The Anglo-Celt 2025 Arts Review- Eugene Lynch

Eugene Lynch

Trad musician and Comhaltas member

Best Cavan event: Ed Reavy Traditional Music Festival 2025 - ran for four days in October - 27 sessions across eight venues. Two fantastic fiddle competitions with entrants for all four corners of Ireland. Two Set Dancing Ceilithe with two All Ireland Senior Ceili Band winners plus excellent concert in Town Hall theatre. Had visitors from all over Ireland and created a great atmosphere reminiscent of Fleadh 2010-2012.

One to watch: We have so many wonderful young artists throughout the county. One I believe will do very well is Liam Lynch of Bailieborough, a brilliant accordion player, guitarist, banjo player and singer.

He has recently released via Spotify his new single, a remake of the classic Ralph McTell song ‘Streets of London’.

Best film: Say Nothing was a gripping watch, reminding us of a very sad and difficult time in our history. It portrayed all sides of many of the characters involved excellently, especially the multitude of emotions of many of these people whom others might rather see as one dimensional.

Best book: Seamus O’Rourke’s, Standing in Gaps was funny and sad at times - a reflection on Ireland of the ‘80s and the changing times we lived through, innocence disappearing as Ireland moved into the modern world while the grip of authority loosened.

Best theatre: Moulin Rouge was full of glamour and energy. The costumes, set design and lighting were spectacular. It was packed with popular songs performed to perfection.

Best music: Gig Rig at All Ireland Fleadh in Wexford.