Feature length film on Laois set for December launch

A feature length documentary, titled 'A Look at Laois' is set to premiere in early December.

The launch will take place in Bloom HQ Mountrath on Thursday, December 1. The event is hosted by Laois Chamber Alliance and Laois Comhaltas, and will commence at 7pm, with anyone involved in tourism, heritage or business or with an interest in learning more about the rich heritage of Laois welcome to attend.

Segments of the documentary will be shown on the night with background music performed by members of Laois Comhaltas. This will be followed by tea, coffee, finger food and networking opportunities.

In this documentary, the history of the county is illustrated by the stories of local happenings, local heroes, and local pioneering visionaries, all of whom have contributed to the landscape of the O’Moore County. Laois is a county full of historical importance, where arts and culture continue to evolve, welcoming visitors from near and far.

 A Look at Laois was initiated by Laois Comhaltas with funding from Laois Partnership. The documentary is written, produced and directed by Laois man PJ Phelan.

Speaking about the upcoming official launch of the documentary, Mr. Phelan said, “This documentary allows viewers to comprehend the major events of Irish history by understanding the impact of each significant occurrence within the county. It is informative with many personalities contributing to the authentic story of Laois; monastic sites, the first airplane, the first shot of the 1916 rising, inventions and sporting heroes contrast with rebellions, famine, and the Big Houses.

"Filmed over a period of two years, natives of Laois worldwide will be particularly interested in footage captured in all seasons. Towns and villages are featured, as are stories of some of the proprietors of the Big Houses across the county.”

"Footage from all four corners of Laois is captured in the documentary. The O’Moores and the Fitzpatricks are featured, being major figures who distinguished themselves during the creation of the Queen’s County, which today we now call Laois," said PJ. 

CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, Caroline Hofman, added, “It is wonderful to see the rich history and diverse culture of Laois captured in this captivating documentary, and we are delighted to have partnered with Laois Comhaltas for the official launch. We would like to extend an invitation to anyone involved in tourism, heritage or business to attend on the night and be mesmerised and enthralled by history of the county, the local people and pioneering visionaries.

"Laois truly is a county steeped in fascinating history.”

This is a free event, however pre-booking is required as places are limited. If you are interested in attending, please R.S.V.P to caroline@laoischamber.ie