from 01.03.2015 to 31.03 - s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com · patrick conneelly is a leaving cert...

Press Book

from 01.03.2015 to 31.03.2015

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Table of Contents

03/03/2015 Carlow Nationalist:12 songs will go head to head at the Pan Celtic song contest....................................................... 3

01/04/2015 Hot Press:ALL IREUND'S A STAGE................................................................................................................. 5

13/03/2015 Kilkenny People:Culture Vultures take to 'Hole in the Wall' for Tradfest Festival.................................................. 10

17/03/2015 Carlow Nationalist:Donegal group takes the laurels a pan Celtic song competition...................................................11

03/03/2015 News Letter:Festival teaches artists how to make money from the music business........................................16

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Copyright Material. This may only be copied under the terms of a Newspaper Licensing Ireland agreement(www.newspaperlicensing.ie) or written publisher permission.

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Carlow Nationalist*Tuesday, 3 March 2015Page: 20,21

Circulation: 11500Area of Clip: 153100mm²Page 1 of 2

TaDochasAnn ArainnMhor Is Cuma sa tSioc

Is Tu

Composer: Brighdm Carr Performed by: Jason 6

Frighil and Foireann Brf

Brighdfn is based in Letterkenny and she won the Pan Celtic National Song Contest in 2006 with her song Seolfaidh me abhaile. An accomplished

songwriter, she has taken part in many competitions since she began writing songs 25 years ago. She is heavily involved in the performing arts as a songwriter, musician, choreographer and has taken part in many musical programmes on BBC, RTE and TG4. Jason 6 Fearai'l, a music student at Queen’s University Belfast, will front the group Foireann Brf to perform the song with Brighdfn.

Deoraf Composer: Eilm Nf Bheaglaoich Performed by: Eilin Ni Bheaglaoich

ENi'n Ni Bheaglaoich is a member of the well-known Begley family from West Kerry, known the world over for their music and song. Eilin had a song chosen for the final of the national song contest here in Carlow in 2013 and 2014. However, this is our first time to welcome her to Carlow to perform her own song for us. She ’ will'be accompanied on bass guitar by her son.

<sf

€50,000,000,000

Olche na Gaoithe Composer: Padraig Mac Domhnaill Performed by: Padraig Mac Domhnaill, Gerry D’Arcy and Miriam Crowley

FOR the first time in recent years, there will be no Carlow entries into this year’s Pan Celtic National Song Contest, which will be held, in the Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow on Saturday 7 March at 8pm. But given the talent and pedigree of the songwriters

and performers lining up to take

the stage, it is safe to say that you are guaranteed a night of exceptional music and fun.

All are welcome to come along and enjoy this wonderful occasion. Tickets cost €10 and are available from the reception desk at the Seven Oaks Hotel (tel: 059

9131308). The adjudicating panel will be made up

of Sean 6 Se, Liam Lawton and Padraigfn

Caesar. The event is sponsored by IMRO in association

with Gael Linn and Glor Cheatharlach, and the composer of the winning

song will receive a cash prize of €1,000 and the song will go forward to represent Ireland at the Pan Celtic International Song Contest to be held in Derry in April.

Below is the full list of composers and performers who will be battling it out on Saturday 7 March.

Composer: Marcus Mac Conghail Performed by: Marcus Mac Conghail

Singer-songwriter Marcus Mac Conghail is from Dublin. He has been writing songs for a number of years and his composition ArFhithis was runner-up at last year's Pan Celtic national song contest. He has recently performed at gigs in Dublin and throughout the country. A book of his poems, Ceol Baile, has been published by Coisceim. Marcus is delighted to be back in Carlow to perform at this year's Pan Celtic final.

Composer: Tiarnan 6 Se

Performed by: Na Taoisigh

Dublin based band Na Taoisigh have been playing together for a number of years. Lead singer and guitarist is Breandan 6 Se, while his twin brother Tiarnan plays guitar and bass. On drums is Oism 0 Cualain, who hails from Connemara. Na Taoisigh perform at concerts and gigs throughout the country, including last year’s Electric Picnic. All three have day jobs as computer engineers.

Padraig Mac DomJinaill is an accomplished singer and musician. He lives in Galway city where he plays flute at traditional music sessions. He has written many songs and composed many tunes, which he performs regularly at events throughout the country and of late in Germany. This is Padraig’s first time to enter the Pan Celtic Song Contest. He is joined on stage by Gerry on banjo and Miriam on vocals and flute.

Composer: Sharon Nf Chuilbin Performed by: Sharon Ni Chuilbin, Simon McCaffrey and Delch Davis

A native of Mayo, Sharon M Chuilbin had a love of music from the age of five when she started playing the tin whistle. Later she took up the guitar. She studied classical guitar in UCC and graduated with an MA in ethnomusicology. Now living in the West Kerry Gaeltacht, Sharon likes to write poetry in addition to her music.

Composer: Helena Byrne Performed by: Helena Byrne

Originally from Ballyhale, Co Kilkenny, Helena has been performing since she was knee- high to a guitar! A singer/songwriter,

she has been a support act for James Taylor, Katie Melua and Bob Geldof. She has performed alongside renowned Irish singers Moya Brennan and Cara O’Sullivan as well as being a ‘Lady of the Castle' for Knappogue Castle medieval banquets. She has performed as a session vocalist for

both Ronan and Colm 6 Snodaigh of Kila and most recently collaborated with Ronan, who features on her debut album Ceol. Helena also works in theatre as an actor and director, as well as doing a spot of storytelling.

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Imithe

Composer: Brid Kenny and Roisi'n Starr Performed by: Brid Kenny and Roisi'n Starr

Brfd Kenny and Roisi'n Starr have been friends since primary school and are currently in their leaving cert year in St Mary’s Secondary School in Nenagh, Co Tipperary. Brid has been writing songs and playing guitar since she was 14. She was in the finals of a talent competition

in Nenagh last year with her Indie rock band Mayfly. She hopes to study creative writing next year. Roisi'n has been playing violin since she was seven. She plays both traditional and classical music. She hopes to study music and Irish next year. Both have a strong passion and love of music and the Irish language and are delighted to have been given the chance to take part in the Pan Celtic song contest.

I I Oilean

Composer: Colette Nic Aodha Performed by: Patrick Conneelly

Colette Nic Aodha is a poet and short story writer in both Irish and English. She has 14 books published, with her latest bilingual collection

Spoilt Milk/Bainne Gear, due to be published by Arlen House later this year. She has some poems on the junior and leaving cert courses.

Patrick Conneelly is a leaving cert student in Oughterard, Co Galway. His first love is music and he has been singing, playing the guitar and busking for many years. He won a prize at last year’s Pan Celtic with Scath ar Uisce, written by Colette. They have collaborated

again this year on Oilean, which Colette wrote last summer while visiting Inis Mor, Aran.

Anseo

Composer: Lorna, Laine, Eoghan, Evelyn and Kiaran 6 Maoileain Performed by: Lorna, Laine and Eoghan 6 Maoileain, Jamie Murray and Eoin 6 Conghaile

The 6lVlaoleain family hail from Barna, Co Galway and grew up in a very musical household. Lorna works in digital marketing, plays guitar and loves to sing. Eoghan plays guitar and piano and writes a lot of his own songs. He studies software development at GMIT. Laine is in transition year at Salerno College, Salthill. Her interests include drama, singing and guitar.

Tonight the 6 Maoileain family are joined on stage by musicians Jamie Murray and Eoin 0 Conghaile.

Imigh a Dha Composer: Damian Mac Gabhann and Aidan Cranny Performed by: Deirdre Nf Chinneide and Cairde

Damian Mac Gabhann has been composing songs in both Irish and English for many years. He has had much success with his Irish language compositions and has written or co-written the song selected to represent Ireland in the International Pan Celtic Song Contest on eight occasions.

Aidan Cranny played in rock bands throughout his teens and early twenties. Later, he took an interest in acapella and traditional

music. Aidan and Damian

have been songwriting partners for some years.

A native of Dublin and now living in the beautiful Aran Islands, Deirdre Nf Chinneide sings Irish and English songs and she sang the song written by Damian that won the International

Pan Celtic Song Contest

in 2007. She has released a CD called Celtic Passage, featuring newly-composed song and music with a spirituality theme. Deirdre has wide experience of working in the Celtic spirituality area and she is recognised as one of the main singers in this field.

Go Beo go Deo na Composer: Enda Reilly and Seamus Barra 6 Suilleabhain

Performed by: Enda Reilly

Enda Reilly from Tallaght is a folk musician and singer-songwriter in both Irish and English. His songs can be

heard on national radio regularly. His latest album, Amhrain Nua i nGaeilge, is a collection of his songs in the Irish language. Enda is no stranger to Carlow or to the Pan Celtic National Song Contest as he took part in all finals held here since 2012 and was runner-up in last year's contest. This year, Enda's song Go Beo go Deon na nDeor was co-written with Seamus Barra 6 Suilleabhain and they collaborate to perform it for Pan Celtic - with a spot of rap thrown in!

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Hot Press*Wednesday, 1 April 2015Page: 53,55,57


ALL IRELAND'S A STAGE ... And there’s something on, wherever you are, nearly every night of the week. Not only that, it’s happening in the kind of rooms that are a joy in and of themselves. With live entertainment booming, we take a look at the most happening spots, from character-filled pubs and historic theatres to vibrant arts centres and state-of-the-art arenas.

Forget saints and scholars, in 2015 we truly are living in "The Land

Of Craic Agus Ceol”. Considering our small size, the variety of live entertainment on offer here in Ireland is truly staggering. Whatever

nook, cranny or county you find yourself in on the Emerald Isle, there is something to see, hear and enjoy on a regular basis.

Performers aside - and we have a phenomenal mix of homegrown talent and the biggest artists in the world passing through these days we take great pride in our venues, bustling and vibrant as they are.

What makes our pubs, clubs, theatres, arenas and art centres the envy of the world? Well, we have a special mix of historical spots, filled with character and beautiful architecture, along with some truly state-ofthe-art

spaces, thriving on new technology and custom-built with both the performance and the audience in mind. Often, you'll find a splendid

mixture of both. It is also, of course, about the people. Our venues are run in the main

by people that truly live for the arts and put all their focus and energy

into providing great shows for their clientele. Whether it’s the seasoned booker that's given that big break to every local act that's lived up to their potential over the past two decades, or the theatre director with a great

eye for an innovative production, our talent scouts, entrepreneurs and venue operators are up there with the best.

The people that flock to our entertainment palaces are just as important. We all know about the great atmosphere that can be conjured up in an evening's live entertainment, but it's also the creativity and longterm

sense of community that is encouraged around many of these establishments that does wonders for the arts-and the country at large. Every big town will have at least one haven for artistic types, a place to meet, play and share ideas; and our cities are full of them. The scene has

been built around places like Whelan's,The Olympia Theatre, Sweeneys, The Academy, The Button Factory and The Grand Social in Dublin; The Town

Hall Theatre,The Roisin Dubh and Monroe's in Galway; Cork Opera House and Coughlan's in Cork; the INEC in Killarney and McCarthy's Bar in Dingle -and loads more. But new venues are coming through all the time, from small places like the wonderfully salubrious Cobblestone Joe's in Limerick, the Set Theatre in Kilkenny, the rocking Thomas House in Dublin, Sin £ on the quays in the capital and 5th OnTeeling in Sligo, that add both to the

opportunities for local and visiting acts-and to the choices available to

fans of the Big Music. Needless to say, getting people out of their abodes and intermingling

is good for the local economy. And it helps cement our reputation as a welcoming tourist destination.This dovetails nicely with the work being done-and the marvellous events taking place on a regular, nationwide basis-across the disciplines. Our theatres and arts centres-from the Gate Theatre and the Abey Theatre in Dublin to the acclaimed Solstice Arts Centre in Navan - are teeming with exceptional ideas and dramatic executions, real meccasforthe exuberance and ideas of the young and

young at heart. In our special report on 'The State OfThe Live Entertainment Scene

Today', we surveyed the venue owners of Ireland and some of the results

were truly remarkable. Despite the economic climate of recent times,

it seems people have still found the wherewithal to get out and about. As already revealed, the future looks bright, with over half of the venue

owners who took part having confirmed that they are looking to expand or upgrade their premises within the next two years. It is testament to

how live entertainment in Ireland has defied the odds. And it's great news for the punter too. All that considered, it's time to get down to brass tacks:

the question of'what are the hottest spots right now?' and 'what's on the entertainment calendar that I really can't miss in 2015?'Wonder no more. Here's our guide to live music venues that are keeping the country rocking

right now, as well as at least some of the theatres and arts centres that

merit special attention...

t

I Hermitage Green play the opening weekend at the Blue Door Venue in Portlaoise

performing. USP: If it's sports you're after, you'll

find most big events on one of their

many large 60" plasma screens.

CA^EN SEINE 40 Dawson Street, Dublin

Tel: +353 (0)16774567 • cafeenseine.com

A regular hang-out for the great and good of Dublin's arts scene - and once you walk through the impressive entrance of Cafe En Seine and marvel at the character and Parisian architecture of the place, you'll know why. Right now. there's a revival happening at Cafe En Seine

just as there is in the city from which we take our inspiration. Paris has

never been more alive with music, art, fashion and fresh ideas and their

ambition is to be every bit as vibrant. With flavoursome food, fine wines, seasonal signature drinks and an

array of cocktails to enjoy, there's

also plenty to keep you entertained. From this month on,Thursdays find DJ Christian Homan on the decks. Friday nights get sweeter with

TXFM's Claire Beck spinning a mix of

THE BLUE DOOR VENUE O 'Loughlin's Hotel, Main Street,

Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Tel: +353578621305

thebluedoorvenue.ie

This is one for the very near futureO'Loughlin's Hotel are set to open the

Midlands' newest exclusive music venue in May.The 1,400 capacity Blue Door Venue will see some of Ireland’s hottest acts performing from Thursday to Sunday, making it a real hotspot for live entertainment over a weekend (well, the Pet Shop Boys' extended idea of a weekend).

Set over two levels, it's decked out in a variety of comfortable high and

low seating and quirky decor.The

Blue Door has four bars spread over

two levels, with the VIP bar set to become the premier cocktail and long drinks bar in the Midlands.

A comfortable smoking terrace is located on the first floor beside our

exclusive cocktail bar. MUST SEES: Opening weekend

on Friday tst May finds acts such as Hermitage Green and Big Generator

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disco, funk, house, soul, '8os synth pop and more.

MUST SEES: Republique (EveryThursday Night),

Bon Bon with Claire Beck (Every Friday Night)

USP: There are exciting collaborations in art,

fashion, music and food to be unveiled throughout

the year, so don't miss out. Join the conversation

atttmaisoui

COBBLESTONE JOE S I la Ellen Street, Little Ellen Lane, Limerick, Co. Limerick

Tel: > 353 87 4666858 • cobblestonejoes.com

A prime spot for fantastic sounds in Limerick city

centre, Cobblestone Joe’s offers great live music

to punters in The Treaty City seven nights a week.

Not only is there awesome action on stage on a

regular basis, but the bar itself is considered by

many to be one of the best in Munster. Friendly clientele and an even friendlier staff combine to

ensure there will be a great atmosphere, while

the historic building, with its striking brickwork, is a sight to behold. And they recently installed

chandeliers! MUST SEES: A very artist friendly venue with

the likes of Fleadh Cowboy Pete Cummins and

local heroes Fox Jaw coming on strong in recent

ti mes. Check @cobblestonerock on Twitter for new

listings. USP: The sound system was cooked up by

Limerick sound engineer Adrian Cunningham

with WAV Mastering ace Richard Dowling, so the audio quality here is truly unbeatable.

CORK OPERA HOUSE Emmet Place, Cork, Co. Cork

Tel: > 353 (0)214270022 • corkoperahouse. ie

Originally constructed in 1855, the Cork Opera House celebrates its 160-year anniversary this

year. Rebuilt in the '6os and renovated to a state-

The lovely interior of the Cork Opera House

of-the-art standard a decade ago, the theatre is an

iconic building that combines a venerated history

with an exciting, busy schedule. A fine structure

that is a real institution in the People's Republic,

its beautiful interior and phenomenal acoustics

mean seeing a show in the Opera House is a joy.

And it welcomes accomplished performers of every ilk. From ballets and operas (but of course!),

to the world's biggest comedians and rock acts,

there is something to suit every taste at Cork Opera House. Add in the award-winning House

Cafe and bar facilities and you have the basis for a

great night. MUST SEES: Damien Dempsey (March 21), Neil

Delamere (28),The Fureys (April 12), Paul Brady

(25), Sinead O'Connor (May 2), Villagers (23) and St.

Vincent (July 13).

USP: Cork Opera House boasts a superb venue for hire (capacity approx. 200), featuring a private

lounge and bar with a glass frontage that provides

magnificent views of the River Lee.

5th ON TEEUNG 5 Teeling Street, Sligo, Co. Sligo

Tel: +353 71 914 6842 • 5thonteeling.com

5th On Teeling is the premier live music venue and

club in Sligo town. Designated by Hot Press as one of the Live Music venues of the Year 2015, it has

seen a wealth of well-known local and national

acts play since it opened for live business in May 2012. It continues to build an enviable reputation

as the place to go for live gigs in the area - as one happy customer says: "5th On Teeling is a

mandatory stop when venturing out in Sligo." 5th On Teeling is solely dedicated to hosting live

music performances and eclectic DJ sets, as well

as their monthly comedy club.The venue boasts a late bar and many of the gigs are free admission.

MUST SEES: Amazing Apples (March 20), Ardal

Damo Dempey rocking 5th On Teeling in Sligo

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HamsandwicH: headlining the INEC, Killarney

O’Hanlon (27), RuggedWood (28), Oddsocks (April 4)

USP: What they mean to the music scene. As

Rackhouse Pilfer tell us: "Week in and week out

they have supported local bands and artists and

have never shied away from promoting home

grown talent."

THE GRAND SOCIAL

35 Lower Liffey Street, Dublin 1

Tel: +353 (0)18740090 • thegrandsocial.ie

Talk about hitting the ground running. Since it

opened back in 2010, this bar and venue at the

foot of the Ha'penny Bridge has been up for IMRO

Venue of the Year every single year (winning in

2on!) and was most recently shortlisted for the

prestigious Hot Press Venue Of The Year. Safe to say

half a decade in, The Grand Social has established

itself as one of the finest places to catch live music

in Dublin. Not only loved by music fans, it has

become the venue of choice if you're an act looking

to mark a big release, or to immortalise your show,

as they offer bands 32-track live recording of their

gig entirely free. With friendly staff and a beautiful

interior, it's also a splendid spot for a relaxing drink

as well.

MUST SEES: Inni-K (March 27), Otherkin (April

2), A Lazarus Soul (10), Not Squares (10, late show),

The Urges (17)

USP: You'll find the place busy during the day,

as it is available for pre-production/recording,

showcasing and video shoots. The li kes of Raglans,

The Academic, Pockets and more have already

availed oftheirservices.

INEC

Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Tel: +353 (O) 64 6671541 • inec.ie

A stronghold for live entertainment in

Munster, Ireland's National Events Centre

The Coronas played McCarthy’s in Dingle

has hosted numerous world class acts since

opening in 2000. With sell-out performances by

artists ranging from Jose Carreras to Hozier, the

INEC is now recognised as one of our leading

entertainment venues. Able to accommodate

between 200 and 3,000 people, switching

effortlessly from the intimate to the arena-sized,

the likes ofVan Morrison, Stereophonies and

Buena Vista Social Club have all played in recent

years. Going waaay back - dance music icons The

Prodigy played the old Ballroom before the big

time, so you can’t deny their pedigree!

MUST SEES: Booka Brass Band (March 20),The

WolfeTones (April 5), HamsandwicH (n), Christy

Moore (18)

USP: Looking ahead, Folkfest Killarney between

July 24 - 26 should be a fantastic event, featuring

a stellar line-up that includes Moving Hearts,

Grammy winners Tinariwen, Martin Hayes, larla O

Lionaird and Steve Cooney plus much, much more.

JUDGE ROY BEANS 1 Edward Street, Newbridge, Co. Kildare

Tel: +353 (0) 45438077 • judgeroybeans.ie

The Walls onstage in Monroe's Live, Galway

A supremely popular steakhouse now with a twist,

Judge Roy Beans has far better tunes than most

American-themed eateries. Not only does it serve

succulent grub in the restaurant and boast a wellstocked

bar, but it has just launched a premier

music venue upstairs, offering a very different live

experience. If you're in Kildare, this is the complete

package for a night out. Key to the success of their

new direction will be the sheer quality of their

bookings. Acts that have graced the main stages

of some of the biggest festivals in the world are

lining up to play a set in Judge Roy Beans.The

service is good too. Where else would you get a

slap-up steak meal before watching some stadium

metal in incredibly intimate environs? As we hit

the shelves,The Darkness will begetting ready

to play. JRBs are also keen to host bands from the

area to give homegrown music a leg up. Here are

some other acts coming their way...

MUST SEES: The Darkness (March 19), Damien

Dempsey (April 17),The Mighty Steff (25), Dick

Valentine (29)

USP: The opening hours are great.They

serve food daily until 9pm (and iopm Friday

and Saturday) and don’t shut

their doors until 11.30pm

(12.30am Fridays and 2am

Saturdays).

MCCARTHY'S Goat Street, Upper Main

Street, Dingle, Co. Kerry

Tel:+353 66 9151205

• facebook.com/

McCarlhysdingle

When you think of

Dingle, you think of

great sight-seeing

and quiet evenings

in cosy pubs (and

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possibly dolphins!), but McCarthy's is a thriving venue, that brings some of the country's finest musicians to the famous Kerry town. Over the past few years, the likes ofThe Frames,The Coronas, Kodaline and Mick Flannery have all pitched up for a wonderfully snug and atmospheric show, so it really is a chance to see artists that have had bestselling

albums in a totally unique environment. With a capacity of only 60 people, the only problem might be finding a seat!

MUST SEES: Keep an eye on facebook.com/ McCarthysdingle for exciting shows in the near future. Wyvern Lingo werea recent highlight.

USP: It has the honour of being not only Dingle's oldest pub but also the most westerly music venue in Europe.

monroe’s Live 14 Dominick Street Upper, Galway, Co. Galway

Tel: +353 (0) 879783245 - monroes.ie

With gigs on nearly every night of the week, pretty much the entire spectrum of modern music is covered by Monroe's Live-celebrating its fifth birthday this year and part of the Monroe's tavern business that has been going strong for half a century. From expert cover acts to original artists, there’s something for everyone, with their trad nights in particular earning plenty of praise. One of the "best in the west", it scooped the 2013 Live Venue OfThe Year at the IMRO Awards in impressive style. Boasting two stages, and a topend

sound and lighting set-up, it also has a homely feel, with the long main bar and open stone fires make the visit even more enjoyable. It is a major presence i n Galway's West End and has hosted Mumford 6-Sons, Kodaline,The Original Rudeboys and more.

MUST SEES: Enter Metropolis (March 29), Sharon Murphy (April 9),The Hummingbirds (n),Jinx Lennon (12), Peter Doran (19)

USP: The staff pride themselves on giving patrons what they call the ultimate Galway going-

out experience and are happy to cater for large groups and parties, with an extensive cocktail menu on offer.

THE OLYMPIA 72 Dame Street, Dublin 2

Tel: +353 (0) 16793323 • olympiad

With a reputation that precedes it,The Olympia is one of the oldest and most loved venues in the capital. Built in 1879 and operating in its current incarnation for 115 years, it brings big names to Dublin on a frequent basis. Every week, it seems another world-beating band or exciting, up-coming act is treading its hallowed boards. Radiohead, Pixies and David Bowie have all played before - Ryan Adams and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds are more recent headliners. A magical setting, well loved by artists and fans alike, it is a massive presence both on Dame Street and on the Irish scene.

MUST SEES: Gavin James (March 20), Mick Flannery (22), I, Keano (March 25-April 6), Laura Marling (7),Villagers (20)

USP: The venue itself exudes class and nostalgia, bringing a warm Victorian Music Hall feel to every show it hosts.

PYGMALION Powerscourt Townhouse, South William Street, Dublin 2

Tel: +353 (0) 16334479 pyg.ie

Now six years in the game, Pygmalion has changed the face of clubbing in Dublin, bringing plenty of big names to perform live in the capital. It's also one of the coolest hangout spots in the country. Fairto say then,that Pygmalion in Powerscourt Townhouse has it all - a great restaurant and cafe, well-stocked bars and a fantastic atmosphere.Top European DJs are regularly on hand to supply the banging tunes and a plethora of club nights makes it a favourite of students. It secured its position as a must-visit for club-goers, music enthusiasts

and party animals with a recent six-day festival to celebrate Pyg's birthday, with the supremely skilled likes ofjackmasterand Krystal Klear getting the place jumping.

MUST SEES: Monday Madness.TerraceTuesday, Wacky Wednesday, Throwback Thursdays, Garage Fridays, Division with Will Kinsella Saturday, PYG Sundays

USP: Not only will you find everything from house to hip-hop on the speakers, but they also serve really good tapas.

RdiSiNDUBH Lower Dominick Street, Galway, Co. Galway

Tel: +353 (0) 91586540 • roisindubh.net

Galway is the unofficial home of the arts in Ireland and the Roisin Dubh is vital to its thriving music scene. Talk to any act out west and they will have a host of anecdotes to relate about great nights they've had in the venue, whether playing or socialising. Gugai is the man at the musical helm and there's few people who can match his enthusiasm, hands-on approach and knack for spotting artists with real potential. Entertaining the City of the Tribes for over two decades, they continue to put the spotlight on hot new prospects, while also welcoming established acts on occasion - and when you have the likes of Franz Ferdinand doing theirthing in its intimate environs, it certainly is an occasion.

MUST SEES: Cloud Castle Lake (March 26), Mary Black(28), ALLTWINS (28), Kerbdog (April 11),The Twilight Sad (30) Le Galaxie (Mayi).

USP: Music aside,The Roisin Dubh is one of Ireland's go-to locations if you want a few laughs. Under the baton of comedy-mad Kevin Healy, they’ve played host to some of the greatest standups

in the world, with everyone from Reginald D. Hunter to Stewart Lee taking the mic.

THESET THEATRE

John Street, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

Tel. +353 (0) 56 7721728 • set.ie

Having celebrated its fifth birthday in 2014,The Set Theatre has firmly established itself as one of the most brilliant, state-of-the-art venues the country has to offer. A beautiful 400-standing, 350-seated capacity building, designed by David Collins in London, its multi-purpose room is capable of holding conferences, films, music and comedy. To get an idea of the illustrious talent that is eager to perform there when they head for Kilkenny, international acts such as Grizzly Bear and Beth Orton have previously played, while the homegrown likes of Damien Dempsey, Hudson

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Taylor, Printer Clipsand The Riptide Movement are recent visitors.

MUST SEES: Meltybrains? (free show on March 28), Kerbdog (April 5), Le Galaxie (May 8), Rubberbandits (June 20)

USP: The sheer beauty of the place, it is an architectural masterclass by Collins.

SiNE 14-15 Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin 7

Tel: +353 (0) 15554037 • Facebookcom/Sin.E.Pub

Slap bang in the centre of Dublin, Sin £ has acquired almost legendary status as a chilled quayside haunt for those into their alternative sounds.There's a lot of competition these days, but Sin £ has been riding the wave remarkably

well. A loyal base of regular customers helps and there's a real community, grassroots feel to the place. From bluegrass, hip hop and poetry nights to the all-out rock in Battle OfThe Bands competitions, there’s something to suit all tastes at Sin £.They have immaculate taste too - Hot

Press covers adorn the walls! MUST SEES: Fox E &The Good Hands (March 17),

Baque Soul Band &Amen Brother DJs (19-20), Live at Sin £ every Saturday night

USP: Their drink prices are extremely reasonable! They also have a fine selection of craft and world beers. Well worth checking out...

SWEENEY’S 32 Dame Street, Dublin 2

Tel: +353 (0) 16350056 • sweeneysdublin.ie

strength-to-strength over half a decade on. MUST SEES: Sweeney's Dixieland Jazzmen

(March 22), AfterThe Ibis (27), Sweeney's Presents Cult Called Man,The Quakers, Bagels, November Pearls (28), Spirit of Folk Battle of the Bands (April i).

USP: It can be a likely spot for a bit of celebspotting on the right night: Bob Geldof joined

The Strypes on stage during their 5th birthday celebrations last summer.

THOMAS HOUSE 36 Thomas Street, Dublin 6

Tel: +353 (085) 2039047/+353 (O) 1 6772619.

facebook.com/thomashousedublin

Declared to be the "best alternative pub in Dublin" by one of our country's finest performers, Imelda May. And she'd know - she’s a Liberties local. As for the owners, they proudly proclaim The Thomas House to be "the finest dive bar in Dublin City". Indeed, they more than welcome all manner of miscreants through their doors each evening. If you're a punk, rockabilly or reggae lover, ska head or skinhead, metaller or plain old indie type, you'll find a thoroughly enjoyable haven here. It is a Hot Press favourite fora reason! In terms of music venue credentials,TheThomas House hosts DJs every night of the week, with a suitably eclectic soundtrack. Independently owned and run by two local promoters and DJs.

MUST SEES: Interzone (March 21), Damaged (27), Mash It Up! (28),The Graveyard Johnnys (April 4).

USP: A great range of craft beers add to the DIY, underground and - let's face it-totally cool vibe.

Run by music lovers for music lovers, Sweeney's is located with a foot in both the busy Dame Street and vibrant Dame Lane. Sweeney's is known for its open mic nights, once-off gigs, some of the finest club nights around and a terrific rocking atmosphere. Sporting an impossibly cool interior, lined with album covers and other musical trinkets, it comprises three floors, each with a stage, so it's more than capable of accommodating an eclectic mix of rock, folk, jazz and electronic sounds. With staff as into the music as the customers, and plenty of familiar faces, if you make a habit of stopping by, pretty soon everyone will know your name. Nominated numerous times for IMRO Live Music Venue OfThe Year, they continue to go from

WHELAN'S 25 Wexford Street, Dublin 2

Tel: +353 (0)14780766 • whelanslive.com

A Dublin institution. Scratch that, an Irish institution. Having celebrated 25 years in 2014, today Whelan's remains at the heart of the Irish

scene. Putting aside the fact it is a real landmark with a reputation that has travelled the globe, it remains a top place to see a gig. With great sound and a warm atmosphere, there’s few better places to catch an act about to go interstellar up-close-and-personal. They're good at spotting the heavy-hitters early too

-the likes of Jeff Buckley, Nick Cave and a fresh-faced Arctic Monkeys have played. A

host of Ireland's biggest names, Damien Rice and Glen Hansard

included,got theirstart in the Wexford St. venue. A young Ed Sheeran caught the former

Thomas House is one of Imelda May's favourite bars

years back-and it made such an impression on him that he picked Whelan's as the place for his astonishing VHi: Storytellers special earlier this year.

MUST SEES: Peace (March 20), Kila (21),The Handsome Family (27), Hail the Ghost (April 2) Will Butler (25),The Pop Group (May 4), Mundy (24).

USP: When there's nothing happening on stage, upstairs or downstairs, there's still a good night to be had, with the historic bar at the front and the pretty young things dancing in the back to some of the best DJs around.

TOWN HALL THEATRE Courthouse Square, Galway, Co. Galway

Tel: +353 (0) 91569777 • tht.ie

Incorporating a 400-seater main auditorium and 52-seater Studio Space (as well as nearby multipurpose

Black Box Theatre with capacity for up to 600 seated and 850 standing),TheTown Hall Theatre presents an extensive mix of theatre, concerts, comedy, musicals, dance, film,family and community shows, seven days a week. In 2014, the venues presented more than 400 performances and events, plus more than 80 screenings. In 2015, the theatre will celebrate its 20th year-and two

million attendees! One of the busiest venues outside of Dublin and Cork, it is a vitally important piece of the national cultural infrastructure for touring shows and one of the main showcases for live entertainment in the regions.

The role of the Town Hall Theatre is to engage and develop the widest possible audience for a diverse programme of theatre and arts events in Galway and to provide a supportive environment for artists and arts organisations.

MUST SEES: Mike Denver (March 20), Anything Goes (24-28), Galway Dance Days Festival (27-29), Kilfenora Ceili Band (April 18), An Evening with Irvine Welsh (24), Rubberbandits: Continental Fistfight(May 3).

USP: If it's something big happening in Galway, Town Hall Theatre will be a part of it. The venue continues to be at the epicentre of the city's cultural activity, including major international festivals such as Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Film Fleadh and Galway Comedy Festival.

Galway's Town Hall Theatre: ready for live action

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Kilkenny People*Friday, 13 March 2015Page: 21


Culture Vultures take to 'Hole in the Wall’ for Tradfest Festival TradFest Kilkenny will hostthe inaugural

visit of Culture Vultures at the Hole In The Wall, Saturday at 5pm, and the line-up features: Spoken Word: Writer Peter Murphy delivers his riveting version

of arguably the most famous Irish short story ever written: The Dead, by James Joyce. Murphy uses his innate sense of theatricality and writing skills to make sure you won't forget what you'll see and hear.

A perfect left-field St Patrick’s Day weekend experience.

Fresh from talking about music, uileann piper Leonard Barry will return centre

stage for the Culture Vultures finale, as he displays his esteemed skills at coaxing melodies and lines out of what could well be be thin air... And, sure, who knows who might join him as the minutes and melodies

pass! After selling out their debut Dublin

showin 24 hours, Dylan Haskins and Lisa Hannigan bring Soundings: Holy Trinity to the stunning surrounds of the historic

and exquisite Long Gallery in Kilkenny Castle for an afternoon of story and song. In this live show-come podcast, broadcaster

Dylan Haskins and acclaimed singer-songwriter Lisa Hannigan will be joined by three guests from different walks of Irish life.

IMRO descend on Kilkenny Tradfest and aim to shine a light on emerging stars of traditional music in Ireland. Those selected

for showcase have an opportunity to perform in front of festival organisers, media and an established group of traditional

music supporters. The masterclass led by established traditional musicians will offer insightful information for attendees.

Other events include the Johnny Reidy Ceili Band and the Annaly Ceili Band,

workshops, sean nos dancing and lots more.

Tickets available from Rollercoaster Records and www.entertainment.ie

For full listings go to www.kilkennytradfest.com <http://www.kilkennytradfest.com

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By Suzanne Pender

SLOW laments, rousing ballads, lively rock and even a rap - the Pan Celtic Song Contest had it all.

Hosted in the Seven Oaks Hotel last week, the lack of any Carlow finalist this year certainly didn’t deter the large numbers in attendance, with the packed ballroom treatad to a feast of musical entertainment. The event was sponsored by IMRO in association with Gael Linn and Glor Cheatharlach,

with the winner receiving a cheque for €1,000 and going on to represent Ireland at the International

Pan Celtic Song Competition. “It was absolutely fantastic," enthused organiser

Bride de Roiste of Glor Cheatharlach. “This is the fourth one we’ve held and everyone was saying that the standard keeps going up and up.

“The variety of songs was just superb and to such

a high standard. Nearly everyone involved this, year were professional and hugely-accomplished musicians or songwriters, so the performances were all fantastic.”

The impeccable standard made for a tough decision for the three judges, who were Cork tenor Sean 6 Se, the well-known Carlow musician and singer Padraigin Caesar and the hugely popular Liam Lawton.

While Carlow didn't have any entry among the finalists, Carlow talent was still very much in evidence with Shane 0 hAonghusa performing on two occasions during the night. The talented guitarist warmed up the crowd, then came back by popular demand at the interval. Shane’s next big gig is today (Tuesday), when he performs on the main stage in Dublin as part of the city's St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Local musicians Dave Sheridan and Ciaran Somers generated a rousing atmosphere with a selection of tunes on the fiddle and the flute, joined on stage by Carlow sean nos dance teachers Irene and Lorraine Cunningham, who had “sparks flying off the floor”.

John McDarby and Bride de Roiste did a terrific job as MCs for the night and showcased Carlow to the large audience from all over the country. They also officially announced that Carlow has been chosen to host the 2016 and 2017 Pan Celtic International

Festival. The 2016 event will take place from 29 March to 3 April.

“Ollie Hennessy was our musical director and, really and truly, the event couldn't have been held

without him,” praised Bride. Amid much excitement and tension, the winning

song was announced as Arainn Mhdr, composed by Brighdin Carr and performed by Jason 6 Frighfl and Foireann Bn, a group of singers and musicians who travelled to Carlow from Donegal earlier that day.

Go Beo go Deon a nDeor, composed by Enda Reilly and Seamus Barra 6 Suilleabhain, which included a rap, came second, while the haunting lament Deoraf by Eilfn Nf Bheaglaoich was third.

Brfd Kenny and Roisin Star

Noel and Treasa O'Neill

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Anseo performing at the song contest

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Arainn Mhor, the winners of the 2015 Pan Celtic Song Contest, which was held in the Seven Oaks Hotel recently Photos: Thomas Nolan

Kieran Summers and Dave Sheridan, who entertained the crowd with a few

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03/03/2015 00:00 | News Letter

Media Source: PressPage: 24,33

Festival teaches artists how to make money from the music business

Online article

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