Dromcollogher Respite Centre committee members. Back row: Canon Seamus Ambrose, Nora Dore, Seamus Stack, Ann Marie O’Connor and Fr. Frank O’Dea. Front row: Peg O’Sullivan, Eileen Enright, Cassie O’Connor. Sr. Bridie O’Sullivan and Mairead Stritch.
George Daly Wrenboy Concert in aid of Dromcollogher Respite Centre at Raheenagh
Friday night last, January 27th saw a capacity crowd at Halla ĺde Naofa in Raheenagh where they were treated to a fantastic show, by Carrigkerry and Loch a’ Ghé ‘Wranboys’, of all that is best in the ‘Wranboy’ tradition of West Limerick with their music, story, song and dance. Such was the interest in this event that the hall was full at least half an hour before the show began at 8.30pm – some patrons arriving at 7pm.
They were not disappointed and as the lights went down and the curtain up Jack and Kate (fear agus bean a’tí ) set the scene as the Loch a’ Ghé batch from Killeedy (young and old) marched in and took the stage in colourful attire rekindling many happy memories for all patrons of days gone by and providing us with a vibrant display of ‘Hunting for the ‘Wran’ .
After the interval Carrigkerry (the aristocrats of the ‘Wran’) bedecked in their traditional green, white and gold took the stage and outlined to one and all why they are multi-All-Ireland champions. An integral part of their performance was their bone-playing and old West Limerick tambourine style. As always we were treated to story-telling by the inimitable Daisy Kearney.
One of the highlights of the night was the duet rendition of Sigerson Clifford’s famous song the ‘Boys of Barr na Sráide’ by All Ireland champion singers Donie Nolan (Carrigkerry) and Elle Marie O’Dwyer (Loch a’ Ghé).
To all involved we say a sincere thank you for making this night such a successful and memorable event. All proceeds on the night will be presented to the Dromcollogher and District Respite Centre next week.
From Carrigkerry and Loch a Ghé Tonight we’ve made our way
A gallant band of Wranboys grand, all eager for the fray.
Our music sweet wafts through the air, on accordion, fiddle, flute and fife
And nimble feet and Bodhrán beat, his ancient music brings to life.
Let’s not forget the days of old, when our hearts were young and free.
Each colleen fair and sweet gorsoon, with hearts so full of glee.
This motley crew that I once knew were always to be seen
At Christmas time – long long ago – ‘A Hunting for the Wran’.
Go mbeirimid beo ag an am seo arís.