Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre is proud to partner with the Steinbeck Festival for its 2026 programme, continuing the annual celebration of John Steinbeck’s life, work and enduring legacy, and his unique connection to Limavady.
Running from 6th – 27th February, the festival presents a rich and varied programme of talks, music, theatre, storytelling and exhibitions, bringing together local, national and international voices to explore Steinbeck’s influence and relevance today.
The festival opens on Friday 6th February with broadcaster Mark Carruthers in conversation with award-winning journalist Sam McBride, co-author of For and Against a United Ireland (with Fintan O’Toole).
On 20th February, audiences can enjoy a memorable cabaret-style performance by Little John Nee, whose distinctive blend of song, theatre and storytelling is rooted in tradition and inspired by a dream set in Limavady.
John Steinbeck’s writing remains at the heart of the programme. On 7th February, Dr Linda McKeown explores The Winter of Our Discontent, offering insight into the social and historical context of this often-overlooked novel.
For younger audiences, the Of Mice and Men GCSE programme on 18th February introduces pupils to Steinbeck’s local connections, followed by a screening of the 1992 film adaptation, accompanied by live period music.
Local creativity is celebrated throughout the festival with a strong visual arts and spoken word strand. The Dustbowl Photography Exhibition – This Land Was Made For You & Me opens on 14th February, featuring 20 selected works from this year’s competition. The Steinbeck Connection, a children’s book cover exhibition opening on 21 February, showcases imaginative designs created by local primary school pupils.
Spoken word and live performance feature prominently, with An Evening with Local Storytellers and Poets on 18th February, and Voices from a Far Field, on 26th February, bringing together music, poetry and storytelling in English, Irish and Ulster Scots.
The programme concludes on 27th February with Twelve Paintings, a conversation between Mark Carruthers and artist Colin Davidson, offering audiences a rare opportunity to encounter a selection of Davidson’s most celebrated works.
From thought-provoking talks and educational programmes to cabaret evenings and exhibitions, the 2026 Steinbeck Festival promises to be an engaging and inspiring celebration of literature, creativity and local heritage.
For a full listing festival events taking at Roe Valley Arts Centre, and to purchase tickets for these, visit www.roevalleyarts.com or call 028 7776 0310.
Colin Davidson
Little John Nee
For and against a United Ireland