Laois - It’s Dark Histories was a night of discussion, music and stories hosted by Laois broadcaster Ann Marie Kelly at Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise during the Samhain Folk Festival 2026 over the Halloween weekend.
The event featured storyteller Michael Creagh, didgeridoo player Adam Tahraoui and harpist Tríona Marshall and panellists Ann Moylan, Pat Critchley, Prof Henry O’Connell and Nuala Hayes
The festival featured connections between Irish and European folklore, myth, history and tradition.
The festival was funded through Cultúr 2026 - the national cultural programme supporting Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union and supported by Creative Ireland Laois, in partnership with Laois County Council.
5. Maura Keogh with Brenda Cloney.
Picture: Julie Harvey.
6. Host Ann Marie Kelly, with panellists Ann Moylan, Pat Critchley, Prof Henry O’Connell and Nuala Hayes on stage at the Dunamaise Arts Centre.
Picture: Julie Harvey.
7. David Whelan with Ailbhe Randle.
Picture: Julie Harvey.
8. Didgeridoo player Adam Tahraoui with harpist Tríona Marshall at Laois.
Picture: Julie Harvey.