James to ‘gig on the green’ in support of Talk to Tom
A musician has come up with a novel way to support a local cause, by playing a gig in the estate that raises the most funds for that charity.
James Reid has launched ‘Gigs on the Green’ and plans to perform an exclusive concert for one estate in in Gorey or Arklow in the coming weeks. He is hoping to raise money for mental health charity, Talk to Tom, and the concert will take place in the estate that donates the most money to the fundraiser.
Arklow man James said: ‘I came up a way to connect my guitar to the speakers in my car. Whatever estate puts in the most, I will set up there and play some music.’
Last year, James raised over €3,500 for Pieta House through a sponsored headshave. He is passionate about trying to help mental health charities and is full of praise for the work of Talk to Tom in the communities of Arklow and Gorey. He is hoping to raise as much as possible to support their work.
James had been planning to record his debut album, but his time in a studio has been delayed due to the Covid outbreak. While he has been performing on social media, he said he is conscious that there are some people who are not able to view shows online.
To enter the competition, people give the name of their estate when they make a donation online. James will then add up the totals to see which estate raised the most.
A final date for the show has not been selected. James is keen to stress that this will not be a street party but a chance for neighbours to enjoy some music while following all physical distancing and public health guidelines. He will perform the show alone. James said he has also spoken with local gardaí about his plan.
‘People are so good at giving to charity events,’ James said.
To donate to James’s ‘Gigs on the Green’, visit www.idonate. ie/fundraiser/11385443_jamesreid-s-page.