This January, First Fortnight returns to challenge mental health stigma and promote mental wellbeing through a national celebration of arts and culture. With a dynamic programme spanning music, theatre, visual arts, and workshops, the festival brings communities together to spark conversation and inspire change.

From marking Nollaig na mBan in Whelans with renowned singer Mary Coughlan and poet Paula Meehan to exploring homelessness through creative expression, the 2025 programme offers something for everyone. Below are some highlights:

Festival Highlights

Workshops
● Mini Placard Movement
Dive into a creative workshop in partnership with Electronic Sheep addressing homelessness and mental ill health. Participants will design mini placards for an art exhibition at Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin. All materials provided; no prior experience required.
● Representing Trauma Onstage Responsibly
Join writer and actor Peter Gowen for a powerful workshop exploring how theatre can responsibly tackle trauma, including the ongoing impact of abuse in Ireland’s past. Hosted at Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin, on January 10.

Nollaig na mBan
Celebrate Women’s Christmas with two Irish icons—Mary Coughlan and Paula Meehan—on January 6 at Whelan’s in Dublin. This unforgettable evening will showcase the creativity, strength, and voices of Irish women through music and poetry.

Music & Performance
● The Art of Mental Health
Experience the premiere of a choral piece by composer Norah Walsh, performed by the Laetare Vocal Ensemble under Róisín Blunnie’s direction. This moving performance will take place in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, on January 16.

Theatre
● The Tightrope Walker
Follow Jenny MacDonald’s gripping and humorous journey through illness and recovery in this moving play. Performances run from January 9–11 at Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin, with post-show discussions on Thursday and Friday.

● Zeitgeist Jukebox
Step into an immersive theatrical experience as Little John Nee leads audiences on a whirlwind mission to create the greatest album of the century. Performances will take place across Sligo, Kildare, Kerry, Wexford, and Donegal.

Visual Arts
● Where’s Your Head At?
Photographer Emily Quinn captures intimate portraits of artists and individuals discussing their mental health strategies. The exhibition opens at The Hunt Museum, Limerick, offering a hopeful and inspiring perspective.

● Don’t Forget to Remember
The National Gallery of Ireland presents a public programme exploring dementia through art, featuring filmmaker Ross Killeen and artist Asbestos from January 9–12.