Zeitgeist Irland 24 is a celebration of the richness and diversity of contemporary Irish culture. From literary greats across the ages to Irish traditional music, dance, and performances that have reverberated across the world, Irish artists have always had a reputation for breaking boundaries. Weaving the collective story and experiences of the Irish, Zeitgeist Irland 24 brings a new generation of Irish artists to German audiences, continuing to break boundaries and build on our global reputation for cultural excellence. An initiative of Culture Ireland and the Embassy of Ireland in Germany, Zeitgeist Irland 24 aims to deepen Ireland’s cultural engagement with Germany, a key partner in Europe.

Opera Collective Ireland in the Spotlight
Opera Collective Ireland is playing a pivotal role in Zeitgeist Irland 24. In collaboration with the Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin, OCI will present Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas and John Blow’s Venus and Adonis at Kammeroper Schloss Rheinsberg from 9-11 August 2024. This semi-staged production, part of the Kammeroper Festival at Schloss Rheinsberg, showcases the best of Irish operatic vocal talent. The performances are directed by Patrick Mason and conducted by Christian Curnyn, featuring soprano Anna Devin as Venus and baritone Rory Musgrave as Adonis. Opera Collective Ireland’s involvement highlights the calibre of Irish talent and its contribution to the global operatic scene. Book tickets for OCI Dido & Aeneas and Venus & Adonis here.

Programme Launch and Objectives
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Micheál Martin TD, along with Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media, Catherine Martin TD, launched Zeitgeist Irland 24. The programme, taking place across Germany throughout 2024, is a strategic partnership between the Department of Foreign Affairs and Culture Ireland, involving a joint investment of more than €2.5 million. This initiative creates new opportunities for Irish artists and companies across various art forms to perform in Germany and to develop networks with German-based artists and cultural institutions. The Irish Embassy in Berlin, Consulate General in Frankfurt, and Tourism Ireland work alongside Culture Ireland to co-fund, plan, and deliver the programme.

Cultural Strategy and Impact
In line with the Global Ireland 2025 strategy, Ireland is committed to strengthening its global cultural presence and impact, placing a strategic priority on the arts and creativity as key expressions of national identity. Zeitgeist Irland 24 is a flagship initiative under this strategy, designed to enhance bilateral relations and EU cooperation through cultural exchange.
Micheál Martin TD commented, “Germany has long been an important partner for Ireland – economically, politically, and culturally. The ties between our two countries have been further strengthened in recent years through the implementation of joint action plans to enhance bilateral relations and EU cooperation. Building on this proud legacy, Zeitgeist Irland 24 brings a new generation of Irish artists to new audiences across Germany.”

Catherine Martin TD added, “I am pleased to launch the programme for Zeitgeist Irland 24. This exciting partnership between Culture Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Embassy Berlin gives Irish artists a unique opportunity to present their work to German audiences and to develop long-lasting relationships with German venues and presenters. The programme showcases an inspiring curated season of high-quality contemporary Irish arts and culture.”

Exciting Lineup of Events
The initial programme, launched on www.zeitgeistirland24.com, features more than 110 projects involving over 400 artists and arts professionals, taking place in over 100 cities and towns across Germany. Strategic priority is placed on cultural network building, resulting in key presentations with German institutions such as Staatstheater Mainz, International Stuttgart Animation Festival, Transmediale festival, CTM festival, Hebbel-am-Ufer, and Literarisches Colloquium Berlin, among others.

Zeigeist Irland 24 Global Reach and Irish Connections
Zeitgeist Irland 24 not only celebrates Irish culture but also fosters deeper cultural connections between Ireland and Germany. This year-long programme highlights Ireland’s commitment to promoting its arts globally and provides a unique platform for Irish artists to engage with new audiences and build lasting relationships within the German cultural landscape.