A fantastic night of song and music underway at 'Together for Creeslough'

Over 1,600 people arrived at the Aura Leisure Centre in Letterkenny this evening to show their gratitude to the emergency service personnel who worked at the scene of an explosion which claimed the lives of 10 people in Creeslough, last October.

Events began with the MC for the evening, Ciaran O’Donnell saying it is hoped that the evening will instil a sense of hope in those affected by the tragedy. The evening is being hosted by Moya Brennan of Clannad and Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh of Altan.

Mr O’Donnell thanked all those who helped and supported the organising committee adding that organisers were ‘overwhelmed’ by the generoisty and support afforded to them. He extended his gratitude to all those who made tonight's concert possible and thanked all musicians who are taking to the stage tonight. The Letterkenny-based journalist and broadcaster said music is a central part of life in Donegal. 

“Music plays a big part of life in Donegal, it is part of who we are and where we are,” he said, adding that it was fitting that two two of Donegal's best known singers and performers Moya Brennan and Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh would be the first to entertain the hundreds who are packed into the Aura Leisure Centre tonight. 

Moya and Mairéad opened the night by singing In My Life - the song they sang in tribute to the people of Creeslough on the Late Late Show. Referring to the tragedy Mairéad said: “Although it happened in Creeslough, we were all with you.”

Moya Brennan commended both music promoter Joe Gallagher and former Westlife singer Brian McFadden for coming up with the idea of hosting the event. 

Among those invited to the concert tonight are the families of those who lost their lives and members of the emergency services who fought bravely to save them.

Eurovision singer, Mickey Joe Harte said he heard about the Creeslough tragedy as he was driving in his car. Later that tragic night, the singer said he lifted his guitar and sang Stand by Me. Tonight he sang the same song to all of those gathered and the audience ang along during the emotive performance. The performer got the audience clapping and singing with his Eurovision song - We’ve got the world tonight. 

Moya and Mairéad returned to the stage following the performance. They said many people face difficulties during the course of their lifetimes and reminded those gathered that music is a powerful healer - a message that singer Brian Kennedy, once again, relayed to the audience when as he took to the stage.

The Belfast singer sang a powerful version of Carrickfergus followed by A better Man. He said his heart had broken for the people of Creeslough. He sang The Boxer, a song by Paul Simon which is about resilience in times of darkness. Mr Kennedy paid a moving tribute to the community of Creeslough and the first responders who were present during the tragedy. He said: "Please remember, we do not forget," and in tribute he sang You Raise me Up.  

The next singer to take to the stage was country singer Lisa McHugh who certainly got toes tapping and hands clapping with Hillybilly Girl. 

"Tonight is a very special night and I am incredibly honoured to be with you all. I hope you can enjoy yourself as much as you can ... when I am on the stage I am hoping to bring you even the littlest bit of distraction," she said.

She spoke of her strong connection with Donegal and said that one song in particular reminds her of the county, This is my Homeland, as she began to sing, the audience applauded. She described the night as bitter, sweet and said she would hold the people of Creeslough in her prayers. 

Mary McAuliffe who was present in the audience and who was celebrating her 102nd birthday was given a great surprise when Moya and Mairéad asked the audience to sing her a happy birthday. 

The Whistling Donkeys from County Tyrone, who are making great strides in America and Ireland, certainly didn't fail to impress with a mix of traditional music and song. They sang the Hills of Donegal to finish their session and left the audience in fine spirits as the first part of the evening came to an  vend.  More to follow ......