2006-Bring it on

Well as I missed the boat for lists here are some of the things I hope to see more of in 2006.

Good New Arts Locations: Impact was a great addition to Limerick showing challenging theatre and used well as an exhibition space. Hopefully it will grow even stronger in 06. I was a little cynical about the new daghdha space in Johns Square but having been and heard the tremendous buzz around about the mamuska nights- I’m sold and look forward to checking out other stuff there. Also the possibility that we will see a new art house cinema in the Theatre Royal building is great although this story has been out there before so we will have to wait and see I suppose.

Gigs: C o ffee and Cream in Impact was uplifting and hopefully it will be the first of many contributions from Limerick’s new communities. While DeLorean Suite’s set at BudRising Limerick in November bodes very well for their progress in 2006. Check their site for news on hometown gigs in the first quarter of this year. My favourite nights in 2005 however were our two with v inyl and nu killa crew in Dolans. Three rooms is the way to go, great atmosphere and excellent variety. Hopefully we will see more of Access all Areas in the future. Here is Harry from Rootical on paddys eve in Dolans. More shots from Dolans (sugarhill, tu-ki, gc underground etc) here.

Red Flags: It was funny to see the Red Flag hoisted over King Johns Castle this year. A tourist board spokeperson said it was because it was a strong colour but I liked to see the irony in it being hoisted less than 100 yards away from the plaque commemorating the Limerick Soviet and across the road from the building which once housed Limerick’s infamous Maoist Bookstore in the early 70s. Politically it was a year when we got to see people feeling that they could stand up and make a difference with the Rossport Five and the Irish Ferries march being particularly memorable. Bring the Noise

Radio: The Bottom Dogs article from earlier in the year pointed out much of the good stuff on conventional radio but I have also been delighted with the range on internet and digital. Billy Jams and exile eye’s supreme void shows are how all radio should sound: passionately delivered and with surprises a plenty. It has also been nice to finish up the weekend with Rodigan on Kiss. Television, well I might start watching more of it if we could have more of these type of quality shows!

Ray Darcy, DJ Mek with Zig and Zag way way back in the day