www.celticfusion.co.uk

Celtic Fusion 2008 takes place in Castlewellan from 13-20 July, boasting an impressive line-up which features international talent combined with Irish artistes. For eight days, there will be varied entertainment in the form of concerts, theatre shows, and traditional music sessions.

Sunday 13 July will be the highlight of the festival for many, as the opening concert provides a rare opportunity to see the legendary Moving Hearts who recently reformed to take care of ‘unfinished business’. Playing only a few gigs each year, opportunities to see the band in action are limited; therefore tickets are expected to be in high demand. The opening act for the evening is Cara Dillon, her fantastic ability to relate a great story in song, means this concert at The Slieve Donard Resort and Spa in Newcastle shouldn’t be missed.

The evening of Monday 14 July brings theatre to Celtic Fusion, when Richard Lynch’s critically acclaimed From the Shoulders Down, casts a reflective glance at character PJ Mulpeter’s career as his retirement nears.

Tuesday 15 is a special evening, not only are the Vallely Brothers with Karan Casey performing, but the coveted Celtic Fusion Award will also be presented in recognition of contribution to traditional music, with the recipient being kept a close-guarded secret until the night itself.

North is in Concert on Wednesday 16 March, bringing their unique twist to traditional Irish music. Brought together by Francis McPeake of the legendary McPeake Family, the band is still relatively new; however their popularity is growing fast, gaining more fans through every captivated audience.

Session A9 play on Thursday 17 taking Celtic Fusion into the build-up for the final weekend. Described as ‘Scotland’s Supergroup’, they have the ability to combine a modern feel to performances, whilst keeping the atmosphere of a traditional session.

Friday 18 has several highlights, two well-known names; Marian Bradfield and Thom Moore perform together during the Singer Songwriter Evening. Popular band Hothouse Flowers have received acclaim from Rolling Stone Magazine and their plan to steal their way into hearts is likely to become reality with the Celtic Fusion audience. Entertainment continues with the Traditional Music Session Trail.

Saturday 19 brings another high-profile concert, profiling some of the world’s finest musicians. The brilliant Michael McGoldrick will perform with talented friends Ed Bryne, John Joe Kelly and Dessie Donnelly. It’s all about well known names once again as brother duo Tommy & Colum Sands open the concert. The Festival Bar also opens its doors this evening, while the Traditional Music Session Trail has music flowing into the night.

Sunday 20 July brings Celtic Fusion to a close. The finale day is fittingly packed with activity; the Festival Bar has 12 hours of non-stop music; a free open-air concert brings Koshka, Park Bench Social Club and The Rapparees to the Upper Square; the Traditional Music Session trail continues; and one of Ireland’s hottest musical experiences Beoga play the closing concert in King’s Inn.

With such a diverse line-up and range of events, Castlewellan will come alive throughout Celtic Fusion. For full event details and tickets contact the Festival Hotline, 028 4372 2222, or visit www.celticfusion.co.uk

For further information contact:
Veronica Keegan Marketing Manager 028 4461 0841
Lyndsey McBride Marketing / Events Officer 028 4461 0854