"Powerhouses" is a one-hour radio documentary that takes an in-depth historical, sonic, and reflective look at ‘powerhouses’ within rural communities, looking at the Powerhouse building in Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon. Dating back to the 1800s, this building has served various purposes: as a school, an electricity provider for the town, a science hall, and a local museum. The term "powerhouse" also refers to individuals, groups, or teams with remarkable energy, strength, or potential for success. Through interviews with members of community groups in Ballaghaderreen, the new documentary will explore both the building’s history and the experiences of people involved in community-led, non-commercial organizations. These conversations will delve into the lifecycle of initiating projects within a community, exploring the dynamics and challenges these groups face, as well as how they sustain energy over time. The radio documentary will use sound to explore not only the literal noises of the community but also its emotional and conceptual undercurrents. The documentary will include a mix of atmospheric sounds—such as the buzz of the main street, the toll of a bell, a weary sigh, the tapping of a pen—alongside the imagined sounds of decay, urban decline, and the life of museum artifacts. It will provide an immersive auditory experience that reflects both real-time and historical storytelling.

Supported under Open Call Strand 3: Individual Creative Bursary – New Work

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