2002 - Bealtaine



11th May 2002, National Concert Hall / Dublin
BEALTAINE
… a summer fest of music, song and dance
with:
Seamus Brett, Acabella, Gerry O’Connor and friends, Sonia Dowling, Parson’s nose
Hosted by Mary Kennedy

A picture book day in spring – only fitting that the National Concert Hall celebrates the arrival of spring in style.

Hosted by RTE™ presenter Mary Kennedy who gave her speeches both in English and Gailge and often gave in depth historic reports.

Musical director Seamus Brett and band accompanied all performing artists musically throughout the night.

The artists were rather unique such as the likes of Acabella who were on stage the most and sang in all five musical ranges: Bass, Baritone, Alt, Soprano and Tenor. Every tune a cracker.

Also highly acclaimed: “Eala” consisting of two ladies, Mary Kennedys half – sister Fionnula and the tiny Deirdre. I liked them best.

With elves-like dance movements performed by 10 dancers this event turned into a real treat.

The all male quartet: “Parson’s nose” wasn’t that much of my liking and fortunately they only played two songs.

Banjo and Fidel player Gerry O’Connor from Dingle and his mates closed the evening with a lively mix of Irish folk and American standards.

All in all a great event.

Bealtaine ***

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