BOOK NOW, PAY LATER – Irish Playwright Retreat
Step into the World of Brian Friel – A Unique Donegal Retreat
Discover the stories, landscapes, and cultural essence that inspired one of Ireland’s greatest playwrights, Brian Friel, during this immersive three-day retreat in Glenties, Donegal. From April 4–6, 2025, experience the beauty of Donegal’s rugged landscapes while exploring the works of Friel, including Dancing at Lughnasa, Translations, The Faith Healer, and more.
Set at the charming Ballybeg House in Glenties, this retreat is a carefully curated experience blending literary exploration, creative workshops, and Donegal’s rich heritage. From insightful discussions to live music and traditional craft workshops, participants will connect with Friel’s world in an unforgettable way.
Brian Friel Donegal Retreat
Dates: 4–6 April 2025
Location: Ballybeg House, Glenties, Donegal
Once registered, participants will join our exclusive WhatsApp group for regular updates, travel tips, and the opportunity to connect with fellow attendees.
What’s Included?
Day 1 – Friday, 4th April 2025
- Welcome Reception: Begin your retreat at Ballybeg House with live traditional music, a gift basket on arrival, and readings of excerpts from Friel’s iconic works, including Dancing at Lughnasa and Translations.
- Dinner at the Highlands Hotel: Enjoy your first retreat meal at the Highlands Hotel, a venue steeped in cinematic history. This is where Meryl Streep and the cast of Dancing at Lughnasa visited during their stay in Donegal while filming the movie adaptation of Friel’s celebrated play.
Day 2 – Saturday, 5th April 2025
- Morning Scones and Readings: Gather for freshly baked scones and a reading of The Faith Healer at Ballybeg House.
- Museum Visit and Knitting Workshop: Explore Donegal’s cultural heritage with a visit to the Glenties Museum, followed by a hands-on knitting workshop that showcases traditional techniques explored in Friel’s play.
- Personal Restorative Time:
- Visit Brian Friel’s grave.
- Enjoy a drink at a traditional Glenties pub.
- Take time to explore the charming town of Glenties at your leisure.
- Dinner at the Thatch Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Donegal’s most inviting local restaurants, offering an authentic taste of the region.
- Ceili Dancing at Ballybeg House: Dance the night away with live music and ceili dancing, celebrating Donegal’s rich cultural traditions.
Day 3 – Sunday, 6th April 2025
- Early Morning Sea Dip: Refresh your body and spirit with an invigorating dip at Portnoo Beach, a local favourite.
- Scones and Final Readings: Reflect on the retreat with another reading of The Faith Healer over scones and tea at Ballybeg House.
- Farewell Lunch at Highlands Hotel: Conclude the weekend with a heartfelt farewell meal, celebrating the connections and inspiration gained during the retreat.
What’s Not Included?
- Accommodation: While accommodation is not included, we are happy to recommend a selection of charming stays in Glenties, from boutique guesthouses to cosy hotels.
Pricing
- Full retreat package: £395 per participant.
- Early registration offer: 10% off if you book by December 1, 2024.
Booking, Registration, and Invoicing: BOOK NOW, PAY LATER
To Register
Contact Tally Knipe:
📧 Email: tally@eventwiseni.com
📞 Phone: (+44) 0789 820 8540
Payments can be made directly through our website, by Bank Transfer, or secure payment link (3.5% surcharge).
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to connect with Irish Playwright Brian Friel’s world, surrounded by Donegal’s breathtaking beauty.
Terms and Conditions
Please note our cancellation policy: There will be a £50 admin fee if you cancel after booking; £100 cancellation fee within 60 days of the retreat; £200 cancellation fee within 30 days. No refunds will be given for cancellations made less than 14 days before the retreat.
IRISH PLAYWRIGHT
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Don’t Take Our Word For It – Hear from people who have attended previous EventWise retreats…
“If you are considering attending I would say just do it! A life changing experience that I will keep and build on forever. I knew it would be good but wow I could never have imagined how good. Perfect from start to finish.”
Diane Maddison
“Tally is so warm, welcoming and caring; she made me feel so welcome and safe. I am very thankful for that, and carry that wonderful experience with me – it was so clear that every second of the programme was designed to make us happy and connect. This was a GREAT experience!
Sanne Romdal-Bennett
“The splendour of the Wild Atlantic Way, the warmth of the Irish folk and the beautiful green rolling hills of Donegal, afforded us the most special experience during the Donegal Retreat. Interesting activities to include morning yoga on the beach, a boat trip, camp fire at night on the beach and an optional walk up to Sliabh Liag, there was something to suit everyone. The attention to detail and superior quality of delivery, both from the event organiser Tally, and the lead facilitator, made it special indeed, adding value and enhancing self worth, in a safe, friendly environment, with like- minded people. I would highly recommend doing this retreat and look forward to going to another workshop!”
Chantal Sargent
“This was an excellent retreat. I would highly recommend it to anyone who needs to take time out for reflection from both work and personal challenges. It really does help to generate a refreshing and recalibrate and prioritise your personal life.”
Gerard Butcher
“Events that enable growth rather than simple training are rare, and as rare opportunities go to work with and bond with others and ultimately new friends, this was exceptional.”
Michael Appleton