A mesmerising cinematic experience will showcase some of the best ocean-inspired films and talks at SeaFest 2018. The Atlantic Theatre will host free talks from renowned cameraman Doug Allan, as well as screenings of the documentary Ireland’s Deep Atlantic and children’s animation, Song of the Sea.
The Atlantic Theatre is an exciting addition to Ireland’s spectacular maritime festival, taking place in Galway Harbour from June 29 to July 1. A purpose-built marquee to accommodate 500 people, will be erected at Galway Docks to create the Atlantic Theatre.
Caroline Bocquel, Director of Corporate Services at the Marine Institute said the ocean has always captured the imagination.
“From exploring the high seas to the mystery that lies beneath,the ocean has been inspiring writers, artists and musicians for centuries.
“As so much of our ocean still remains unexplored, filmmakers have played an important part in capturing marine life on camera, helping us to discover more about animal behaviour and the affect humans can have on our planet. The films and talks on offer at this year’s SeaFest aim to deepen our understanding and connection with the ocean,” she added.
Taking centre stage for a series of engaging and inspiring talks is award-winning wildlife cameraman Doug Allan. With eight Emmy Awards and five BAFTAs, Doug Allan has become one of the world’s best known and respected cameramen.
His work alongside Sir David Attenborough on documentaries such as BBC’s Blue Planet and Frozen Planet has seen him venture to some of the wildest and most remote places on the planet. Doug Allan will share his memorable moments from behind the lens at three different talks – Natural Born Thrillers, In the Company of Giants and Freeze Frame.
“We are delighted to be able to host seven talks from the renowned Doug Allan, all completely free to SeaFest visitors. His shows have been known to sell-out quickly, and we believe this will be one of the popular attractions at this year’s festival,” Ms Bocquel said.
Deep sea journey
Underwater cameraman Ken O’Sullivan will take us on a deep sea journey in search of whales, sharks and cold water coral reefs in the documentary Ireland’s Deep Atlantic. The series captured the attention of the entire country last month when the two-part series aired on RTÉ with ground-breaking footage of sea creatures in Irish waters. Irish audiences were wowed by the stunning imagery featured in Ireland’s Deep Atlantic describing it as “hypnotically beautiful”, “magical television”, “truly magnificent footage”. The documentary also explores the health of our ocean with the important message of conservation.
The Academy Award-nominated Song of the Sea is a film the whole family will enjoy. This animated feature, produced by Ireland’s Cartoon Saloon, is a fantastic tale that captivates audiences of all ages with its poetic animation and joyful storytelling. The film takes inspiration for the mythological Selkies of Irish folklore, who live as seals in the sea but become humans on land. Song of the Sea will be screened four times over the weekend, with one of these showings as Gaeilge.
The audio visual attractions continue with the 3D Under the Sea Dome. This engaging interactive experience will take viewers below the ocean surface to view creatures of all sizes – from tiny microscopic organisms to the enormous Humpback Whale. The film Dynamic Earth narrated by Liam Neeson explores the interlocking systems that shape our climate.
In addition to the Atlantic Theatre, SeaFest 2018 will also offer a host of activities on the water, such as performances from World-Champion Flyboarders, vessel tours, as well as sailing and kayaking sessions. Live seafood cookery demonstrations, a Defence Forces Display and kids’ activities are all part of the packed programme of free events.
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