The Fanad peninsula is ready to host a brand new festival happening this weekend, 16-18th May.
Féile Cheoil agus Chultúir Fhánada is a celebration of music, song, dance, drama, art and language, and has a jam-packed schedule over the weekend, with something for everyone.
The festival is being organised by three local groups, Comhar Fhánada & Ghleann Bhairr, Gaeltacht Bheo Fhánada and Comhaltas Craobh Fhánada.
“There has been a real synergy in the community in recent years”, says Rosie Nic Cionnaith, festival organising committee.
“These groups are pulling together and it is creating a lot of opportunities for traditional music and the Irish language in the area. It’s becoming a very vibrant scene here.”
The weekend kicks off at 7pm Friday night at Ionad Pobail Tráigh a’ Locha (Eircode: F92 DV72) with a concert, with Colm Ferriter of Highland Radio as MC. Comhaltas Fhánada and Scoil Rince Ní Ghallchóir will be joined by numerous special guests, including Kelli Nic Ruaidhrí, Tura Aratura, Josie Nugent and Brian Stafford, Christy Murray, Martin Crossin, and Noel Mac Liam. This will be followed by a céilí, with live music from Duntally Céilí Band.
On Saturday and Sunday workshops in various musical instruments will take place at Scoil Mhuire Caiseal, (tin whistle, fiddle, guitar, banjo, accordian, concertina, bodhrán), as well as singing lessons with renowned Donegal singer Diane Ní Chanainn, and dance and drama with Tura Aratura, who will be bringing his eclectic fusion of Irish culture and rap/hip hop. Ruairí Ó Fríl of In Their Thousands/Silver Winged They Fly and Saoirse Duggan from Comhaltas Leitir Ceanainn will also be joining the line-up of tutors.
There will be a festival session in the Lighthouse Tavern on Saturday night at 9pm.
“The calibre of tutors and performers is second to none,” says Roisín Ní Cheallacháin, Manager, Comhar Fhánada & Ghleann Bhairr.
“We are delighted to be able to highlight our culture, language and music in Fanad. The festival is very much rooted in the community, but it will also be an additional draw to bring visitors to the area. We can’t wait to showcase Gaeltacht Fhánada, and extend a warm welcome to all.”
For more details, see Féile Cheoil agus Chultúir Fhánada on Facebook and Instagram, email gaeltachtbheofhanada@gmail.com or contact Roisín on 083 1960918. Registration for workshops is essential.
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