The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Pride and passion on display as Wrens parade through Dingle
TOWN HONOURS AN ANCIENT TRADITION
DINGLE’S Wrens were in flying form on December 26 as the colour and spectacle of Lá an Dreolín attracted hundreds to the West Kerry town, witnessing all the passion and pride of this time-honoured tradition.
As the cobwebs of Christmas Day were dusted away, a busy morning ensured which saw wren-boys put the finishing touches on their ‘straws’ and ‘rigs’ in advance of a mighty day of musical mirth and celebration.
First out was the resurgent Quay Wren, who emerged shortly after 1pm setting the tone for the day in their green and white rigs and straw suits as they marched in unison.
Hot on their heels was the mighty Sráid Eoin Wren, which saw the streets of Dingle turn blue as they raised the roof with their musical melee.
The ever effervescent Goat Street Wren were next out, their blood and bandage colours matching the intensity of their music.
Finally the Green and Gold Wren invaded the streets, full to the brim of gaiscaíocht and ceoil as hundreds followed them on a round of the town.
As the day progressed the music continued in Dingle’s streets and hostelries and a number of ‘country’ wrens from all over West Kerry congregated in the town (including some very conspicuous ‘Honey-Monsters’!).
Lá an Dreolín was also in full swing in An Ghaeltacht with Dreolín Dhún Chaoin marching along the cliffs of Slea Head overlooking the Blasket Islands. West Kerry’s antics even made the Six One News thanks to RTÉ’s Seán Mac an tSíthigh who had his work cut out in keeping up with all the wrens on the day.
Reflecting on Lá an Dreolín 2012, Aoife Granville of Sráid Eoin said people were really happy with the Wren this year.
“The Sráid Eoin Wren had a great day and it finished up what was a great year for us having launched a CD and performed at Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy, which was founded by Sráid Eoin veteran, the late great Muiris Ó Rocháin.”