Quick Summary
THE STORIES FROM IRELAND'S NATIONAL ARCHIVES - This RTE One documentary episode uncovers a quirky ST PATRICK'S DAY tradition born by accident and follows a visionary inventor plotting a bold energy revolution, delivering drama and entertainment for UK television. The episode offers a quick overview at a glance with programme highlights that will intrigue British TV fans, UK viewers and anyone scrolling the television guide for RTE One programming.
About This Program
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW THE STORIES TO BE FOUND IN IRELAND'S NATIONAL ARCHIVES is a six‑part documentary series that delves into the hidden treasures of Ireland’s state archives. From a St Patrick’s Day tradition that began by accident to the daring ambitions of a home‑grown inventor reshaping the energy sector, each episode uncovers a slice of Irish history that has quietly influenced the wider world. The series is presented in a cinematic style that blends archival footage, expert interviews and on‑location filming, offering UK television audiences a fresh, compelling narrative that feels both intimate and grand in scope. WHAT TO EXPECT Each episode of this series offers a deep dive into a specific story, beginning with the unlikely origins of the “green‑shirt” parade that now dominates St Patrick’s Day celebrations across the island. The programme then follows the remarkable journey of an Irish engineer whose visionary plans for renewable energy could redefine the industry’s future. Interwoven throughout are lesser‑known tales of political intrigue, cultural exchange and scientific breakthroughs, all drawn from the meticulous records stored in Dublin’s National Archives. The documentary balances scholarly insight with human drama, delivering full details in an engaging, accessible format that feels like a masterclass in historical storytelling. KEY FEATURES The series boasts a stellar line‑up of historians, archivists and living protagonists, each bringing authority and charisma to the screen. Production values are top‑tier, with lush cinematography that captures the emerald landscapes of Ireland alongside the quiet reverence of archival vaults. Original music composed by an acclaimed Irish composer underscores the emotional beats, while the narrative structure mirrors the pacing of a high‑quality drama, ensuring that each episode feels like a self‑contained story within the larger series. This documentary stands out in the British TV landscape for its meticulous research, visual richness and the way it turns dusty paperwork into vibrant entertainment. WHY WATCH For discerning UK viewers who cherish quality programming, this series offers an in‑depth review of Ireland’s cultural heritage that resonates far beyond its borders. It provides a comprehensive guide to the forces that have shaped modern celebrations and cutting‑edge technology, making it relevant to fans of history, science and contemporary social commentary alike. The blend of drama‑like storytelling with rigorous documentary standards ensures that the series is both educational and highly entertaining, perfect for anyone looking for a thoughtful, well‑produced addition to their television guide. RTE One PROGRAMMING CONTEXT THE STORIES TO BE FOUND IN IRELAND'S NATIONAL ARCHIVES fits seamlessly into RTE One’s tradition of delivering award‑winning documentary series that inform and inspire. It complements flagship programmes such as “The Great British Story” and “Planet Earth” by offering a uniquely Irish perspective while maintaining the high production standards expected of RTE One programming. Scheduled in a prime‑time slot, the series is positioned to attract a broad audience of British TV enthusiasts, reinforcing the channel’s reputation for thoughtful, high‑quality entertainment and solidifying its place in the annual television calendar for UK viewers.
The Records Show broadcasts on RTE One at 0:05pm, Saturday, 20 September 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)