Inclusion at the centre of this year’s Tallafest in June
By Mary Dennehy
THE official launch of Tallafest was a very inclusive affair, with Tallaght’s favourite sheep dog, Brazilian clowns, Ireland’s Got Talent finalists and comedian June Rodgers all adding to the diversity and colour of the event.
Tallaght Community Council (TCC) met in the heart of the village to officially launch this year’s community festival on June 30, and were joined by supporters, sponsors, community groups and local representatives.
Helping to launch this year's Tallafest
Now in its sixth year, the Tallafest launch was held in The Station at Molloy’s – during which it was announced that inclusion is at the centre of this year’s festival.
Tallafest has embraced the focus of current Tallaght Person of the Year Sinead Tighe, who is striving to make Tallaght a more inclusive community during her term.
The festival will this year have a dedicated Active Seniors Hub which, run in partnership with South Dublin County Council, will be located in St Maelruain’s parish hall.
According to TCC, the hub will offer a vibrant drop-in programme of events that will include line dancing, art classes, meditation and a bake-off competition.
According to Tara De Buitlear, TCC PRO: “Tallafest 2018 will also expand on the cultural inclusion of the festival.
“We will have Gaelpobal Tamhlachta showcasing the best of our native culture and also performances from across the globe from Brazilian Clowns, Peruvian Ballet and advice from Mother Tongue, a group of families who are raising their children bilingually.”
Mobiloo toilet facilities
Tallafest 2018 will also provide the Mobiloo toilet facilities, continuing Sinead’s awareness campaign to have fully accessible facilities at all events as a standard now.
Mobiloo, which is designed by people with disabilities for people with disabilities, contains a toilet with retractable grab rail, an electronic hoist, which allows access to all areas of the Mobiloo, and a full size adjustable height changing table.
Tara concluded: “The 2018 program is shaping up nicely, with new activities being added all the time now.
“Festival goers are urged to keep an eye on our Facebook page and social media for the developing festival program.
“And craft stall holders are urged to submit an expression of interest ASAP as the craft market is booking up very fast this year.”
For further details visit www.tallafest.ie.
