Tune in to RTÉ Radio 1 this weekend to hear famous names as they commemorate one of Ireland’s greatest literary minds, with ‘Celebrating Seamus Heaney’ at the National Concert Hall.
The event, which is taking place tonight, is presented by Dublin City Council and Poetry Ireland, and will see people paying tribute to the former Sandymount resident. Some of the names due to appear at the event include musical legend Paul Simon, President Michael D. Higgins, actor Gabriel Byrne, and musicians Lisa Hannigan, Paul Brady, and Zoë Conway. The programme for the night, which has been put together by Poetry Ireland’s Director Maureen Kennelly and Heaney’s friend and publisher, poet Peter Fallon, will have John Kelly acting as compère.
Due to massive demand, the event sold out quickly, but those who did not get tickets still have an opportunity to listen in as the night will be recorded for broadcast this weekend by RTÉ.
The commemoration, which is part of the Dublin: One City, One Book festival, has been given a rather fitting date, as today is UNESCO World Book Day. According to Dublin City Librarian Margaret Hayes: “This news is sure to generate interest in what is already a fantastic programme. Dublin: One City One Book runs in over 50 venues around Dublin city and county this April and is a perfect opportunity to explore Dublin’s libraries and literary landmarks through library-supported poetry readings, talks, concerts and guided tours on foot, by bike, on the water and even on the DART, many of which are free.”
‘Celebrating Seamus Heaney’ will be on RTÉ Radio 1 this Sunday at 8pm.
By Aimée Mac Leod
