All About Cork: Documentary tells story of plan to save derelict school

An uplifting short documentary about how a rural Cork community rallied together to breathe new life into a derelict former school building that was set to be torn down is now streaming on YouTube.

Produced, directed and edited by award-winning Cork visual artist and filmmaker Lorraine Hogan, ‘Sean Scoil’ highlights the remarkable story of a collective effort by the community of Minane Bridge to save and transform the historic structure.

Built in 1836, the Georgian design school building had faced the very real possibility of being demolished until locals rallied to preserve an important piece of the areas heritage, turning the building into a vibrant community centra and cultural hub.

Featuring inspiring interviews with those behind the ambitious project, and a stirring musical performance by Hothouse Flowers frontman Liam Ó Maonlaí, the film celebrates resilience, heritage, and the enduring spirit of Irish communities.

Ms Hogan’s debut film as producer/director has earned her critical acclaim, and was nominated in the Best Television Documentary in Irish at the 2024 National Student Media Awards.

Her ion for the project shines through in ‘Sean Scoil’ as she brings her unique perspective and skills as a director and producer together to produce an uplifting documentary about the power of community and the sprit that brings people together.

She brings warmth and resonance to a story that is both deeply personal and universal, showcasing her extraordinary talent and ion for storytelling through the project.

The Inkwell Theatre, opened in 2014 by Irish playwright Enda Walsh, forms part of the larger restoration project.

Speaking about the renovation, Ms Hogan said the project was “about more than just a building”.

“It’s a tribute to the power of community, heritage, and volunteerism."

“I hope it inspires others to re-engage with their local spaces, and recognise the potential they have as centres for community, artistic expression and Irish culture,” she added.

‘Sean Scoil’ is available to view on Lorraine’s YouTube channel @lorrainehoganx and on her website www.lorrainehogan.com, where you can find out more about Lorraine and some of her other projects.

Operatic fundraiser

The Cork Operatic Society will bring the magic of the opera to St Mary’s Church of Ireland in Carrigaline this coming Saturday, May 17.

Now celebrating its 15th anniversary, the society continues to thrive as a ionate community of singers dedicated to making opera accessible, engaging, and joyous for all.

Saturday’s concert, a fundraiser for the society, will feature some of opera’s best loved and recognisable pieces including the ‘Chorus of Cigarette Girls’ from Carmen.

The event, under the expert musical direction of Dr Mary G O’Brien, will feature soloists — Peter Thomas O’Reilly (tenor) and Orlaith Horan (soprano).

Tickets for the 4pm performance from https://tinyurl.com/t2186mfw priced at €20.

Janet exhibits wildlife pictures at library

International call-up for Josh

Carrigaline native Josh Holohan is set to fellow Corkonians Caoimhín Kelleher and Jake O’Brien on the Republic of Ireland squad for the first time ahead of a series of friendly matches

The 24 year old, who plays with Shamrock Rovers, has been called up to the senior squad by Irish manager Heimir Hallgrimsson for next months friendlies against Senegal and Luxembourg at the Aviva Stadium, followed by a trip to the Stade de Luxembourg.

The matches are part of Ireland’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup campaign.

The full-back is no stranger to the international scene, having skippered the Republic of Ireland to schools Centenary Shield victory in 2019.

Prior to ing Shamrock Rovers, he spent five years playing with Cork City FC, winning a First Division winners medal in 2022.

He also played Gaelic football, and was a member of the St Francis College Rochestown team that reached the Corn Uí Mhuirí semi-final in 2019.

Africa Day celebrations

Cork County Council has said a range of events will take place in libraries and theatres across Cork in the lead up to Africa Day 2005 on Sunday, May 25.

These will include a performance by Carlow troupe AHA Storytellers, who perform a special show of music, dance, and storytelling in Carrigaline Library this coming Saturday, May 17.

The nine performers, led by Jolly O’Rock, will share the diverse culture and folklore of Africa in a fun, interactive, and educational way. The event takes place from 2pm to 4pm. All are welcome and no booking is necessary.

For more information about Africa Day 2025 see www.corkcoco.ie.

Schools to get pollinator kits

Carrigaline Community Special School is one of 29 Cork schools selected to train young pollinator ambassadors, under the auspices of the Pollinator Project.

The project, a collaboration between SIRO and Biodiversity in Schools, aims to train the next generation of young pollinator ambassadors who will help protect Ireland’s bee populations. Each participating school will receive a pollinator kit packed with essential resources, including wildflower seeds, habitat creation tools, lesson plans, and access to biodiversity workshops.

For schools who want to showcase the initiatives they have taken to create pollinator friendly school environments, there is also the opportunity to compete for the Gold Bee 2025 Award. To enter, schools must share what actions they have taken to pollinators at their school on social media channels or directly by email to Biodiversity in Schools.

One winning school will be awarded the Gold Bee Trophy, and a biodiversity hamper worth €1,000. Entries close at noon on May 30. For more details about the competition visit www.biodiversityinschools.com.

Dance Offering at Opera House

Students at the Carrigaline-based Alan Foley Academy of Dance will present ‘Dance Offering 2025’ at the Cork Opera House for one performance on Saturday, May 31.

The students will be accompanied by special guest artistes from Cork City Ballet and Studio D.

Directed and produced by Alan Foley, this production will showcase the varied talents of the students — ranging from classical balletto energetic modern and jazz dance.

Former students of the academy are currently dancing all over the world, and more have gone on to appear with ballet and contemporary companies.

Many have performed in West End productions such as ‘Chicago’, ‘West Side Story’, ‘Mamma Mia’ and ‘Aladdin’, as well as becoming teachers, choreographers, designers and dance directors.

Principal, Alan Foley said: “We promise to deliver an action-packed series of performances which will leave you thoroughly refreshed and wanting more”.

Tickets for the 6pm performance from wwww.corkoperahouse.ie are priced at €28 and €32.

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