A night to remember as ‘Dixie’ says thanks for all the support
JOHN ‘’Dixie ‘’ Nugent, launched his third book of poetry in McHugh’s, an illustrated volume, with illustrations from local artist and friend, Andrew Smith. A photograph from Eric O’Neill also accompanied one of Dixie’s poems, titled, ‘’Global Warming’’.
The event was organised primarily by Ged McCann with assistance from Johnny Russell, Dixie’s carer. John ‘’ The Pro’’ Crilly was MC for the actual book launch. John organised readers to interpret our local bard’s work. Poetry readings from Dixie’s book were performed by, Jimmy Kearney, Richie Bowden, Martin Collins, Neil Fox, Paula Fox (who read one of the more romantic poems to jubilant applause from some hecklers), Michelle McCann, Jane O’Brien, Austin McCann and The Pro himself.
Dixie was accompanied on the night by his close family, his carer Jonny Russell, the gentle giant and his many friends and after the readings the attendees enjoyed fine fare provided by Michael Devine, Baltray.
Dixie would like to give a big ‘’ thank you’’ to all who contributed on the night including the book publication’s sponsors, Richie Bowden , Beamore Business Centre and Don Coyle, Beaubec, Drogheda, to John ‘’ The Pro’’ Crillly who smoothly organised the poetry readings, to Ged McCann, who was chief organiser of the event who then oversaw the proceedings on the night, to T.P. McHugh who provided The Venue and to his helpful and accommodating staff for whom nothing was the slightest bother and to Austin McCann, Sheila Coyle and Michelle McCann who oversaw entry to the event and managed the wine bar.
The celebrations continued late into the late and early hours with music provided by the best bands on the local scene. Johnny Russell and the bard, Dixie himself opened the musical proceedings, when Dixie recited one of his poems to music composed by Johnny. This particular poem which is set to music has gone viral on face book and U tube. Dixie has reserved special thanks for the local band and music scene. Five bands performed for their friend, Dixie, with each band on stage for about 30 minutes.
The performances of each was quite simply breath-taking and kept the sound engineer on his toes all night. First up were Martin and ‘Plummy’ Cummins, followed by the Gatinhos, the Merxmen, Fuzz Gigolo and finally the Delta Devils.
Finally from one poet to another, Dixie has sent president Michael D. Higgins copies of his recently published work.