The story of the Potato,
as told through Traditional Irish Music, song and dance.
Explore the poignant Irish history of the potato in this compelling documentary that intertwines the cultural significance and history of potatoes or "praties" in Ireland. Through traditional Irish music, viewers will journey through the struggles and resilience of a nation profoundly shaped by this tragic event. Discover how the potato, once a staple of daily life, became a symbol of both hardship and hope, resonating deeply within the Irish identity. The Garden where the Praties Grow is a rich tapestry of history, culture, and emotion, celebrating the enduring spirit of the Irish people.
Production
The Garden where the Praties Grow was conceived and created by Tommy Hayes and Anthony Hughes, blending the power of traditional Irish music with a deep exploration of Ireland’s history.​​
Discover the rich history of "praties" and their lasting impacts on Irish Culture.
Filmed over three days in the original founders' building at Seed Savers, Co. Clare, the documentary captures the raw energy of live performances by some of Ireland’s finest musicians.
Each performance was recorded and filmed live, bringing to life the music, song and dance central to Irish folklore and tradition.
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Interwoven throughout these performances are interviews with organic growers and experts in biodiversity and sustainability, offering a broader perspective on the cultural and historical impact of the potato on the Irish psyche.
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The Garden Where the Praties Grow is the vision of renowned Irish musician and producer Tommy Hayes, whose deep understanding of Irish traditional music and cultural heritage brought this unique project to life​​. Under Tommy’s guidance, the film brings to life music, song and dance that is deeply rooted in Irish folklore and tradition, preserving their legacy through an intimate and immersive recording process.
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Filmed and directed by Anthony Hughes, a cinematographer with a background in fine arts, photography, and sculpture, the documentary is visually rich and immersive. Anthony’s keen eye for composition and storytelling shapes the film’s striking visual aesthetic, and authentically captures the depth and emotion of the story.
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With Tommy Hayes’ extensive musical expertise and Anthony Hughes’ artistic vision, the film beautifully fuses history, culture, music, and the enduring spirit of the Irish People into a powerful cinematic experience.​
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Tommy's understanding of the cultural significance of the music, combined with Anthony’s artistic approach to filmmaking, create a rich and immersive experience. Filmed with a blend of cinematic precision and raw authenticity, the documentary beautifully intertwines history, music, and visual artistry to honor the legacy of the potato through Ireland’s past.
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