Unique Screening of Historic Cobh Movie – May 2nd 8pm

In 1972 the producers of the film An Only Child, started filming in Cobh. The original story, by Cork writer, Frank O’Connor was based on his childhood in 1900s Cork city around Shandon, but for the film makers, 1970s Cobh provided a more unspoilt and less busy version of the city of that time.

Cobh also provided the film makers with a cast from the 6th class at St Joseph’s National School school and local characters, including the legendary Sharkey Griffin, a well known figure in the town, who could be seen by the Kennedy pier with fellow baggage handlers waiting for work on visiting liners. The film also starred school children including Christy Keating who now works in the Cobh Heritage Centre.

The film has not been seen in decades, since the film company was liquidated. But Sharkey Griffin’s grandson, John Smith, has tracked down a copy of the movie, which is being screened in The Commodore Hotel Cobh on May 2nd, as part of the Cobh Readers and Writers Festival.

The film gives a fascinating picture of Cobh of fifty years ago, and many of the cast will be present looking a lot more grown up (a lot more).

Screening on Tuesday May 2nd at 8pm in the Commodore Jack Doyle room will include talks from cast members. Admission €10 to support the Cobh Reader Writers’ festival.

For a list of events see:

https://www.facebook.com/pg/CAFE-Cobh-Arts-Festival-Event-755448011268280/