Finbarr Winters, formerly from Mallow, pictured performing as Johnny Cash with the band Strictly Cash, at the Back to the Castle Retro Festival which was held in glorious sunshine on the grounds of Mallow Castle last Sunday. In the background is double bass player Pat Barrett from the Spa in Mallow.
The importance of Mallow Castle as a community venue was highlighted last Sunday when over 1,700 people of all ages descended on the historic venue for almost six hours of music under the banner of the ‘Back to the Castle Retro Festival’. Organised by Keith Woodgate and with the support of Cork Co. Council, the day was blessed with blue skies and warm sunshine. The attendance poured through the gates, carrying picnic chairs, blankets, food and drink etc. and they relaxed on the grass while bands performed against the backdrop of the old castle. First on stage was Strictly Cash, a Johnny Cash tribute band, with former Mallow resident Finbarr Winters singing the songs of the Man in Black, while the backing band included Mallow native Pat Barrett on double bass. Next on stage were The Classic Beatles who gave a note-perfect set of songs from the Fab Four and had the crowds on their feet and dancing. To conclude, the Bruce Springsteen tribute band ‘Glory Days’ brought the day’s events to a successful end. Mallow Men’s Shed were on stewarding duty at the gig, while Cork Co. Council staff and other volunteers ensured that everything ran smoothly.
Next up for the castle is a mental health and wellbeing afternoon on Sunday, 10th September, followed by an open-air screening of the film ‘Dirty Dancing’ on 22nd September, a possible Halloween spooktacular in October, and two Christmas markets in December.
And don’t forget this Sunday, when The Mellowtones will do a free gig at 3pm. They played another show last Sunday week which was very well received, and they return this Sunday due to popular demand.