Arts & Human Rights with Smashing Times

On this week's show, guest artist interview is with Elizabeth Moynihan, a successful actor, writer and director. As a writer Elizabeth’s new play Happiness Then returns by popular demand for its third year. Elizabeth directed The Art of Trees by Mary Moynihan currently on tour in South Kerry with public performances at Tech Amergin, Waterville, County Kerry, on Friday 17 April 2026, 8pm (booking 066 9478956) and St John the Baptist Church, School Road, Valentia Island, County Kerry, on Saturday 18 April 2026, 7pm.

Also featured on the show is the current Irish nationwide tour of Shirley Valentine by Willy Russell performed by Cork actor and comedian Norma Sheahan; information on the upcoming Ranelagh Arts Festival and highlights of activities and events coming up with Smashing Times International Centre for the Arts and Equality including From the Forest to the Ocean by Mary Moynihan at the Smashing Times Visual Art Gallery.
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In this episode, we reflect on the ‘No Kings’ demonstrations in the United States and the courage of the protesters who are standing up for human rights. Additionally, we provide a preview of "Tracey Emin: A Second Life", a new exhibition at Tate Modern in London running until August 2026.

Joining us for a powerful interview is Maeve Halpin, a counselling psychologist based in Rathmines, Dublin. She offers insight into her interests in personal development, self-empowerment, and the potential for positive living, while highlighting her passion for world politics, equality, and human rights. Maeve presents the radio show Wellbeing for Everyday Life every Thursday at 1 pm on Dublin South 93.9 FM.
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In this episode, we discuss the powerful memoir ‘When Breath Becomes Air’ by Paul Kalanithi, reflecting on the interconnecting emotions of joy and grief as well as the ‘silent’ grief experienced by parents when their children decide to emigrate. Additionally, we provide a special acknowledgment to Transition Year Students at Firsthouse Community College for the wonderful presentation of their annual show.

Joining us is Féilim James, a poet, playwright, and prose writer from Dublin, Ireland, whose work has appeared in New Irish Writing, Acumen, and Abridged, among others. He serves as the editor of Tintreach: The Smashing Times Arts and Literary Journal, and shares details on our upcoming edition as well as an open call for submissions set to begin in May.

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Mary reflects on the war in the Middle East, on Iranian artists speaking out for freedom, and on the urgent need to end war, authoritarianism and genocide. The programme also highlights upcoming Smashing Times exhibitions, performances and events, and celebrates International Women’s Day with features on new art and a powerful Magdalene Laundry installation.

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Chat and live music with Carol Scott, Peter Gallagher and Sebastien Luthers of CAS, a four-piece Celtic ensemble launching their new album "Tonnta na Maidine" on 9th April at The Cobblestone Pub, Dublin; and with Carli Jefferson and Clair Le Couteur from Lunatraktors, debuting their new show "TimeWeavers" at the Scene + Heard, at Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin, 28th February, 2pm.

Did you know the arts are good for your health? Today’s episode presented by Mary Moynihan highlights the role of the arts in maintaining physical and mental well-being and looks at prominent figures using their platforms to advocate for peace and freedom of expression:

• Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City F.C., has spoken publicly against war, highlighting the responsibility public figures have to promote peace.

• Historian and Author Rutger Bregman addresses issues of censorship and open debate in connection with the BBC. His lecture "A Time of Monsters" forms part of the renowned BBC Reith Lectures - an annual lecture series organised and broadcast by the BBC, long associated with big ideas and robust public discourse.

• Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych made headlines during the Winter Olympics after being disqualified for refusing to remove his “helmet of memory,” honouring Ukrainian athletes killed in the conflict with Russia - a powerful example of sport intersecting with remembrance and protest.
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