Trad / Coming to Cinemas this Friday 8th May

---

Irish film TRAD arrives in cinemas across Ireland this week, bringing audiences on a vibrant musical journey rooted in Irish culture, youth, and identity. Directed by Lance Daly, the film blends road-movie adventure with the energy and emotion of traditional Irish music, creating a story that feels both timeless and refreshingly contemporary.

Casting on the film is by Sarah Hone, who regularly uses Fishpond when casting her productions, and it’s always a pleasure to support the incredible work she continues to do. We’d also like to congratulate the entire cast and crew on bringing Trad to the big screen. 

A Story Driven by Music and Adventure

Set between the Donegal Gaeltacht and towns across Ireland, Trad follows talented young fiddle player Shóna McAnally and her younger brother Mickey as they leave home and join a travelling group of musicians on the road. Along the way, the pair encounter new friendships, challenges, romance, and the unpredictable rhythms of life beyond the familiar.

At the heart of the film is a celebration of Irish traditional music and the culture surrounding it. Rather than treating trad music as background texture, the film places it front and centre - capturing the atmosphere, emotion, and connection found in Irish sessions and musical communities.

Balancing youthful rebellion, humour, and emotional depth, Trad offers audiences an uplifting and distinctly Irish cinematic experience.

A Strong Irish Creative Team

Written and directed by Lance Daly, whose previous work includes Kisses and Black ’47, the film brings together an exciting ensemble cast alongside emerging Irish talent.

The cast includes:

• Aidan Gillen
• Sarah Greene
• Peter Coonan
• Ann Skelly
• Megan Nic Fhionnghaile
• Cathal Coade Palmer

And of course, casting by Sarah Hone, whose work continues to champion authentic Irish storytelling and outstanding on-screen talent.

The film’s soundtrack also plays a central role, featuring performances and collaborations from a number of acclaimed traditional Irish musicians.

Celebrating Irish Music and Storytelling

Films like Trad showcase the richness and evolution of Irish storytelling on screen. By weaving together contemporary coming-of-age themes with Irish music, language, and culture, the film presents a version of Ireland that feels alive, authentic, and deeply connected to tradition.

Its mix of music, travel, and personal discovery gives the film a distinctive energy while remaining grounded in emotional truth. Trad is a celebration of identity, creativity, and the communities that shape us.

Opportunities for Actors

At Fishpond, we’re passionate about helping performers connect with meaningful opportunities across the Irish screen industry. Collaborating with casting professionals like Sarah Hone (who consistently champions new and established talent) is a huge part of what makes the platform so rewarding.

Productions like Trad are a reminder that exciting work is happening across Ireland at every level of the industry. Whether it’s independent features, television drama, or major cinema releases, casting teams are continually searching for talented performers to bring stories to life.

For actors, keeping your profile current and actively applying for roles can lead to opportunities on productions just like this one.

Watch the Trailer

The trailer for Trad offers a glimpse into the music, adventure, and emotional journey at the heart of the film - watch here.

Trad opens in cinemas across Ireland this week from Friday the 8th of May. So, let's get out there and support Irish filmmaking.