The LASTA Festival is Back

By Marcus Cropper

For its fifth edition, Limerick-based theatre-makers and enthusiasts Ilinca Luca and Marcus Cropper were chosen to curate a festival programme that appealed to young people and that functioned as a launch pad for young, talented artists. The festival returns to The Belltable Theatre after its official launch at The Record Room on the 24th of September with Häxan❤️iluvmakayla123 a screening of the 1922 classic silent movie soundtracked by electroclash hits and goth bangers.

Music, film and dance are a core part of this year’s lineup, reflecting both the interests of the curators and those of a blooming youth culture at the heart of Limerick’s population; two further events were put together.

On the 28th of October there will be two screenings of the iconic 1980 comedy 9 to 5. The film starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and the late Dolly Parton as three disgruntled women in a New York office who form a tight bond while seeking revenge on their sexist boss (Dabney Coleman) for years of being undervalued, sexually harassed and verbally abused. Another event Nighttime Medleys will be held on the 30th of October; a variety show bringing together three special performers Day Magee, Whimsy and Alex Vostokova in an intimate setting on the Belltable stage. Showcasing performance, drag clowning and dance, the Medley is a celebration of mischief makers and beautiful oddities.

The Lime Tree and Belltable Theatres are a part of a network of venues that make up The LASTA Festival. Young Curators across the nation over the course of a year have put together programmes after mentorship from theatre professionals that reflects the values and interests of Ireland’s young people. Limerick is very proud to be a part of this network and hopes that when it returns, there will still be the same fervent enthusiasm there from young people to get out and go to Arts Spaces and connect with each other and the artists presenting.