Kilkenny TradFest, taking place from the 14 – 17 March, recently announced a full line-up that boasts an impressive list of big-name acts. Heading the bill is a free concert by Sharon Shannon in the Castle Park. Sharon, who has achieved legendary status throughout the world, will no doubt be a huge hit at this family-friendly event. Sharon and her band will be supported by The Steve Cooney Trio.
Mary Black will play Langton’s Ballroom on St Patrick’s Day as part of her eagerly awaited first tour in four years. Mary will be joined on stage by her band, Bill Shanley, Pat Crowley, Nick Scott and Richie Buckley. Described by the San Francisco Chronicle as “one of the best interpretative singers around”, Mary’s concert is definitely one not to miss, but with tickets selling fast, early booking is advised.
The Paddy Glackin & Donal Lunny duo will take to the stage at Set Theatre on Monday 16 March as part of a double headliner with Pauline Scanlon, Padraig Rynne & Notify. Sweeney’s Men have often been described as a pioneering influence on the revival of folk music in Ireland and abroad in the ’60s, ’70s and beyond. Expect to hear their trademark interplay between mandolin and bouzouki. This show takes place on Sunday, 15 March at 8pm in The Watergate Theatre and there will be a pre-show Q&A with Irish Times journalist Tony Clayton Lea.
The Irish singing sensation Seo Linn will kick off the centre’s St. Patrick’s Weekend activity with a performance on Saturday 14 at 2pm in Workhouse Square.
A founding member of Ireland’s most celebrated World Music band Kíla, Rónán Ó Snodaigh will present an evening workshop and concert on Sunday 15 March in Billy Byrne’s Pub
On Mother’s Day, the Festival will host an evening of music and dining with Lumiere in Kilkenny’s award-winning restaurant Anocht. An evening mixing with Irish Cuisine and Irish Music, this will be really special and an ideal way to treat Mum over the Tradfest weekend.
Following a sellout concert at Tradfest 2014, Edel Fox and Neil Byrne return to this year’s lineup for a show in Cleere’s Theatre on Sunday, 15 March.
The Bulmers Music Trail is back with a bang this year and will feature more than 70 free gigs in pubs across the city over the four days. Highlights from the TradTrail include John Spillane, At First Light,Skippers Alley, Ruggedwood, Away with the Fairies, The Steve Cooney Trio and Cuig
RobMoro 