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Solstice: A Sound Circle for the Longest Day

  • Brink! Belfast Stories Union Street Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2JG United Kingdom (map)

As the sun sets on the longest day, a circle forms in the heart of the city.

Rooted in ancient Irish solstice traditions and the quiet symbolism of stone circles, this sound piece invites people to gather, be still, and mark the turning of the season together.

From 5pm on June 21st, a five-hour ambient composition will gradually unfold within a circular space in Belfast city centre. The noise of the city — footsteps, traffic, wind, birds overhead — is welcomed in, becoming part of the composition. The city becomes an instrument, shaping the piece in real time.

A space to step inside. A place to sit, listen, drift, and return to yourself. As the evening deepens, the sound builds gradually toward a shared crescendo as the sun begins to set.

At the end, as the light fades and sound swells, we invite people to come closer. To gather in the circle. To mark this moment together — ancient and modern, quiet and alive.

Created by Belfast-based composer Rory Friers, the piece continues his exploration of immersive sound as ritual and environment. Known for his film work, spacial sound installations, and as guitarist in acclaimed experimental rock band And So I Watch You From Afar, Friers blends deep tradition with cutting-edge production to create music that holds space — and invites presence.

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20 June

T-Shirt Hack Workshop with Tools For Solidarity

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21 June

BBC Radio Ulster - Solstice Broadcast live from the Brink! - Festival Closing Party