A wonderful evening of artistic celebration has been promised for the opening of the 33rd Clifden Community Arts Week which takes place tonight at 8pm in the Connemara West Leisure Centre.
Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Sport Mary Hanafin will be on hand to officially open the festival and lend her support. Speaking about Clifden Community Arts Week Minister Hanafin said: “It holds a special place in the rich calendar of festivals and events. Now in its 33rd year, the country’s longest running community arts festival promises 10 days of highly emotive, energetic, and world-aclaimed national and international artistic talent combined with many Galway, Clifden, and Connemara based artists. Ba mhaith liom comhghairdeas a dhéanamh le gach aoinne a raibh páirt nó lámh aige ina pleanáil agus ina heagrú.”
The opening night will feature entertainment from The Channel One Band who will bring a reggae twist to Clifden with their captivating performance. A host of distinguished guests are expected to attend the event, including members of the Arts Council, Clifden Chamber of Commerce, Galway City Council, and Failté Ireland West, along with a variety of colourful performances from this year’s festival line-up.
The line-up includes Christy Moore in concert with Declan Sinnott on Saturday 18, Julie Feeney on Tuesday 21, and a classical performance from the National Chamber Orchestra. An exclusive talk with economist and author David McWilliams will take place on September 23, and on Friday 24, RTE Drivetime’s Mary Wilson will present an opportunity to get into conversation with Four Savvey Women which will feature Suzanne Kelly, Sara Burke, and Tara Buckley.
Many performances are free of charge and ticketed events are very reasonably priced from as little as €5. Tickets are still available for a selection of performances and for further information, including a full programme event for the 2010 Clifden Community Arts Week, log onto the dedicated website www.clifdenartsweek.ie
