Cló Iar-Chonnacht (CIC ), a leading publisher of Irish-language books and music, is celebrating 40 years with a special series of events at the Cúirt International Festival of Literature 2025. Both Cló Iar-Chonnacht and Cúirt mark their 40th anniversaries this year, making this partnership a fitting tribute to the richness of Irish-language storytelling and music.
The award-winning writer Micheál Ó Conghaile started the company while he was still a student in University of Galway. Since its foundation in 1985 in Cois Fharraige in Conamara, Cló Iar-Chonnacht has published over 400 books and 200 albums, playing a vital role in preserving and promoting Irish-language literature and traditional music.
This milestone will be marked by four unique events in Irish at Cúirt 2025:
Dinnseanchas – Tír Chonaill (April 13, 2:00 PM, An Taibhdhearc ) – A discussion on dinnseanchas (place lore ) in Irish literature with Donegal Gaeltacht writers Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair and Michelle Nic Pháidín, hosted by CIC founder Micheál Ó Conghaile.
Ar Thóir Bhríd Ní Mháille (April 13, 5:00 PM, An Taibhdhearc ) – A dramatic reading from Micheál Ó Conghaile’s upcoming novel about the songwriter Bríd Ní Mháille, blending song, prose and the ancient art of keening. Featuring Caitlín Ní Chualáin, Bridie Ní Churraoin, and Eoghan Ó Riada.
Ceiliúradh Ceoil agus Filíochta (April 13, 8:00 PM, An Taibhdhearc ) – A celebration of Leabhar Mór na nAmhrán and Gearr Gonta: Céad Dán le Céad File, with performances by Lillis Ó Laoire, Caitlín Ní Chualáin, Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair, Máirtín Tom Sheáinín, and live music from Nóirín Ní Ghrádaigh and Colm Ó Dubháin.
Arts in Action: Poetry Reading (April 10, 1:00 PM, Bank of Ireland Theatre, University of Galway ) – A bilingual poetry event featuring a reading by Áine Ní Ghlinn, with translations by Theo Dorgan, alongside poet and novelist Moya Roddy.
CIC’s General Manager, Deirdre Ní Thuathail, said this is a proud milestone celebrating the continued strength and vibrancy of Irish-language literature and music.”
For tickets and more information, visit www.cuirt.ie
