Music and set dancing at Kilrush festival

THE annual Kilrush Traditional Music and Set Dancing Festival takes place this weekend. On Thursday there will be a singing session in the Haven with Gerry McNamara, Ennis and a host of local and visiting singers. On Friday, music classes will be held in the adult education centre at 10am with tutors Rory McMahon, Colin Sheehan and Paula McMahon. Participants should register with Vincent O’Halloran at 086 0854834.
Irish classes in conjunction with Conradh na nGaeilge (contact Mary Hamilton at 086 3455961) and set-dancing classes with Mary Clancy at Teach Cheoil will also be held on Friday. At 2pm there will be a musical boat trip to Scattery Island, weather permitting.
The festival’s official opening will be conducted by Kilrush Mayor Ian Lynch at 6.45pm on Friday, with the Johnny Reidy Céilí Band playing for the open air céilí in the Square at 7pm. On Saturday, music, Irish and set-dancing classes will continue, while the céilí in the Square with the Glenside Céilí Band will be at 3pm.
Charlie Harris, Eamon Cotter and friends will be the special guests at the concert from 8pm. Also taking part are Inis Cathaigh CCE and the All-Ireland champion set dancers from Cross.
On Sunday, the walled gardens will resound to music from 3pm, while the Five Counties Céilí Band will bring the curtain down on the festival in the square at 7pm.
There will be music sessions in all the town bars during the festival.