The Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union this year offers a unique opportunity for Ireland in the European Union to showcase the best of Irish arts and culture, both traditional and contemporary.
This year is also when Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Éireann celebrates its 75th anniversary! Throughout its 75 years in existence Comhaltas continues to be rooted in volunteerism and community, and has extended its Branch network to 26 countries across Europe and the rest of the world including 2 Comhaltas branches in Portugal, Louths partner EU country for the Eu Presidency term.
The work of Comhaltas reflects a number of the key cultural themes and initiatives for the 2026 Irish Presidency including:
- Promotion of ‘An Teanga’.
- Community Connection & Engagement
- Support of Rural/Gaeltacht Creativity.
- Cultural Diplomacy.
The Oriel Centre is Comhaltas’ NE Regional Centre based at Dundalk Gaol, with support from Louth County Council since 2007.
This evening of high quality traditional Irish entertainment is led by the some of this Region’s most talented traditional musicians, singers and dancers, most of whom are multi All Ireland title holders in music, song and dance and is curated and produced by Oriel Centre manager Kay Webster.
Artists include flute players Kay Webster, Kerrieanne McArdle & Oisín Ó Maoleoin; harpers Rachael Dooley & Ryan Martin, uilleann piper Padraig Donlon; guitar, Paul McMahon; fiddle, Ursula Byrne & Lorraine McMahon, Ellen Webster and Dervla Marron; concertina Jaymee Martin; bodhran Jack Ridley; banjo, Fionn Marron; mandolin, Bee Malone; singers, Nora Malone, Pearse McMahon and Bríd Dooley; and featuring dancers from the McGee School of Irish Dance
As part of the celebration of Irelands Presidency of the Council of EU, the theme for the Oriel Centre ‘Seisiún’ will focus on the deep connections between its members and branches across Europe and the world, providing a unique and authentic entertainment experience of Irish traditional music. It is a show filled with music, song, dance, followed by an informal session where audience participation is encouraged and supported. Visiting artists are most welcome to perform, and we are always delighted when our visitors bring a song or tune to share from other regions or countries
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Comhaltas Seisiun provides an opportunity for all to experience and be entertained by the vibrancy of our Irish Cultural Traditions, including the cupán tae.
Join us in the Oriel Centre Dundalk Gaol on the 2nd July at 8.pm to launch Louth County Councils exciting schedule of events celebrating the Irish Presidency of the Council of European Union
** Drinks reception and official opening of EU program from 7.30pm with concert from 8.30
Location – Oriel Centre, Dundalk Gaol , Carrick road, Dundalk, Co Louth- A91 HD70