An Evening of Alternative Music, Upcycled Art & Creative Connections

What if things we throw away could become music, art and something else

Join us for FOUND SOUND POETRY, a unique creative festival in Drogheda where discarded materials find a second life through music, fashion, storytelling and imagination!

On Saturday, 14 November, we invite you to discover how recycling and upcycling can become exciting forms of artistic expression.

This is more than a concert. It's an evening of discovery, creativity and community, where everyone can become part of the experience!

🎵 LIVE MUSIC & SOUNDS FROM RECYCLED MATERIALS

Enjoy live performances by local Irish and international musicians and discover unusual musical instruments created from materials that would otherwise be thrown away.

Old bottles, tins, wooden offcuts, containers and textiles can become guitars, percussion instruments and completely unexpected sources of sound!

You will have a chance to see these creations up close, hear them in action and discover the creativity behind them.

🧵 UPCYCLING ART EXHIBITION — SIX MONTHS OF CREATIVITY

Meet talented local makers who have completed a six-month Upcycling Training Programme in Drogheda.

They will showcase their handmade creations, transforming unwanted textiles, old clothing and everyday materials into beautiful accessories, fashion pieces and decorative artworks.

Each creation has its own story, and each maker demonstrates how creativity can turn waste into opportunity.

Come and meet the artists, admire their work and discover new inspiration for sustainable living!

👕 FRIENDLY CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES SWAP TABLES

Bring something beautiful you no longer use — and find something new to love!

We invite everyone to bring clean, good-condition clothing, scarves, bags, jewellery or accessories that deserve a new home.

Place your items on our friendly Swap Tables, explore what others have brought and exchange them for something you love.

No shopping required — just sharing, discovery and the joy of giving beautiful things a second life!

📖 STORYTELLING COMPETITION — THE STORY OF A SECOND LIFE

Every discarded object has a story. Can you imagine what it might tell us?

Prepare a short story (up to 3 minutes) inspired by an unwanted or discarded item that found a new purpose.

It could be funny, touching, imaginative or based on a real experience.

Share your story with our audience! The winner will be chosen by audience vote, and prizes await our favourite storytellers.

Bring your story — and let your imagination shine!

🥁 FINAL OPEN JAM SESSION

We will finish the evening by making music together!

Join our musicians, explore percussion and recycled instruments, and become part of a spontaneous musical celebration.

Have your own drum, percussion instrument or unusual handmade instrument? Bring it along!

No musical experience is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to join in.

5:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Doors Open: Welcome, Clothes Swap & Creative Market

Arrive early, explore our Friendly Clothes Swap Tables, and discover beautiful handmade creations by local artists and makers, including talented migrant women. Our Upcycling Art Exhibition and Handmade Market open for visitors.

6:00 PM – 6:15 PM | Festival Opening: Giving Old Things New Life

A warm welcome from New Life Integration & Wellbeing Network CLG. Discover the inspiration behind FOUND SOUND POETRY and how creativity, music and upcycling can bring people and communities together.

6:15 PM – 7:30 PM | Live Music: Discover the Sounds of Recycling

Enjoy live performances by local Irish and international musicians. Discover experimental instruments created from recycled bottles, tins, wooden offcuts, textiles and other unexpected materials. Experience how discarded objects can become music!

7:30 PM – 7:45 PM | Creative Break: Explore, Swap & Connect

Visit the Upcycling Art Exhibition, browse unique handmade creations, exchange pre-loved clothing and accessories at our Swap Tables, and meet local artists and makers. Enjoy light refreshments and connect with fellow festival visitors.

7:45 PM – 8:15 PM | Storytelling Competition: The Story of One Paper Cup

Every object deserves a second story! Join our creative storytelling competition with short stories of up to three minutes about discarded items finding a new purpose. Share a funny, moving or imaginative story. The audience will vote for their favourite!

8:15 PM – 8:30 PM | Storytelling Awards & Artist Appreciation

Celebrate our storytelling winner and recognise the talented musicians, artists, makers and volunteers who helped bring FOUND SOUND POETRY to life.

8:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Grand Finale: Open Music Jam Session

Let's make music together! Join our musicians for an interactive jam session featuring drums, percussion and instruments created from recycled materials. Bring your own instrument if you have one — everyone is welcome to join the rhythm!

EVENT DETAILS

📅 Saturday, 14 November 2026

🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 St. Ma

Description supplied by the event organiser.