Film in Limerick, operated by Limerick City and County Council is delighted to support production on the second season of The Wayfinders, a fantasy drama TV series now filming across Limerick and the wider Mid-West region. Filming has wrapped in Newcastle West where the production was on location this month. Produced by Limerick-based Dark Day Pictures in partnership with US production company Arrowstorm, The Wayfinders series represents another significant international production for the region.
Film in Limerick is working closely with the production to facilitate filming across the region while maximising opportunities for local crew, trainees and businesses. Through the National Talent Academy South, delivered by Film in Limerick, emerging crew members are gaining valuable industry experience through structured placements, and professional development opportunities attached to the production.
More than 70% of the crew are based locally, while over 50 regional businesses are supporting the production across accommodation, transport, catering, construction and technical services.
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan TD visited the production on location at Desmond Castle, in his native Newcastle West, Co. Limerick. The Minister met cast, crew and trainees participating in structured on-set development programmes designed to support the next generation of Irish screen talent.
Filming will continue throughout the summer across locations in Limerick, Clare, Tipperary and Offaly, with many of the region’s historic landmarks and landscapes featuring prominently in the upcoming season.
Joining the Minister during the visit were Cathaoirleach of Newcastle West Municipal District, Cllr Michael Collins and Cllr Tom Ruddle, Regional Film Manager Paul C Ryan, producers Stephen Hall, Kynan Griffin and Jennifer Griffin, Rachel Power of the National Talent Academy Crew Hub South, alongside local representatives.
The Wayfinders is supported through Ireland’s Section 481 audiovisual tax incentive, which continues to play a key role in attracting international productions while strengthening the long-term development of the Irish screen industry.
Mayor of Limerick John Moran said:
“Limerick continues to establish itself as one of Ireland’s leading destinations for film and television production. The combination of world-class studio infrastructure, experienced local crew and outstanding locations makes the region uniquely positioned to support major international productions. We have real momentum now, with this definitely being a case where we all want more for Limerick.”
Minister Patrick O’Donovan TD said:
“It is hugely encouraging to see a production of this scale filming here in Limerick, particularly in Newcastle West and at locations such as Desmond Castle, which provide a stunning backdrop for screen productions of international quality.The Mid-West has firmly established itself as a centre of excellence for film and television production, supported by world-class facilities, highly skilled crew and exceptional locations.Productions like The Wayfinders demonstrate the significant economic and creative opportunities the screen sector can bring to regional Ireland, while also creating valuable career pathways for emerging talent. I want to congratulate everyone involved and wish the production continued success throughout filming.”
Cathaoirleach of Newcastle West Municipal District, Cllr Michael Collins commented:
“The filming of Wayfinders here at Desmond Castle in the centre of Newcastle West is great for the area. The town is a hive of activity and we welcome all the cast and crew. It is wonderful to see local towns, heritage sites and communities playing such an important role in a major television production. The benefits extend far beyond the screen sector and positively impact tourism, hospitality and local enterprise. We look forward to seeing more of this type of activity in the future.”
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly added:
“The continued growth of the screen sector in the Mid-West reflects the strength of collaboration between industry, local authorities, education and government partners. Productions such as The Wayfinders bring significant economic benefits to the region while also helping to strengthen the long-term future of the creative industries across the region.”
Stephen Hall, Producer at Dark Day Pictures, said:
“Filming in Desmond Castle has given us the opportunity to create some visually spectacular scenes, and the support we have received from the local community and the OPW has been exceptional from day one. As a company based in Limerick, producing a project of this scale in our home region is something we are incredibly proud of. We believe regional productions can play a transformative role in the future of the Irish screen industry, and future support for regional scripted production will be essential to sustaining that growth nationwide.”
Regional Film Manager Paul C Ryan added:
“Productions like The Wayfinders show the incredible talent, locations and capability we now have across the Mid-West and regional Ireland. We’ve seen real growth in film and TV production outside Dublin in recent years, but there is a huge opportunity to build on that momentum through stronger supports for regional scripted production. With the right incentives, we can continue to attract major productions, create long-term careers for local crew and ensure the benefits of the screen industry are felt right across the country.”
