Two-part film series to celebrate work of Slane poet Francis Ledwidge

A number of renowned Irish artists – including Steve Wickham (pictured) and Oisín Leech – have come together for Where Angles Listen, a two-part film series celebrating the life and work of poet Francis Ledwidge. 

Curated by award-winning playwright and Aosdána member Deirdre Kinahan, the films feature original performances inspired by Ledwidge's poetry, alongside readings of his work. Together, the two films reflect the enduring relevance of one of Ireland's most beloved poets.

The project was filmed across locations closely connected with the poet and the landscapes that shaped his imagination. Part one features Steve Wickham , Saramai Leech, Kwaku Fortune, Oisín Leech, and Lewis Kenny, while part two features a similar lineup, with the addition of Deirdre Kinahan.

12th December, 2023.Where Angels Listen
With SoFFt Productions & Meath County Council Arts office. Pictured is writer Deirdre Kinahan in Slane, County Meath.Photo:Barry Cronin/www.barrycronin.com

Each participating artist was invited to immerse themselves in Ledwidge's poetry and create their own unique response, resulting in a  conversation with Ledwidge's words that is both personal and contemporary – one that honours his profound connection to nature, love, loss, place and the human experience.

Born in Slane, County Meath,  in 1887, Francis Ledwidge – who began submitting his poems to newspapers at the age of 14 – remains one of the great  enigmas of the Irish poetic canon. Described as the "poet of the blackbirds", his work drew inspiration from the landscapes of the Boyne Valley, and reflects themes of love, nature, memory and war. A nationalist, who formed a local branch of the Irish Volunteers, he nonetheless joined the British Army and his life was cut short during the First World War, when he was killed during the Third Battle of Ypres at the age of twenty-nine. His poetry has been set to music from as far back as 1920, in the song cycle Over The Rim of the Moon, by the British songwriter and composer, Michael Head.

Where Angles Listen is produced by SoFFT Productions in association with Meath Arts Office, with support from supported by the Arts Council and Creative Ireland.

• The Francis Ledwidge Museum, Janeville, Slane, Co. Meath (Eircode C15DK82) is open five days a week, from 11am to 4pm.