A free concert to officially launch Fáinne Óir - a new and original orchestral music and contemporary dance production by Mayo composer and Musical Director, Kathy Fahey, is to take place on April 28 in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar. The complete 90-minute work, which is being co-produced by Ms Fahey with Diaspora Engagement Specialist, Mike Hannon - will premiere in the Royal Theatre Castlebar on September 20, 2019, before travelling to New York where it will be performed at the Symphony Space Theatre on September 26.
Through music, song, narration and dance, Fáinne Óir tells the story of an Irish family fighting for survival through the Famine years and the production will feature a cast of well known Mayo and national names, including Mayo Concert Orchestra; musicians David Doocey, Stephen Doherty and Diarmuid Moynihan; dancer and choreographer Ciara Sexton of Riverdance fame; narrator Sarah Maria Lafferty; with set design created by Achill-based artist Padraic McCaul and a specially dedicated golden ring (Fáinne Óir ) provided by feted Castlebar jeweller Nigel O'Reilly.
At the free concert in Castlebar church, a whole host of singers and musicians will celebrate the launch of Fáinne Óir, with performers to include Chapel St Gospel Choir; Vocalessence Ladies Choir; The Troubadors; Belcarra Parish Choir; Workbeats Choir and Voxfusion with musicial accompaniment from the Sophisticats and world famous harpist, Laoise Kelly. Mayo Concert Orchestra will also perform a selection of tunes at the concert, including a small segment of the Fáinne Óir score, to provide a sense of the music.
Extending an open invitation to everyone to come along enjoy the free concert, which will be launched by Cllr Blackie Gavin, Cathaoirleach Mayo County Council with Mike Hannon as MC, Musical Director, Kathy Fahey stated:
“It will be a real thrill to officially launch Fáinne Óir, which all the cast is working so hard on. We are really looking forward to the Mayo premier in the Royal Theatre and then a group of 50 of us will be travelling to America for the New York premier the week after. In order to finance the project we need to raise funds of approximately €100,000 so we will appreciate any donations from the public on the night. Most importantly, the concert promises to be a wonderful evening of music and song for all to enjoy and we would love to see you there.”
Further information on the Fáinne Óir facebook page or contact Kathy Fahey on 086 793 1112.
