'Mist' gathers in Westport ahead of Westival debut

Last month’s Culture Night was a memorable occasion in Westport, bringing together music, community and cultural connection in a special concert at Holy Trinity Church. Ukrainian-Irish ensemble 'Mist' captivated a packed audience with a vibrant celebration of inclusion and diversity.

Around 250 people gathered in the beautiful setting for the concert featuring Mist, whose name translates from Ukrainian as 'bridge' - an apt reflection of both the group's spirit and its music.

The 90-minute performance showcased the remarkable journey of a unique community project that has been growing in Westport over the past three years. Founded by music therapist Ian Leslie, Mist brings together musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds, using music as a means of connection, understanding and creative expression.

Throughout the evening, the ensemble treated audiences to an eclectic programme that blended folk traditions with contemporary influences. The rich and varied soundscape featured vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, violin, soprano saxophone, harmonium and percussion, creating a dynamic and engaging musical experience that resonated with listeners of all ages.

Speaking after the concert, Leslie, who is also a committee member of Westport Autism Friendly Town, emphasised the impact that inclusive events can have on communities: “We wanted this concert to be a celebration where everyone felt they belonged. Music has the power to bring people together across backgrounds, abilities and experiences, and seeing that connection in the audience was the greatest success of the night.”

The concert's themes of inclusion, diversity and community were woven throughout every aspect of the performance. More than simply a musical showcase, the event demonstrated the power of the arts to foster belonging and celebrate the contributions of people from different cultures and life experiences.

Organisers have extended their sincere thanks to Mayo County Council, as well as Reverend Suzanne Cousins and her team of dedicated volunteers, whose support and assistance were instrumental in making the concert such a success.

The spirit of inclusion celebrated during Culture Night will continue later this month with a landmark event as part of Westival. On Friday, October 30, at 7pm, the Clew Bay Hotel will host the festival's first-ever inclusive concert in support of Westport's Autism Friendly Town initiative. The venue, lighting, sound and musical programme will all be carefully designed according to inclusive principles, creating a welcoming and accessible experience for a wide range of attendees.

'Inclusive'

Looking ahead to the event, Leslie was keen to emphasise that the 'inclusive' label signifies an event for everyone, rather than for any one particular group, providing an opportunity for the entire community to experience the joy of live music and the arts: “When we planned this concert, inclusion wasn't an add-on; it was the starting point. Every person, regardless of ability, background or circumstance, deserves to experience the energy, joy and sense of connection that live music can create. The public consultations conducted by Westport Autism Friendly Town at the beginning of its journey highlighted a clear demand for more inclusive cultural events within our community, and I'm proud that we can help bridge that gap.”

Organisers hope the concert will become an annual feature of Westival, further strengthening the festival's commitment to accessibility, diversity and community participation.

More

Tickets for Mist’s performance at Westival can be purchased for €15 at Westival.ie and the Westival Box Office at Westport Town Hall Theatre. For more information on Westport Autism Friendly Town, visit www.waft.ie.