Rathowen Gathering this Saturday
The Rathowen Gathering in Westmeath is a Gathering Ireland event open to everyone, and will celebrate Irish culture and music as well as the people of Rathowen, past and present. The Rathowen Gathering Museum will exiibit photos and footage from Rathowen’s history; and celebrate the town’s links to famous Irish descendants such as Bruce Springsteen - who was “over the moon” when he learned of his Rathowen connections recently.
All aspects of Irish culture will be relished with authentic Irish Trad music on the outdoor street stage, seanchais and sean-nós singing in the town’s bars, and even a stage for famous local Irish playwrights. Two-time Hennessy Award-winner Dermot Healy will appear, and nationally renowned local playwright Jimmy Keary will read extracts from his works. Music will include contemporary Irish Folk & Blues acts in addition to authentic Irish Trad, with rising star Larss Vincent (The Wilde) being listed as one of the top Irish artists to watch out for in 2013 by Midlands Radio 3 as well as numerous tastemaker blogs.
There will be additional entertainment with multi award-winning sean-nós singer Nell Ní Chróinín performing (Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, An tOireachtas) and traditional Irish dancers also taking to the stage. A Pop-up Cinema will offer a small area to enjoy Irish classics such as the Oscar-winning short film ‘Six Shooter’ and Oscar-nominated short ‘Give Up Yer Aul Sins’. You can also expect a special Rathowen Gathering film presentation towards the end of the night. The Rathowen Gathering is a free event, taking place from 2pm on Saturday 31st August with the grand opening of the Rathowen Gathering Museum. Come and enjoy Rathowen as you wander from one festivity to the next; enjoying the vast array of Irish music, art, history, film and culture on offer.
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