The rising of 1798, the French landing at Kilcummin Bay, and General Humbert’s famous victory over the British at the Races of Castlebar, is to be relived in an extravagant outdoor display of music and dance to mark Mayo Day in Castlebar on May 2.
The performance is one of three flagship Mayo Day events taking place across the county on May 2.
Called The General, the music and dance show is produced by Michael Baynes and Stephen Doherty.
The show starts at 3.30pm with a performance called ‘The Landing’ at Market Square.
The performance will represent the French landing in Mayo and their march through Killala, Ballina, and the Windy Gap.
The second performance takes place at Market Square at 10.30pm and will represent the arrival of the French army to Castlebar and the famous Races battle.
Victory dance
After the victory of the French, the ‘soldiers’ will be led from Market Square to the Linenhall by a piper to the historic spot where Humbert’s famous victory dance took place.
All the music will be of relevance to Mayo with well-known compositions such as ‘Mayo’s March’, ‘Humours of Westport’, and ‘Races of Castlebar’, as well as a piece of new music, composed especially for Mayo Day.
The performances will showcase a line-up of leading Irish talent including band leader Stephen Doherty, drum captain Robbie Harris, dance captain Raymond Sweeney, lead vocalist Elaine Canning.
A large crowd is expected to attend and volunteers will be required to help organise the day.
To volunteer, contact Mick at Castlebar Chamber on (094 ) 90 24845.
