The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Top acts in Tralee for Hennessy Celebration
THE annual Christie Hennessy Celebration returns to Tralee this weekend with a host of top Irish acts set to pay tribute to the town’s most famous musical son.
This is the sixth year of the celebration and all the action will be taking place at The Rose Hotel on Friday and Saturday night.
Friday night sees the return of the Tralee Troubadour Club when host Francie Conway will be joined on stage by a variety of acts including Mickey Harte; Chapter 2; Kolumbus; Roy Buckley; Martyn Travis; Declan Caruthers and local musician John Buggy and his band.
There will also be a special tribute to Christie Hennessy with Pam and Joe.
The Troubadour Club event kicks off at The Rose Hotel at 8.30pm with tickets costing€10 available from Tralee Chamber Alliance or at the door on the night.
Saturday afternoon will see the dedication of the Christie Hennessy Plaza in Tralee Town Square at 4pm.
A plaque in Hennessy’s honour will be unveiled near the musician’ statue and the ceremony will be followed by the switching on of the Christmas lights.
On Saturday night attention will turn to up and coming musicians at the IMRO Christie Hennessy Song Competition. The contests will see ten finalists – selected from over 200 entries – battle it out for a prize of €1,000 provided by Tralee Credit Union. Renowned musician John Spillane will also be performing as a special guest.
The live final takes place at The Rose Hotel. Doors open at 8.30pm and entry to the event is completely free of charge.
The celebration is supported by Tralee Chamber Alliance; IMRO; The Troubadour Club; Tralee Credit Union; The Rose Hotel; Kerry County Council and Radio Kerry.