Seven things to do this week.
TODAY If you like a little fireworks with your classical music catch a bus to Woodstock Gardens for one of the most eagerly awaited events of the Kilkenny Arts Festival. The Northern Chamber Orchestra is performing a concert in the village of Inistioge, accompanied by explosive visuals. Buses leave Kilkenny city at 6.30 p.m. for the 7.30 p.m. performance. Tickets €7.50/€20. More information from www.kilkennyarts.ie
TOMORROW It's race day at the Curragh, and in addition to a top-quality racing programme there will be a variety of other attractions including a visit from legendary jockey Lester Piggott. The first O'Brien's Wine Fair promotion will take place with sampling and expert advice from wine connoisseur David Whelehan. There's also a chance to win a trip to the Breeders' Cup at Lone Star Park Racetrack in Texas, to include flights, accommodation and VIP tickets to the races and to their exclusive party with singer Willie Nelson.
MONDAY The Walled City Cultural Trail is the best way to see Derry these days, with activities on offer throughout the month. Choose from Clown Workshops, sightseeing, walking tours, highland dancing, mural tours of the Bogside, children's film screenings and more. Phone 04871-263511 or log onto www.derrycity.gov.uk/culturaltrail for more details.
TUESDAY Tanya Walsh was just 16 when she wrote, directed and produced her first play Just The Twice. Her latest work She - A Descent Into Madness is the tale of a young girl working in a music shop and trying to escape the voices in her head. Presented by Elphanta Productions, a company established in 1999 by a group of 15-year-olds who wanted to produce their own work, She plays at the Project in Dublin until Saturday. Tickets €6. Book on 01-8819613 or www.project.ie
WEDNESDAY While others are trying to funk up our indigenous tunes The Masters of Tradition Festival is a celebration of traditional music in its purest form. Martin Hayes, Donal Lunny, Christy Moore and Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh are among the names lining up for the festival in Bantry House, Bantry, Co Cork, until Sunday. Booking 027-52788. For more details or log onto www.westcorkmusic.ie
THURSDAY Take a trip back to the early 1970s when The Carpenters were On Top Of The World and Every Sha, La, La, La earned them another hit. Rainy Days And Mondays: The Songs of Karen Carpenter is a tribute to the reluctant star (and her brother). Starring Fiona Browne, it runs at Bewley's Café Theatre until Saturday and returns on the August 19th for two nights. Booking 086-8784001. Tickets 10. Contact bewleyscafetheatre@eircom.net
FRIDAY Given the day that's in it, you could stay in and watch a scary movie, but it might be less stressful to head down to Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival which starts in Co Offaly today. There is Vintage Croquet and Mixed Tag Rugby at Moorpark Sports Club (7 p.m.) and a Vintage Costume Competition at the Classical Evening at the Chestnut (8.30 p.m.). The festival continues until next Friday. For more information call 086-8551937.
