IMRAM Irish-Language Literature Festival line-up revealed

The IMRAM Irish-Language Literature Festival is set to commence on November 6, 2025, presenting a rich programme that highlights the vibrancy and innovation of contemporary Irish-language literature through a variety of multimedia formats.

The festival opens with an immersive event titled Músaem Na nGréibhlí, which draws inspiration from the Museum of Curiosities. This two-level experience features narratives by Daithí Ó Muirí accompanied by an atmospheric soundtrack from musician Fergus Kelly, inviting audiences into a labyrinth of unusual artefacts and haunting histories.

A tribute to the late Gabriel Rosenstock, a cherished poet in Irish literary circles, follows on November 9 with Na Púcaí Ina Cheann/The Pookahs in his Head. This event combines poetry readings by Amanda Bell, Paddy Bushe, Rosenstock’s son Tristan, among others, with musical contributions from Cormac Breathnach and Seán MacErlaine, offering a multimedia homage to Rosenstock’s life and work.

Continuing the exploration of Rosenstock’s literary influence, November 10 features Crann Mór/Tree, a choral and multimedia presentation centered on his Irish translation of Richard Berengarten’s symphonic poem venerating the tree’s mythological and religious significance. The production involves Chamber Choir Ireland under the direction of David Young, with composition by Nick Roth.

Diamant Agus Meirg/Diamonds And Rust, scheduled for November 14, presents an innovative take on music and language by showcasing Irish translations of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez songs by poets Caitríona Ní Chléirchín and Rody Gorman. Performances by Colm Seoighe and Emma Ní Fhioruisce blend traditional folk elements with contemporary Irish linguistic expression.

On November 13, An 424: An Bus Go Dtí An Ghealchathair/The Bus To The Brightcity takes inspiration from the well-known bus route west of Galway city. Poets Laoighseach Ní Choistealbha, Jackie Mac Donncha, and Cúán de Búrca contribute original works reflecting journeys along this route, complemented by music from Trá Pháidín, tying local geography to literary creativity.

Another key event, Ag Seinm Samhraidh/Singing The Summer on November 11, revisits the poetry of Pearse Hutchinson. This program reflects on themes such as identity, language, loss, and resilience, underscoring the enduring relevance of Hutchinson’s contributions to Irish literature.

Beyond IMRAM, the literary scene in Ireland is marked by notable developments. Belfast author Wendy Erskine secured the Sky Arts Literature Award for her novel The Benefactors, which delves into themes of class, justice, and familial dynamics in contemporary Belfast through a polyphonic narrative structure. This achievement marks the second consecutive year an Irish writer has won the prize, following Sally Rooney’s recognition last year.

In academia, Colm Tóibín was honored with an honorary master’s degree from the University of Macerata in Italy during the fourth Macerata Humanities Festival. The accolade acknowledges his significant literary contributions and critical insights across Irish and international literature.

Looking ahead, the Dingle Literary Festival, running from November 20 to 22, will feature bestselling novelist Liz Nugent discussing her latest work, The Truth About Ruby Cooper. The novel’s exploration of family secrets and deception will be examined in conversation with crime writer William Shaw.

Additional cultural highlights include the election of four new members to Aosdána, Ireland’s affiliation of creative artists, and a new audiobook accolade for actor and narrator Eoin Lynch for his work on Dee Barragry’s The Moon Seeker. Furthermore, Eason has launched a new book club curated by broadcaster Muireann O’Connell, aiming to deepen reader engagement with contemporary literature.

Overall, the IMRAM Festival, alongside these literary developments, underscores a robust and evolving Irish-language literary culture that embraces innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a sustained commitment to Irish linguistic heritage.