The Field 25th Anniversary Festival September 25th - 26th Leenan
It was 25 years ago that the village of Leenane took centre stage in Jim Sheridan's movie, The Field. Many people from the village took their place in front of the camera alongside Sean Bean, John Hurt, Brenda Fricker, Tom Berenger and of course, the oscar nominated Richard Harris. To celebrate the anniversary, Leenane Village is planning a series of events this September.
Below you'll find the schedule of events - additional events are to be announced closer to the date so keep a close eye on the village Facebook page for updates.
Friday evening 25th Sept 2015
19:30- Official Opening in the community with photo exhibition, cheese and wine reception and guest of honour, along with the photographers and some of the locals who had cameo roles in the film.
21:00- Launch of the Visitor Information Brochure of the film at ‘The Field’ Bar, talks will be given at the Gaynor family bar on how the pub evolved to ‘The Field’ bar. There will be live traditional Irish music and entertainment.
Saturday 26th Sept 2015
11:00- Ecumenical Ceremony at Aasleagh Church in remembrance of the dearly departed since the filming in 1989. A candlelight procession will take place at the ceremony.
12:30 & 15:30 - Showing of film The Field at the Sheep and Wool Centre 50 seater complex. There will also be tours of the museum and back to back demonstrations. Fee: €5.00 (See left hand panel for more info)
12:30- Taste of Connemara Walk, walk from Rosroe to Bunowen along the spectacular Killary harbour with experienced local guides. Sample the food delights of Killary fjord Shellfish and pay a visit to Killary Sheep Farm, transport will be provided. Fee: €20.00 (See left hand panel for booking details)
17:00- ‘The Bird’ Duck Race, in the Leenane River. This event has the intensity of a wet car chase with the cuteness of coloured rubber duckys. The ducks can be bought on the day. The full proceeds of the event will go to maintaining the local community crèche ‘the Seagarden’.
18:00- Outdoor Theatre, the auction scene from the film will be recreated in the main village carpark and will have members of the local community playing the relevant people in the famous scene. All can join in on the bidding shenanigans and dress up.
21:00- I’ll Dance With Ya Céile, Come in costume to live traditional Irish music with Salamanca in the Leenane Hotel along with the ‘Yanks’ raffle and more surprises on the night. Fee: €10. (See left hand panel for more details)\