The cultural legacy and reputation of both Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and Ennis will be hugely enriched by the two-year magical shared experience that culminates this week, Shannon Group Deputy CEO Mary Considine has said.
Speaking on behalf of Shannon Airport, the main sponsor of the Fleadh, following the official launch in Ennis on Sunday, Ms Considine said that Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Inis 2017 is set to raise the bar again for this annual Irish cultural pilgrimage.
“The annual Fleadh is nothing short of a phenomenon and we think of locations like Sligo, Derry, Cavan, Listowel, Tullamore, Clonmel and others that set standards that one would think could not be bettered. Yet, Ennis last year and most definitely again this year is raising the bar yet again,” said Ms Considine.
“I’m pretty certain that by the time the Fleadh tent is wound up next week, people who’ve been to Ennis will appreciate that they have been part of something really special and unique. If the magical atmosphere generated at the launch is anything to go by, with the streets filled with talented young musicians and dancers who entertained and charmed the crowds, I know we are in for a fantastic week ahead.
“Clare, with all its festivals, is long since acknowledged as the home of traditional Irish music and it hasn’t disappointed with the Fleadh. There’s a sense of homecoming about it and, like any homecoming, we’ll be so sad to see it end.”
Commenting on the Fleadh programme, she added, “Aside from the competitions themselves, there’s an incredible line-up of performers for the main stages, including the Shannon Aerodrome, which Shannon Airport is proud to once again sponsor. There’ll be entertainment day and night across the town.
“It’s also a great tourism boost for Clare and the Wild Atlantic Way as many are using the Fleadh to anchor their holidays and we certainly picked that up at Shannon Airport this past few days as they began to land from the UK, US and elsewhere.
“The further we get into the week and towards the weekend, the bigger the crowds and bigger the attractions and our advice to people travelling from a distance would be to get there early and certainly try and book their events in advance to avoid disappointment.”