Star-studded line up for Creeslough concert

A star-studded line up of local, national and international entertainers, including members of Boyzone and Westlife, will be among the performers at a concert entitled Together for Creeslough, scheduled to take place at the Aura Leisure Centre, Letterkenny on Monday, January 30.

The event launch took place on Wednesday afternoon at the same venue where a number of speakers highlighted the importance of the concert and its role as part of the healing process following the tragedy at the village where 10 people lost their lives on October 7.

Brian McFadden (42) and Keith Duffy (48) first shot to fame as members of Westlife and Boyzone respectively have been confirmed as one of the headline acts.

Six years ago, the duo joined forces and dubbed themselves Boyzlife – where they take to the stage and perform a selection of their nostalgic hits.

Speaking via video link Brian, whose father Brendan hails from the village, spoke of the fond memories he had of his many visits there and of the devastation and heartbreak he felt when the news of the explosion came through to him.

"You never think something like that could happen in a place like Creeslough. It was so impressive seeing the town come together and I wanted to show my appreciation for the people and what they went through," he said.

He added he met up with concert promoter Joe Gallagher and together they decided to put on a show that would enable them to thank everyone who helped in any way.

Mr Gallagher added he was delighted to get involved and hoped to keep the event "as Donegal as possible" using local talent.

He revealed artists taking part included the Whistling Donkeys, Mickey Joe Harte, Lisa McHugh, Phil Coulter, Brian Kennedy and with more to be added.

MCs for the occasion will be Moya Brennan from Clannad and Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh
of Altan.

Moya also spoke at the launch and recalled her many connections with the village and how as a child she competed in singing and dancing at concerts and feiseanna there.

"I remember my dad playing Creeslough hall and singing 'Cutting the Corn in Creeslough Today' Believe it or not it was in Creeslough that we heard the first version of 'Níl Sé Ina Lá' (It is not yet the day)"

This is a traditional Irish song arranged by Clannad. It appears on their debut album released in 1973.

Moya said she had been contacted by people from all over the world once they heard about the tragedy and was something that touched their hearts.

"They were amazed by the community spirit and how everyone supported one another."

Creeslough curate Fr John Joe Duffy said this was the village's way of thanking everyone who came to their assistance during the explosion and the way it continued since.

"We have not forgotten how so many people came and risked their own lives to help so this is our way of saying thanks. This is part of the ongoing healing process that we have been involved in."

Tickets priced €25 will go on sale from Saturday.