News

A Michael Hartnett poem 'Gné na Gaeltacht', set to music by acclaimed composer Bill Whelan of River Dance fame, formed part of the 2011 St Patricks Day festivities at the White House this year. The title of the poem translated into English ‘The Gaeltacht Face’ was performed in front of President Obama, the First Lady, Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny and a large selection of dignitaries. 'Gné na Gaeltacht' is the latest poem of Michaels to be set to music- Sean Tyrrell (‘Belladonna in the Bar’ and ‘The Ghost of Billy Mulvihill’), 'Dán do Lara, 10/Poem for Lara 10' and 'Sibelius in Silence'are just a few others. The poem ‘The Gaeltacht Face’ now appears on our poetry page.

2011 marks the 70th anniversary of the birth of Michael Hartnett. To commemorate this milestone a new statue of the celebrated poet was officially unveiled in the Square Newcastle West on Saturday 16th April as part of the annual Éigse Michael Hartnett Festival. The sculpture which was designed by Rory Breslin, depicts Michael Hartnett standing on the edge of a rugged stone, 'stroking his chin in a poise that portrays the thinking man, solidly grounded in his community and culture, while at the same time, on edge, which is the restless condition of the poet'. The sculpture was unveiled by fellow poet and friend Paul Durcan in front of a large audience. Click pictures to enlarge.(pic-1 Hartnett family, pic-2 , Poets -Paul Durcan, Theo Dorgan and Paula Meehan