Nashville comes to Ballinamore: A country night to remember at The Island Theatre

Ballinamore's Island Theatre is getting ready to roll out the red carpet for country music fans, hosting a show that promises to deliver a night of authentic Nashville flair. The “Legends of American Country Show” is set to bring the sounds of country’s biggest icons to County Leitrim on November 10, 2024, and anticipation is high for what’s shaping up to be a special night.

“This year’s tour has something for every country fan,” says Clare Cumiskey, a dedicated volunteer at The Island Theatre. “We’re talking about all the greats—Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Kenny Rogers, but also legends like Garth Brooks and Hank Williams. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Nashville, right here in Ballinamore!”

With an impressive lineup of tributes to both classic and modern country stars, this year’s show brings together some of country music’s most memorable voices. Fans can look forward to hearing hits from artists like Tammy Wynette, Charley Pride, Don Williams, and Alan Jackson, as well as tributes to Glen Campbell, Billie Jo Spears, and Jim Reeves. "It’s a real journey through the history of American country music,” adds Cumiskey. "Everyone has a favourite, and this show has them all.”

The star power doesn’t end with the artists being honoured. The stage will be lit up by acclaimed performers Kelan Browne, Tracey McAuley, and Antony McBrien, whose vocals have been widely celebrated for their uncanny likeness to the original legends. Backed by a live band that nails the quintessential Nashville sound, audiences are in for a night of toe-tapping, hand-clapping, and singalongs. With over 2,000 five-star reviews, the show has earned accolades as “as close as it gets to Nashville without crossing the Atlantic.” Country Music Northern Ireland hailed it as “as good a country show as you will see live anywhere outside Nashville,” while Hot Country TV raves that it’s a “fantastic show of nostalgic country.”

According to Cumiskey, the Island Theatre has been buzzing with excitement in the lead-up to the event. “The response from the community has been incredible,” she says. “This show appeals to everyone, young and old alike. We’ve got locals who are lifelong fans of classic country, and others who just love live music. It’s going to be a night of pure entertainment.”

Doors open at 7 PM, with the Crannog Bar serving pre-show drinks for fans who want to get in the spirit of the night. The show kicks off at 8 PM sharp, offering a full set of unforgettable country anthems that will take the audience straight to the heart of Tennessee.

Tickets are priced at €25 (plus a €2 booking fee), available for purchase online at islandtheatre.ie, by calling 0719644513, or in person at the Ballinamore Tourist Office, which is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

With a reputation for its stellar production values and authentic country atmosphere, the “Legends of American Country Show” is set to be a one-night-only experience. "It’s a night that will resonate with anyone who’s ever sung along to a country song,” says Cumiskey. “We’re so excited to bring that Nashville magic to Ballinamore."