29TH GUINNESS IRISH CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

With a very diverse program titled "Diaspora," dominated by women’s power, the twenty-ninth edition of the successful story Guinness Irish Christmas is sure to impress. The diaspora includes the McGoldricks, whose parents had to leave Ireland and who grew up in the Irish community of Manchester, as well as Cassie & Maggie MacDonald, whose ancestors were deported by British occupiers from the Scottish Highlands to Canada in the late 18th century during the "Highland Clearances," along with tens of thousands of other Scots. The evening will be opened by harp virtuoso Laoise Kelly. She hails from Westport, County Mayo, lives on Achill Island, and is regarded as one of Ireland's most significant harpists. With her distinctive style, she combines traditional melodies with modern influences and has played a crucial role in bringing the Irish harp back to the forefront of traditional music. Mike McGoldrick, one of the absolute cult figures of contemporary traditional Irish folk, will add a very traditional touch with The McGoldrick Family. In addition to Mike, the family band consists of his nieces Catherine (Wooden Irish Flute/Whistle), Ciara (Concertina/Vocals), and Mairead (Whistle/Bodhran), accompanied by the adopted Jimmy Patrick from Barrow-in-Furness on guitar. Following them, the spirited sisters Cassie & Maggie MacDonald from Nova Scotia (Canada) will bring pure Celtic energy. Their music combines traditional folk, virtuosic fiddle playing, singing, piano, and step dancing into a breathtaking performance that has made them famous worldwide. Awarded the Canadian Folk Music Award, they are among the most exciting representatives of modern Celtic folk. An evening full of genuine Irish joy of life, virtuosic music, and captivating energy – entirely without kitsch, but with all the more heart and soul. Ticket prices: Category A advance sale €37.00 / at the door €40.00, Category B advance sale €34.00 / at the door €37.00, Category C advance sale €31.00 / at the door €34.00. Tickets can be purchased in the Culture & Generations department, Tel.: (07613) 8644 ext. 311-313, as well as at Ö-Ticket.