By Peter Senan
Photos: jbs
When the ‘Twilight group’ in Kilkenny, was founded, the Romanian sector, resident in Kilkenny, could hardly imagine how successful it would be. However, the success of the group was plain to see, as the Set theatre came alive with theatre, music, song and crafts recently.
It was a special cultural event celebrating the growing friendship between Ireland and Romania bringing together local authorities, diplomats, artists, and members of the Romanian community for an afternoon of culture, literature, music, and theatre.
Strong bond
Speaking at the event H.E Laurențiu-Mihai Ștefan, Romanian Ambassador to Ireland said: “Romanian connections showcased the strong bonds between Romania and Ireland, between the Embassy of Romania in Ireland and the county and city of Kilkenny. The glue is a vibrant and well-integrated community of Romanians who decided to make Kilkenny their home. The number of local and national officials attending the event was a strong indication of the appreciation towards the Romanians living in this beautiful city. I am extremely happy any time I have the opportunity to return to Kilkenny, and thankful for the extraordinary welcome from the part of Romanians and Irish alike.”
Making an extra special impact on the day were Romanian theatre company Boemii who presented a theatre production of “Emigranții” (The Immigrants), an extraordinary play exploring migration, identity, and human connection. “They were delighted to kick off their national tour at the Set theatre, led by Gabi Martinescu, performing in front of the lovely Romanian-Irish community from Kilkenny. The group was particularly impressed by the Irish friends who managed to stay until the end and read the translated play while the show was on. Boemii were grateful for the invitation to have the chance to perform in such a wonderful and unique theatre.”
The Kilkenny Observer also chatted with Stefan J Doyle who played a major role in proceedings as host. The former X Factor contestant told the Observer that it was a real honour to host the event. “Seeing the different cultures together is something I would love to see more of” said Stefan.
Strength
Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh said she was delighted to attend the event and Paid a special welcome to the Romanian ambassador. “Your work to strengthen the political, economic and cultural ties between Ireland and Romania is deeply appreciated here in Klkenny” said the council chairperson.
Mayor John Coonan congratulated the organisers and thanked the Romanian community for their contribution to Kilkenny in such areas including hospitals, restaurants and the arts. “I must say I am very impressed with the display of arts, crafts and literature on display here, which contributes greatly to our city and county” said Mayor Coonan. Andrew McGuinness, Chairperson of The Southern Assembly described the Romanian community as hard working people with wonderful traits such as craftsmanship, hospitality and communities where people still genuinely look out for one another. “What I particularly admire about the Romanian community in Kilkenny is how they have integrated into Irish life so naturally, but without losing their own identity, culture or pride”, concluded the city councillor.
Friendship
The afternoon also included a presentation of the celebrated travel book “Transylvania and Beyond” by acclaimed Irish travel writer Dervla Murphy. The book review was presented by Dr. in political science Ms Simona Chirchiu. Also on view was an exhibition of sculpture and painting by Valeriu Cazacevski, pottery by Oana Alexandra, flowers by Daniela Bogdan, and cakes by Cinderella Javed.
Guests also enjoyed a musical performance by Irish band ‘Trei Prieteni’ and later ‘The Four Quarters’. The venue was full and the audience included people from Romanian, Kilkenny and Carlow. Present also was Kilkenny TD John McGuinness
Organizer of the event Liviu Iftime said: “This proved a great opportunity to celebrate friendship, cultural exchange, and the important contribution and opening of the Romanian community to life in Kilkenny and Ireland.
