2022 marks the 10th iteration of the Eastside Arts Festival and it shows no sign of letting up. Based across a variety of venues across East Belfast, it showcases a wide range of comedy, theatre, workshops, films and of course music. This year the festival runs between 4th and 14th August 2022.
We’ve picked out a few highlights from the programme below but you should check out the full programme and of course buy your tickets over on the Eastside Arts Festival 2022 website.
As well as hosting a music journalism workshop with editor Stuart Bailie, Dig With It magazine are curating a night showcasing some of the country’s finest artists. Headlined by New Pagans who are just back from a European tour and are renowned for delivering incendiary live performances. Alongside New Pagans, Dig With It’s show will also feature performances from two of hotly tipped artists in Lemonade Shoelace and Winnie Ama. An incredible line-up make this one unmissable.
If electronic music is more your thing, the Night Institute have got you covered. First up they’ve secured the services of Optimo who is widely regarded as one of the most important names in contemporary club culture for a night in the Banana Block. Then later in the festival, Eastside Electronics will see Timmy Stewart & Jordan Nocturne take over C.S. Lewis Square with Ponyhawke and Buru for a special outdoor party.
In The Round events are always special and in the confines of Willowfield Church, you’ll be lucky to encounter three of our finest songwriters. Ciara O’Neill, Ferna and Wilfie Gilbert would be worth the money in their own right, but Eastside are bringing the trio together into one great line-up.
Singer songwriter Owen Denvir has been quiet since the release of his album in 2021 so his return to the live stage should be much anticipated. Adding to the spectacle, Owen will be accompanied by the Eastside Choir which should add a unique slant to proceedings.
Our final pick would be our old favourite Ciaran Lavery who will be playing a set in the surroundings of St. Patrick’s Church. His 2020 album Plz Stay, BB was a gem and this show will hopefully give us a glimpse into what comes next.
