Just when you thought the summer festival season couldn’t get any busier, along comes Dysart 2008, which is taking place on August 9 and 10 at Dysart Castle in Thomastown, County Kilkenny.

Confirmed to play on Saturday (August 9) are: Jools Holland & His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra with special guest Marc Almond, Blind Boys Of Alabama, John Martyn, Republic Of Loose, Gemma Hayes, Dirty Epics, Luan Parle, The Flaws, Ham Sandwich, Clive Barnes, Dali, Horsebox, The Chapters, Myp Et Jeep, The Minutes, Gorbachov and Distractors.

The Sunday bill – which they’re promising will be just as tasty – is due to be unveiled in the next few days.

Day tickets are €55 (Early Bird), €75 (Advance) and €85 (Gate), with VIP Day and Weekend packages available for €140 and €240 respectively. Tickets are available at http://www.dysartfestival.com

Set in 125 acres of grounds and boasting two natural amphitheatres, Dysart Castle is the birthplace of Ireland’s greatest philosopher, George Berkeley, and is only a few miles from Thomastown railway station.

The Hot Press Newsdesk