Offaly and Kildare get ready to welcome Liam Ó Maonlaí for school fundraiser

North Offaly and south-west Kildare await with great excitement of the imminent performances of Hothouse Flowers’ frontman Liam Ó Maonlaí and a host of local talent at a Gala concert in aid of the region’s premier Irish language school, Gaelscoil Éadan Doire.

Scléip an outstanding success at its inaugural staging in 2022 is back by popular demand.

On Friday June 9, rock, trad and sean nós star Ó Maonlaí will be joined on The Hamlet Court Hotel stage by All-Ireland winning Ard Eiscir Céilí Band.

Sublime

Carbery’s sublimely talented musician and singer Ray Cox will also feature on the night while staff members Conor de Faoite, Melissa Ní Scolaí and Dónal Ó Grádaigh will take to the stage on the night.

Fear a’Tí, returning by popular demand, in Johnstownbridge on the night will be popular local poet, Dr Philip Brady.

Principal teacher of the Edenderry school, Dónal Ó Grádaigh is hopeful that the event is one that will be embraced by anyone and everyone with an interest in the line-up or in joining the school community on the night.

“The fundraising aspect of this concert is obviously of great importance but equally so the cultural, social and community element one would associate with an Irish medium primary school.”

“This is very much a local event, the acts made up of staff, Board of Management members, parents, a former pupil and local community figures, all connected to our school in one way or another.

“Liam Ó Maonlaí is a dear friend of Gaelscoil Éadan Doire with links also to Johnstownbridge and we are very grateful to all artists, volunteers and audience. I would implore anybody looking for a night out to come and join us for what promises to be a wonderful evening. Beidh fáilte Uí Cheallaigh romhat!”

The show begins at 8pm on the night, with a €20 admission. Tickets are also for purchase online at eventbrite.com, from the school reception (046-9773322) or from committee members.