Carlow is gearing up for the live final of the Pan Celtic National Song Contest ‘23. Following a break of 3 years due to Covid-19, the song contest is set to return this year and will take place in the GB Shaw Theatre @ Visual on Saturday, 28 January.
From a total of more than 30 entries, 16 newly composed songs in the Irish language have been shortlisted for the live final and the finalists will go head-to-head for the top prize of €1,000 as well as the chance to represent Ireland next April at the Pan Celtic International Song Contest.
Three well known names from the world of music have been announced for the judging panel – Emer O’Flahery herself a winner of both the Pan Celtic national and international contests in 2017 with her song “Taibhse”, local well-respected singer/songwriter and musician Fiach Ó Muircheartaigh and highly acclaimed singer Aoife Scott of the famous Black Family.
The 16 songs which have made it to the final feature a range of styles and genres from rock, pop and folk to traditional and classical making for what promises to be a most enjoyable and unique event.
The Pan Celtic national song contest is organised by Glór Cheatharlach. Music director as usual will be Carlow’s very own Ollie Hennessy backed by the magnificent Pan Celtic House Band. Guest artiste on the night will be Eric de Buitléir who, in his own inimitable style will treat the audience to a taste of jazz.
The song contest is supported by main sponsors IMRO and Carlow County Council & Enterprise Board as well as Gael Linn, Glór Cheatharlach, Foras na Gaeilge and Pan Cheilteach. The winning song will go on to represent Ireland at the International Song Contest which will take place during the Pan Celtic Festival in Carlow next April.
Tickets for the not to be missed event on 28 January at just €12 are on sale at the GB Shaw box office and will also be available on the night. Doors will open at 7.30pm with the show kicking off at 8pm.
