RTE1 will screen a new documentary tonight on Abbeyfeale’s hair salons. With a population of just 2,000, the County Limerick town on the Kerry border has more hairdressers and barbers per head of population than any other town in Ireland.
There are 16 on just two streets.
This quirky new documentary was made by Atom films, the team responsible for Older Than Ireland and The Irish Pub, both beautifully made and delightful explorations of Irish life.
Although pubs, restaurants and shops have closed in the town, the producers of Abbeyfealegood state that these hairdressers and barbers have sprung up in their place.
“It could be said that they are the lifeblood of Abbeyfeale. Each business has their own type of customers and their own atmosphere. There is a unique and intimate bond between customers and hairdressers and some of them have known each other for decades.”
“In the mirrors of these salons, stories unfold that elevate ordinary, everyday existence into something universal and extraordinary.”
Abbeyfealegood will broadcast on RTE 1 this Monday April 20 at 9.30pm
