The Cork Feis has 160 Trophies on offer in our 2023 Syllabus and more again in storage.  In many cases these Trophies are in memory of those who have played a significant role in Performing Arts Education in Cork and made a major contribution to the Feis.  They are the history of our event and a connection with the past.  We still have two Trophies from the original Feis in 1927 up for award.  Trophies are important and special.

It is a great honour to win an award at the Feis and more so to win a Trophy as it gives you the opportunity to add your name to the list of alumni before you.  It is a great thrill to recognise names of previous winners and to be part of a very special and unique group.  Trophies are important to the Feis.

However, the Cork Feis, along with Feiseanna and Festivals all over the world, also have a major difficulty with Trophies – getting them back.  Getting them back in time, getting them back clean and not damaged.  We spend a lot of time and resources every year chasing up non returned trophies.  It is a source of frustration and exasperation for Stewards and the Feis, along with other similar events, have tried various methods to try to improve this experience.  It is a constant worry that a Trophy will not be returned in time for the next recipient.

For the 2023 Feis we will return to giving out Trophies, if the winners are happy to take them.  However, we will impose the following condition that will help you enjoy your win, while at the same time limit the added responsibility.

Performers must return the Trophy within a month of receiving the award.  So, for this Feis the Trophy must be returned by the following dates:

MUSIC – 11th March

SINGING – 31st March

SPEECH & DRAMA – 6th May

This arrangement will give you the time to share your success with family, friends and colleagues.  If you wish to have the Trophy engraved you can get it done during the period you have it or, we can arrange it for you after you return it.

Our Trophies are special and important.   They are of great value and at the core of our Feis.  They are the sole property of the Feis and they must be treated with great respect.  I am confident that you will understand our position and will find this arrangement agreeable.

 

Timothy McCarthy,

Feis Director.