Join in this Thursday, March 22, 7:30 p.m., for the Opening of the 18th Annual Irish Film Festival, Boston, as the Somerville Theatre presents two award-winning films, then enjoy the after-party at Orleans Restaurant.

The program features Kissing Candice, the directorial debut feature film from Aoife McArdle, shot on location in Ireland, following her multiple award winning short film Every Breaking Wave, commissioned by Bono, U2 and Jefferson Hack. Recipient of the Festival’s Breakthrough Feature Award.

Also playing with Kissing Candice is Director Paul Horan’s Bless Me Father, winner of the Festival’s Most Inspiring Short Award. Bless Me Father is the first film by writer/director Paul Horan.

For more information about the Festival, go to: irishfilmfestival.com.