Festival fun galore for children at Mayo's Roola Boola 2024

AN exciting schedule of performances, workshops and interactive events has been devised for the Linenhall Arts Centre's upcoming Roola Boola Children’s Arts Festival.

This year’s vibrant celebration of creativity and imagination for children and families promises memorable experiences for the arts centre’s cherished young audiences.

In line with that ethos, ‘Ta Tum Tum’, designed to explore Brazilian culture through music, body awareness, voice and different rhythms, takes place on October 26. Perfect for children aged 3-6 years, this lively performance, an interactive escapade, invites little ones to sing and dance along.

On October 29, families and children aged 7 plus can relish Ballad of Bandit, a thrilling adventure story with a difference. Acclaimed musician Matthew Berril takes to the stage in this show which conjures up the daring deeds of bandits and highwaymen. Encompassing live music, puppetry, object animation, expert storytelling and surprises aplenty, be prepared for the unexpected.

Families are invited to one big party, Family Fancy Dress Céilí, on October 30, with music by the brilliant Rolling Waves CCE, and dances called by Grainne Kelly.

The fun continues on October 31 with Sing-A-Long Encanto, where fans of Disney’s enchanting film can unite in a joyous sing-along of their favourite songs.

Tackling plastic pollution with dance, circus and several bin loads of humour, Circus 250 present Juanita’s Big Problem, a 40-minute interactive environmental show by leading female clown, Angelica Santander, for children and young people on November 2.

In the Linenhall Gallery, visual art exhibition Interactive Museum of Languages for Young Audiences, by Tomasz Madajczak and Mother Tongues, continues until November 23. Encouraging children’s self-expression and creativity, it draws on living and ancient languages to reflect on the diversity of languages in our environment.

Creative Thinking, an exhibition by Attymass NS, Ballycastle NS and Castlebar Primary, also launches in the community gallery on October 15.

The Halloween school holidays are packed with fun workshops including the ever popular Family Art Sessions, on October 29 and 31, at which children aged 5 plus and their adults will be guided by the Linenhall’s community artists on how to create together, in an enjoyable and creative environment.

Additional workshop options include: Fabulous Flight, for children 10-12 years on October 29; Spinners for those aged 6-8 on October 30; and Paper Circuits, aimed at 8-10 year olds on October 31.

Brimming with events for all ages and interests, learn more via https://www.thelinenhall.com/, pick up a festival programme at the box office, or contact the team on (094) 9023733.

Advanced booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, especially on the free events.