Three BIG events are approaching fast, so buckle up and read all about it. Popcorn optional. wink

1. DANCE FIRST opens in UK theaters November 3

Gabriel Byrne’s latest film, which premiered in Spain at the San Sebastian Film Festival on 30 September, is now hitting UK theaters and streaming on Sky. As soon as it is available anywhere else in the world, I’ll let you know, of course. I can’t wait to see Gabriel take on this amazing role and I know you are full of anticipation, too–one Irishman portraying another, icon to icon. That’s what I think. So exciting!

Here’s another review of the film, published 31 October 2023, this time from John Maguire for Business Post.ie, which requires a subscription, so no link from me. Just an excerpt:

Gabriel Byrne excels in a demanding dual role as Samuel Beckett and his prickly conscience in James Marsh’s biopic Dance First

Gabriel Byrne transforms into Samuel Beckett for Dance First, James Marsh’s artful interpretation of the Irish writer’s life which takes us from his tortured childhood in middle-class Dublin at the beginning of the last century to his death in a tatty French sanatorium in 1989.

That familiar cradle-to-grave scheme is the foundation of this biopic, like most films of its type, but Marsh and writer Neil Forsyth approach the inevitable through a series of lyrical, meditative vignettes from key moments in Beckett’s long and storied life, built around an ongoing dialogue between the writer and his prickly conscience. Although he shares few of the lanky, gimlet-eyed writer’s physical attributes, Byrne excels in a demanding dual role, armed with little more than steel-rimmed glasses, a dove-grey quiff, and a lifetime’s talent.

2. Narrative 4 Celebrates “10 Years of Yes” November 6

Time to celebrate! And Gabriel, who was there from the beginning, will be there now!

From the Narrative 4 website:

Join Narrative 4 for a night of celebration and inspiration as we hear the stories of our artists, educators, students and philanthropists from around the world.

Since our founding 10 years ago, Narrative 4 has been building a global community of compassionate youth by bringing joy, sparking imagination, and fostering meaningful connections.

Enjoy performances by Sting, Terry Tempest Williams, Gabriel Byrne, Lila Azam Zanganeh, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Colum McCann, Ishmael Beah and many more N4 world-renowned artists (not to mention our superstar students and educators!).

No word yet on streaming or other availability for watching later. Stay tuned, though, because you never know with these events. And if there are pics of the event, I will share them here.

Congratulations to Colum McCann and all those involved with this fantastic project. And here’s to another 10 Years! star

3. Irish Arts Center to Honor Stephen Colbert November 17

It’s that time of year: the Spirit of Ireland Gala is upon us November 17 at (new venue!) Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers in New York City. One of this year’s honorees is your favorite late night host (US), Stephen Colbert, and the evening will include our favorite honorary co-chairs, Gabriel Byrne and Liam Neeson, mastering the ceremonies and charming all who come to support the Irish Arts Center at this annual fund-raising event. Oh, to be there. Well, someday will arrive one day, yes?

Here’s the announcement:

According to the IAC’s mailing about the Gala, there will be “a special performance by the Irish Afro-Soul singer-songwriter Loah, a frequent and much beloved Irish Arts Center visiting artist since her first appearance with us in 2016.” Sounds like an amazing evening, doesn’t it?

If we are fortunate, there will be pics from this event. And if you are good, I will share them with you. Oh, you don’t even have to be good–I’ll share them, I promise. Besides, it is too early to talk about “being good.” Let’s save that for next month.

So, that’s 3 Big Gabriel Events for November. Next up, a recap of his most recent interviews (one just dropped last night!) and accompanying images, with a few other goodies thrown in. I might call it The Byrne-ing News. What do you think? Catchy title? I kinda like it. heart

Before you go, have a Gabriel Wallpaper. Fall colors. And Gabriel in his yellow tie. Very seasonal. Bye!