For the August spotlight, we’re delighted to highlight the work of Solstice Arts Centre in Navan.
A member of the access>CINEMA network for almost 20 years, the team at Solstice is – like many other programming teams across the network – gearing up for their upcoming autumn season. Their programme encompasses a fantastic range of international and Irish cinema, with the season kicking off on 10th September.
Alongside that, they’re also hosting the 4th edition of the Meath Film Festival from 13 – 14th September. The full programme – which includes screenings of titles such as Listen to the Land Speak, No Other Land and Solitary – will be announced very soon, so make sure to keep an eye on the Solstice website for the line-up announcement!
Erin Kenny from Solstice has kindly put together a few observations on their film programme for this month’s member’s spotlight, which you can read below:
“Solstice Arts Centre is a member of access>CINEMA since opening in 2006. Our first film programme started with young audience titles such as Wallace and Gromit, Everything is illuminated and March of the Penguins. Now approaching our 20th anniversary, we showcase a wide range of international arthouse and Irish cinema on a weekly basis and host a Meath Film Festival each year in September. We screen about 48 films annually, with a regular film club night most Wednesdays throughout the year. Where possible, we try to include Q&A sessions during our film season. These panels offer audiences a broader insight into both the subject and craft of filmmaking.
“For our upcoming autumn season, our film choices offer thought-provoking, heartwarming, and visually rich cinema. On 10th September, we open with Black Bag—a gripping new release by Steven Soderbergh. The week after brings The Salt Path, followed by the poignant Irish-oriented short documentary The Forest Midwife on 20th September, complete with a panel discussion. The Marching Band (a French film) screens 24th September, and in October, we’re delighted to welcome Santosh (1st October), Beat the Lotto (8th October), and Four Mothers (9th October). Later in October, audiences can enjoy Jane Austen Wrecked My Life (15th October), Christy (22nd October) and Deaf (29th October). November features Late Shift (5th November) and The Ballad of Wallis Island (12th November).
We also screen some classics through out the year. On October 30th, we will celebrate 20th anniversary of The Corpse Bride with 2 screenings on the day followed by Fréwaka later that evening.
And this September, we’re delighted to host the Meath Film Festival at Solstice on 13–14th September. Now in its fourth year, the festival promises a vibrant weekend of local and international short films, feature screenings such as Listen to the Land Speak and Solitary, workshops, Q&As, and more—a celebration of cinema, community, and creativity right in the heart of Meath. For all film bookings and more information on the Film festival please visit our website.
The success and growth of our film programme stems from its blend of genres, languages, styles, and stories that capture both local and global perspectives. Above all, it’s driven by our loyal filmgoers, whose trust in our selections keeps the journey thriving.
August 2024 – Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford
September 2024 – My Little Film Club, Dublin 4
October 2024 – Esker Arts Centre / Eagla Fest, Tullamore
November 2024 – Sligo Film Society, Sligo
December 2024 – Kilcullen Bridge Cinema
February 2025 – The Picture House / Wexford Film Society
March 2025 – Source Arts Centre, Thurles
April 2025 – Millbank Theatre, Rush
May 2025 – Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny
June 2025 – Clonakilty Film Club, Co Cork
July 2025 – Cultúrlann Sweeney, Co Clare
