Former Rainey pupil and author will recall his childhood and memories of Seamus Heaney
People living in south Derry are in for an amazing, interesting fun evening at the Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy when author Michael Boyle will give a talk accompanied by actor Randy Crane from Newfoundland, Canada.
Michael - a retired geography teacher from Newfoundland – grew up in Drummuck, Upperlands, and attended Rainey Endowed School in Magherafelt.
Michael played rugby and was involved in cross-country running.
He was a member of the first group of students taught by Heaney at St Joseph’s College in Belfast and will share some of the many stories and anecdotes that he has from that time.
Many years ago, in the early 1960s Fr McGaughey organised a unique Sports Day which included tug of war, flail event and throwing 56-pound weight. Boyle will recall Heaney’s role at the Sports and then in his talk he will share some unique information about the flail in Heaney’s poetry.
It is even hoped to have an actual flail on display during the talk. All Ireland tin whistle champion Clare Doherty, from Ballymacpeake, will play a special tune “The Flail.”
The M.C. and a performer for this historic event will be the famous Newfoundland singer, storyteller and actor Randy Crane.
He will have some stories and poems about his rugged island home on Newfoundland ‘s Southern Shore. To finish the evening. Boyle and Crane (his editor) will read from the best-selling Irish Newfoundland memoir ON NEW TURF.
This fun filled event requests a donation of just £10 to cover expenses and takes place on Wednesday, September 9, at 7 30 pm – please come early and get your seat at the HomePlace.