Alley Theatre to host Prestigious International Conference
11 June 2025
The 8th International Flann O’Brien Conference is set to bring a vibrant gathering of scholars and enthusiasts of Flann O Brien’s work to Strabane’s Alley Theatre from June 25th to 27th, 2025.
This prestigious event, hosted in Strabane for the first time, will delve into this year’s theme: An Fód Dúchais: Home, Heritage, and origins.
Jointly hosted by the International Flann O’Brien Society and Strabane History Society the conference marks a significant return to O ’Nolan’s birth town, Strabane. The town, with its unique geographical and historical position perfectly embodies themes of fluidity and contested spaces — concepts central to O’Brien's satirical and often surreal literary output.
On Tuesday, June 24th, an informal pre-conference gathering of conference delegates will be hosted at Farmer’s Home, Railway Street, Strabane.
This international gathering promises to be a rich exploration of Flann O’Brien’s literary genius, offering insights into his enduring relevance and the unique cultural landscape that shaped his extraordinary imagination.
The conference will feature three distinguished keynote speakers: Dr. Tobias W. Harris (Birkbeck, University of London); Dr. Michael Pierse (Queen’s University Belfast) and Dr. Emily Ridge (University of Galway).
The conference commences on Wednesday, June 25th, with a Walking Tour of Flann O’Brien’s Strabane led by members of The Alley Theatre team, scripted by Strabane History Society offering our international delegates a unique perspective on the town that influenced O ‘Nolan’s work. The day will also include a keynote address by Dr. Emily Ridge titled 'Dul Siar, Dul Siar: The Ever-Receding West in An Béal Bocht', followed by an Official Opening with a Civic Reception and performances led by local artists to welcome delegates to Strabane.
Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of academic panels throughout the three days, covering topics such as "Old and New," "Science and Health," "Technology and Media," and "Social Contexts & Formative Communities."
Thursday, June 26th, will feature a keynote address by Dr. Tobias Harris, 'Ag Fuineadh Ama: Opening Closed Ground in the Works of Brian Ó Nualláin', and a special Film Screening showcasing "Babble" (2008) by David O'Kane and "Re-enactment" (2009) by Eamon O'Kane, both inspired by O ‘Nolan’s work.
The evening will conclude with a Book launch for Flann O’Brien and the European Avant-Garde, 1934–45 (Bloomsbury Academic, 2025) and the launch of Micheál Ó Nualláin Art Exhibit by Anna Uí Nualláin in the museum services space at The Alley Theatre gallery. In the main gallery, O’Kane Family will also launch “Strange Enlightenments”; responses to the work of Brian O’ Nolan featuring artwork by Eddie O’Kane, Joanna O’Kane, Eamon O’Kane, Matthew O’Kane and David O’Kane which will be showcased throughout the summer months.
The final day, Friday, June 27th, includes a keynote address by Dr. Michael Pierse on 'False Alternatives and Grim Absurdities: Flann O'Brien’s Social Critique of Independent Ireland in At Swim-Two-Birds and An Béal Bocht'.
Each lunchtime a local artist will provide music on our café stage.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Ruairí McHugh said it was a huge honour for the Alley Theatre to host a conference of this calibre. Extending his best wishes to everyone involved in the event he said he hoped it would be a huge success.
He acknowledged the role played by officers of Derry City and Strabane District Council in working to bring this event to the Alley Theatre, while also showcasing what Strabane has to offer in what will be a great visitor experience and a chance for the local community to capture a taste of Flann O Brien from an academic perspective from his town of birth.
Louise Boyce, Venue Manager, Alley Theatre highlighted the importance of hosting the 8th International Flann O'Brien Conference. I am thrilled to see our collaborative efforts come to fruition in the stunning Alley Theatre, Strabane. Our partnership with local businesses, community groups, and council departments has been instrumental in shaping this event into a celebration of Flann O'Brien's legacy that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply rooted in the local community. From working closely with the Strabane History Society to script a captivating walking tour, to collaborating with local artists, businesses and Flann O Brien International Society for our book and art launches, every detail has been carefully curated to showcase the best of Strabane. I am proud of the cross-departmental work that has gone into ensuring the success of this conference, and I am confident that it will be an unforgettable experience for our delegates. Our aim is to not only celebrate Flann O'Brien's literary genius but also to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Strabane and its people. I look forward to welcoming our international guests and sharing the warmth and hospitality of our community with them.
For further information and programme details please visit www.alley-theatre.com or contact Alley box office 02871384444 or visit. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 4.30pm