ENTERTAINMENT: Star-studded line-up for Westport as part of Mayo Fleadh

GET ready to be transported to the heart of Irish tradition at the first Fleadh Mhaigh Eo event.
The first Fleadh concert will take place in the Dome suite of the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, on Sunday, April 21.
The night of craic agus ceoil will be hosted by Kate Heneghan, and will feature some of the country’s top class musicians, including Emily Rooney and the Piper’s Cross Céilí Band.
Host Kate is a twenty-eight-year-old Castlebar native who is a harpist, violinist and pianist. Kate boasts an impressive musical journey, and teaches Irish traditional and classical music on-site and online worldwide.
Graduating with distinction from Ulster University with a Masters in Music Composition and Performance, and previously attaining a first-class honours BA in Performing Arts (Irish Music) from the University of Limerick, Kate’s educational achievements underscore her dedication to her craft.
Aside from music, Kate was crowned as the 2023 Mayo Rose of Tralee, representing the county at the renowned festival.
Recipient of prestigious awards including the Music Generation/U2 Bursary ‘Exceptional Musician Award’, Kate’s versatile talent extends to her role in the award-winning country music band ‘Hurricane Highway’.
Hailing from the picturesque village of Kilmovee, Emily Rooney's musical journey began at a tender age, steeped in the rich heritage of traditional Irish music. She attended traditional music summer schools across the country, where her love for sean-nós blossomed.
Emily’s musical prowess extends beyond the realms of traditional Irish music. As a member of the esteemed Maynooth University Chamber Choir, she has graced prestigious stages, showcasing her versatility and emotive depth through performances of masterpieces like Vivaldi’s Gloria and Allegri’s Miserere Mei Deus.
Notable highlights of Emily’s career include a special invitation to perform for Pope Francis during his historic visit to Ireland, as well as being selected for RTE’s Easter Triduum chapel choir from St. Patrick’s College in Maynooth.
From the four corners of County Mayo, Piper’s Cross Céilí Band embodies the essence of Ireland’s musical heritage, with a dynamic line-up that reflects the diversity of its members’ origins.
Led by their shared passion for traditional Irish music and fuelled by an unwavering commitment to preserving Ireland’s rich cultural legacy, this ensemble captivates audiences with their electrifying performances and infectious energy.
As proud ambassadors of Mayo’s musical heritage, the band is dedicated to preserving and promoting the vibrant traditions of music, song and dance from their beloved county.
Their All-Ireland performance in August of last year was nothing short of electrifying, earning them accolades for their uplifting interpretations of traditional dance tunes.
With a repertoire that pays homage to Mayo’s rich set-dancing tradition, the Piper’s Cross céilí band delights audiences with their spirited renditions and infectious energy.
With each spirited note and lively step, the Piper’s Cross céilí band invites audiences to join them on a journey through the heart and soul of Ireland’s musical landscape.
Their passion, talent, and unwavering dedication ensure that the traditions that they hold dear will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Tickets are available from Eventbrite or the Westport Plaza Hotel reception.