimes with the green ethos Elemental embraces. Mary’s work has featured each year since Elemental started, so we’re delighted to continue that link.”
To reflect the new structure of Elemental, the programme format is also different this year, while still incorporating the award winning fusion of illustration by Jacob Stack and graphic design by Detail Factory. All will be revealed soon; keep an eye to elementalfestival.com
