merrion street

Heather Humphreys, TD, Minster for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht is this evening performing the official Opening of 41st Kilkenny Arts Festival in Butler House Gardens, Kilkenny.

Now in its 41st year, the Kilkenny Arts Festival is the oldest MDA (multi-disciplinary arts) festival in the country. Originally founded by a group of classical music enthusiasts it has broadened its programming remit and now features Theatre & Dance, Music (Classical, Jazz, World, Indie and Traditional), Literature, Visual Art and Craft, Street Performance, and Children’s events.

Speaking in advance of the opening Minister Humphreys said "I want to acknowledge the vital role played by the Arts Council in funding a wide spectrum of arts festivals nationally, and also the role of Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland in supporting a broad range of these events. Festivals have a crucial impact on local communities; here in Kilkenny for example, I understand that the Arts Festival last year brought more than 45,000 visitors to the city. It generated a direct economic benefit of more than 3 million euro , with further economic benefits for the area and, of course, had a very positive impact on employment locally".

"Festivals play a key role in celebrating Irish artistic and cultural life, and in marking the distinct cultural identity of cities, towns and localities across the country. And, in my view, they add a certain big of magic to our summer. I want to wish everyone here many unforgettable experiences at this year’s Festival. It’s my great pleasure to declare the 41st Kilkenny Arts Festival well and truly open" Minister Humphreys concluded.