На острове Мэн стартует масштабный фестиваль манкского языка с оперой и концертами

The programme for this year’s Cooish Vooar - Manx Language Festival has been announced, with more than 32 events set to take place across the Isle of Man. Running from Friday, September 25 to Tuesday, September 29, the festival forms part of Blein ny Gaelgey (Year of the Manx Language), expanding on the annual Cooish celebration. Highlights include the première of the world’s first Manx-language opera, concerts featuring Celtic musicians, a speaker event with a YouTube sensation and a harvest celebration. The programme has been coordinated by Culture Vannin and is available to view online. Printed copies, designed and produced locally, will also be available at locations across the island from Tuesday, September 1. Events have been planned for everyone from complete beginners to fluent Manx speakers, with many free to attend. Culture Vannin’s Manx Language Development Officer Ruth Keggin Gell explained the meaning behind this year’s name. She said: ‘The word Cooish has many meanings in Manx but is commonly used as a word for a cosy chat or friendly get-together. Vooar (or mooar) means big - so for this year we have expanded the name to the Manx for “Big Cooish” in recognition of Year of the Manx Language and the scale of activities we have planned.’ Year of the Manx Language Coordinator Tiffany Kerruish said the festival offered people an opportunity to experience the language in a relaxed setting. She said: ‘There are beginner workshops, singing workshops, walking tours, concerts, music sessions - something for all tastes!’ A full day of activities for children will also be organised by educational charity Mooinjer Veggey. While many of the events are free, some require advance booking, with booking links available through the festival website. The festival is coordinated by Culture Vannin, with events contributed by members of the Manx language community and its organisations. It is sponsored by Island Escapes, with additional support from the Domestic Events Fund.