On Monday, Nov. 20, from 5 to 7 p.m., Fairfield University will host a conversation in Alumni House's Brennan Room with Quick Center Senior Fellow in Practice Michael Keegan-Dolan. This event, brought to you by the Humanities Institute, the Irish Studies program, and the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, promises an immersive exploration of Ireland's traditions, language, dance, and music.

The facilitators of this engaging dialogue will include Sunil Purushotham, PhD, director of the Humanities Institute; William Abbott, PhD, director of the Irish Studies program; and Nels Pearson, PhD, chair of the English Department. Together, they will guide attendees through a conversation that seeks to foster a deeper and more meaningful connection with the cultural tapestry of Ireland. Attendees will also enjoy a shared meal.

"This event not only showcases the interdisciplinary collaboration between the Humanities Institute, the Quick, and Irish Studies, but also offers a unique opportunity to delve into the performing arts on our campus," said Peter Van Heerden, executive director of the Quick Center for the Arts. Keegan-Dolan's presence at the event is made possible through the collaborative support of the Humanities Institute and the Irish Studies program.

During his residency at Fairfield, Keegan-Dolan will present the U.S. premiere of his acclaimed work, MÁM, at the Quick Center on Nov. 17 and 18, and spend a post-production week working on a new piece set to debut in 2024-25.

As part of his fellowship engagement, Keegan-Dolan will also conduct workshops in dance and performance at the Regional School for the Arts in Trumbull. Additionally, he will contribute to on-campus classes focusing on Britain and the Empire, as well as "Global World History in Theatre and Performance," led by Dr. Abbott and Sean Edgecombe, PhD, associate professor of theatre and resident director of Theatre Fairfield.

The Nov. 20 event at Alumni House will serve as the culmination of Keegan-Dolan's research and educational efforts, centering on the theme of “A Sense of Place.” To reserve a seat at this conversation, interested individuals are encouraged to RSVP by Nov. 17 to quickboxoffice@fairfield.edu. For more information about Michael Keegan-Dolan's U.S. debut of MÁM at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, please visit quickcenter.com.