Shanley stars in show to celebrate Percy French

Travel back in time and spend a delightful evening listening to the music of one of the most accomplished composers this country has produced - Percy French.

This special event in Cornmill Theatre, Carrigallen on Saturday , October 29 is sure to be extra special as Eleanor Shanley joins the County Leitrim Percy French Society for one night only.

One hundred and two years after his death, barely a sing-song takes place in this country that doesn’t feature at least a couple of Percy French songs. Who doesn’t know the famous opening line ‘Oh Mary this London’s a wonderful sight’ from The Mountains of Mourne, the beautiful ballad of Come Back Paddy Reilly or the rousing Phil the Fluter’s Ball. Perhaps not everyone can identify the composer of these famous Irish folk songs, but most will recognise the lyrics and the melodies.

After two sell-out shows in the National Concert Hall in Dublin, performances across the country and featuring on the BBC’s Britain’s Great Railway Journeys presented by Michael Portillo, this charming show will be performed in the Corn Mill Theatre. Behind the show are the musically gifted members of the County Leitrim Percy French Society.

The show is performed by a dozen members of the County Leitrim Percy French Society, all dressed in period costume including Frank Cadam as Percy. Throughout the performance Percy links songs with stories from his life explaining the background and inspiration behind the music giving the show a warmth and authenticity.

Under the expert guidance of Tish Dunleavy as musical director the show is presented in a fun-loving and good-humoured way with audience participation welcomed and encouraged along the way.

The County Leitrim Percy Society are delighted to have Eleanor Shanley join with them to remember the great composer.

Eleanor is of course one of Ireland’s most loved and respected vocalists. In her long and rich career, Eleanor has enjoyed public and critical acclaim for her many solo performances and recordings in addition to her body of work from her wonderful collaborative projects both recordings and live performances.