Nollaig na mBan: Women of Magic and Science

Please note, attendees must be aged 18 or over

Nollaig na mBan: Women of Magic and Science

The Irish Writers Centre will be kicking off the new year with their legendary annual celebration of Nollaig na mBan. Originally a day off for Ireland’s hard-working women immediately after Christmas, the Irish Writers Centre reimagines this tradition by showcasing extraordinary women writers in Ireland.

For this year’s theme, WOMEN OF MAGIC AND SCIENCE, expect explorations of witchcraft, tarot talk and scientific endeavour: from Ireland's first female botanist, Ellen Hutchins to women working in the field of quantum physics. Award-winning poet Jessica Traynor will host the evening’s celebration which takes place for the first time at Pearse Street Library in Dublin. Look forward to an evening of phenomenal readings, spirited discussion and live music.

This year’s line-up includes:

Newly commissioned work from novelist Nuala O’Connor who will be writing on the legendary Irish herbalist and ‘wisewoman’ Biddy Early. Fresh from her artist residency at the Institute of Physics, Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan will be reading a new piece on quantum physics and poetry.

Readings from novelist, essayist and podcaster Sophie White, poet Anne Tannam and novelist Marianne Lee.

Also featured is writer Shauna Gilligan, a representative of Irish PEN/PEN na hÉireann, who will read from her publication Fire, a tribute to the sacred feminine, Brigid, and the heritage of Kildare.

Musical entertainment will be provided by musician and composer Zoé Basha. Her sound explores the crossovers between the sway of Appalachian mountain songs, the fervor and solemn ornamentation of Irish traditional songs, the polyphonic, pushing rhythm of French Occitan music and American ragtime.

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Remember to bring a book!

As in previous years, we’re encouraging those attending to take part in a New Year’s Kris Kindle extravaganza. Bring along a much-loved book by a woman writer, wrap it and label or tag it with a description of no more than three lines. If you bring a book, you go home with one too!

*Drinks provided* We will be serving complementary wine, whiskey and soft drinks on the night. We would like to thank Dublin Liberties Distillery who will be providing us with a fabulous selection of whiskey!

Host or Publisher Irish Writers Centre