As the infusion of Pan Celtic traditions prepare to travel to Derry-Londonderry this month, Music City 2014 is delighted to host the vibrant family festival for the first time in its history.
A celebration of the cultural links between the Pan Celtic regions, thousands of visitors is expected to arrive in the city from 22nd -27th April for the festival which boasts a week of fun traditional music, language, competitions and craft events for all ages.
Mayor Cllr Martin Reilly, encouraging everyone to check out the programme for the full range of activities on offer said: “I am delighted that the Pan Celtic Festival has been incorporated as a key element within the Music Legacy Fund and to welcome this festival which will offer audiences not only some of the most exceptional performers from the Celtic nations of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany and the Isle of Man to the city, but a complete range of exciting family-orientated events throughout the week promoting Celtic culture.”
Children can try their hand at the Celtic art of Straw Crafting, find clues written in different languages to win prizes at the Treasure Hunt on (Tuesday 22nd April) or get comfy and enjoy Tea & Tales in the magnificent mirrored Speigeltent in the Guildhall Square from (11am-3pm, Wed 23rd April).
Age restrictions do not apply and the whole family can catch the unique show of mummers and seasoned Glastonbury performers the Armagh Rhymers on the afternoon of Friday 25th April, they also offer 7-14 year olds an interactive and fun session to learn about the traditional art of Mumming from the mysterious characters themselves.
Geraldine Curran, current member of folk theatre ensemble Armagh Rhymers, speaking about what the children can expect said. “The Mummers are instantly recognisable by their distinct willow hats and have many talents. Come join us in for our unique performances and series of workshops were we will entertain and delight the audiences with our old Irish Mumming traditions, telling stories through poetry, music, drama, song and dance.”
“Participation from the children is key – it is amazing to watch their level of self expression as the storytelling evolves through the performances. In acknowledging the Arts Council of NI in their funding, I am delighted that we can bring the Mummers to Derry, come and enjoy our sessions which always promise high energy and lots of memorable fun. “
Families can watch the procession of the Parade of Nations, along Shipquay St and across Guildhall Square, led by a conglomerate of pipers marching as Pan Celtic Pipe Band (6pm, Fri 25th April). For those interested in the learning about the links and nuances between the Celtic languages, free taster courses relevant to children and young adults will be running throughout the week in Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin and the Tower Museum.
Mayor Reilly continued, “From choral competitions to golf contests, language workshops and céilí dancing, festival clubs hosted by each Celtic region not to mention the world famous Speigeltent for the best in international live music, there really is something for everyone at this year’s Pan Celtic Festival.”
Tickets for individual events can be purchased online at www.culturlann-doire.ie or through the Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin box office. For more information on the festival, visit www.panceltic.ie or call +44 (0)28 7126 4132.