Dancing has been the lifeblood of the Lisdoonvarna Festival ever since the Spa town developed in 1840; until the pandemic struck two years ago, when the music and the dancing came to an abrupt stop. Now, with life slowing returning to normal, this short film will celebrate the joy and highlight the pain, (particularly for those who have lost loved ones) of returning to the village in September and reconnecting once again.

As the dance floors of Lisdoonvarna fill up once again in September we will capture the emotional reunions of old friends, the gathering of musicians and the pure joy of dancing. This will be an uplifting thought-provoking short film of how a village and its people, continue to keep its culture and traditions alive. We will ask what impact the lack of social interaction has had on the attendees, particularly the older population. What is it like to be like to get back on the dance floor and meet friends? Will life ever be the same again?

Through the access of producer Julie Carr who has worked at the festival between 2014 to 2019 we will gain insight to the unique stories of a village which has captured the imagination of people from all over the world.

Observational, quirky, and insightful, the film will tell a bigger story about vital human connection, heritage and culture in modern day Ireland. Judicious and surprising use of archive footage (RTE, IFB) the film will bring the 165-year-old festival to life.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.