Happy St Patrick’s Day!
What are you doing to celebrate? Perhaps you’ll be honouring Ireland’s most recognised patron saint by wearing green or enjoying a pint or two of the black stuff? Certainly, if you’re reading this in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland you’ll be enjoying a public holiday in his name, too.
With today being about all things Irish, I thought it would be a good opportunity to tell you a little more about our forthcoming Irish Show Cruise 2014. If you’re a regular visitor to these pages, you’ll already know about it, because in an earlier blog one of my colleagues Mark explained what it is, where it goes and how you can book your place. So in this blog, I’m going to tell you a little more about some of the acts who’ll be joining us on-board Fred.Olsen Cruise Line’s Boudicca this December, as it explores some of Europe’s finest Christmas markets on a memorable eight-night cruise.
Gene Fitzpatrick
Your compere for the duration of the cruise, Gene is one of Ireland’s best-loved comedians and a household name across the Emerald Isle. His reputation, unique style and warm personality have made him one of the country’s most sought-after comperes and after-dinner speakers, making him a natural host for the Irish Show Cruise 2014. Few can control a crowd like Gene Fitzpatrick!
Hugo Duncan
No stranger to the airwaves as well as the ocean waves, Hugo Duncan is a popular fixture on both BBC Radio Foyle and BBC Radio Ulster. Known as Ireland’s ambassador of country music, Hugo started his career back in 1971 after being spotted on a TV talent show and had number one hit in the Irish charts – Dear God – with his band, Hugo Duncan and the Tall Men.
Marty Fay and the Bandidos
Combining the finest musical talent to be found across Belfast and Omagh, this five-piece outfit make it their business to play a plethora of hits from every decade from the 60s right through to the 90s, guaranteeing something for everyone. The band’s vocalist Marty Fay has a wealth of industry experience under his belt, having worked with such acts as Brian Kennedy and Van Morrison.
Barry Doyle
One of the most recognisable figures on the country music circuit, Barry has an incredible 30 albums to his name as well as 17 DVDs and has toured Ireland, the UK and Europe for 15 years. Clearly a man who likes to travel, he’s even taken his act to destinations as far afield as Australia and Florida. With the help of his alter ego Farmer Dan, Barry also injects a little comedy into the Irish country music circuit.
Philomena Begley
Ireland’s first lady of country music, Philomena Begley has well over 40 years of experience and a number of hits in the Irish charts. In her time, she’s toured the USA extensively and has performed at the Grand Ole Opry House – a legendary show venue in the home of country music itself, Nashville. Her son Aiden Quinn also enjoys a singing career and her niece Andrea Begley won BBC’s The Voice last year.
Johnny Brady
Johnny Brady is a talented singer/songwriter with almost 20 years of experience to his name. A born frontman, he’s toured extensively with a host of acts and has worked with a number of well-known performers in a career which has seen him perform in every major Irish music venue. Johnny grew up in a family with an intense love of country music and has now returned to his roots to become a regular feature on the Irish country music scene.
So after that little musical taster, If you think you’re up for the craic, just call us on 028 9095 0050 (NI) or 01 553 0100 (ROI) to book your place.
Comments: no replies