This project examines and celebrates the legacy and social history of the Céilí and Dance bands of Ennistymon. Examining a unique crossover between the contemporary musical genres, from céilí, dance to jazz, it explores the contribution made to our contemporary sense of place and belonging through the creativity and musical generosity they shared and passed on.

Acting as a social outlet, the music created by this generation provided an antidote to three decades of economic hardship and emigration. Through reproductions of archival prints, audio recordings from the era and live interviews with the few surviving musicians and dance goers, these public interactions will bring the social history of the 1940s to 1960s period to life.

Lecture and Public Q&A with invited Guests.
Talk and presentation, by author and historian Enda Byrt relating the story and social history of the Céilí and Dance Bands of Ennistymon highlighted by live interviews with surviving musicians and dancers of the time, followed by an open discussion to thread the presentation to contemporary experiences and invite guests and attendees to a mediated discussion.

Exhibition:
Photographic, Audio & Video Installation: Recordings of the bands and musicians of Ennistymon reproduced from archival reel to reel recordings from the 40s, 50s & 60s. Selections of images from the Michael John Glynn collection, Arthur Studios, reproductions of posters from private collections and the Clare Libraries archive.
18th August 7.00 pm. Launch of photographic exhibition in Red couch Space. Exhibition runs until 14th September (Tues to Sat 12.00pm to 5.00pm.)

18th August 7.30 pm. An interactive presentation by Enda Byrt examining the musical legacy through recordings and photographs of the era, with audience participation from musicians and dancers of the times. Launch of photographic Exhibition in Red couch Space.

Admission Free

Events supported by Creative Ireland and Clare County Council, Creative Communities 2024 fund.

Address
The Courthouse Gallery & Studios (CHG&S), Co. Clare