If we could hear Lough Neagh speak, what would she say?
The widely publicised pollution of the lough has been described as a slow death. The build-up of agricultural poison has formed toxic algal blooms that choke the wild inhabitants of the lough and drive the local community from its shores. But Lough Neagh has been part of our world for 400 million years, and borders five of the six counties. People have been benefitting from its resources since the dawn of civilisation, and stories of the lough are woven into the mythological fabric of Ulster and beyond.
This live event juxtaposes Northern Ireland’s rich television archive of BBC Northern Ireland and Ulster Television with traditional Irish singing and local journalism to explore the heritage, history and cultural significance of Lough Neagh.
With traditional singer Méabh Meir as the voice of Lough Neagh, and spoken word from Tommy Greene, reading from his book, Troubled Waters: How Lough Neagh Is Being Destroyed by Corporate Greed and Political Neglect. Curated by Belfast Film Festival programmer, Rose Baker, and edited by Docs Ireland programmer, Stuart Sloan.
Footage courtesy of BBC Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Screen’s Digital Film Archive (courtesy of the UTV Partnership project). Explore thousands of BBC archive clips from Northern Ireland and across the UK at bbcrewind. co.uk. Discover Ulster Television, home movies, community films and more at digitalfilmarchive.net
Venue Information:
Black Box
18 – 22 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LA
- Wheelchair accessible
- Level access
- Automatic or power-assisted doors at the entrance
- Entry & exit well lit
- Drop bar available
- Hearing loop
- Accessible bathroom
The nearest Changing Places toilet is in Castle Court Shopping Centre. It is open from 9am – 6pm.
Note: The entrance to the Black Box is located on a cobblestone road. Vehicle access is available by request to the venue, otherwise the street is pedestrianised.
Transport information:
The closest bus stop is Lower Donegall Street.
The closest train station is Grand Central Station (20 minute walk or a 12 minute bus).