The Elders go out on a high
IRISH-AMERICAN folk rock band The Elders wrapped up their final Irish tour on Friday night and Arklow certainly gave the group a great send-off.
For the past 15 years the group, fronted by Avoca native Ian Byrne has toured Ireland, with an Arklow gig always included but as the members move towards a reduced schedule they have decided to call time on their transatlantic travels.
The Arklow Bay Hotel was packed to capacity as guests from the USA and Wicklow gathered to enjoy what turned out to be a very memorable and special final performance, acknowledged by standing ovations from the audience. Special guests, Denise Brennan with John Nolan on guitar, Breda O’Connor school of Irish Dancing and Cairde le Chéile really got the audience going before The Elders came on stage. Proceeds from the night will go towards The Lavender Ward, Nolan House, Rathdrum, and Arklow Music & Arts’ (AMA) campaign to secure a music and arts centre for Arklow.
The previous night, Thursday, AMA hosted an informal session for The Elders and their fans in Kenny’s of The Harbour, which was another feature of their Irish tour and has been a highlight for many years.
There was music in all four corners of the Harbour, both upstairs and downstairs with a host of local musicians lending their support and ensuring a great night of music, song and craic. The succesful trip ensured that The Elders got their wish to finish on a high.