Comedy, Paperwork... and Mulpins
This newsletter is full of comedy, eejitry and a small dash of ego.
Post-Gathering Photo
I'm starting this newsletter on a fierce self-indulgent note – what's new, says you. The very sound Carlow poet Derek Coyle posted pictures of the Gathering, including some quote flattering shots of moi. So, here's a pic of me with my co-MC Mary Howlett, who is also very sound.
Photo Description: Mary Howlett and I stand in front of the crowd. She’s to the left of me and wears a jacket, and I’m wearing my red, vaguely Japanese shirt and my grey storytelling hat. There’s a big pole between us, but sure, what can you do?
Speak Up Comedy Workshop
I'm delighted to say that the next stage on Speak Up's adventure is a stand-up comedy workshop with Cork-based comedian Micheál Roche (micheal.thebarman.roche on Instagram.) It's happening on Saturday 12 July at the Basement, Garter Lane Studios, Waterford City, from 11am to 1pm.
The workshop costs €20, and you book by contacting Deborah on speakupwaterford@gmail.com or on 0832045116. You don't have to be a comedian to do this – you just need to be willing to find your funny bone and have a laugh.
WordNerd: Mulpin
The WordNerd read a great, gritty novel written entirely in the dialect of Dundalk, Co. Louth (Iron Annie by Luke Cassidy, in case you're interested.) She enjoyed the colour and punch of the language and was particularly tickled by the word mulpin, an alternative word for an idiot. A Google search, admittedly brief, did not reveal an origin for the word, but it's satisfying to say just the same.
The Joy of Paperwork
I had to submit my garda vetting paperwork to Waterford Education Support Centre earlier in the week, so I can continue to work on the BLAST Schools programme. I'm happy to pay the price for the pleasure I gain from delivering workshops for this wonderful programme.
BLAST gives schools access to artists of all disciplines that would otherwise be beyond their financial reach. I'll be matched with a school by the end of summer and look forward to telling stories with another funny and creative group of children.
And finally… welcome to new free subscriber Mike Keenan, who has a Substack blog called When the Page Remembers, which you’ll find here:
Great photo Derbhile!