Féile 2021 would not be possible without the support of our funders and the collaboration of the many groups, initiatives, volunteers and residents from throughout the Bogside, Brandywell, Creggan, Bishop Street and Fountain areas who have come together to shape, manage and deliver this programme of events.
David McSavage Féile 2014
Welcome to the 29th year of Féile. Since 1993, residents, visitors, community groups and arts organisations have come together every August on the streets and in the venues, community centres and open spaces of the Bogside, Bishop Street, Creggan, Fountain and Brandywell neighbourhoods of Derry for Féile, the biggest arts festival in the North West of Ireland. The last 18 months have been difficult for everyone. While the Covid 19 pandemic continues to present challenges to our ‘normal’ way of life, there are some positive signs that with a successful vaccination programme, we may be closer to a return to how life was at the start of 2020. In developing this year’s Féile programme, the aim was to reconnect safely with friends, family, thinkers, performers, artists and facilitators, celebrating everything that is great about this place and its people, all while ensuring that the health and wellbeing of our community is protected. Féile 2021 is packed full of great events ranging in form from music, literature, cinema, sport, comedy, visual arts, carnival, fun days, health, discussions and tours that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home, in person outdoors, or at a small number of indoor socially distanced events. We look forward to you joining us in-person or online from the 7th -15th August 2021.
Watch online at: www.youtube.com/feilemediaderry www.facebook.com/gasyardwallfeile www.twitter.com/feilederry Sunday 8th August at 7pm: Lion For A Day - The Anton Hegarty Story Sunday 8th August at 8pm: Cost of Irish Unity - Myth Buster Monday 9th August at 1pm: Torture - The Legacy of Internment Monday 9th August at 3pm: In Conversation with Dr Tom Black Monday 9th August at 9pm: In Conversation with Tony Connelly Tuesday 10th August at 3pm: When It Is Darkest - Prof. Rory O’Connor & Prof Siobhan O’Neill Tuesday 10th August at 9pm: In Conversation with Jeremy Corbyn Wednesday 11th August at 1pm: The North/South Divide - 100 Years On Wednesday 11th August at 3pm: In Conversation with Séamas O’Reilly Wednesday 11th August at 8pm: Addiction: A New Approach Needed? Thursday 12th August at 1pm: The Guapinol 8 - Water Defenders Thursday 12th August at 4pm: Unacceptable Risk: Dr. Margaret Kripke on Cancer and the Environment Friday 13th August at 1pm: Think 32 present: What should the governments be doing around the question of Irish unification? Friday 13th August at 7.30pm: Aoife Moore In Conversation with Susan McKay
DAY 1 Saturday 7th August - Sunday 15th August Rossville Street & Fanad Drive Keep Her Knit Craft Bomb Keep Her Knit have been at the forefront of the crochet revolution in Derry and beyond for the last ten years. At Féile 2021, their crochet art installations will transform locations across the Bogside and Creggan.
Saturday 7th August 11am - 2pm Creggan, Bogside, Brandywell, Bishop Street & The Fountain Féile Yard Sale As part of this year’s Feile Programme, Triax NMT are organising the area’s first Socially Distanced Yard Sale across the Triax area (Creggan, Bogside, Brandywell, Bishop Street & the Fountain). This is a great opportunity to recycle those unwanted items from the house. For more information, contact 02871261916 or email rachelh@bbinitiative.org
Saturday 7th August - 11.30am Long Tower YC Carnival Family Cycle Out The Line Bogside & Brandywell Health Forum invite you to join their Carnival Family Cycle. The numbers will be limited due to covid restrictions therefore booking will be essential. Adult and children’s bikes available on request. Please contact Sarah on: 02871365330 or email sarah@bbhealthforum.org to book your place. Facepainting and Healthy Snacks will be provided.
Saturday 7th August - Sunday 8th August Bishop Street YC / Long Tower YC Film Club Throughout the pandemic, young people from Bishop Street and Long Tower Youth Clubs have been busy making a series of films which have been warmly received by residents and peers. This summer young people from the clubs will work on a brand new film project which will see them coming up with a theme, developing a script and then directing, filming and starring in the film. Keep an eye on Féile TV for the world premiere of this new production.
Saturday 7th August 12.30pm - 2.30pm Ballymagowan Allotment, Creggan End of Harvest Barbecue The barbecue is enjoyed by over 50 allotment holders and their families. It provides an opportunity for fruit and vegetables growers to come together and swap stories and build relationships. This year we will be holding their annual prize giving event for best grown onions, rhubarb, and cabbage.
Saturday 7th August - 2pm Pilots Row. Rossville St
Gerry Adams Black Mountain & Other Stories Former West Belfast MP and subsequently Louth TD Gerry Adams is one of Ireland’s best-known political figures. He was also the founder of Féile an Phobail which is now in its thirty-third year. Author of a number of non-fiction books and a noted pamphleteer, he is also a published writer of three previous book of short stories. His latest book, Black Mountain & Other Stories (O’Brien Press, 2021), is being launched during Féile. They are stories of love, politics, war and of friendship; portraits of Ireland, and especially Belfast, old and new, in times of struggle and in times of peace, showing how our past is always part of our present. Sometimes sad, sometimes funny, always moving, these are stories of ordinary people captured with wit, with heart and with understanding. Numbers limited for this event. Advance registration is required. Register at www.eventrbrite.com
Saturday 7th August - Sunday 15th August
Colm Quigley Jog In The Bog The annual Jog in the Bog 5k is going virtual again this year with hundreds of people from around the globe walking, running or cycling in aid of Mental Health Services. Run in memory of Colm Quigley, a world renowned Triathlete from Derry who died suddenly at 39, this year’s global event is proudly sponsored for the second year by O’Neill’s International Sportswear. Registration including commemorative O’Neills Jog In The Bog T-shirt costs £10. Online Registration is open until 3rd August. Register at: www.bbhealthforum.org/jog-in-the-bog-1 From 4th August onwards, registration is at O’Neills Superstore, Waterloo Place! Thanks to all who have registered so far!
Saturday 7th August - Sunday 15th August Pilots Row, Rossville Street Picture this… A Camerawork Photographic retrospective Camerawork Darkrooms Derry (Camerawork) was established in 1982 in Derry’s Bogside to provide local people with the tools that would enable them to create their own black and white images. Derry in the 1980’s resembled a war zone and it was not an uncommon sight to see international journalists capturing images of that conflict. It was against this backdrop that Camerawork photographers began recording everyday life in the city from its citizen’s viewpoint. In existence for over a decade a huge archive was amassed numbering several thousand negatives that provide a fascinating portrayal of a people and place. ‘Picture this’ offers an opportunity for local people to cast their minds back at a time when everything appeared black and white.
DAY 2
Sunday 8th August 1pm - 4pm Gasyard Park & Gasyard Centre, Lecky Road North West Spectrum Family Fun Day Come along and enjoy a few hours of Music, Dance, Arts & Crafts for Autistic children, young people and their families. Covid restrictions will apply during this event
Sunday 8th August 2pm - 4pm Gasyard Park, Lecky Road Community Connections Family Fun Day Come along and join in the fun with children’s entertainment , full swing amusements, live performances including Project Sparks, Quotation Mark, Ellie Rose Henry, The Doherty Sisters and more. Covid restrictions will apply during this event. For more information contact Gemma O Connell/Dearbhla Collins 02871262812
Sunday 8th August 1pm – 6pm St Mary’s Youth Club, Fanad Drive, Creggan Thunder Action Sports Stunt Show St Mary’s Youth Club, Fanad Drive in Creggan will be the venue for the Thunder Action Sports Stunt Show, featuring some of the best European action sports talent. This is sure to be a jaw dropping experience. Audience numbers for this unmissable event will be limited. There is no charge at the event. Advanced registration essential. Tickets available at www.eventbrite.com
Sunday 8th August - 7pm Online - Féile TV
Lion For A Day: The Anton Hegarty Story Earlier this year, track and field coach and former international athlete Malcolm McCausland released his first book ‘’Lion For A Day’ which tells the amazing true story of Nailor’s Row Olympic Medallist, Anton Hegarty. The life of Anton Hegarty seems more fiction than fact. He escapes poverty and unemployment in Derry by joining the British army but ends up in two of the twentieth century’s bloodiest theatres of war. Against all odds he survives only to return to Derry and end up involved in a war on his own doorstep. Despite all this he still continues to excel as an athlete and dreams of Olympic glory. This short film by Ruairi Campbell shines a light on this little known Bogside hero.
Sunday 8th August - 7:30pm The Nerve Centre, Magazine St Film: Groundswell - Home is a sacrifice zone “A lesson to communities and campaigners there and everywhere else to stay vigilant.” Peter Bradshaw, Chief Critic, The Guardian Filmed in the border counties of Leitrim and Fermanagh and in Pennsylvania and New York over a ten year period, Groundswell includes over forty contributions from people on both sides of the Atlantic involved in the story of how Ireland banned fracking, in addition to continued attempts to introduce the controversial practice north of the border in Fermanagh. Steve Wickham (The Waterboys) provides a powerful score; Mark Ruffalo makes a cameo, but above all Groundswell is a story of how an isolated community takes control of its own destiny with international impact. Niall Flynn’s aerial photography captures that border landscape people were so keen to protect; Editor Patrick O’Rourke draws together a cast of hundreds and a rich and diverse range of archive covering the campaign. Advance tickets: £4 at eventbrite.com
Sunday 8th August - 8pm 8pm Online - Féile TV “Cost of Unity - Myth Buster” For years, those opposed to Irish Unity have presented a range of unfounded myths to undermine the growing desire for it. This short film made by the Martin McGuinness Cumann from the Bogside, seeks to challenge these myths and present the social, economic and political benefits of a new and United Ireland.
Sunday 8th August - 8pm Brandywell Stadium Carpark 9pm FILM: Different League: The Derry City Story Cinema Version Premiere Féile is proud to present the first ever screening of the cinema version of Different League: The Derry City Story, directed by Guy King. After their ban from playing in the Irish League, Derry City went out of business. In 1984, the city needed a saviour. International footballer, Tony O’Doherty teamed up with another international, Terry Harkin, and two other professionals, Eddie Mahon and Eamonn McLaughlin, to become the Gang of Four who challenged the status quo. They made it their goal to get senior football back in their hometown. With repeated rebuffs from the Irish League in Belfast to their requests to gain re-entry, the four lads decided to take their footballing revolution south to the League of Ireland in Dublin. This film charts the emotional journey of how in 1985, after 13 years in the wilderness, football returned to the Brandywell. The club would go on to lift both silverware and the spirits of the city, unleashing a carnival of hope, pride and optimism. Featuring archive footage and memories of the faithful supporters, the film portrays an inspirational group of people who made their dreams come true. The rollercoaster took the club and community from the depths of despair to footballing nirvana, landing a historic domestic treble in the League of Ireland. It would culminate with the arrival of football royalty with Sven-Goran Eriksson bringing his Benfica team of superstars into the heart of the Bogside for a European Cup tie. Advanced tickets £8/£10 per car from www.eventbrite.com
DAY 3
Monday 9th - Sunday August 15th Museum of Free Derry, Glenfada Park Exhibition: Free Derry 50: From Internment to Invasion As part of Bloody Sunday 50: One World One Struggle the Museum of Free Derry will host a new exhibition covering events in Derry in 1971 and 1972. Free Derry 50: From Internment to Invasion will cover the period from the introduction of internment and the resurrection of Free Derry in August 1971 to the invasion of Free Derry during Operation Motorman in July 1972, marking the 50th anniversaries of some of the most momentous events in the history of this city.
Monday 9th - Sunday August 15th Various locations Doorstep Melodies Féile is partnering with Old Library Trust & Bogside & Brandywell Health Forum and local musicians to bring a series of performances to the doorsteps/gardens of older residents across the area.
Monday 9th - Friday 13th August Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium Ryan McBride Foundation Summer Scheme The Ryan McBride Foundation was set up following the passing of the much loved Derry City captain. The aim of the foundation is to help young people to realise their full potential. The Foundation aims to support, assist and inspire young players to achieve what Ryan achieved and to assist groups that Ryan supported during his life. A five day summer scheme for children aged 4-13 featuring lots of footballing fun will be held during Féile at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium. Cost: £25 per child for 5 days. *Féile are funding a limited number of free spaces for young people from the Bogside, Brandywell and Fountain neighbourhoods who are entitled to free school meals. To book your place contact aisling@bbhealthforum.org.
Monday 9th - Thursday 12th August The Gasyard Centre 11.00am – 2.00pm Flaunt Your Step Dance Academy Summer Club Come and learn the techniques and elements of Street Dance with Laura D and Rachel. You will learn how to choregraph your own dance piece, get creative with our arts co-ordinator by making your own funky t-shirt, meet new friends and dance the week away. £25 per person. To book your place contact Laura on 02871262812
Monday 9th August - 1pm Online - Féile TV Torture - The legacy of Internment One of the shocking and long lasting legacies of internment was the use of state sponsored torture in interrogation centres at Ballykelly, Palace Barracks and elsewhere. Liam Shannon, one of the group known as the ‘Hooded Men’ will share his experiences and the long battle for justice that continues today. The case has recently been heard at the UK Supreme Court. Also in the conversation will be Derry born solicitor Patricia Coyle who is representing Liam Holden who was waterboarded in Belfast in 1972 and forced to sign a statement which led to his being sentenced to death , a sentence eventually commuted. Paul O’Connor of the Pat Finucane Centre will chair the discussion. The PFC discovered declassified documents proving that evidence of waterboarding was brought to the attention of Prime Minister Heath by then Taoiseach Jack Lynch. There is under law no statute of limitations for torture so where does this leave the British government? Organised by the Pat Finucane Centre and The Museum of Free Derry
Monday 9th August - 2pm Bogside Free tour of the Bogside Come along and check out the tour experienced by the thousands of visitors who visit the Bogside each year. This walking tour of the Bogside gives students and tourists a first hand and on-site analysis of the Bloody Sunday story in Derry. This comprehensive tour gives an educational insight to the Civil Rights era, Bloody Sunday and the conflict that ensued. The Bogside History Tour will examine the political and social repercussions of Bloody Sunday. The tour will pass The Museum of Free Derry and conclude at the Bloody Sunday monument within sight of Free Derry corner and beneath the city walls of Derry. To book your place, email derrybluebadge@hotmail.com
Monday 9th August Locations & times to be announced Ice Cream Carnival – Cycle Circus Ireland’s award-winning Tumble Circus are teaming up with In Your Space Circus to bring their incredible skills right to your street! Cycle Circus is the outdoor show for all the family. We’re getting on our bikes to bring our world-famous circus devilment to you. Cycle Circus is a celebration of circus, the human body, the bicycle—and a lot of craic! There’s no need to travel to the big top, we will cycle to where you live, work and play!
Monday 9th August - 2pm Link48, Alder Road, Culmore Walking on Sunshine The last 18 months has been particularly difficult for our older residents with many having to shield and be isolated from friends, family and neighbours. This year’s Féile, older people’s organisations in the area have come together to produce a packed programme of events which will reunite our older people at a series of safe events including this day out to Link48. Monday 9th August - 3pm Online - Féile TV In Conversation with Dr Tom Black For the last 30 years, Dr Tom Black has been providing the best medical care to residents from this area from his Abbey Medical Practice in the Bogside. For the last 18 months, Dr Black, chair of the British Medical Association (BMA) in N.Ireland, has been one of the key voices of the pandemic. His knowledge, sage advice and support for citizens and fellow health professionals throughout the crisis has undoubtedly saved many lives. This special online event will focus on Dr Black’s service in the Bogside, and looks forward to the months ahead and the end of the pandemic. Monday 9th August - 7:30pm Pilots Row Centre, Rossville Street In Conversation with Tony Connelly Join us for this very special event featuring Tony Connelly in conversation with Paul McFadden. Tony Connelly is Europe Editor for RTÉ, Ireland’s public broadcaster. Tony has reported extensively on Brexit, and has been covering EU and European affairs since 2001. Tony has also reported on conflicts in Africa, the Balkans and the Middle East. He is the recipient of two ESB National Media awards, a European Journalism Award and a New York Festivals radio award. He has received the Outstanding Achievement Award from the UCD Smurfit Graduate School journalism awards, and a Law Society Justice Media Award for his coverage of the Brexit negotiations. Tony is the author of Brexit and Ireland, nominated Irish non-fiction book of the year in 2018, and Don’t Mention the Wars: A Journey Through European Stereotypes, published in 2014. Tony was born in County Derry in 1964, and educated at St Columbs College, Derry, Trinity College Dublin and the London School of Journalism. He is married with three sons and lives in Brussels. Numbers limited for this event. Advance registration is required. Register at www.eventrbrite.com
Pesticide Free Derry Leading Cancer Support and Awareness Charity, the Pink Ladies have come together with the Triax Neighbourhood Management Team to raise awareness of the health dangers posed by pesticides and herbicides and to call on statutory agencies to find healthier alternatives.The objective is to encourage communities to think of alternatives to using weedkiller in their gardens and immediate vicinity, plant wildflowers to encourage the bees back and plant bulbs around street signs and trees to avoid the nasty brown scorched earth look of our city. The two groups will yarn bomb two areas in Derry to show what can be done with flowers next spring, show some flowersplanted around Free Derry Wall, and launch the Pesticide Free Derry badge we have been awarded from the National Pesticide Action network organisation.
Tuesday August 10th Times & Locations to be announced Ice Cream Carnival – Cycle Circus Ireland’s award-winning Tumble Circus are teaming up with In Your Space Circus to bring their incredible skills right to your street! Cycle Circus is the outdoor show for all the family .We’re getting on our bikes to bring our world-famous circus devilment to you. Cycle Circus is a celebration of circus, the human body, the bicycle—and a lot of craic! There’s no need to travel to the big top, we will cycle to where you live, work and play!
Tuesday August 10th 11am - 1pm The Gasyard Cafe at The Gasyard Centre Big Beach Breakfast This year’s Féile, older people’s organisations in the area have come together to produce a packed programme of events which will reunite our older people at a series of safe events including this breakfast event at The Gasyard Centre Cafe. Adm £1. Tuesday August 10th 11am – 1pm and 2pm – 4pm The Gasyard Park, Lecky Road Happy Families Day We will have a range of activities available for your enjoyment, to promote Positive Wellbeing and a Healthy Lifestyle. Due to ongoing Covid restrictions, advance registration is necessary. To register, email orlagh@bbhealthforum.org
Tuesday August 10th 2pm Derry City Cemetery Derry Cemetery Tour Often the most interesting things lie not noticed and on your doorstep. This is certainly true of Derry City Cemetery. The history of the city and its links to the wider world are literally carved in the ageing headstones. Hear the stories of industrialists, politicians, WW1 and WW2 victims, Irish patriots, law makers and law breakers, sports stars, pop stars and celebrities. Visit the unmarked mass poor plots of Catholics and Protestants even divided in death. Tour starts top gates of Creggan Cemetery. Tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Dress for the weather and be prepared for an uphill walk. Social distancing applies. Advance registration is required. To register, email jpbreslin@outlook.com
Tuesday August 10th 2pm - 4pm The Gasyard Centre, Lecky Road Spirit of the Community Women’s Event “There is no room in the world for mediocre women” Madeleine Albright. According to science women are genetically programmed to kick men’s butts - and egos – at everything from living longer to communicating with man’s best friend. Hosted by Journalist and columnist from Daily Mirror, Shauna Corr, come along and enjoy an afternoon of laughs, discussion and debate with our panel members including Derry’s famous Mammy Banter Blogger telling us just how great we are. Tea/coffee and light lunch will be served. Numbers restricted due to the current pandemic. Advance
Tuesday August 10th 3pm Online - Féile TV When It Is Darkest Professor Rory O’Connor in conversation with Professor Siobhan O’Neill Suicide is baffling and devastating in equal measures, and it can affect any one of us: one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds. Yet despite the scale of the devastation, for family members and friends, suicide is still poorly understood. Drawing on decades of work in the field of suicide prevention and research, and having been bereaved by suicide twice, Professor O’Connor is here to help. His book, ‘When It is Darkest’, will untangle the complex reasons behind suicide and dispel any unhelpful myths. For those trying to help someone vulnerable, it will provide indispensable advice on communication, stressing the importance of listening to fears and anxieties without judgment. And for those who are struggling to get through the tragedy of suicide, it will help you find strength in the darkest of places. Professor Siobhan O’Neill is a Professor of Mental Health Sciences at Ulster University. She is currently Interim Mental Health Champion for Northern Ireland. In this role she advises and assists in the promotion of mental health and wellbeing through all policies and services throughout the province. Her role is as a public advocate for mental health, and to be a voice for those otherwise voiceless. Her goal is to communicate the collective voices of people with lived experience and their families and carers, and to advocate for communities impacted by mental health inequalities.
Tuesday August 10th 7pm - 8pm Bishop’s Field, Creggan OLT Outdoor Creggan Fitness Challenge Test your fitness whilst having a bit of fun!!! Sports day themed activities, rolling back the years with games such as tug a war, javelin, shot, egg and spoon race and relays!!! Come along enjoy the old school games!!! To book a place contact Julie@olt.ie or telephone 02871373870
Tuesday August 10th 7.30pm The Nerve Centre, Magazine St Untold Secrets ‘Untold Secrets’, a new documentary that gives voice to the survivors of Irish Mother & Baby Homes, in particular the testimony of one survivor, Anne Silke, who was fostered out of the Bon Secours Mother & Baby Home in Tuam at the age of 9 to the Killileas, a prominent political family from Tuam. Untold Secrets recounts her often brutal and abusive treatment at the hands of her foster family and reveals never seen before interviews with fellow survivors. Untold Secrets is directed by Galwegian/Spanish filmmaker, Teresa Lavina. Limited capacity event. Advance tickets £4 at www.eventbrite.com
Tuesday August 10th 7.30pm St Augustines Church, Derry Walls David Kitt, Junior Brother DAVID KITT is one of Ireland’s most loved. singer songwriters. He has released 8 albums of songs under his own name. In 2020, to mark twenty years of releasing music, Kitt revisited and reworked twenty songs from his back catalogue. Part One of the album 20, showcases a largely pared-back rendering of songs like the languid warble of All Night Long, a newfound delicacy to Strange Light in the Evening featuring Kitt’s regular collaborator Margie Lewis, and the wistful country harmonica-led wheeze of With You. It’s Part Two that really sees this album sparkle, however, with the introduction of beats and electronic elements overhauling many songs, rather than just tinkering with their blueprint. An idiosyncratic, challenging and richly lyrical singer/ songwriter, JUNIOR BROTHER is the pseudonym of Co. Kerry singer Ronan Kealy. Chosen as The Irish Times’ Best Irish Act of 2019, and nominated for the 2019 Choice Music Prize for Album of the Year, Junior Brother has built a rabid following thanks to unmissable live shows, and music both excitingly forward-looking and anciently evocative. His strange stories unfold with reckless abandon upon a distinctive Guitar and Foot Tambourine accompaniment, influenced as much by the avant-garde as music from the middle ages and his home place in rural Ireland. Advance tickets: £12 at eventbrite.com
Tuesday August 10th 9pm Online - Féile TV In Conversation with Jeremy Corbyn “Each and every one of us has a part to play in ensuring change, and we must continue to do everything we can to bring about a kinder and fairer world. By the strength of our own common endeavour we achieve more than we achieve alone, and we do it for the Many, and not the Few.” First elected to parliament in 1983, the MP for Islington North, he served as Leader of the Labour party from September 2015 to April 2020. Corbyn has had a fascinating political and personal journey which has focussed on anti-racism, anti imperialism, LGBT+ rights, transport, the environment, opposition to nuclear weapons and military intervention, Trade Union policies, Miscarriages of Justice and more. He has been a friend of Ireland for many years. International interests are widespread with particular attention to human rights, peace and justice. He has have travelled widely and continues to support those areas and communities affected by unresolved conflict including the Western Sahara, Chagos Islands, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, Ireland, West Papua, the Dalit community, the Rohingya. Awarded the Sean McBride Peace Prize and the Gandhi International Peace Award.
DAY 5 Wednesday August 11th Leaving The Gasyard Centre at 11am Family Bus Run to Lurgybrack Farm A great day out for all the family to spend the day together seeing all the friendly animals. There is ample space to play safely and wander by the riverside, walk or just sit back and unwind. Tickets available from The Gasyard Centre (Limited Places). Contact Sandra on 02871262812 Booking is essential
Wednesday August 11th Times and locations to be announced Ice Cream Carnival – Get Pumped Join Mr Move-it and DJ Groove-it as they film their debut smash-hit fitness video! These two aspiring fitness gurus have seen the levels of fame that has Joe Wicks soared to over lockdown and they want a slice of the action! They are now going to use their skills to make their own video where they put the FUN into FITNESS! But… they need YOUR help! They’ve only got 30 minutes to film the most incredible fitness video in the world… and without your awesome attitude and super sprints, it’s sure to be a flop! So, lace up those kicks, get your sweatbands on… because it’s time to GET PUMPED! Fully interactive movement session with music, fitness routines, skipping, limbo and more!
Wednesday August 11th 1pm Online - Féile TV The North/South Divide- 100 Years On On the 100th anniversary of the partition of the North of Ireland from the South, the Peace Barrier’s Programme asked people on the streets of Derry to tell us what Partition meant to them or what comes to their mind when someone mentions Partition. We got a wide variety of responses and perspectives and combined them into an illuminating short film piece that hopefully illustrates that difference in opinion is ok, that we can ask and discuss the difficult questions, and that it is necessary to help us understand all points of view so we can work towards respect and tolerance. The Peace Barriers Programme at Bogside and Brandywell Initiative is funded by the International Fund for Ireland. The video was funded by Good Relations at Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC) through their Interface/Contested Area Funding.
Wednesday August 11th 1.30pm – 4.30pm Bishops Field, Creggan Padraig Barton Cup Annual football tournament in memory of young Derry Republican, Pádraig Barton. This years tournament is 7 a side for those young people born in 2011.
Wednesday August 11th 2pm – 4pm The Gasyard Centre, Lecky Road Peace Museum Archive Road Show In 2023, The Gasyard Centre will launch a brand new museum covering the political conflict and peace process from August 1972 to 2007. This event will allow local residents to bring old archive images, footage and artefacts to the Gasyard to be catalogued and considered for display in the new museum!
Wednesday August 11th 3pm Online - Féile TV In Conversation with Séamas O’Reilly Séamas O’Reilly is a writer from Derry. A columnist with The Guardian newspaper, he has just released his first book, a memoir about his childhood, entitled Did Ye Hear Mammy Died? Seamas O’Reilly’s mother died when he was five, leaving him, his ten brothers and sisters and their beloved father in their sprawling bungalow in rural Derry. It was the 1990s; the Troubles were a background rumble (most of the time), and Seamas at that point was more preoccupied with dinosaurs, Star Wars and the actual location of heaven than the political climate. Did Ye Hear Mammy Died? is a book about a family of argumentative, loud, musical, sarcastic, grief-stricken siblings, shepherded into adulthood by a man whose foibles and reticence were matched only by his love for his children and his determination that they would flourish. It is the moving, often amusing and completely unsentimental story of a boy growing up in a family bonded by love, loss and fairly relentless mockery.
Wednesday August 11th 7.30pm The Nerve Centre, Magazine St The 8th Directed by Aideen Kane, Lucy Kennedy, Maeve O’Boyle. The 8th tells the story of Irish women and their fight to overturn one of the most restrictive laws on abortion in the world. After a 35-year struggle the pro-choice side have to radically shift tactics to try and bring this historically conservative electorate over the line Including voices from both sides of the debate, with primary focus on the dynamic female leaders of the pro-choice campaign, The 8th traces the campaign to remove Ireland’s 8th Amendment – a constitutional ban on abortion. Following the veteran campaigner Ailbhe Smyth and self-described glitter-activist Andrea Horan as they chart a bold strategy of grassroots activism and engineer the impossible, The 8th is a dramatic story underscored by a vivid exploration of the wrenching failures that led to a defining moment in Irish history. An urgent narrative, a cautionary tale and a roadmap for progressive reforms in a modern era where authoritarianism is on the rise, The 8th shows a country forging a new progressive path. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion hosted by Alliance For Choice. Limited capacity event. Advance tickets (£4) at eventbrite.com
Saturday 7th - Monday 30th August ‘Equal Spaces’ An LGBTQ+ photographic exhibition shot by Oliver Matthew Grant / Shots by Oliver. The exhibition celebrates the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, trans & non-binary communities of Derry.
Wednesday August 11th 7.30pm St Columbs Cathedral Colm Mac Con Iomaire Colm Mac Con Iomaire is a veteran in the Irish music community. He has been an important member of iconic Irish bands The Frames and Kíla, and his solo albums The Hare’s Corner / Cúinne an Ghiorria, And Now the Weather / Agus Anois An Aimsir, and his latest The River Holds Its Breath / Tost Ar An Abhainn have seen him travel the globe. Limited capacity. Advance tickets £12/15 on sale at www.eventbrite.com
Wednesday August 11th 8pm Sandinos, Foyle Street Féile & Comedy Live NW present
Féile Laughs CONOR KEYS, SEAN HEGARTY, DIONA DOHERTY & MICKY BARTLETT Join us for a massive night of comedy featuring four of Ireland’s finest comedians, Conor Keys, Sean Hegarty, Diona Doherty and Micky Bartlett. MICKY BARTLETT is one of the finest comedy talents this country has ever produced. Having sold out shows in Australia, America and all over Europe, two sold out nights at Belfast’s Ulster Hall. this gig is not to be missed. DIONA DOHERTY has appeared in pretty much every comedy programme to come out of the North over the past few years. You may know her from her appearances in Give My Head Peace, Late License or her scene stealing role in Derry Girls as Katya who seduces the wee English fella. She is probably best known in her starring role in series 1 to 3 of the BBC Comedy Soft Border Patrol. SEAN HEGARTY is a comedy phenomenon. A regular on Irish TV, he has had over 60 million views of his online comedy and has performed regularly at festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe, Bray Comedy Festival, Vodaphone Comedy Festival. The lineup is completed by CONOR KEYS has been the resident MC of the award winning Dalys Comedy Club and Omagh Laughs Back. This is a seated, socially distanced gig. Table Service. Advance Tickets Tickets: £8 available from www.eventbrite.com
Wednesday August 11th 8pm Creggan Sports Centre, Central Drive Summer Madness Bingo For this year’s Féile, older people’s organisations in the area have come together to produce a packed programme of events which will reunite our older people at a series of safe events including this bingo event featuring loads of great prizes. Adm £5. Wednesday August 11th 8pm Online - Féile TV Addiction. A New Approach Needed? There has been a noticeable increase in drug and alcohol related incidents across the city. This special Féile discussion will bring together some of those groups and individuals who are working in the field of addiction to discuss whether a new approach is needed to deal with the issues of addiction whether it’s drugs, alcohol or gambling.
DAY 6 Thursday August 12th 11am – 1pm and 2pm – 4pm The Gasyard Park, Lecky Road Family Fun Day Learn some circus skills, meet some animals plus lots more. Don’t forget to bring your teddy for the picnic. Due to ongoing Covid restrictions, advance registration is necessary. To register, email orlagh@bbhealthforum.org
Thursday August 12th 1pm Online - Féile TV The ‘Guapinol 8’: Water Defenders In Honduras in September 2019, the ‘Guapinol 8’ were detained for peacefully resisting the exploitation of their community’s natural resources by private business interests. The community were protesting against the operations of a mining company which had turned their river - a vital source of water - to mud. Despite the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention calling for their immediate release, almost two years later, all 8 remain in pre-trial detention. Join Trócaire to hear the latest on the community’s campaign for justice and to explore how the case highlights the ways that the state, the courts and big business often work together to criminalise, intimidate and stop the work of environmental and human rights defenders.
Thursday August 12th 1pm – 3pm Inveroe Park, Creggan Teddy Bears Picnic Join us for a wonderful teddy bear’s picnic which will see music, games, arts & crafts, storytelling, face painting along with kidzfarm, inflatables and amusements. We would encourage people to bring along picnic blankets and join us. This is an event which the whole family can enjoy. Everyone Welcome. Thursday August 12th Cathedral Youth Club , The Fountain Free Tour of The Fountain Join us for a free tour of The Fountain Estate, followed by tea / coffee and fancy cakes in Cathedral Youth Club. To book a place on the tour, email feilederry@gmail.com
Thursday August 12th Times & Locations to be Announced Ice Cream Carnival – The Big Splash In Your Space Circus’s world-famous Land Syncro Swim Team are ready to make a BIG SPLASH this Summer with their BRAND-NEW waterless swimming antics! The Syncros are ready to get the rubber dinghy’s back out and to WOW their adoring fans with their newly developed display of concrete wave-making! With a burst of humour, music, dance and some socially distanced swimming routines… these 3 glamazons will take the summer by storm with a brand-new show which will pop up near you!
Thursday August 12th 4pm Online - Féile TV Unacceptable Risk: Dr. Margaret Kripke on Cancer and the Environment Directed and Produced by Cynthia A. McKeown, Unacceptable Risk tells the story of a prominent cancer researcher, Dr Margaret Kripke, who begins to rethink her assumptions about the causes of cancer and the true burden of environmentally induced cancers. Dr. Kripke was appointed by George W. Bush to serve on the President’s Cancer Panel from 2003 to 2010. It was during that time that the panel decided to examine the impact of environmental factors on cancer risk. She learned from expert testimony that only a fraction of the 80,000-plus chemicals on the market in the U.S. are tested for safety, and many known and suspected carcinogens are unregulated, making exposure to environmental carcinogens a widespread and daily occurrence for most Americans. Her experience on the President’s Cancer Panel was a turning point in her understanding of the multifactorial causes of cancer, including the impact of exposure to toxic chemicals. Produced in collaboration with the Cancer Free Economy Network. Official Selection and Finalist, Emerging Artists Film Festival, 2021. Q&A panel to follow the film screening featuring Panelists Director and Producer and Cynthia McKeown, Dr. Laurel Schaider, Senior Scientist, Silent Spring Institute. Moderator: Jacquie Loughrey, Education and Prevention Officer, Pink Ladies Cancer Charity To book a place in advance, email jacquiepinkladies@gmail.com
Thursday August 12th 7.30pm The Nerve Centre, Magazine St Dark Waters: followed by a Q&A with Rob Billott Dark Waters tells the shocking and heroic story of the attorney Rob Bilott (Mark Ruffalo) who risks his career and family to uncover a dark secret hidden by one of the world’s largest corporations and to bring justice to a community dangerously exposed for decades to deadly chemicals. This screening will be followed by a Q&A with Rob Billott himself. Rob is a partner in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky offices of the law firm, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, where he has practiced in the Environmental and Litigation Practice Groups for over 30 years. During that time, Rob has handled and led some of the most novel and complex cases in the country involving damage from exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”), including the first individual, class action, mass tort, and multi-district litigation proceedings involving PFAS, recovering over $1 billion for clients impacted by the chemicals. In 2017, Rob received the Right Livelihood Award, known as the “Alternative Nobel Prize,” for his decades of work on behalf of those injured by PFAS chemical contamination. Limited capacity event. Advance tickets £4 at www.eventbrite.com Thursday August 12th 9.30pm Maileys Bar, Lecky Road Sean Keenan Quiz The Sean Keenan Quiz returns to Féile 2021. Quizmater Christopher ‘Pinta’ McKnight will be testing teams knowledge of Irish History, Sports and Culture. To register a team in advance, contact colm@bbinitiative.org.
DAY 7 Friday August 13th - 11am Creggan Neighbourhood Partnership, Central Drive, Creggan Children’s Film Screening: Raya and The Last Dragon In the fantasy world of Kumandra, humans and dragons lived together in harmony long ago. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people.
Friday August 13th - 1pm Brandywell Stadium ‘The Brandywell Boy’ Book Launch Former Derry City Captain Ryan McBride passed away in March 2017. Féile have worked with Bogside & Brandywell Health Forum and Derry City FC to create a children’s book which tells the inspirational story of ‘The Brandywell Boy’, Ryan McBride. The book has been illustrated by the amazing illustrator, Anthony Cooley. As part of A Day for Ryan McBride, copies of the book will be distributed to young people across the neighbourhoods.
Friday August 13th - 1pm Online Féile TV Think 32 present: What should the governments be doing around the question of Irish unification? With growing support for Irish Unity, Think32 ask what should the governments be doing around the question of Irish unification? Chaired by political commentator and Columnist Andrée Murphy, a panel of political figures including Stephen Farry, Brian Tierney and Martina Anderson are joined by Prof Colin Harvey from Queen’s University to discuss what has been done and what else could be done by both the Irish and British governments to deal with the constitutional question on this island’
Friday August 13th 2pm Starts: St Marys Church, Creggan Creggan History Tours: Think you know your Creggan History? Then take this tour and hear the tales from our ancient Rath and Bronze Age burial sites, the Siege of Derry, The Demesne and Deer Park through to the building of houses, economic struggles, education, tragedies, military occupation, church, cemetery, youth clubs and sport but most of all the building of a unique community. Please dress for the weather. Not suitable for those with mobility problems. Advance registration is required. To register, email jpbreslin@outlook.com
Friday August 13th Times and Locations to be Announced Ice Cream Carnival – Mr H When Mr H enters town, the comedy door swings open. Enjoy the crazy antics of this silent clown as he grapples with everyday objects, attempting to turn the world inside out and upside down. Mr H arrives without a care in the world, just a broom, a table, a chair, some playful comedy and spectacular acrobatics. With references to masters of the silent film such as Chaplin and Sykes, Mr H brings a special feel for the innocent comic.
Friday August 13th 2pm - 4pm Brandywell Neighbourhood
Sam Madden Freestyle Football Show To mark A Day for Ryan McBride, internationally renowned football trickster, Sam Madden, will perform on the streets of the Brandywell neighbourhood. Sam is a live show specialist, and has has worked at promotional events for several major brands such as Pepsi, Santander, JD Sports, O’Neills Sportswear and several city councils across Ireland. Sam is also an official UEFA Euro 2020 football freestyle ambassador and performed at the tournament this year.
Friday August 13th - 6.30pm Strand Omniplex, Strand Road
Summer of Soul (...or When The Revolution Could Not Be Televised)
SUMMER OF SOUL is coming to Omniplex Derry for one night only on Fri 13 August as part of Féile 2021! In his acclaimed debut as a filmmaker, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents a powerful and transporting documentary—part music film, part historical record created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture and fashion. Over the course of six weeks in the summer of 1969, just one hundred miles south of Woodstock, The Harlem Cultural Festival was filmed in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park). The footage was never seen and largely forgotten–until now. SUMMER OF SOUL shines a light on the importance of history to our spiritual well-being and stands as a testament to the healing power of music during times of unrest, both past and present. The feature includes never-before-seen concert performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension and more. Tickets on sale now at www.omniplex.ie.
Friday August 13th - 7.30pm Pilots Row, Rossville Street Susan McKay In Conversation with Aoife Moore Northern Protestants - On Shifting Ground Twenty years on from her critically acclaimed book, Northern Protestants: An Unsettled People, award-winning journalist Susan McKay talked again to the people she then ‘uneasily’ called ‘her own’, those from a Protestant background in Northern Ireland. Her new Northern Protestants: On Shifting Ground, which is built on these interviews, has received stellar reviews, has been critically acclaimed as ‘vital reading’ and is already in its second print run. With unionism in crisis, Brexit shaking the foundations of the Good Friday Agreement and a border poll looking more and more likely, she joins Aoife Moore to discuss the people she interviewed, the issues they raised, and why these voices need to be heard. She will also talk about being labelled ‘a Lundy’. Aoife Moore is an award winning Political Correspondent for the Irish Examiner, based in Dublin. Born in Derry during the peace process, Aoife has won awards for her coverage of Northern Ireland and last year broke the biggest story in Irish politics, when 80 public figures attended a golf dinner during the height of Covid19 regulations, now known as Golfgate. She has paid special attention to women’s issues in her career, with detailed investigations into harassment of lone parents on social welfare, sexual harassment in politics and the profits made by private companies who provide accommodation for asylum seekers. Numbers limited for this event. Advance registration is required. Register at www.eventrbrite.com Friday August 13th - 7.30pm Creggan Neighbourhood Partnership, Central Drive Older People’s Movie Night : Seven Brides for Seven Brothers For this year’s Féile, older people’s organisations in the area have come together to produce a packed programme of events which will reunite our older people at a series of safe events including this classic film screening in association with Foyle Film Festival. Adm Free.
DAY 8
Saturday August 14th 2pm – 6pm Free Derry Corner Big Bog BBQ On Saturday 14th August, the green space at Free Derry Corner will come alive for lots of family fun. With a Wild West theme there will be lots of activities such as a Rodeo Bull, Balloon Modelling, Face Painting, Henna Tattoos, toddlers play area, Phil’s Farm, a BBQ, live music and much more! This is a free event for all the family to enjoy. This event will transform the area into a shared space where all cultures and traditions can come together for a positive community event that will benefit the wider area and the city.
Saturday August 14th - 8pm The Nerve Centre, Magazine St Féile Laughs featuring Shane Todd “Modern day king of comedy.” - Belfast Telegraph Shane Todd is bringing his brand new stand-up show to Féile 2021. Shane Todd performs in comedy clubs all over the world. He enjoys playing nowhere more than his home turf. Shane has fast become one of Ireland’s best known stand-up comedians and has sold out shows coming up later this year at The Waterfront and SSE Arena in Belfast. while also being the man behind online favourites such as Keith Cruise, Mike McGoldrick, MC Beezer and Dean Davidson. With star turns in BBC’s Soft Border Patrol and his own brand new show for Radio Ulster, his star continues to rise. Limited capacity. Advance tickets £15 at www.eventbrite.com
Saturday August 14th- 8-10pm Creggan Neighbourhood Partnership, Central Drive Older People’s Dance Food and light refreshments. Music by Philip Wilson, Tickets £2 from the Cornbeef Tin
Saturday August 14th - 8pm Long Tower Youth Club Down The Brandy “A film dedicated to the people of the Brandywell estate, past, present and future. This piece examines what it means to be from the area, how it is a source of pride to many and what its future holds. A story told by its residents on what it means to be from an area that shapes you into the person you are, and how no matter far you get from it, it always remains a part of you.” Directed by Séan Coyle.
Friday 13th - Sunday 15th August Diamond Centre, Claudy Annual Irish Dancing Competition Competitions will run from 12pm –8pm on Friday 13th August and from 8am - 8pm on Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th August. For more info, contact Sallyann on 02871262812 Sunday August 15th - 1:30pm The Chieftains Walk The Chieftain’s Walk in memory of former deputy first minister Martin McGuinness will take place on August 15. Register at: www.register.enthuse.com/ps/event/chieftainswalk2021
Sunday August 15th - 2pm – 6pm Central Drive / Bishop’s Field Wan Big Street Party Our Wan Big Street Party returns bigger than ever this year, we have a wide range of fun packed family events which will include Petting Farm, live music and arts and crafts with entertainment from local musicians. For those brave enough we will also have fun fair rides including the Simulator and Bungee trampolines to name only a few. We will have the carousel, tea cups, Waltzer, Playground trailer and plenty more. This year will have a BME theme to it with workshops from different countries around the world and our International Food Fair. This event also includes a free BBQ and promises to be a great day with activities which all the family can enjoy free of charge.
DAY 9 Sunday August 15th
Bash on The Bankin Youth clubs across the area have an action packed day of activities lined up for children and young people across the area. Keep an eye on our social media pages for more info closer to the date.
Sunday August 15th - 3pm to 11pm Various Locations