Latest news with #IrishSignLanguage
Scoop
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
International Filmmakers Touch Down For Doc Edge Festival 2025
Over 40 international filmmakers, producers, and film subjects are arriving in Aotearoa for the 20th anniversary of the Doc Edge Festival, and will available for in-person interviews and panels as their films make their world and international premieres. 'As we mark 20 years of Doc Edge, it's incredibly powerful to welcome so many international storytellers to Aotearoa,' says Dan Shanan, Doc Edge Executive Director. 'Their presence here reflects not only the global strength of documentary filmmaking, but also our shared belief in the power of real stories to move, challenge, and connect us all.' From the heart of Samoa to the villages of the Mediterranean, from Bondi's iconic Icebergs to a beloved Tokyo public pool, this year's guests are here to present films that challenge, inspire, and stir conversation, on everything from mental health and climate resilience to queer love, digital hustle culture, war trauma, and identity. Among those in attendance: A Quiet Love (IRE) – Producers Anne Heffernan & Sean Herlihy. In NZ: 1–5 July. Three Deaf couples share intimate love stories in Irish Sign Language, celebrating resilience and connection through an immersive soundscape. Before the Moon Falls (USA) – Director Kimberlee Bassford & Producer Linda Goldstein Knowlton. In NZ: 24 June–20 July (Bassford), 24 June (Goldstein Knowlton). A portrait of Samoan novelist Sia Figiel, exploring mental illness and its impact on individuals and communities after a tragic event. Carrousel (FR) – Director Pascal Messaoudi. In NZ: 30 June–13 July. A poetic look at life in a polluted Mediterranean industrial town, highlighting community joy amid environmental decay. Food Delivery (PH) – Director Baby Ruth Villarama. In NZ: 29 June. A banned film revealing the daily dangers faced by Filipino fishermen and Coast Guard defending their waters. Child of Dust (CZ, PL, QA, SE, VN) – Director Weronika Mliczewska. In NZ: TBC. A son's emotional search for his American father after the Vietnam War, confronting stigma and identity. Click the Link Below (NO) – Director Audun Amundsen. In NZ: 11–20 July. An exposé on the risks and realities of online marketing through the eyes of a filmmaker chasing financial freedom. The Dancer (USA) – Cinematographer Alyssa Brocato. In NZ: TBC. The story of a stateless Syrian refugee who uses dance as survival and returns to war-torn Syria to heal his community. Numakage Public Pool (JP) – Director Shingo Ota & Producer Kyoko Takenaka. In NZ: 29 June–4 July (Ota), 29 June–3 July (Takenaka). A community's grief over the demolition of their beloved Tokyo swimming pool, a space of joy and belonging. The Pool (AUS) – Producer Mary Macrae. In NZ: 1–6 July. An ode to Bondi Icebergs, where generations bond over swimming in the iconic outdoor pool. OCEANIA: Journey to the Center (US) – Director Natalie Zimmerman & Co-Writer/Creative Producer Tekinati Ruka. In NZ: 1–18 July. A poignant film on rising seas, cultural survival, and ancestral resilience on a coral atoll threatened by climate change. Shayni in the Sky (NZ/NO) – Director Gabriel Garton & Film Subject Shayni Couch. In NZ: 30 June–14 July (Garton), from 12 July (Couch). A mother's journey of grief and healing following the tragic loss of her BASE-jumper husband. Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror (USA) – Director Linus O'Brien. In NZ: from 25 June. The definitive documentary on the rise and enduring cult status of the Rocky Horror Show. Yurlu | Country (AUS) – Director Yaara Bou Melhem. In NZ: TBC. The fight for justice and cultural survival against asbestos contamination in Western Australia. YUMI: The Whole World (DE) – Director Felix Golenko. In NZ: 2–6 July. Follow three law students from the University of the South Pacific as they lead a historic campaign to bring climate justice to the International Court of Justice. Alofa (AUS) – Director Rachel Lane. In NZ: 29 June. A former pastor confronts the challenges of faith, culture, and sexuality within traditional Samoan beliefs. Mother of Chooks (AUS) – Directors Jesse Samos Leaman & Maite Martin Samos. In NZ: 29 June–13 July. After loss, Elaine finds unexpected companionship in chickens, becoming a local legend. Where is Home (IND) – Director Lamtiar Simorangkir. In NZ: 29 June–11 July. A boy born behind bars faces new challenges navigating life after release. Nothing is Impossible: The Primanavia Story (FJ) – Director Caleb Young. In NZ: TBC. Fijian choir Primanavia faces immense odds preparing for the World Choir Games. Kapwa (USA/PH) – Co-Director Michaela-Ternasky Holland. In NZ: TBC. An interactive video installation exploring cultural erasure within the Filipino diaspora. Doc Edge Superhero – Ruby Chen, recognised for her outstanding contribution to global documentary filmmaking. In NZ now. Other filmmakers and festival participants from the likes of Australia, Fiji, India, Sweden, Norway, and the Pacific are also arriving throughout the festival season, with many films making their world premieres right here in Aotearoa. Doc Edge 2025 continues in Tāmaki Makaurau until 13 July before moving to Pōneke and Ōtautahi from 16 – 27 July, and online in the Virtual Cinema from 28 July – 24 August. Media are encouraged to book interviews now with available international guests. 2025 KEY FESTIVAL DATES & VENUES Industry: 30 June – 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland Auckland: 25 June – 13 July, Bridgeway Cinema, The Capitol Cinema, SkyCity Theatre and Silo 6 Wellington: 16 – 27 July, The Roxy Cinema Christchurch: 16 – 27 July, Lumiere Cinemas, Christchurch Art Gallery, Tūranga Central Library, and the University of Canterbury Awards: 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland
Irish Independent
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Over 50 free events to take place across Wexford for Cruinniú na nÓg
This year's programme boasts over 50 free events for children taking place on the day across Wexford's five libraries. Additionally, the county's iconic cultural venues, from the National Opera House to the Wexford Arts Centre, will be alive with activities ranging from animation and coding workshops to creative writing, mural painting, printmaking, and much, much more. Also announced in the programme, teenagers from Belfast and Wexford will present a unique virtual reality performance, while a special night time event has been announced for Enniscorthy's Vinegar Hill. Speaking at the programme launch Elizabeth Howard, the creative communities Engagement officer, invited the young people of Wexford to come and be inspired. 'It's a fantastic free day for young people to try something new, show off their skills, or discover a hidden talent. The theme of this year's programme is inclusion and connection and we would encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to join celebrations.' Speaking at the announcement Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council remarked, 'Cruinniú na nÓg is an incredible celebration of youthful creativity, providing a platform for children and young people to participate in the arts within their communities. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the local youth organisations, creative professionals, libraries, and community groups, without whom this event would not be possible. I would encourage all young people in the county to come join the celebrations.' This year specially curated workshops will take place across Wexford's five libraries. Designed from toddlers to twelve year olds, activities can be booked on the official website. At Wexford Town Library, children will have the opportunity to explore the art of weaving or create memory maps through collage, coloring, and drawing. Artist and designer Cuan Cusack will lead workshops focused on creating fine art prints using shadows and sunlight. Young musicians can also participate in the 'music and movement for little ones' workshop. Additionally, theatre maker Alison Ni Mhairtin will conduct an Irish Sign Language drama storytelling workshop specifically designed for children with additional needs. At Gorey Library, renowned painter Lillian O'Sullivan will conduct introductory oil painting classes for children. Young people can explore bookbinding and illustration, or participate in a bilingual singing workshop. Elizabeth Flynn will lead a weaving workshop using seasonal plants, and there will be an opportunity for aspiring computer scientists to learn coding through bracelet-making. Additionally, neurodiverse children, or those who may feel overwhelmed, will benefit from the Sensory Hour facilitated by Cathy Coughlan. At Enniscorthy Library the award-winning designer and upcycling advocate Lynn Haughton will lead a workshop where children can decorate large puzzle pieces with upcycled materials. The Wexford Youth Theatre WACT will offer acting lessons, while NCAD graduate Millie Case will conduct workshops in wet wool felting. Additionally, children can take part in stop motion animation workshops or engage in a sensory activity where they will 'Create their own calm down bottle'. Over at Bunclody Library there will be storytelling through LEGO games and musician Laura Hyland will be leading a workshop in singing and voice work. At New Ross Library artist Celeste Shimora Goedert will lead workshops in 'print making with natural materials' and there will be workshops in drama and music. There are also many other activities geared towards teenagers, and fans of The Banshees of Inisherin. At the Taghmon Family Resource Centre, filmmaker Leah O'Toole, known for her work on The Banshees of Inisherin, will be leading a filmmaking workshop. Additionally, the Red Moon Theatre Company will offer workshops for children. Director Tony McLeane-Fay from Barecheek Theatre Company will conduct acting workshops at The National Opera House and at the Gorey Family Resource Centre there will also be workshops led by mixed media artist Elaine Tobin from the Gorey Arts Collective. Teenagers can look forward to mural painting demonstrations at the Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy, as well as at the Wexford Arts Centre. Facilitated by The Walls Project, Wexford Arts Centre will also host coding workshops presented by Anyone4Science. The Stella Maris Centre in Kilmore Quay will host 'Yola and Our Stories', an engaging theatre workshop for children focusing on heritage, history, and storytelling, facilitated by Chris Moran. This year, teenagers from Wexford and Belfast will come together as part of an innovative 'Shared Island' project that aims to spark critical discussions about misinformation surrounding the topics of climate change and health. The groups will engage online and work with theatre professionals to create a scripted performance. A 360-degree VR video expert will record the final performances, and members of the public will have the opportunity to experience the piece using Google Cardboard viewers that will be available at libraries throughout the county. As part of this year's theme of inclusion and connection, Cruinniú na nÓg will partner with seven groups across Wexford identified as 'Seldom Heard.' These essential community groups provide support to young people on various issues, including LGBTQI+ support, young individuals in direct provision, and those living with long-term illnesses. Each group will be matched with an artist or expert facilitator who comes from similar background or has been through similar life experiences as those participating in the groups. The day will end with a bang on top of Vinegar Hill featuring 'The Night Belongs to Youth,' a collaborative project with Creative Places Enniscorthy. The sunset event on Vinegar Hill will be open to the public and will feature a movement piece led by young people of Enniscorthy to the summit of the hill. The full schedule with details can be accessed on the website.
Irish Independent
19-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
‘Science isn't distant … it's in your city over a pint' – Pint of Science Festival kicks off in Dublin pubs
Like how artificial intelligence can interpret your emotions, or how sepsis can strike without warning, and what you should do if it does? Tonight marks the launch of the three-day Pint of Science Festiva l, taking place across nine pubs in Dublin. Running from May 19 to May 21, the festival invites the public to engage with researchers and scientists in a relaxed and informal setting. Pint of Science is a charity organisation committed to making science accessible to everyone. 'We are trying to break down the traditional barriers between scientists and the public,' says Dr Namrata Iyer, a microbiologist and director of Pint of Science Ireland. 'Science isn't just for labs and lecture halls. It's for everyone – and what better place to talk about it than over a pint?' Two events in Dublin will also include Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreters. 'The interpreters study the talks in advance, prepare for technical terms, so that people can join in and enjoy,' says Dr Iyer, who one day hopes to give her own talk on topics like human microbiome or how women's health is underrepresented in science. One of the anticipated talks this Wednesday night comes from Professor Steve Kerrigan, Deputy Head of the School of Pharmacy (Research) at RCSI, whose work on sepsis focuses on saving lives by raising awareness. 'The whole point of Pint of Science is... I just want people to understand this is what sepsis is, from what we know what it is, and take it from there,' he says. Professor Kerrigan warns that the signs of sepsis are dangerously easy to miss. 'If you've got cancer, you may feel sick, and you'll go to your doctor and be looked after,' he said. 'If you have a stroke, there are visible signs – your face might change, your speech may slur, or you might have difficulty with your tongue. 'But with sepsis, nothing changes, and this is where the problem lies: it's non-specific. 'If people ignore the signs and symptoms associated with sepsis, that is when the infection spreads to all parts of the body and is very difficult to treat after that.' Rachna Gowlikar, co-manager of the event, says Pint of Science also brings people closer. 'It's a chance to walk into a pub, grab a pint, and ask a scientist, 'What exactly do you do, and why?' That simple question can spark real conversations and new ideas,' she said. 'Events like these don't just make science accessible, they make it human. It's not a lecture hall or a lab. 'It's a creative space where you meet locals, challenge ideas, and realise that science isn't distant. It's right here, in your city, over a pint.' Events run from 7pm to 9pm each evening, and the festival is free to attend. For full details visit
Extra.ie
14-05-2025
- Business
- Extra.ie
Baffled by Broadband? ComReg helps you find out what your options are
Technology changes quickly, and with so much of our work and personal lives relying on digital tools, it can feel overwhelming to stay informed. Take broadband, for example. ComReg carried out a Broadband Connectivity Survey in 2023 that found 44% of people work from home at least one day a week- but do you know if you have the right package for your needs? Well if you don't, ComReg can help! The Commission for Communications Regulation has been providing consumers with reliable guidance on broadband, mobile and landline services since 2002. Pic: Getty Images ComReg has recently updated its free online tool Compare, that's an easy-to-use resource where you can click on the service you are looking for to discover all the options that are available to you. The tool searches for mobile, broadband, home phone and bundle plans that are tailored to your needs, that way you know you're getting the very best value for money. Pic: Shutterstock When comparing broadband plans, you can filter by a number of ways: Technology Speed Provider Contract length For a new mobile plan, you can choose between bill pay or pre-pay, and filter by technology and plans that include phones. You can even check which plans do not have annual price increases. Pic: Shutterstock ComReg doesn't just help you compare packages and bundles, they also provide information on how to switch smoothly if you need to do so. For example, did you know that if you lose service when switching, the disruption shouldn't last more than one working day? As well as the Compare tool, ComReg's website also has advice and information about mobile and broadband services along with helpful tools that allow you to check broadband availability and a mobile coverage map. If you need help, ComReg's Consumer Care team is available to assist you, or your authorised representative, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday (excluding public holidays). You can contact ComReg's dedicated Consumer Care team by phone at (01) 8049668, via email to consumerline@ or online complaint form or live chat over on the website Sending a text with the words COMREG or ASKCOMREG to 51500 will request a call or text back (standard SMS rates apply), while you can send a letter to the Consumer Care Team, ComReg, One Dockland Central, Guild Street, Dublin 1, D01 E4X0. An Irish Sign Language facility is available on request and you can contact ComReg Consumer Care via text relay. For more information, visit
The Journal
07-05-2025
- Business
- The Journal
Bamboozled by broadband? Learn about what options are best for you
WHEN IT COMES to communications technology, not all of us are experts – and that's okay. With the rapid change in the technology we rely on for personal use and work these days, it can be hard to keep on top of everything. Luckily, there is help out there if you don't know the answers to everything. ComReg (the Commission for Communications Regulation) is the regulator and a source of trusted advice and support for consumers when it comes to electronic communications services (mobile phone, home phone and broadband). They are experts in electronic communications services and offer independent information to answer any question. ComReg's website should be your go-to for any guidance you may need about modern communications. ComReg's 2023 Broadband Connectivity consumer survey shows that 44% of respondents work from home online at least one day a week. We're all doing more with broadband than ever before, highlighting its important role in Ireland's future. ComReg recently updated its free online resource called Compare . This online tool helps people find a mobile, broadband, home phone or bundled plan that best suits their needs. Click on the service you are looking for to discover your options. When comparing broadband plans, you can filter by technology, speed, service provider and contract length. For a new mobile plan, you can choose between bill pay or pre-pay, and filter by technology and plans that include phones. You can even check which plans do not have annual price increases. As well as telling you what phone and broadband plans are out there, ComReg has plenty of helpful advice and information about mobile and broadband services along with helpful tools that allow you to check broadband availability and a mobile coverage map . Advertisement Shutterstock / Prostock-studio Shutterstock / Prostock-studio / Prostock-studio They also offers tips on switching providers. Did you know when switching if any issues in this process lead to you losing service, this must not exceed one working day? ComReg's Consumer Care team is available to assist you, or your authorised representative, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday (excluding public holidays) Web: for online complaint form and live web chat Email: consumerline@ Phone: (01) 8049668 Text: COMREG or ASKCOMREG to 51500 to receive a call or text back (standard SMS rates apply) Post: Consumer Care Team, ComReg, One Dockland Central, Guild Street, Dublin 1 D01 E4X0 Irish Sign Language: Irish Sign Language facility is available on request. Text Relay: You can contact ComReg Consumer Care via text relay. For more information, please visit
