Giant luminarium to light up the Fleadh

A giant art installation, the Mirazozo luminarium will feature caverns for members of the public to explore will be a colorful focal point on the Ennis landscape during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann which runs from Saturday 13th August to Sunday 21st August.

The structure, designed by Alan Parkinson of the company Architects of Air, is being brought to Active Ennis Tim Smythe Park by Clare County Council. The structures designed by Alan have been visited by more than two million people in forty three countries around the world at iconic locations such as the Guggenheim in Spain and the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

Inspired by Islamic architecture and natural geometry, Mirazozo features winding passages of small domes inspired by repeat forms found in the bazaars of Iran. Inside the spaceship-shaped structure is a multi-coloured world of bright luminous green, red and blue stripes of light forming bouncing patterns of colour on the walls of five interlinked domes.

Cllr. Ann Norton, Mayor of Ennis congratulated Clare County Council for bringing the colourful exhibit to the Clare County Capital.

“Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is an opportunity to showcase Ennis as the vibrant and culturally rich town we all know and love. With an estimated 400,000 people expected to visit the town during the Fleadh, it is important that we leave them with a lasting positive memory of Ennis and County Clare so they will not only consider returning for the 2017 Fleadh but will also factor in Ennis to any future travel plans” Norton commented.

Mayor Norton said she is looking forward to watching the Mirazozo luminarium transforming Active Ennis Tim Smythe Park which will also host a 2,000-person capacity performance dome during the annual Irish traditional festival, which returns to Ennis for the first time since 1977.

“I am particularly happy to see that the luminarium is accessible to wheelchair users and people with mobility difficulties as they too will be able to enjoy this interactive structure that provides a sensory experience of light, colour and sound,” she added.

Monica Meehan, Community and Tourism, Clare County Council said the 158 ft. by 94 ft inflatable exhibit will be the size of more than half a football pitch once erected.

“The luminosity of light and colour inside Mirazozo is created purely by the light shining through the exhibit which is constructed from a specially made PVC. Anyone of any age or background can connect with it. Visitors are invited to wander, to sit down and enjoy the ambience and the space,” she explained.

Ms. Meehan continued, “Clare County Council is working closely with the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Committee to deliver a memorable and successful event for the town and county, as well as the many thousands of people coming to compete in and enjoy the festival. The delivery of this family entertainment space and the appointment of Futureama Productions to manage its operation represents a significant investment by the Council but it is one we feel will add to what will be a hugely successful Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.”

The MIRAZOZO luminarium will be open to the public at the following times:
– 10.00 am – 6.00 pm, Saturday and Sunday, 13/14th August
– Midday – 6.00 pm, Monday – Thursday, 15-18th August
– 10.00 am – 8.00 pm, Friday – Sunday, 19th-21st August

During operational times, tickets may be purchased from the Mirazozo Box Office which is located at Active Ennis Tim Smythe Park. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.