Mother Tongues Festival 2026 and Masterclass for Artists and Educators

Mother Tongues Festival 2026
Dates: 20 – 21 February

The ninth edition of the Mother Tongues Festival comes to Tallaght in Dublin on  20 – 21 February at Rua Red and The Civic! Celebrating Ireland’s cultural and linguistic diversity, the Festival uses the arts to foster dialogue and inclusion in a joyful atmosphere.

In 2026, the Festival is woven together by the theme of The Power of Story. Stories are at the heart of how we entertain, inform, inspire and preserve cultural memory. They live within dance, drama, music and everyday conversations, shaping how we understand the world, ourselves and one another. By sharing personal and family stories, we not only connect across cultures but also strengthen bonds and nurture a deeper sense of belonging.

Stories that connect us all

This year’s programme of performances, workshops and exhibitions is designed for families with children aged 3 to 10 years old, and it will place a special focus on the ways artists tell stories for bilingual early years children, their families and carers.

Masterclass for Artists and Educators with Theatre Madame Bach
20 February at The Civic, Tallaght

As a key part of the programme, the Festival presents an unmissable Masterclass for artists and educators, led by the Danish theatre company Theatre Madame Bach. This hands-on workshop offers a unique insight into Theatre Madame Bach’s approach to seamlessly integrating nature and storytelling into performances for young audiences. Participants will gain practical knowledge of their creative methods and explore advanced storytelling techniques firsthand. This workshop is tailored specifically for artists, educators, and early childhood professionals.

Find out more about Mother Tongues Festival and see full festival programme