News!
2026 began with two re-broadcasts of Lyric Features: Among the Heather Rocks, presented by Annemarie Ní Churreáin, re-broadcast on 11th January; and The Shaky Bridge, presented by Louis de Paor, re-broadcast on 18th January.
New Lyric Features this spring are programmes on the neglected Victorian writers Rosa Mulholland (15th February 2026 on RTÉ lyric fm) and Frances Browne (22nd March 2026 at 6 pm on RTÉ lyric fm).
Also coming soon is a series of The Essay on BBC Radio 3, with fiddle-player Martin Hayes in conversation with Olivia O’Leary.
Wanted, an Irish Novelist
The life and work of the writer Rosa Mulholland (1841-1921), poet, novelist and, above all, writer of spine-chilling ghost stories. Presented by Sara Lodge.
FIRST BROADCAST: Sunday 15th February 2026 on RTÉ lyric fm.
The Blind Poetess of Ulster
The life and work of Frances Browne (1816-1879), poet, journalist, novelist, short-story writer and best-selling children’s author. Presented by Shirley-Anne Godfrey.
FIRST BROADCAST: Sunday 22nd March 2026 at 6 pm on RTÉ lyric fm.
Martin Hayes Turns The Tune
In conversation with presenter Olivia O’Leary, internationally-acclaimed Irish musician Martin Hayes brings us on a deep dive into the world of the traditional Irish fiddle.
FORTHCOMING: BBC Radio 3, nightly at 21:45 from Monday 13th to Friday 17th April.
Me Dog is Buried in Thomond Park
Brothers and fellow poets Ron and Greg Carey go back to the Limerick of their childhood.
FORTHCOMING: RTÉ lyric fm, Sunday 3rd May 2026 at 6 pm.
Our Half-lost Cousins
Poet Theo Dorgan explores poetic, mythological, historical, linguistic and cultural links between Ireland and Galicia.
FIRST BROADCAST: RTÉ lyric fm, 30th November 2025
1001 Gems
Composer Seán Doherty explores the story and dance tunes of Francis O’Neill.
FIRST BROADCAST: RTÉ lyric fm, 4th May 2025; re-broadcast 16th November 2025.
The Shaky Bridge
Poet Louis de Paor goes back to Cork, recalling family, friends, places, and the Cork writers he grew to know and who would influence his work.
FIRST BROADCAST: RTÉ lyric fm, 16th March 2025; re-broadcast 17th January 2026 at 6 pm on RTÉ lyric fm.
A Corner of the Burren
Award-winning poet Moya Cannon explores a corner of the Burren that has inspired her poetry for more than 30 years, meeting experts in the local landscape, archaeology and history.
FIRST BROADCAST: RTÉ lyric fm, 5th October 2025.