Creative Ireland Wexford has commissioned choreographer and dancer Vivian Brodie Hayes to creatively interpret our 2024 Live Music in Residential Care Homes project – the Rí Rá sessions. The Rí Rá Sessions was a series of twelve traditional Irish music and dance sessions in HSE Nursing Homes in County Wexford , coinciding with Fleadh Ceoil na hEireann held in Wexford in August 2024. Vivian was one of the dancers who delivered these sessions, experiencing the physical, emotional, and psychological benefits the programme had for the staff and residents. 

Through this commission, Vivian will use dance and movement to explore the impact that a programme of live music and dance had on the wider community of the care home. The emotionally resonant aspects of the project will be emphasised, asking what happens to the organisational culture of a nursing home when relationships are disrupted with music and dance? This commission uses creativity to tell the story of the Rí Rá Sessions, further highlighting the value that cultural activity has in helping to build healthy communities. As per Creative Ireland Wexford’s strategy, the commissions aims to improve the quality of life and cultural access in healthcare settings. It will be presented in arts and healthcare settings in 2025.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.