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Local traditional festival Shennaghys Jiu has long been rooted in the northern town of Ramsey, where it has remained true to its original concept of encouraging young musicians to join together in a non-competitive environment. It has proved to be a winning combination but this year organisers have changed the format to give dance a higher profile.
With a colourful mix of local and visiting groups, Shennaghys Jiu (22 – 25 March) promises to be an exciting weekend of Celtic music, song and dance, showcasing some of the up and coming young entertainers bursting with unbridled enthusiasm and new ideas.
From modest beginnings Shennaghys Jiu has hosted a wide range of talent, and this year will welcome four groups from the surrounding regions who will be giving a flavour of their own traditions. The aptly named Highly Flung includes former members of the Christine Wilson Highland Dancers from Edinburgh; taught by former world champion dancer Christine Wilson they have performed in countries as far apart as Holland, Switzerland and Australia. Kerry Dances Ireland is an exciting, action-packed, high-kicking entertaining Irish dance show featuring some of the finest exponents of music, song and dance. As the name suggests they are based in the south west of Ireland and promise to effortlessly blend youth and experience with a deeply rooted faith in the Irish tradition. Meanwhile The Brim combines the talents of Cornish musicians Jamie Toms and Alan Pengelly who met through their local music scene, and promises an eclectic mix of both contemporary and traditional Cornish music.
Local groups will include Scammylt, Bee er dty Hwoaie, Ballacottier School, Share na Veg, Grass Roots and the Mollag Band with a weekend bursting with workshops, concerts and ceilidhs and a lively bands’ night to close the festival.
Further details available from the festival’s website.
Valerie Caine © March 2013
