"From That Small Island: The Story of the Irish," 25th April

Consul General Caitlín Higgins Ní Chinnéide was delighted to host a screening of Irish documentary feature film “From That Small Island: The Story of the Irish,” at the Academy’s beautiful Linwood Dunn Theater.

This film, supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, explores the historical development of Ireland and the impact of the large Irish diaspora around the world, including our pivotal role in shaping the development of the United States, which marks its 250th anniversary this year. This event was an opportunity for the Consulate to mark the ongoing US250 celebrations and the important enduring links between Ireland and the US.

Narrated by Irish actor Colin Farrell, the film recently aired as a four-part series on PBS across the United States. It also featured at the prestigious Newport Beach Film Festival in October 2025, winning the award for Outstanding International Documentary.

The film was followed by an engaging and highly-entertaining Q&A panel discussion with Professor Jane Ohlmeyer of Trinity College Dublin, who served as Executive Producer and Historical Consultant for the film, and award-winning LA-based Irish comedian, David Nihill. During the Q&A, the panelists discussed themes of Irish identity, the evolving Irish diaspora in the US, as well as the lasting contributions of Irish Culture and industry around the world.

The Consulate was pleased to welcome guests from across the LA Irish community, as well as key cultural, diplomatic and industry partners and friends. Notable attendees included COO of the Academy, Brendan Connell, members of Colin Farrell's family, representatives from Loyola Marymount University's Irish Studies Programme, and the Huntington Library, who hosted Professor Ohlmeyer throughout her time in Los Angeles.