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Let's Talk About The Arts

Let's Talk About The Arts

By Fearghal Curtis x The Portable Producer

Welcome to Let's Talk About The Arts.
In this podcast artist Fearghal Curtis meets a diverse array of artists working across different mediums. He hosts an honest chat about working within the arts, the support that is needed and how this unprecedented year has impacted the sector.
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Let's talk with Tessy Ehiguese

Let's Talk About The ArtsNov 23, 2020

00:00
01:14:45
Laura Sheeran

Laura Sheeran

Laura Sheerin is someone that I have admired for a long time. I've been most familiar with her work as a director and a videographer, and her work would regularly inspire me to think about the work I want to produce.

When I would meet her, through friends, at events, at the theatre, she emulated a regal and powerful energy that always drew me towards her.

When I gave pole dancing a try, Laura was one of the people I followed to feel motivated and inspired by the rigorous work that came with the craft. And when I shared a little part of that journey she was one of the first to comment and celebrate my attempts.

I knew I wanted to get Laura on the podcast for a long time, and although I make sure to never have any expectations of how my guests will show, I was so looking forward to spending this time with Laura and getting to know the processes, the thoughts and the approaches to who I viewed as a powerful artist on the scene.

Laura is open, honest, creative, intelligent and magical. She shows all these qualities in this episode as she very graciously shows many facets of who she is through talking about her art and all the elements that have inspired the artist she is today.

At the start of this interview, Laura was an artist I would aspire to be like; multi-faceted, deeply connected and intellectual. After this interview, that all remains, along with the admiration for her story and why she is the powerful creative she is.

@laurasheerin_ie

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

Dec 13, 202353:56
Fionnuala Gygax

Fionnuala Gygax

It was 6.30am, I arrived with my new boxing gloves hanging over my shoulder, barely awake, ready to punch a bag, skip my worries away and destroy my core...

This was the setting for my first meeting with this week's guest; actor, writer, fitness coach and adventure seeker Fionnuala Gygax.

I remember telling Fionnuala about Let's Talk About The Arts in one of these early morning boxing classes, but it wasn't until we were both in back to back shows at the Abbey Theatre (a dream for us both) that I pinpointed her to be a guest.

I loved this chat and getting to know the girl who use to take me on in the "ring". We discussed how you actually pronounce her unique surname, her start as an actor, how acting has developed into other artistic outlets and passions, her theatre dad, taking back her power to create and her other big love; fitness...

Enjoy! x

@fionnualagygax

@letstalkaboutthearts

@fearghc


Nov 13, 202357:52
José Galang

José Galang

Inspired to chat to photographer, dancer and fashion icon José Galang on this week's episode.

We explore so many topics around the themes they brought for their scrapbook, including cooking, loving yourself, movement and so much more.

I was left feeling truly moved and inspired by someone who captures so much of what it means to be an artist.

@cococholo

@arman.jose.galang

@letstalkaboutthearts

@fearghc

Nov 06, 202357:48
Niamh O'Sullivan

Niamh O'Sullivan

Hello again,

It's been a while, but I'm so excited to be returning with some more conversations from an array of amazing artists.

I couldn't be happier to kicking this comeback off with the wonderful and über talented opera superstar Niamh O'Sullivan.

Niamh has been one person who has been on my hit list to be a guest for LTATA for quite some time, and I'm so delighted she was up for coming in and chatting.

We are doing things a little different this time around, but still focusing on all things artsy. I have asked each artist to create their own artist scrapbook (metaphorically). On each page they reflect on a different topic in relation to themselves as an artist.

Loads of gorgeous conversations coming your way and I'm giddy to share them.

I want to give the biggest shout out to Kate and The Dean Arts Studios. Kate has kindly allowed me to record these episodes in the heart of Dublin at the Dean Arts Studios. Back in the day, the building was The Conservatory of Music and Drama, and a wee little tenor from Dublin (it's me, I'm talking about me) attended this college. We recorded the episodes in the hall where I would have done my final year recital. It was really cool to be back in the very vibrant building and I will be thanking Kate and The Dean Arts Studios again and again over the next series of episodes.

For now, Enjoy the gorgeous Niamh O'Sullivan.

@letstalkaboutthearts

@fearghc

@niamhosullivan.mezzo

Oct 30, 202351:17
Ciaran Gaffney

Ciaran Gaffney

It's the final episode of 2022, and I couldn't be happier that it was with Ciaran Gaffney, the founder of storytelling night Seanchoiche.

Ciaran, or Gaff as he is more commonly known, has created the most special space in Seanchoiche where he has shown people that everyone can be a storyteller. I had only met him briefly in the past, and at the time wasn't aware of the talent, artistry and soul this person had. 

In this episode, he shares a story he wrote in his Leaving Cert English paper, how his grand uncle was a massive inspiration and mentor, and speaks about the passing of his cousin and how her legacy lives on in how he chooses to live

Hope you enjoy!

@_gaff_

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts


Dec 29, 202201:07:29
PJ Kirby
Dec 20, 202201:03:56
Luis Noguera Benitez
Dec 16, 202201:06:50
Deirdre Masterson

Deirdre Masterson

I was delighted to be joined by soprano Deirdre Masterson to hear all about the making of her most recent album 'Mo Chroí', her upcoming concert with The Celtic Tenors on the 26th of November at St. Ann's Church on Dawson Street and the importance of staying connected to who you are as an artist.

@deirdremastersonsinger


Nov 17, 202237:12
Guillermo Rodriguez

Guillermo Rodriguez

One thing I try to do as an artist is find new activities to make me feel like a complete beginner again. One of those experiences this year was pole dancing. I did a 6 week introductory course at The Irish Pole Dancing Academy (with the plan to go back at some point), and got introduced to one of their amazing instructors Guillermo Rodriguez. 

This man was so inspiring to me as I attempted to swing off a pole and is a beacon of joy and support to anyone who shows up to the studios. 

He is also one of the most kindest, giving and open artists I have got the pleasure to get to know. 

This chat was a privilege as I got to know a lot more about his journey and how he became the wonderful human being and unique artist he is. 

@avatarguille

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

Oct 20, 202201:05:16
Arthur Gourounlian

Arthur Gourounlian

It was such a pleasure to sit down with dancer, choreographer and creative director Arthur Gouroulian. 

Arthur has the most inspiring outlook on life and I loved hearing his stories about how he carved out a career without expectation and the support of his mother allowed him to achieve anything he put his mind to. 

@gourounlian

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

Aug 24, 202201:07:07
Annie Sherry

Annie Sherry

Singer/songwriter Annie Sherry joined me for a beautiful chat about a film that resonated with her identity both personally and as an artist, an open conversation about mental health and the lessons that lie within the struggles, and also tells us all about creating a sober environment for her Cabaret night 'Business Woman's Special' which took place on August the 10th at Outhouse. 

@theysheannie

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

Aug 15, 202201:06:18
Amilia Stewart

Amilia Stewart

It was so great to sit down and chat with actress Amilia Stewart for this episode of Let's Talk About The Arts. I have known Amelia for over 17 years, but we haven't sat down for a proper chat since being in college together. I loved hearing about the three prompts she chose that she feels represent her as an artist, and it lead to a gorgeous conversation about choosing her career path, jobs lost and dreams realised, becoming a mother and our popstar dreams that could have been. 

@amilia_stewart_keating_ 

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

Jul 27, 202201:01:31
Michael Gallen

Michael Gallen

I was so delighted to be joined by composer, musician and all round amazing human being, Michael Gallen.

Michael was on my original list of guests for Let’s Talk About The Arts, and I am so happy it has happened now. We have worked together over the past couple of years on a very special project which happens to be one of Michaels prompts for the episode. 

We recorded at the Hilton Hotel after an evening at The Irish Theatre Awards, which kick starts our conversation before we get stuck into Michael’s three prompts that he feels have shaped him as an artist.

@gallenmusic

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

Jul 06, 202201:07:52
Wren Dennehy

Wren Dennehy

Fearghal was delighted to be joined by Wren Dennehy aka Avoca Reaction to explore their chosen prompts which they feel represent themselves as an artist. 

@avocareaction 

@wrendennehy 

@fearghc

@letstalkaboutthearts

@tall_tales_podcasts 

May 19, 202201:08:19
Claire Barnett-Jones

Claire Barnett-Jones

I was so delighted to be joined by the wonderful, resilient and vibrant opera singer Claire Barnett-Jones as we reconnected after going down different paths since being in college together, and to explore the 3 prompts she chose which she feels represent her most as an artist.

Claire chose some interesting prompts which allowed her to explain to us how she brings her entire self to her art. 

@letstalkaboutthearts

@fearghc

@tall_tales_podcasts

@cbjmezzo

Apr 15, 202250:03
Sarah Kinlen

Sarah Kinlen

I was delighted to be joined by the wonderful and open presence that is Sarah Kinlen for this episode. Sarah sent me three prompts that she feels represent her as an artist, and in this episode, we explored an adventure film, a 90's feel good tune and something a little bit different. 

This episode is dedicated to Sarah's cat, Feeni, full name Fellini (who makes a cameo at the end of the episode via Sarah's socks) 

@letstalkaboutthearts

@fearghc

@tall_tales_podcasts 

@thesarahkinlen

Mar 01, 202257:32
Clare O'Malley

Clare O'Malley

Let's Talk About The Arts is kicking off again in 2022 with new episodes at the end of each month. 

The format has changed a little as Fearghal hands over the space to the guest artists and asks them to bring their thoughts, ideas and motivators as artists in the form of quotes, songs, poems, memories or any other way they believe represents themselves. 

In this episode, Fearghal is joined by the resilient, inspiring and unique Clare O'Malley as she shares two of her favourite quotes from two of her favourite musicals, and a song that pulled her out of a low point. 

@letstalkaboutthearts

@fearghc

@tall_tales_podcasts

@clare_o_malley



Jan 31, 202254:05
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Lorna Anderson

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Lorna Anderson

I was delighted to be joined by the vivacious energy of Soprano Lorna Anderson. We got into just how amazing our bodies are and what they are capable of, and Lorna shared the magic of marriage with me 

Oct 07, 202135:20
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Ann Taylor

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Ann Taylor

It was so gorgeous to be joined by football fan, wine and gin lover, and family woman Ann O'Brien to chat about how she has found balance with her singer persona Ann Taylor. We had a really gorgeous chat and she opened up the conversation on being a singer going through menopause. 

Oct 01, 202133:07
Let's Talk About The Arts with Naomi Louisa O'Connell: Storytelling
Sep 29, 202151:14
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Aaron O'Hare

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Aaron O'Hare

It was such a joy to be joined by a top colleagues I've had the privilege to work with over the years, baritone Aaron O'Hare. It was even more fun to learn a little more about his journey into opera and how he is always so cool, calm and collected in the rehearsal room. 

Sep 23, 202142:01
A Moment with The Arts with Ola Majekodunmi

A Moment with The Arts with Ola Majekodunmi

Delighted to be joined by Dublin Culture Night Ambassador Ola Majekodunmi to discuss what culture and the arts mean to her, how she views the culture of Dublin and kindly shares one of her bi-lingual poems. She also inspired me to add some Irish to my outro (hope you're proud Ola!)

Sep 22, 202122:50
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Matthew McKinney

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Matthew McKinney

In this week's episode, I'm joined by tenor Matthew Mckinney to chat about the topic on every tenors lips; top notes. Matthew also chats about his passion for fel running on the Scottish hills, exploring his craft and his move to London.  

Sep 16, 202135:52
A Moment with the Arts: Sonder Magazine

A Moment with the Arts: Sonder Magazine

I was delighted to be joined in studio by the founders of Sonder Magazine, Sinead Creedon and Orla Murphy ahead of the release of their fifth issue based around the theme of Indulgence.

They have also kindly shared readings of some of the pieces from the contributors that will be featured in the issue. 

Sep 10, 202143:28
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Catriona Hewitson

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Catriona Hewitson

This week I'm joined by soprano, Catriona Hewitson to discuss the importance of mental health, a support system and Rupaul's Drag Race. 

http://stevephillipsmanagement.co.uk/catriona-hewitson-soprano/

Sep 09, 202142:35
Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Julia Burbach

Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Julia Burbach

In the final episode of the first Collective series, I'm joined by the wonderfully insightful and challenging opera director Julia Burbach. This chat almost felt like it was meant to be the final chat as we explored the idea of being a woman in opera, climbing the ladder in the industry, updating operas and an Instagram post which helped sum up the series. 

Sep 06, 202101:14:54
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Amy J Payne

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Amy J Payne

In this week's episode, I'm joined by mezzo-soprano Amy J Payne to break down some walls and stigmas within the operatic world. 

http://stevephillipsmanagement.co.uk/amy-j-payne-mezzo-soprano/

Sep 02, 202131:39
A Moment with the Arts: Ardú

A Moment with the Arts: Ardú

In this episode of A Moment with The Arts I'm joined by vocal ensemble group Ardú to discuss their recent trip to Italy and their new single 'The Phoenix'. 

http://www.ardumusic.com/

Sep 01, 202138:38
Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Laura Attridge

Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Laura Attridge

The penultimate episode of the series is with the gorgeous and thought provoking director, librettist and coach, Laura Attridge.

We have chats about the ego, process, letting go and I tell Laura how she inpired the series being based around 6 female artists. 

https://lauraattridge.com/

Aug 30, 202101:16:31
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Alex Banfield

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Alex Banfield

In this week's episode, I'm joined by tenor Alex Banfield as we discuss all things music, and not just classical. 

http://stevephillipsmanagement.co.uk/


Aug 26, 202142:21
Let's Talk About The Arts with Victoria Secret: Live performances and a Roadmap

Let's Talk About The Arts with Victoria Secret: Live performances and a Roadmap

I’m delighted to be joined by drag artist and business mogul Victoria Secret. Behind Victoria is the business savvy and fierce artist Philip Keogh. Phillip has played a blinder during this past 18 months with various online events, podcasting with his co-host drag artist Davina Devine, organising charity gigs and so much more. Phillip is back doing what he does best, performing live as Victoria to drag fans. However, she has been doing this in the UK and Northern Ireland, as the roadmap for live performances in Ireland is currently very unclear. It was great to sit down with Phillip and discuss his experience as a performer during this time and the many events he has organised that are lying in limbo.

Every artists experience is different and we welcome all experiences at Let’s Talk About The Arts. So please do get in touch if you would like to share your experience as we wait for the industry to get back on its feet.

Aug 25, 202140:55
Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Paula Tierney

Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Paula Tierney

In today’s episode I’m joined by stage-manager extraordinaire, Paula Tierney. I have had the pleasure of working with Paula in various productions over the years, and it was so nice to sit down and learn more about the woman who keeps all of us on the straight and narrow in the rehearsal room and on stage.

Aug 23, 202156:19
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Julia Mariko-Smith

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Phillips Management: Julia Mariko-Smith

I'm delighted to be joined. for the third episode of this series with SPM by soprano Julia Mariko Smith to talk all things soprano, culture, cleaning and Disney. 

Steve Phillips Management is a bespoke agency representing a diverse roster of talented up and coming opera performers. I got the opportunity to speak with Steve Phillips himself on an episode of A Moment with The Arts. I loved hearing all about his new and exciting agency and his singers and asked him if the singers he represented would like to join me on mic and give a little insight in to their lives as opera performers.

It was such a privilege to get the opportunity to sit down and speak with these artists as we delved into everything from mental health, prejudices in the industry, unique hobbies and much more.

Tune in every Thursday to get to know a new singer from Steve Phillips Management.

http://stevephillipsmanagement.co.uk/

Aug 19, 202126:09
A Moment with the Arts 7

A Moment with the Arts 7

In this episode, I'm joined by Corkonian singer-songwriter Jack O'Rourke ahead of the release of his new song 'Patsy Cline' this Friday the 20th of August. 

We also chat about his upcoming album, his 2021/2022 residency in the Centre Culture Irlandais in Paris and the creative process of being a songwriter. 

Aug 18, 202143:57
Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Holly Mathieson

Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Holly Mathieson

In the third episode of this six part series, I'm joined by the insightful conductor, Holly Mathieson.

Episodes of Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera are released every Monday for 6 weeks with each episode featuring a different artist opening up about topics, thoughts and opinions around the Arts Industry. 

Aug 16, 202101:03:57
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Themba Mvula

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Themba Mvula

In episode two, I'm joined by the infectious and explorative baritone, Themba Mvula.

Steve Phillips Management is a bespoke agency representing a diverse roster of talented up and coming opera performers. I got the opportunity to speak with Steve Phillips himself on an episode of A Moment with The Arts. I loved hearing all about his new and exciting agency and his singers and asked him if the singers he represented would like to join me on mic and give a little insight in to their lives as opera performers.

It was such a privilege to get the opportunity to sit down and speak with these artists as we delved into everything from mental health, prejudices in the industry, unique hobbies and much more.

Tune in every Thursday to get to know a new singer from Steve Phillips Management.

http://stevephillipsmanagement.co.uk/

Aug 12, 202137:23
Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Caitlin Fretwell Walsh

Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Caitlin Fretwell Walsh

Episode 2

For the second episode of this Collective series, I'm joined by the positive and inspiring dancer, choreographer and data enthusiast Caitlin Fretwell Walsh.

----------

Welcome to a new strand to the LTATA podcast series.

This is Let’s Talk About the Arts, The Collectives.

These mini series are an opportunity to explore a particular area or topic within the arts industry.

I will continue to speak with diverse, unique and passionate artists, and in upcoming collective series other artists will take my place as host or join me behind the mic as a co-host.

In this series, I get the opportunity to talk to 6 fascinating women who have made and continue to make their mark on the opera world.

I’m joined by directors, conductors, a choreographer and a stage manager as we get to know some of the other jobs it takes to making the music and stories of opera come alive on the stage.



Aug 09, 202101:09:17
Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Emily Garland

Let's Talk About The Arts with Steve Philips Management: Emily Garland

Steve Phillips Management is a bespoke agency representing a diverse roster of talented up and coming opera performers. I got the opportunity to speak with Steve Phillips himself on an episode of A Moment with The Arts. I loved hearing all about his new and exciting agency and his singers and asked him if the singers he represented would like to join me on mic and give a little insight in to their lives as opera performers.

It was such a privilege to get the opportunity to sit down and speak with these artists as we delved into everything from mental health, prejudices in the industry, unique hobbies and much more.

Today I’m joined by the fabulous and kind soprano Emily Garland. Emily had just started working with the Grange Festival when we spoke and it was great to see her back in her element. I’ve been lucky to know Emily for a few years and was so delighted that she brought her openness and supportive nature to this episode.

Tune in every Thursday to get to know a new singer from Steve Phillips Management.

http://stevephillipsmanagement.co.uk/

Aug 05, 202126:17
Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Louisa Muller

Let's Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera with Louisa Muller

Welcome to a new strand to the LTATA podcast series.

This is Let’s Talk About the Arts, The Collectives.

These mini series are an opportunity to explore a particular area or topic within the arts industry.

I will continue to speak with diverse, unique and passionate artists, and in upcoming collective series other artists will take my place as host or join me behind the mic as a co-host.

In this series, I get the opportunity to talk to 6 fascinating women who have made and continue to make their mark on the opera world.

I’m joined by directors, conductors, a choreographer and a stage manager as we get to know some of the other jobs it takes to making the music and stories of opera come alive on the stage.

In my first episode of this 6 part collective series, I’m joined by the powerhouse opera director Lousia Muller. It was a joy to be put in touch with Louisa and I had a great time getting to know this experienced artist with a great point of view to share both in the episode, but of course also on the stage.

So here is the first episode to this new mini series, Let’s Talk About The Arts, The Collectives: Women in Opera

Aug 02, 202159:08
A Moment with the Arts 6

A Moment with the Arts 6

Welcome to Let’s Talk About The Arts: A Moment with Arts presented by Fearghal Curtis. These mini episodes are a chance for you to sit down with a coffee, take a short walk or find a moment in your day to connect with The Arts. It’s a chance to get to hear from an artist, an organisation, or a charity about a project they are releasing and find out a little bit more about what has gone into getting this project out there into the world.

Today I’m joined by the versatile stylings of Rachel Goode.

A trained opera singer who still connects with her country and folk song roots, Rachel is releasing her first single, a cover of Loretta Lynn’s song ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter’ on Tuesday the 27th of July. But that’s not all that is happening on the 27th for her. Irish National Opera’s new opera ‘A Thing I Cannot Name’ will be streamed for the West Cork Literary Festival and Rachel is one of the three singers a part of the production.

It was my first episode of AMWTA in person and it was so gorgeous to share this with Rachel ahead of an exciting week.

Rachel also kindly shared a clip of her new single ahead of the release tomorrow. 

Jul 26, 202134:16
Let's Talk About The Arts with Ruth Medjber: Ownership and Funding Part Two

Let's Talk About The Arts with Ruth Medjber: Ownership and Funding Part Two

This is the second part of a conversation I had with photographer Ruth Medjber about Ownership and Funding within the Arts Industry. In this episode we delve more into funding applications from the artists perspective. 

If you would like to get involved in the conversation, please contact us at Arts@talltales.ie where all feedback, ideas, thoughts and experiences are welcome 

Jun 10, 202131:24
Let's Talk About The Arts with Ruth Medjber: Ownership and Funding Part One
Jun 08, 202140:42
A Moment with the Arts 5

A Moment with the Arts 5

Kev Olden is a singer/songwriter from Cork. Kev relocated to Toronto, Canada just before the lockdown hit last year. He took the time behind closed doors to explore his creativity and artistry, and has recently launched his new single Hush. Kev joined me for a chat about working through creative blocks, following his instincts and to tell us more about Hush.

Kev has kindly shared with us his brand new single, Hush, and we look forward to the next instalment of music from Kev Olden.

@kev_olden

May 06, 202129:41
A Moment with the Arts 4

A Moment with the Arts 4

This week on A Moment with The Arts Eimear Mc Carthy Luddy from Vocology Ireland, Steve Philips from Steve Philips Management and musician/singer Bobbi Arlo join Let's Talk About The Arts to discuss the path to the roles they have found themselves in and staying creative within their roles. 

1.05 @vocologyireland

19.17 @stevephilipsmanagement

32.48 @bobbi_arlo

Apr 22, 202149:35
A Moment with the Arts 3

A Moment with the Arts 3

Ashwin Chacko and Caoimhe Walsh are two artists who have strong messages to share. It was a delight to be joined by them to talk about how they convey their own personal messages through their creativity and skills. 

1.04 @whackochacko

13.49 @fat.lemon.prints

Apr 14, 202129:14
A Moment with the Arts 2

A Moment with the Arts 2

In this weeks episode of A Moment with The Arts, we celebrate mother and daughter duo Mimi&Martha and their new project Colour your World, sister duo In the Nud, and Cellissimo presented by Music for Galway and Galway 2020.

We also have a special recording of Naomi Berrill's premier performance of Bill Whelan's 'Fragments' which was commissioned by Cellissimo for the Galway Cello. The performance is a live recording from the opening concert of the Cellissimo festival. 

We also have a shout out for the boob whisperer Jen who introduced LTATA to In the Nud.

1.05 @bymimiandmartha

5.27 @inthe_nud

10.10 @musicforgalway

13.13 'Fragments' by Bill Whelan performed by Naomi Berrill (@naomiberrillcello)


Apr 01, 202120:60
A Moment with the Arts 1

A Moment with the Arts 1

Welcome to the first episode of Let's Talk About The Arts Presents A Moment with the Arts.

Fearghal Curtis invites you to take a moment for the artists, organisations and projects that inspire, motivate and enhance our lives

Every week Fearghal will come to the mic to uplift and support some of the amazing creativity that is happening in the arts industry. I’ll finish each episode with ‘A Moment to Consider’ where I will present a thought or idea to contemplate on.

They will be short and sweet each week, and I hope will give you an opportunity to embrace what’s happening in the arts and to consider your relationship with the arts and your inner artist.

1.12 Nua Collective @nuacollective.ie

3.37 @irishnationalopera

13.27 @alankeaneart

16.57 @sophwhitewhoop

Mar 24, 202123:23
Let's Talk About The Arts Festival Conversations

Let's Talk About The Arts Festival Conversations

Let's Talk About The Arts Festival Conversations is an opportunity to chat to the organisers, performers and artists involved in festivals and events. 

We are joined by the music festival Cellissimo presented by Music for Galway and Galway 2020 which is a celebration of the warm and rich instrument, the cello.

In the first episode with Cellissimo, LTATA talks with Artistic Director Finghin Collins and Festival Director Anna Lardi.

Mar 24, 202102:02
Let's talk with Loah

Let's talk with Loah

Listing out Sallay Matu Garnetts accolades just doesn’t seem fitting as an introduction to one of the most mesmerising artists I’ve had the privilege of sitting across from. So, I’m going to let her take you through her journey.

My introduction for her is stolen from my first guest and a very good friend of Sallay’s, Stephanie Dufresne;

“She’s a literal angel, Fearghal, I don’t know what else to tell you, ok. She’s a magical, elfin creature and she sings like an angel. So, deal with that.”

And for the last couple of weeks I’ve been dealing with just that. Every Time I’ve come to prepare Sallay’s interview, I’ve turned on her music as a soundtrack to my research, only to fall into a rabbit hole of being swept away by a musician and artist who creates a world that I have no fitting adjectives to describe.

I actually met Sallay, who professionally goes by Loah, back in 2017 through our mutual friend, yep, you’ve guessed it, Stephanie Dufresne. The setting was the popular artist hot spot, Hughes Bar during the Galway Arts Festival, and Sallay instantly captured me with her warm energy, cool vibe and unique speaking tone.

If I mention Steph one more time, I may just have to make it Let’s Talk About The Arts with Steph and Feargh, but it was Steph the next day who filled me in on the wonderful artist and human that Sallay is.

The journey of Let’s Talk About The Arts has been a transformational one for not only my professional life, but also my personal and artistic life. And the heart and passion I’ve explored and learnt from through Loah’s online presence almost seems like the perfect way to end this first series. She is inspiring, enchanting, unique and one of a kind.

Dec 21, 202001:32:14
Let's talk with Dr. Gavan Ring

Let's talk with Dr. Gavan Ring

My guest today is operatic tenor Dr. Gavan Ring. And let me tell you, I have no idea where to start. This man has many strings to his bow.

Hailing from Cahersiveen in Kerry, I was exhausted after reading all of Gavan’s achievements, both in his diverse operatic career and extensive educational background.

I’ve got to work with Gavan a couple of times, most recently in The Magic Flute with Irish National Opera in 2019, where things were a little different. Not only were we performing live theatre, but Gavan was a completely different voice type and The Magic Flute marked his swan song as a baritone.

An extremely intelligent artist, the Dr. part of Dr. Gavan Ring points to his PhD, where he researched Robert O’Dwyers 20th Century Gaelic Opera Eithne. This led to the opera being performed in 2017 for the first time in 107 years, and I was lucky to play a small role opening the opera as the Taoiseach, as Gavan played the High King of Ireland. Maybe in these roles, between us, we could figure out a solution for the Arts crisis we are looking at today.

Not only having resurrected an important part of Irish opera history, Gavan consistently shows his support for the Arts in Ireland, particularly during this tough time. Scrolling through his twitter account, Gavan uplifts all parts of the Irish arts and culture industry, promoting his colleagues and the wonderful work so many do for the Arts. He also kindly shares his wonderful talent and his passion, or gra as he would put it, for music, opera and Ireland.

Lockdown has been a busy time for Gavan. He has continued to perform regularly on new platforms in events that have supported many during this difficult time, as well as being a part of many projects and collaborations, such as album releases and farewell surprises for well known radio presenters.

He also runs his own music school, Cooley Music Academy with his wife Nicola, another wonderful artist. Oh, and yeah, they also welcomed their third child, Dylan.

Truly inspiring, I’m excited to hear how Gavan has managed so many wonderful projects during a crazy time when the Arts has been struggling to survive. With his work ethic, intelligence, passion and talent, Gavan has shown us that despite a crisis, the Arts is and will keep fighting back and flourishing.

Dec 14, 202001:29:30