Louth Film Festival welcomes acclaimed director as patron

Organisers of the Louth International Film Festival (LIFF) say they are thrilled to announce the appointment of the internationally renowned Irish film and television director, Dearbhla Walsh, as a festival patron.

With a trailblazing career and a portfolio of groundbreaking television shows to her name, Dearbhla has captivated audiences worldwide with her exceptional storytelling.

She will attend the festival on October 1 to present the prestigious Dearbhla Walsh Award for Best Director.
Dearbhla Walsh's distinguished career includes critically acclaimed works such as 'The Handmaid's Tale,' 'Fargo,' 'Traitors,' 'Shameless,' and the multi-award-winning black comedy 'Bad Sisters.'

“Her creative vision and dedication to the craft have earned her a place among the industry's most celebrated filmmakers.
LIFF, a festival dedicated to promoting and nurturing talent in the arts, film and television industry, says it is honoured to have Dearbhla Walsh as a patron.

As part of the festival's commitment to education and industry training, LIFF has partnered with the Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT).

In a special event, students of DkIT's Film and Television Production course had the privilege of engaging in a Q&A discussion with Dearbhla.

This unique opportunity allowed students to gain candid insights and practical advice on the art and business of film and television production and development from an industry veteran.

Dearbhla’s impact on the screen industry aligns with LIFF's mission of supporting emerging talent and fostering connections with established film artists worldwide.

Her involvement as a patron will undoubtedly enhance the festival's commitment to providing a platform for filmmakers to learn from industry luminaries.

“We are thrilled to have Dearbhla Walsh join us as a patron of the Louth International Film Festival," said Lorcan Dunne, festival Co-Director and DkIT Lecturer.

“Her achievements and expertise bring immense value to our festival and our mission of supporting emerging talent. We are honoured to have her support and look forward to the impact she will make on our festival and its participants.”

The Louth International Film Festival recognizes the importance of providing opportunities for learning and professional development within the film industry.

Through insightful panel discussions, workshops, and masterclasses, attendees gain access to industry experts, gaining insights into the latest trends and techniques. Past guests have included Diarmuid Goggins, Elaine Gallagher, Luke McManus, Mick Mahon, and Frankie Fenton.

Colm Mullen, DkIT Lecturer and Artistic Director of the festival, emphasized the significance of these educational initiatives, stating, “we believe in the power of sharing knowledge and lived experiences.

“By bringing together established filmmakers, aspiring talents, and students from DkIT, we create an environment where learning and growth thrive.

Our industry panels serve as a platform for collaboration and dialogue, enabling filmmakers to expand their skills and vision.”

The Louth International Film Festival will take place at DkIT and the IMC Cinema Dundalk on September 29 and at the An Táin Arts Centre on September 30 and October 1.

Awards include Best Short Fiction, Best Short Documentary, Seamus McGarvey Award for Best Cinematography, Best Student Film, Audience Choice, Best in Louth, Best Feature Documentary, Best Feature Fiction, Best Actor (gender-neutral), Dearbhla Walsh Award for Best Director, Best International Short, and Best International Feature.

The festival schedule can be found here.