by Sarah O’Leary
ELEMENTAL, Limerick’s art and culture festival which takes place from Friday September 12 to Sunday September 14, has set out from the start to provide a diverse programme, one which leaves a lasting impression on those who attend and participate.
A very engaging aspect of this year’s programme involves two performances, as well as scheduled workshops, with gifted storyteller and spoken word performer Carlos Andres Gomez.
His dynamic three-part workshop ‘Telling The Courageous Story’, will see participants engage in a personal narrative in a way that is surprising and adventurous.
The workshop will be held at Ormston House, Patrick Street and will begin at 2pm, lasting until approximately 3:15pm. To book, email info@elementalfestival.com. The workshop is free of charge, but places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first serve basis.
Mr Gomez will also take part in a reading of his book ‘Man Up: Reimagining Modern Manhood’, at Ormston House on Friday and Saturday, with both performances starting at 8:30pm. Ticket prices are €10, with concessions at €7. To book, visit maunup-elemental.eventbrite.ie.
Based on his book ‘Man Up: Reimagining Modern Manhood’, Gomez’s performances come at a time when man’s traditional role as the primary breadwinner is being severely challenged by factors outside of their control.
Gomez, who grew up with the stereotypical model of man as being a creature who only deals with life through aggression and by staying closed, discovered acting and began to see new possibilities. His book Man Up provides a different model of manhood, where men can find other ways to interact and express their feelings.
Speaking in advance of Elemental, Gomez said: “Man Up is a celebration of positive change. Ireland is one of my favourite places on earth to perform; the people are passionate, genuine, and appreciate artists who take risks.
“I’m so humbled to be a part of Elemental in Limerick during it’s City of Culture year and particularly excited to connect with groups and young people while I’m there who are doing work to transform our world for the better.”
