University Concert Hall in Limerick marks landmark anniversary
THE MID-West Region's premier live entertainment and cultural venue, University Concert Hall (UCH), located at the University of Limerick celebrates its 30th anniversary this month.
To mark the ocassion, the venue will host performances from two of Ireland's most prestigious orchestras.
UCH became the first purpose-built concert hall in Ireland when it was officially opened on the University of Limerick campus in September 1993 by Taoiseach Albert Reynolds T.D. and U.S. Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith.
The 1,038-seat auditorium has since attracted performances from some of the biggest names in entertainment including Johnny Cash and June Carter, James Taylor, Billy Connolly, Leslie Garrett, Van Morrison, The King's Singers, Jimmy Carr, Sir James Galway, Christy Moore as well as the late Sinead O’Connor.
The 30th anniversary celebrations will commence on Saturday, September 21, with the Irish Chamber Orchestra with Conductor Christian Curnyn, Mezzo Soprano Sharon Carty and Soprano Anna Devin performing “Stabat Mater”, featuring the music of Van Wassenaer, Respighi and Puccini.
On Friday, September 29, the RTÉ Concert Orchestra will host ‘Beethoven Night’.
Conducted by Joshua Gersen, the orchestra will be joined by internationally renowned pianist John O'Conor who was one of the first musicians to perform at UCH in 1993.
Judith Woodworth, Chairperson of the UCH Board: "We have celebrated many great moments over the past 30 years from recording our one millionth visitor in 2006 to becoming the lead venue for a year-long programme of events marking Limerick's year as Ireland's first City of Culture in 2014.”
UCH Director, Sinead Hope said: "Attracting some of the world's leading singer songwriters, standup comedians, pantomimes and classical performers to the Mid-West has had a hugely positive impact on the region's arts and entertainment sector, as well as the local economy."
For further information on UCH 30th anniversary and booking details, visit www.uch.ie