July 12th – 18th, 2015

www.catskillsirishartsweek.org

The Catskills Irish Arts Week, in East Durham, NY, presented by The MJ Quill Irish Cultural and Sports Centre, will celebrate its 21st anniversary this July. This charming village will echo the strains of Irish music, song, dance and story, mingled with the lively banter so characteristic of all such Irish gatherings. Set in the scenic Catskill Mountains of Greene County, New York just two hours north of New York city, East Durham is no stranger to these festivities as it has been home to the Irish since the early 1900’s. Well–known Irish writer, Cormac MacConnell, was struck by the warm hospitality, so unique to Ireland, when he joined the festival there last July. He called it the “Hidden Ireland”. This hospitality awaits the Catskills Irish Arts Week family of teachers, students, fans and visitors again this coming July.

A wonderful week is in the works with old favorites and exciting new surprises. This year, The Year of the Woman, will celebrate all women in the Irish Arts with a special tribute to Mary Bergin and Joanie Madden for their immense contribution to the traditional music of Ireland. Each will delight with a special concert in her honor supported by masterful musicians, singers and dancers.

New this year, Wednesday afternoon will be a time to gather your breath and relax in each other’s company. In place of the concert that evening, there will be an old time Barn Dance, complete with a delicious spread of barbecued pig, chicken, and other tasty treats. This promises to be a fun evening of music, dance and craic with friends, new and old.

As always, the organisers are honored to be joined by many master teachers from Ireland, America and Canada. Dolores Keane and Kathleen Loughnane will join such notables as Jackie Daly, Matt Cranitch, Dylan Foley, Edel Fox and Joey Abarta, to name but a few, all of whom the organisers are privileged to have on board.

The Tír na nÓg Children’s program, for ages five to nine, has grown from strength–to–strength. This has led to the new Stepping Stone Program. Stepping Stone, originally designed for the youth, has now evolved to include family members exploring the traditions together. Sean–Nós Dance has been added to these workshops.

Registration for all workshops is now open online and by phone at 518-634-2286. Non–student packages to concerts, céilí dances, lectures and sessions are also available.

For further information, and to register, visit the website www.catskillsirishartsweek.org