Published: 22nd July 2024
Sailortown Festival 2024 – Belfast’s Most Intimate and Unique Festival
Belfast, Friday 19th July 2024 –Sailortown Festival, Belfast’s most intimate and unique community and arts festival, returns with a vibrant array of events from July 26th to 28th 2024. A project of Sailortown Regeneration, this festival celebrates the unique heritage and culture of Sailortown while brining something a little bit different and unexpected to the area.
SRG wish to express their appreciation to Maritme Belfast Trust, Arts Council NI (Lottery) Belfast Harbour and Intercomm Ireland for their support.
Event Highlights:
The Naughty-cal Cabaret: July 27th at The Dockers Night Club
Set sail for an unforgettable evening of circus, song, burlesque and disco. This adult-only event promises a captivating blend of death-defying circus, soulful song, side-splitting comedy, and dazzling burlesque performances. On board you will find the best talent from Belfast and beyond. Immerse yourself in a spectacular evening of laughter, wonder and surprise, followed by a genuine 1980s alternative funking Disco.
Hosted by internationally celebrated Belfast comedian Paul Currie, the show brings you former ground breaking Miss Burlesque Ireland Azaria Starfire; the contorting twists and turns of the Sensational Sanita Sisters; nail-bitingly hilarious equilibrist and clown, Hilario Spilachi aka Hillas Smith; Belfast’s only living troubadour Geoff Hatt; and debuting one of Ireland’s greatest unsung song birds, Cat Finn.
“We’re ecstatic to have internationally renowned Belfast-born comedian Paul Currie join the Sailortown Festival gang this year, said Festival Director, Ger O’Donnell. “Paul’s presence brings an extra layer of excitement, absurdity and creativity to the festival, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience his unique brand of humour as Master of Ceremonies, Captain Ramsey.”
Captain’s Tea Party July 26th (Afternoon tea with live music at St Joseph’s Church)
Join us for a champagne reception and traditional afternoon tea, set against the iconic candlelit backdrop of St Joseph’s Church. Renowned composer and pianist Darren Day will be providing a touch of class to the event tickling the ivories to some of your favourite classics followed by a fun singalong with Terry Thomas ( AKA) Jeff.
Captain Joe’s Bingo Bash: St Joseph’s Church July 26th
Enjoy a lively night of Bingo, craic and tunes.
Sail Back to Sailortown: St Joseph’s Church on July 27th. Join actor and writer Cathy Brennan Bradley; Storyteller, Patrick Ryan; and Singer Songwriter, Ludwig O’Neil for immersive multimedia experience through the history of Sailortown.
Quote
“I am once again delighted to perform at Sail Back to Sailortown. Every year the event evolves and changes unveiling new stories told through drama, song and spoken word. the historical St Joseph’s church lends itself beautifully to theatricality of this multimedia event. This year we are so delighted to add storyteller Patrick Ryan Ludwig O’Neil to the cast”
said Actor Cathy Brennan Bradley
Sailortown Flea Market: July 27th
12pm-5pm want to experience a proper flea market? Remember the days when markets were just regular people selling their wares and olives didn’t cost £1 each? Well come and explore this bustling community market with untold treasures: antiques; arts and crafts; Bric a Brac; food stalls; live music – and meet some fantastic people.
Free Workshops 27th July
A programme of free taster workshops all day long including capoeira, drumming, soundbath, dance and movement, boat making and circus skills, all in the magnificent St Joseph’s Church.
All Free Family Funday 28th July
Set your senses to wow at our All-Free Family Fun Day!!! Join us in Barrow Square for our biggest adventure yet. Our host Stephen Beggs navigates you through a day filled with dazzling Aerial Acts, Back Breaking Acrobats, Retro Street Games, arts and crafts, food stalls, face painters, our annual traditional Blessing of the Pets and much much more!
and if you come in fancy dress, there will be prizes.
About the Festival
Sailortown Festival aims to explore and celebrate the community of Sailortown with a unique and vibrant program that’s sure to pump colour and life into the area.
Our unique and intimate festival caters to all demographics, ages and species while utilising some of the local iconic establishments including St Joseph’s Church, The Dockers Club, The American Bar and Barrow Square. Attendees can expect a unique blend of local talent, culture, fun, engaging activities, and a strong sense of community spirit.
“Sailortown Festival is an annual event that encourages people to visit Sailortown and explore its community in the heart of Belfast. We want visitors to see what’s available not only in the summer months, but all year round. Sailortown Regeneration are currently working towards repairing and restoring St Joseph’s Church to its former glory so it can continue to operate as a safe community and event space. The Festival is one way to reveal the church’s potential.
Said festival director Gerard O’Donnell
For more details and to book tickets, visit
Website: www.sailortownfestival.com
Facebook www.facebook.com/sailortownfestival
Instagram www.instagram.com/sailortownfestival