Féile na Sionnaine event set to return to Athlone
by Emily Sheehan
Promising a “full three days of non-stop music,” Féile na Sionnaine will return to Athlone on the August bank holiday weekend, from August 2 to August 4.
Music workshops, outdoor events and traditional music sessions will punctuate the weekend of “non-stop music and non-stop craic,” as described by Féile PRO John Madden.“We will be duplicating last year's festival, and aiming to build upon it,” John Madden explained.
“There will be a few extra workshops, and more areas with music around town.”
A fundraiser was held in the Athlone Little Theatre in May, raising both funds and excitement for the festival, and featuring traditional music from a variety of local artists and Comhaltas Áth Luain.
The weekend is set to be shared with the Athlone Viking River Fest, running from August 3 to August 5.
“We're working very closely with the River Fest, though remaining mutually exclusive from them,” Madden said, with both festivals due to take part in a joint-launch event in St Mary's Hall, featuring the Kilfenora Roadshow.
Saturday and Sunday will see trad musicians gather at the Civic Square, with free performances throughout the day.
Alongside traditional Irish music, the weekend will be punctuated by an “intercultural blend of music to celebrate the rich tapestry of diverse culture that are part of our vibrant community,” as described by Madden.
Six workshops have been organised, and those interested taking part in these classes should seek out the social media accounts of the Féile, either through Facebook or Instagram.
Classes will also be held for the Uileann pipes, Concertina, Fiddle, Button Accordion, Banjo, the Tin Whistle, and Flute.
The festival also maintains its strong inclusive ethos, with music therapy sessions organised to offer a “sense of calm in the midst of all the revelry”, and Age-Friendly Sessions to ensure that those of all ages may enjoy what the weekend has to offer.
For those wishing to display their talents, a busking competition will take place, open to all performers.In addition to the music events, a Pop-Up Gaeltacht stall will offer a space for the use of one's 'cúpla focail'. A full schedule of the festival is due to be published in the coming weeks, with a staggered announcement of acts, events, and various activities.
The committee of the festivals has expressed its thanks to the strong support of the CCE branches, Music Generation, local musicians, music and dance teachers, and those who have volunteered to bring the event to life.
Further information on the timetabling of the event is to be announced in the coming weeks.