EVENTS: Arts centre in Tipperary announce local film showcase this September

The Source Arts Centre in Thurles will screen two local films this September, showcasing local Irish film-making.

The first local screening details the story of the Potato, as told through Traditional Irish music, song, and dance.

‘The Garden Where The Praties Grow’ explores the poignant Irish history of the potato in this compelling documentary that intertwines the cultural significance and history of potatoes or "praties" in Ireland.

Through traditional Irish music, viewers will journey through the struggles and resilience of a nation. Discover how the potato, once a staple of daily life, became a symbol of both hardship and hope, resonating deeply within the Irish identity.

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Filmed in the original founders' building at Seed Savers, Co. Clare, the documentary captures the live performances by some of Ireland’s finest musicians gathered by Tommy Hayes alongside interviews with growers and experts in biodiversity, offering a wider perspective on the cultural and historical impact of the potato.

‘The Garden Where The Praties Grow will screen on Wednesday September 10 at 8.00pm

Tickets cost €10.

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The second local screening slot, is Nicholas Ryan Purcell’s new film charts the birth, decline and revival of a rural Irish village through strong community efforts in ‘Loughmore To The Front’.

Loughmore village first grew following the Anglo-Norman invasion in 1169 and villagers worked for the Purcell family who settled in Loughmore Castle.

The last Baron, whose grandmother lived in Black Castle in Thurles town fought in historic battles including the Siege of Limerick, drained his monies on raising army troops.

The estate fell into debt, and the industries of that era went to their ruin. The village declined and was almost forgotten until the Gaelic Athletic Association reignited the community spirit in the 1880s, forming the Loughmore-Castleiney club.

More recently, the centre of the village remained quiet until one lady had a lightbulb idea to revitalise it - with a now bustling tearoom.

Descendants of the castle arrived in the village in 2024 for a celebration of their heritage- merging history with a strong contemporary community spirit.

This second screening will take place on Thursday September 11 at 8.00pm.

Tickets cost €8 and are almost sold out!

Advance tickets for all shows are available online at www.thesourceartscentre.ie - or by phone from the Box office on 0504 90204.