The Red Line Book Festival came to a rollicking close recently at the Coach House in Palmerstown with a superb comedy night with comedian Sharon Manion. Sharon was writer in residence for this year’s festival and mentored participants in a series of workshops looking at all aspects of comedy writing and performance, culminating in a fantastic showcase on the Sunday night. Over 40 literary events took place over the week of the Red Line Book Festival with an eclectic mix of established writers and new voices.
Highlights included an evening with comedian Emma Doran in conversation with Amy Huberman about her debut book, Mad Isn’t It? International bestselling authors, Donal Ryan and Marian Keyes had packed houses and Authors Sean Murray, Nicky Ryan and Christine Bohan shared the harrowing Stardust Tragedy as they discussed The Last Disco.
The festival’s Family Fun Day returned to Tallaght’s cultural quarter on the 19th of October and was a day of literary magic and Hallowe’en fun for all ages with activities including storytelling sessions, illustration workshops from top Irish artists working in children’s literature as well as live music, creative events, children’s entertainment and lots more. ‘Tallaween’ was unleashed on Saturday 19th bringing the library’s darkest tales to life. Monsters, demons, and zombies escaped the pages and haunt Parthalán Place every night from 5 PM to 9 PM until October 31st.
The events took place across South Dublin County in locations such as The Civic, Rathfarnham Castle, Brú Chrónáin – Clondalkin Round Tower Visitor Centre, and the Pearse Museum highlighting the richness of the county’s built heritage as well as introducing dynamic new venues such as Work IQ in Tallaght Innovation Quarter.
The Red Line Book Festival was a celebration of literature, storytelling, and creativity and has grown to become one of the highlights of the cultural calendar. It offered an incredible opportunity to connect with the written word in its many forms whether you’re a reader, writer, or simply a lover of stories. From engaging discussions with authors to exciting workshops and performances, this festival created a space for reflection, imagination, and community.
The Red Line Book Festival was produced by South Dublin Libraries and Arts at South Dublin County Council and offered a programme of events and workshops that appeals to people of all ages and interests, from children to adults, casual readers to bookworms.
Pic Credit: Ben Ryan
