Oh Folk! is envisaged to be a series of gigs with a folky and intimate vibe which will be held in the back room of Browne’s Bar in Castleisland.
The venue, which has previously hosted the very successful ‘Island Sessions’ has been lauded by top artists who have played there such as: Mick Flannery, Mundy and Susan O’Neill as well as the many audience members who attended.
Hopefully the Oh Folk! Series will build on this acclaim to further establish the venue as one of the county’s best.
Stories Behind the Songs
These gigs are planned as an opportunity to celebrate the musician in an intimate setting with great sound, to listen to the stories behind the songs and to hear them being performed in a stripped back form.
“They should provide us with reason to carve time out of busy schedules, sit back, sip and savour some fantastic talent in a local venue,” said organiser, Kate McSweeney.
The first scheduled gig, on Saturday October 8th will see Dubliners legend Ronnie Drew being remembered by son Phelim and The Drew House Band.
Iconic Voice of The Dubliners
Ronnie’s is the iconic voice behind Dubliners hits such as Seven Drunken Nights and The Irish Rover and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic folk singers in Irish history.
His son Phelim Drew, a well known actor, will host the poignant night, telling a few yarns and singing some of the songs made famous by The Dubliners.
“Growing up I was always struck by the electricity generated by a concert given by The Dubliners,” said Phelim.
“ Looking back I can see clearly that the group was exceptional not only because of the individual strength of the performers but that combined they were a force of nature.
Energy and Excitement
“That energy and excitement coupled with the unbridled joy of a Dubliners audience made for a night’s entertainment that felt more like a party in full swing where the hosts and guests were in perfect harmony,” he continued.
“My ambitions as a singer have always been modest as a result! Having spent my life working in theatre, along the road, music has always played a big part in my tool box as an actor in shows like The Abbey Theatre production of The Risen People or Landmark/Olympia production of Once and, over the years, the enjoyment of playing small venues with friends.
Sense of Pride Reawakened
“In the years since my father passed away I’ve come to enjoy listening back over his musical legacy and the wealth of material has reawakened not only a sense of pride but also deep appreciation. With the upcoming shows I’ll be telling a few yarns and singing some of the songs made famous by Ronnie, Luke, Barney, Ciaran and John,” he concluded.
Mix of Folk and Other Influences
“Phelim will be joined by Colin Reid on guitar and the night will be made by a mix of folk and other musical influences that will go towards creating a performance that hopefully the audience can enjoy as much as we will,” said Kate.
Tickets can be purchased on www.ticketsource.eu/oh-folk or by calling: 087 9228834
Reviews of the Show
“Absolutely brilliant show really enjoyed it. Having seen your show in London at the Irish Cultural Centre a while back I can heartily recommend it to anyone.
Marvellous music, great, funny stories and remembrances of your father and the other Dubliners. A fine evening was had, topped off by meeting you after the show for a short chat.”
“Great show would recommend it – a great night.”
“I’m still basking in the energy from the Ballina gig. Forget power shortages. Spend an evening with Phelim and save on your energy bills,”
‘Just had to drop you a note regarding last night. It was truly phenomenal. From the moment you walked out I thought to myself this deserves Vicar Street”, the quality of the music and the storytelling should be heard by more people. These are the stories of Ireland that we need to keep alive from generation to generation. I hope the next two weeks go down like a storm and there’s many a sold out show, but regardless of the turnout, you can pat yourselves on the back because it’s a top quality show. I’ve spread the word to all my pals because in my mind it’s unmissable.”
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