Ballinasloe singer to host ‘Magic of Christmas’ concert

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Ballinasloe singer Rachel Goode is set to host her third annual Christmas concert in the Shearwater Hotel & Spa.

Taking place on Thursday, December 19, from 7pm, the concert is set to bring the festive spirit to the town with a mix of home-grown talent and famous faces from further afield.

On entry, attendees with be greeted with the serene sound of The Ballinasloe Town Band, who will be there to serenade audiences ahead of the main performances.

The line-up for the concert includes Eurovision legend Charlie McGettigan, accomplished composer of “Lord of the Dance” on the Uilleann Pipes the talented Ger Fahy, and Keara Sheeran Community Choirs.

"I did a concert with Charlie back in May, and he went down a storm! We'll be doing a duet on the night of Rock N Roll Kids," Rachel said.

"Ger is also fantastic - he is a multi-instrumentalist and he would be well known in the trad community - and we will be performing together as well.

"There will be lots of Christmas favourites, some fabulous music and an amazing live band made up of some of the best musicians in the country."

This event promises to be a magical experience for all in aid of a wonderful cause, the East Galway and Midlands Cancer Support Centre.

"It's an amazing service to have in Ballinasloe," Rachel said. "So many people are affected, and you never know when you'll need it.

"They provide amazing support not only for people who are diagnosed with cancer, but also for the families of those affected."

Tickets are priced at €25 each, and are on sale now at The Shearwater Hotel & Spa by email: info@shearwaterhotel.com or by phone: (090)9630400, or on Eventbrite.