Jonathan Swift Festival: Theatre, Live Music, Fun for the Whole Family

The Jonathan Swift Festival, now in its fifth year, is set to take place from November 22nd to 27th in Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, and will have live music, theatre, family-friendly workshops and more on offer.

The festival celebrates the life of Jonathan Swift, who was a writer, satirist and former Dean of the cathedral. Here’s everything that’s on!

What’s On

The festival opens on Friday week, Nov2 2nd, with Jonathan Swift: Savage Indignation, a special production combining drama, music, and expert interviews at 8:00 PM. 

Written by Gerry Mullins, this unique show tells the story of Swift’s life, focusing on his complicated relationships with Stella and Vanessa, two of the most significant women in his life. Alongside live performances, the event will feature interviews with leading Swift experts, including Cathy Scuffil, and Dr. Brendan Twomey, providing fascinating insights into Swift’s character and times. 

The Choir of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral will provide musical accompaniment under the direction of David Munro, who also composed new songs for the production. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Swift or learning about him for the first time, this performance promises to be a highlight of the festival.

Saturday week, Nov 23, offers a day of engaging activities for all ages. At noon, families can take part in a free of charge Gulliver’s Travelsbookmaking workshop, where children will craft their own adventure stories inspired by Swift’s famous novel. At 3:0pm Jonathan and the Jestwill take attendees on a literary tour of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and Marsh’s Library, guided by actor Damien Devaney as Jonathan Swift and playwright Alice Coghlan. Participants will explore the books that inspired Swift’s satire, some of which bear his own handwritten graffiti.

The festival continues on Tuesday, Nove 26, with the atmospheric Swift Festival Cathedral Night Tour. Attendees will embark on a guided journey through Saint Patrick’s Cathedral by candlelight, discovering the history, legends, and whispers of the past in this iconic Dublin landmark. The festival will conclude on Wednesday, Nov 27 with Swiftly into a Culwick Christmas, a festive concert by the Culwick Choral Society and the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral Girls’ Choir, featuring music from Swift’s era alongside seasonal favourites.

Ed Coleman, Marketing Manager for Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and coordinator of the Jonathan Swift Festival, commented on the significance of this event: “The Jonathan Swift Festival is a key part of celebrating and preserving the legacy of one of Ireland’s most brilliant writers. Swift’s influence on literature and his sharp critique of society still resonate today. We are proud to continue this tradition of honouring his life and work through performances, tours, and activities that engage people of all ages.”

The Jonathan Swift Festival 2024 offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to explore Dublin’s rich literary heritage and celebrate the enduring legacy of one of its greatest figures.

For more information and to book tickets, visit jonathanswiftfestival.ie.