Workshops 

FRIDAY 18TH AUGUST
POETRY WORKSHOP 
WITH JESSA SEXTON

3.00 p.m. – 5.00 p.m.
VENUE: HERITAGE HOUSE

Seriously, though—it’s a question I, as a poet, ask all the time. It’s 2023. What place does this genre have in the world of writing—and the world in general?

Join me as I walk through some of the why, what, and how of both reading and writing poetry. (Yes, we’ll be writing together!) And just so you know, an undying adoration of poetry is not required for you to have a good time.
TICKETS: €10.00 (inc fees)


SATURDAY 19th AUGUST
Fiction Writing 
WITH Helen moorhouse
9:30 A.M. - 12.30P.M.
VENUE: Preston House

Feel the Fear and Write it Down.

The workshop looks at creating tension in storytelling. If you write thrillers, horror, action or simply want to add a little threat to your tale, let’s explore how to add peril, menace and danger to your work - and see where it takes you. We’ll ask questions like can there be resolution? How does it drive the story? How do we set it up and how do we take the reader along for the ride?

Mood, atmosphere, tension and terror - let’s take a deep breath, and enter the dark!
TICKETS €50.00 (inc fees)


SATURDAY 19TH AUGUST
POETRY WORKSHOP
WITH Laura murphy 
2.15p.m. - 5.15p.m.
VENUE: ABBEYLEIX HOUSE & Farm 

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn about the lost ancient Irish poetic practice of Imbas Forosnai. Imbas Forosnai means 'Inspiration that Illuminates'. It is comparable to the Buddhist concept of enlightenment, the Platonic concept of gnosis, and contemporary flow-state.

Drawing knowledge from ancient manuscripts, analysis from modern academia, and wisdom from our embodied experience, participants will learn how to work with Imbas Forosnai to enhance creativity and support well-being.

Participants will be taken on a journey of Imbas-infused poetry across the aeons and will also have the opportunity to create their own Imbas poetry. As was the way in times of old, this immersive experience will take place outdoors (covered if raining), facilitating the connection to Earth and Sky that will bring forth optimum Imbas Draoícht (magic)!

A heart-opening experience awaits that will not only bring you to the heart of ancient Ireland but also to the heart of your own infinite intelligence, intuition, and inspiration.

Tickets €55.00 (inc. fees)

MEMOIR WRITING WITH SHEILA FORSEY 
SUNDAY 20TH AUGUST
10.00 A.M -1.00 P.M.

VENUE: PRESTON HOUSE

Learn how to bring your own lived experiences to the page, find your authentic voice, and explore the craft of writing a compelling narrative based on your own memories. In a nurturing and supportive environment, you will begin your memoir or explore the possibility of starting one. This workshop will focus on themes, language, vision, and authenticity. It will be facilitated by Sheila Forsey, an Irish Times best-selling historical fiction writer. Sheila is also an experienced creative writing tutor and a graduate of NUI Maynooth. Currently, she is undertaking postgraduate studies in Kilkenny City's prestigious Design and Craft Council of Ireland through Trinity College Dublin.TICKETS €50.00 (inc fees)