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Irish Independent
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Excitement builds in Kerry ahead of Féile Thrá Lí Street Fest as part of the Rose of Tralee
Now in its third year, the vibrant festival will offer a packed programme of music, family entertainment, and community spirit, coinciding with the internationally acclaimed Rose of Tralee International Festival. Organised by Féile Thrá Lí CLG in collaboration with Kerry County Council, this year's festival will offer an array of free events for all ages – from daytime street performances and wellness zones to evening concerts, colourful parades, and dazzling fireworks. Festival highlights over the few days will include street theatre and busking throughout Tralee's streets and parks while a bustling market showcasing local crafts and artisan foods will also be on offer. Other daytime highlights include interactive family fun, including face painting, storytelling, and workshops. One the night falls, the town will transform with live music performances on stages at The Square, Denny Street, and the Mobile Stage. A series of parades, including a grand procession on Saturday night, a family-friendly Sunday parade, and a unique midnight spectacle on Tuesday as well as fireworks displays on Saturday, August 16, and Tuesday, August 19, are more things to look forward too also, A major draw will also be the chance to meet the Rose of Tralee contestants, adding to the festive excitement across town. Mayor of Tralee, Councillor Terry O'Brien, shared his enthusiasm for the event, saying: 'Féile Thrá Lí has established itself as the must-see annual event in Tralee and celebrates all that is good in our community. The event brings together families, friends, and visitors to celebrate the spirit of Tralee. This year's festival aims to be bigger and better than last year's event, with an exciting lineup of free entertainment for all. I encourage everyone to join us in Tralee for what promises to be an extraordinary event.' Tralee Municipal District Manager, Niamh O'Sullivan, echoed the excitement: 'The Féile Thrá Lí Street Festival is a wonderful representation of the diverse community and culture in Tralee. Kerry County Council are delighted to support this event, which showcases the best of our town and provides a platform for local talent and businesses. It's a wonderful time for the community to come together, make lasting memories, and delight in all that Féile Thrá Lí has to offer.' With something for everyone, Féile Thrá Lí 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of community, culture, and free entertainment. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to head to Tralee from August 15th to 19th and be part of the magic.
Irish Independent
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Cork singer takes starring role on Opera House stage amid array of concerts celebrating its 170th
Corkman Today at 08:00 Cork Opera House continues to keep the people of Leeside and those further afield entertained as the venue unveils three shows as part of its 170th anniversary celebrations. Following a Gala Concert earlier this year and the launch of its Send It Home campaign to collect historic memorabilia, the venue continues to entertain. The first of the unique shows, Hänsel und Gretel, takes to the stage on Sunday, August 24. The classic opera will be performed by members of the Cara O'Sullivan Associate Artists programme. Cork mezzo-soprano Niamh O'Sullivan (Hänsel) and Wexford soprano Kelli-Ann Masterson (Gretel) debut in the title roles of this fairy tale opera. They are joined by Rory Dunne, Bríd Ní Ghruagáin and Emma Nash and the Cork Opera House Concert Orchestra conducted by Elaine Kelly. A night celebrating Cork and Irish traditional music swiftly follows on Wednesday, September 10, as a collaboration with Masters of Tradition, an internationally renowned Bantry-based festival. Martin Hayes is the Artistic Director and he is set to curate an evening full of music with several special guests, including Hayes' long-time collaborator, the acclaimed pianist, composer, and arranger Cormac McCarthy. The third instalment of this special 170th announcement will present a dazzling evening of music that pays tribute to Cork Opera House's rich jazz heritage. Swingin' & In Time – Jazz Giants at Cork Opera House Through the Decades - is a high-energy, glamorous celebration of jazz, featuring the dynamic Paul Dunlea Big Band and curated by acclaimed trombonist, arranger and composer Paul Dunlea. He will recreate some iconic jazz moments that blessed the Opera House stage over the decades with esteemed performances by Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Tormé, Buddy Rich, Maynard Ferguson, and Blossom Dearie. Swingin' & In Time will hit the stage on Saturday, September 27. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more Cork Opera House CEO and Artistic Director, Eibhlín Gleeson said the newly announced productions are 'a celebration of opera, traditional music and jazz.' 'Created in collaboration with some of Ireland's most esteemed artists and musicians, these performances reflect Cork Opera House's commitment to celebrating everything that makes Cork unique—its culture, its creativity, and its community. 'Each production is a testament to the innovation and artistry at the heart of Cork Opera House. As we mark 170 years of performance, we invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone with works that honour our past, resonate in the present, and inspire the future,' she concluded. Tickets are now on sale for these performances from and Box Office (021 4270022).
