A SPECTACULAR afternoon of contemporary dance, traditional culture and striking island landscapes will take place on Gola Island on Monday, July 13 as part of Earagail Arts Festival.
Beginning at 12 noon, the free outdoor event brings together Ériu’s Na Mic Ua gCorra, Rob Heaslip and Mateusz “Matt” Szczerek, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience contemporary performance in one of Donegal’s most breathtaking settings.
Returning to Gola Island for their annual Earagail Arts Festival residency, Na Mic Ua gCorra and Ériu present The Unleaving, the latest chapter in their ongoing exploration of landscape, belonging and the relationship between people and place.
Inspired by the history of Ireland’s offshore islands, the new work reflects on the lives of those who remained behind while others left in search of work and opportunity.
The programme of events on Gola Island will also feature Wake Amusements, a new work by Rob Heaslip.
Set against the dramatic Atlantic backdrop, the performance blends movement, traditional song and music with contemporary electronic soundscapes to explore themes of migration, identity and community. It also offers a timely reflection on modern life, asking what it means to remain connected to place in an increasingly digital world.
The programme also features Wake Amusements, a new work by Arts Council International Residency Award recipient Rob Heaslip.
Inspired by the book Irish Wake Amusements, the performance revives the lively games once played at Irish wakes to entertain mourners during long vigils. Once frowned upon and eventually suppressed, these playful traditions are brought vividly back to life through movement, humour and audience interaction.
Completing the triple bill is Memory of The Skin, a work-in-progress by Polish-born, Dublin-based choreographer and performer Mateusz “Matt” Szczerek. Artistic Director of Human Collective, Szczerek is renowned for blending street dance, Krump and contemporary movement into a distinctive choreographic style. A regular performer with CoisCéim Dance Theatre, his appearance on Gola Island forms part of a celebration of the cultural connections between Donegal and Poland.
Dublin-based choreographer and performer Mateusz “Matt” Szczerek will present Memory of The Skin.
Supported by the Embassy of Poland in Ireland, the event celebrates Donegal’s partnership with Poland during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.
Admission is free, although visitors should note that Gola Island ferry fares are not included and cash payment is required for the crossing.
Ferry fares and sailing times are available by calling 087 224 5881 before travelling.
As the performances take place outdoors across the island, audiences are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and wear suitable footwear, as conditions can change quickly.
Set against the spectacular scenery of Gola Island, this unique afternoon of dance promises an unforgettable blend of contemporary performance, living tradition and the wild beauty of Donegal’s Atlantic coast.