The Donegal town of Letterkenny prepares to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for the first time.
From 26 - 28 August 2005, the town of Letterkenny in County Donegal will host the 54th annual Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. This is the first time the event will take place in Letterkenny, and the first Fleadh to be held in the province of Ulster in 25 years.
At least 10,000 traditional musicians, singers and dancers are expected for the event.
Since the town was selected a year ago, the Letterkenny Fleadh Committee has been working flat out. Committee chairperson Paddy Tunny explains that over 4,000 competitors will be taking part in 131 competitions and entertaining more than 250,000 visitors.
There will be music on the street, in the hostelries, in the pubs and bars, it will be like Mardi gras
Donegal County Council chairperson Dessie Larkin notes that staging the event has been a steep learning curve involving many disparate groups. Everything is now in place to ensure the event will run smoothly.
I think Letterkenny is well ready for the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2005.
Behind-the-scenes preparations are underway everywhere in Letterkenny. Donegal Vintners' Group chairperson Martin Gibbons knows that publicans are busy dealing with wholesalers, as at least a million pints are expected to be consumed. To meet demand, pubicans must ensure they have enough kegs, but not too many, so it is a delicate balancing act.
Also preparing for the Fleadh is jeweller Julian Ball. He is selling a range of jewellery specially designed for the event.
Donegal fiddler Martin McGinley thinks the traditional Donegal fiddle style will be of interest to visitors to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, as it is a very distinctive brand of music
Letterkenny is determined that this is the Fleadh Cheoil that will be remembered for all the right reasons.
Main Street in Letterkenny will be closed off to facilitate musicians playing on the streets once again.
A 'Nationwide’ report broadcast on 22 August 2005. The reporter is Mary Harte. The presenter is Mary Kennedy.
