MARCH 2017 ENTERTAINMENT and EVENTS GUIDE  (from March 2017 Celtic Connection, Denver)

By Rodger Hara

 

Adam Agee and Jon Sousa

March 18         The Alley,

Littleton            8-10 PM

March 24         Denver Contradance                          8-11 PM

Highlands Masonic Center

 

 

Andy Sheldon

March 10         McLoughlin’s, LoDo                            6:30 PM

Irish Snug                                            7:30 PM

March 17         Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                1:45 PM

 

Angus Mohr

March 11         Olde Towne Arvada, St. Patrick’s Fest  1:30-3 PM

March 11         Fadó, LoDo                                         5-7 PM

March 17         Fadó, LoDo                                         4:30-6:30 PM

March 17         Little Bear, Evergreen                         9 PM – close

 

Augustana Arts

March 17         “Céad Mile Fáilte” Colorado Women’s          7:30 PM

Chorale & Colorado Men’s Chorale with Saint Mary’s

College Women’s Choir and Organist David Eicher

Augustana Lutheran Church, Denver, CO

 

303-388-4962 or online at www.AugustanaArts.org

 

Avourneen

March 3           Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St.        6 PM

Advance tix at $18; Door tix at $20.

March 4           Presentation prior to Danú show                    6:45 PM

Mackey Auditorium, CU Boulder, Tix $40

March 10         Abbey Tavern, Denver                                   8 -10 PM

March 11         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                    1-4:30 PM

Abbey Tavern, Denver                                   6-8 PM

March 12         Inga’s Alpine Tavern, Denver                         4-6 PM

March 17         Ned Kelly’s Irish Pub, Littleton                        10-11:45 AM

Sheabeen Pub, Aurora                                   12:30-4:30 PM                                                            Exchange Tavern, Westminster                     4:30-6:15 PM

Clocktower Cabaret                                        8 PM – Adam MC

Shamrockin’ Burlesque Show, Tix $27

March 18         Ned Kelly’s Irish Pub, Littleton                        6-8 PM

Exchange Tavern, Westminster                     9:30-11:30 PM

 

The Bedlam Boys

March 2           Bierworks Brewery, Woodland Park              7PM

March 9           Bierworks Brewery, Woodland Park              7PM

March 10         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                     8PM – 12AM

March 11         Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            1:45-3:45 PM

Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        4:30-6:30 PM

March 16         Bierworks Brewery, Woodland Park              7PM

March 17         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                     3-7 PM

March 23         Bierworks Brewery, Woodland Park              7PM

March 30         Bierworks Brewery, Woodland Park              7PM

March 31         Kinfolks, Manitou Springs                               8-11 PM

 

Beth Gadbaw

March 10         Apple Mountain Music, Albuquerque

with Roger Landes & Sandra Wong               8 PM

March 11         GiG Performance Space, Santa Fe

with Roger Landes & Sandra Wong               8 PM

March 17         Longmont Museum

with Fred Pouille and Sandra Wong               2:30 PM

with Fred Pouille, Sandra Wong,

Leslie Anne Harrison and Margot

Krimmel                                                          6 PM

 

Big Paddy

March 3           Exchange Tavern, Westminster                     8 PM

March 10         Bohemian Biergarten, Boulder                       10 PM

March 11         Fado, LoDo                                                     2:30-4:30 PM

March 11         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                     9 PM

March 17         Clancy’s, Wheat Ridge                                   2-3:30 PM

Fadó, LoDo                                                     7-9 PM

March 18         Westminster Brewing Co.                               7 PM

CD Release Party

 

Blackthorn

March 12       Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs               1-5 PM

March 17       Jack Quinn’s                                                            1-4 PM

 

Bodha

March 17         McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                                7:45-10:30 PM

March 17         Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         4:45-5:45 PM

 

Brian Clancy

March 2, 9, 23 & 30    Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs         7:30 PM

 

Brian Clancy and Irish Row

March 11         Fado, LoDo                                                     12-2 PM

The Irish Snug, Denver                                   4:45-7:30 PM

March 16         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs

16^th Anniversary Party                                   7:30 PM-12 AM

March 17         Fadó Irish Pub                                                 2-4 PM

The Irish Snug                                                 6-9 PM

March 18         Pikes Peak Brewing Co., Monument             7-10 PM

 

Carlos Nunez& Guests

March 19         Soiled Dove Underground, Denver                3:30 PM

All Ages Show

www.soileddove.com, 303.830.9214

March 25         Evanston Celtic Festival                                 8 PM

Tickets $5-$40

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2714196

 

 

CD Clarke

March 11         Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        1:30-3:30 PM

McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        4:30-6:30 PM

March 17         Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            1-3:30 PM

McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        5-7:30 PM

 

Celtic Chaos

March 10         Celtic House Pub, Parker                              5-8 PM

March 11         Celtic House Pub                                            12-3 PM

March 17         Celtic House Pub                                            12-3 PM

March 17         Funugyz, Parker                                             6-9 PM

March 18         Barnett’s Brewery, Parker                              6:30-8:30 PM

 

 

Celtic Friends

March 11         Dennis Gallagher’s St. Patrick’s

Day Party, Denver                                       5 PM

March 18         Skylite Station Celtic Fest, Denver                 8 PM

 

 

Chancers Hooley

March 11         Irish Snug, Denver                                          1:30-4:30 PM

Kline’s Beer Hall, Arvada                                7-11 PM

March 17         The Exchange Tavern, Westminster              6-9 PM

March 18         Lefthand Brewing Co., Longmont                   6-8:30 PM

 

Ciorcal Cairde Irish Pipes and Drums

March 11         St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Denver                  10 AM

McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        12 PM

Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         1 PM

Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        2:30 PM

Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            4 PM

March 12         Landsdowne Arms, Highland Ranch              11 AM

McCabe’s, Southlands Mall                            12:30 PM

March 16         Landsdowne Arms, Highland Ranch              5:45 PM

McCabe’s, Southlands Mall                            7:15 PM

March 17         Primrose School, Denver                               10 AM

McCloughlin’s                                                 1 PM

Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         2 PM

Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            3:30 PM

Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        4:30 PM

Landsdowne Arms, Highland Ranch              5:45 PM

McCabe’s, Southlands Mall                            7:15 PM

 

Colcannon

March 8           Society Hall, Alamosa                                                7:30 PM

March 10         Durango Celtic Festival,

Henry Strater Theater                                     7 PM

March 15         Porter Adventist Hospital, Denver                  12 PM

March 17         Midwest Theater, Scottsbluff, NE                  7:30 PM

March 20         A concert with orchestra students from Louisville schools —                                                             featuring arrangements of songs from our upcoming new CD and some old                                   favorites.

March 30         Kathryn Mohrman Theater, Colorado Springs           7:30 PM

 

New CD in time for concerts – Irish trip sign-up email [email protected]

 

the commoners

March 11         Scruffy Murphy’s, LoDo                                 1:30-4:30 PM

March 11         Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            7:30-10:30 PM

March 12         Runnin’ of the Green

post-race party, LoDo                                   10:30 AM

March 15         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                     7-10 PM

March 17         Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         1:30-4:30 PM

Mulligan’s, Ft. Collins                                      10 PM – 1:30 AM

 

Connoly School of Irish Dance

March 11         Maggie Smith’s Irish Pub, Centennial             12:45-7:30 PM (Full show at 7)

March 17         Maggie Smith’s Irish Pub, Centennial             1:30-8 PM (Full show at 6:30)

 

Danú

March 4           Macky Auditorium, CU Boulder Campu        7:30 PM

Tix $40-$75

 

Denver and District Pipe Band

March 11         Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            1 PM

Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        4 PM

March 17         Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         7:45 PM

McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        8:30 PM

 

Dennis Gallagher’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Party

March 11         Police Protective Assoc., 2105 Decatur St., Denver 4-7 PM

Step dancing, music, songs, silent auction and pipers so Dennis

won’t be the only windbag at the party.  Free will offering to cover the cost

of the food.  Contact Dennis for information at [email protected] or                                          303.477.7089

 

Denver Brass – Brass and Bagpipes Returns to Its Roots

March 12         Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden, Cherry Hills Village

With Colorado Pipes and Drums and Rick Seaton, organ

Tickets $20-$24, 3 PM

Denver Brass – Brass and Bagpipes: Celtic Fling!

March 17, 18 & 19      Newman Center for the Performing Arts – Univ. of Denver

7:30 PM, 7:30 PM and 2:30 PM

With Celtic Colorado Pipes & Drums, Jillian Lee, Soprano, Rocky   Mountain Highland Dancers, Wick School of Irish Dance, Erin Newton,             Harp. Tickets: $22-$44 www.newmantix.com

 

Durango Celtic Festival

March 9-11     Solas, Colcannon, Goitse, Barrule, Singing Pilgrims, Coleman Academy                               Dancers, Patrick Crossing, Next Generation Fiddlers, Kitchen Jam                                         Band, Makhbeth, workshops, storytelling, Celtic Wares, fun and food for the                               whole family. Henry Strater Theater and The Irish Embassy Pub. Tickets at                                http://www.durangocelticfestival.com/tickets/

 

The Elders

March 16         Rialto Theater, Loveland                                 7:30 PM  $25

March 17         Soiled Dove, Denver                                      8 PM $18.75-$30

March 18         Stargazer Theater, Colorado Springs             8 PM $15-20

 

Evanston, Wyoming Celtic Festival – Céilí at the Roundhouse

March 24-25   Carlos Nunez, Steven and Ruth Hollander, Mark Jardine, Harvest Home, Pladdogh, Red Branch, Dunmore Lasses, Hale Family Musical Ties, Annie’s Romance, Young Irelanders, Skipper’s Alley, lectures, workshops, arts & crafts, food, whiskey tasting, vendors and more! Indoor Festival; info at http://theartsinc.com/celtic-festival/ & tickets at http://theartsinc.com/celtic-festival/

 

 

Gobs O’Phun

March 10         Swallow Hill Music Assoc., Denver                8 PM,

$14-16 swallowhillmusic.org

 

 

Indigent Row

March 4           8th Annual Ceili in the Rockies                   4-8 PM

Grace Place Church, Berthoud

Moriarty-Moffitt School of Irish Dance

Tickets $20 for adults, $12 for ages 14 and under,

kids 4 and under are free. Tickets at

http://www.mmirishdance.com/home.html

March 17         Mulligan’s Pub, Ft. Collins                               3-6 PM

March 18         Liquid Mechanics Brewing Co., Lafayette      8-10 PM

March 24         Exchange Tavern, Westminster                     8 PM – 12 AM

 

Irish Network Colorado

March 8           Defusing the Troubles: The Project Children

Story narrated by Liam Neeson

Posner Center, 1031 33^rd St., Denver            5:30 PM

Free will donations accepted

 

Juice O’The Barley

March 11         Blarney on the Block,

Downtown Greeley                             4-7 PM

March 17         St. Patrick’s Day Party

Wagner Park, downtown Aspen         2-6 PM

 

Keep Britain Irish

March 17         Sheabeen’s Irish Pub, Aurora             8 PM – 12 AM

 

Kevin Dooley

March 3           Cyclhops, Longmont                           3 PM w/ Eric Drobny

March 17         Rosalee’s Pizza, Longmont                7:30-9:30 PM w/ Eric Drobny & Alex

Johnstone

 

Kevin Fitzgerald

March 9           Soiled Dove Underground                  7:30 PM

Opening for Sharon Shannon

Tickets $25 and $30

www.soileddove.com 303.830.9214

 

 

KGNU – Hosted by Karl Kumli

March 17         34th Annual (consecutive!)

St. Patrick’s Morning Sound Alternative         9:30 AM

 

The Lass Who Went Out With The Cry Of Dawn: A Celtic Yarn

March 4 – April 2  The BiTSY Stage, 1137 S. Huron St. Denver, Saturdays at 1 & 3 PM,

Sundays at 11 AM & 1 PM, March 10 & 31 at 7:30 PM, special fundraiser performance Saturday, March 18 at 8:00 p.m. All performances are FREE, donations are accepted.  Reservations at www.bitsystage.com, by email at [email protected] or by calling 720-328-5294. Adapted by Patti Murtha, Samantha McDermott and Jeri Franco Directed by Patti Murtha

 

 

The McDeviants

March 11         Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         8-11 PM

March 17         Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        5-7 PM

 

McTeggart School of Irish Dance

March 10         Irish Snug, Denver                                          6:30 PM

McLoughlin’s                                                   7:30 PM

March 11       St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Denver              9 AM

 

 

Mountain Road Ceili Band

March 17         Margarita Restaurant, Colorado Springs        6:30-9:30 PM

 

 

Mulligan Stew

March 10         Exchange Tavern, Westminster                     8-10 PM

March 11         Clancy’s Irish Pub, Wheat Ridge                    8-10 PM

March 17         Golden City Brewery, Golden                                    4:30-6:30 PM

Clancy’s Irish Pub, Wheat Ridge                    8-11 PM

 

 

Potcheen

March 4           Denver Loft Sessions

March 11         The View House, LoDo                                   1-3 PM

March 11         Arvada St. Patrick’s Fest                                4:15-6:15 PM

March 17         The View House, LoDo                                   7-11 PM

March 18         Sheraton Hotel, Downtown Denver                4-6 PM

March 20         Fox Theater, Aurora

March 31         Exchange Tavern

 

Rabula Conundrum

March 11         McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        12:15-3:15 PM

Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            4:30 PM

March 17         Maggie Smith’s, Centennial                            5-6:30 PM and 7-10 PM

 

Rare Ould Times

March 1           Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                     5-8 PM

March 3           Denver Botanic Gardens                                6-9:30 PM

“Off the Clock: Kilts and Clovers,” an evening of Irish

and Scottish music, song and dance with food, music,

botany and drinks.  Tickets and info at

www.Botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/clock-kilts-and-clovers

March 11         Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs                     10 AM-1 PM

March 17         Jack Quinn’s                                                   10 AM-1 PM

March 17         All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church          Time TBD

Colorado Springs

 

Reed School of Irish Dance

March 11         Irish Snug, Capitol Hill                         2-8 PM (Full show at 7:30 PM)

Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        1:15 PM (Full show at 6:30 PM)

McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        1-9 PM

March 17         Irish Snug/Under the Snug                             2:30 – 9:30 PM (Full show at 9 PM)

Slattery’s                                                         12 PM and 7 PM (Special shows)

McCloughlin’s                                                 2-8:30 PM

 

Rhythm in the Night: The Irish Dance Spectacular

March 8           Lone Tree Arts Center                                    7:30 PM

Tickets $43-$53 720.509.1000

www.rhythminthenight.com

 

Sharon Shannon

March 9           Soiled Dove Underground                              7:30 PM

Tickets $25 and $30

www.soileddove.com 303.830.9214

 

Skean Dubh

March 3           Kinfolks, Manitou Springs                               8 PM

March 16         Wisdom Keepers, Lakewood                          1 PM

March 17         Oskar Blues, Longmont                                  7 PM

 

Skipper’s Alley

March 18         Broomfield Auditorium                                    7:30 PM

                        With the Celtic Steps             

                        Tickets $25 advance, $30 door

                        www.brownpapertickets.com

March 25         Evanston Celtic Festival                                 6 PM

                        Tickets $5-$40

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2714196

 

Solas

March 12         Swallow Hill, Denver                                       7 PM

                        Tix $28 http://connect.swallowhillmusic.org/EventTicket/EventDetail/2371/solas

 

 

Skipper’s Alley

March 18  Broomfield Auditorium, Broomfield CO 7:30PM  720-257-8096 1-800-838-3006

 

Skylite Station, 910 Santa Fe Drive, Denver

March 18         Skylite Celtic Festival – $5 cover

Irish Food and Drinks                                      5-9 PM

Irish Poetry and Play readings                        5:30-6:30 PM

Irish Stepdancers                                            6:30 PM

Jimo and the Piper                                          7 PM

Celtic Friends                                                  8 PM

 

Stuart Hayner (Magician)

March 11         Maggie Smith’s Irish Pub, Centennial 1:15 PM

March 11         Irish Snug (Under the Snug)                           4:15 PM

 

The (New) Stubby Shillelaghs

Andy Mithun – Vocals,Shaughnessy McDaniel – Vocals, Guitar, Mandolin Eric Fisher – Fiddle Ryan Knaub – Upright Bass, Guitar Megan T – Guitar, Keyboards

March 11         Scruffy Murphy’s                                            6-10 PM

March 16         Zac’s Legacy Childhood Cancer Fundraiser 7-9 PM

VFW Post 2121 – 2514 7th Ave, Garden City, Co.

March 17         Moxi Theater, Greeley                                    8 PM-1:30 AM

with an opening band

 

Under a Blood Red Sky

March 17         Irish Snug, Capitol Hill (tent)                           9:30 PM

 

Wick School of Irish Dance

March 10         Slattery’s, Greenwood Village                        4 PM

March 17         DU Newman Center/Denver Brass                7:30 PM

March 18         DU Newman Center/Denver Brass                7:30 PM

March 19         DU Newman Center/Denver Brass                2:00 PM

 

The Wicked Shehogues

March 11         Clancy’s, Wheat Ridge                               8 AM

McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        7:30 PM

March 17         McLoughlin’s, LoDo                                        1:15 PM

Slattery’s, Centennial                                      7:30 PM

 

Wild Mountain

March 10         Sheabeen Irish Pub, Aurora                           8 PM-12 AM

March 11         Olde Town Arvada St. Patrick’s Day Fest     12-1:30 PM

Kline’s Beer Hall, Arvada                                2-6 PM

Slattery’s, Wheat Ridge                                  7:30-10:30 PM

March 17         Clancy’s Pub, Wheat Ridge                            2-6 PM

Fado, LoDo                                                     9:30-11 PM

 

 

 

 

Denver based veterinarian Dr Kevin Fitzgerald and Meath, Ireland veterinarian Dr Paul Kelly are separated by 4,400 miles and the Atlantic Ocean, but they are of one mind when it comes to role of veterinarians in the world.

 

Dr Kelly and daughter Hannah were in Denver recently to visit friend and colleagues Dr FitzGerald.  On a professional level, Dr, Kelly was a scheduled guest speaker at a veterinary conference in the mountains.

The trio also went north to Fort Collins, as Hannah, who studies veterinarian practice in Budapest, is interested in CSU’s Veterinarian School.  Other trips of business and pleasure included inspection of Dr. Fitzgerald’s practice, a visit to Denver Zoo, and an obligatory hoist with legendary publican John Nallen at his establishment in downtown Denver.

 

Although both FitzGerald and Kelly have local veterinarian practices in their home towns they believe that it is important for their profession to become more involved in conservation issues.   “Veterinarians are one of the natural stewards of animal life,” said FitzGerald, who further explained, “Even our ‘Veterinarian’s Oath’ charges us to be sworn to the ‘the conservation of animal resources.’  Veterinarians are natural members of interdisciplinary projects designed to study, protect, and support threatened and endangered species.   We can apply the principles and technology of veterinary medicine to conservation studies to assist in aiding threatened species.”    Kelly concurred and added that the shrinking world, too often literal reality for animals, means that what affect a species in one region is, or should be, a concern for a species worldwide.  “Just as easily as I could take a flu from Denver and infect someone in Dublin, can species infect each other throughout the world.”  In addition to stopping infectious diseases and other invasive attacks on species, vets can bring their eyes, ears and intellect to help spotlight other factors threatening species that include habitat destruction, pollution, human overpopulation, and overharvesting.

 

The doctors have both spent time in natural habitats around the including FitzGerald’s studies of Polar bears in Antarctica and Manitoba and Kelly with the Far Eastern Leopard with a population fewer than 35 in the wilds of Russia to North Korea.  As obvious is the benefits to studying a species in nature, FitzGerald and Kelly agree that properly run zoos are most import to help conserve animal species.

Fitzgerald is on the Board of Directors for the Denver Zoo and Kelly is active with Tayto Park Zoo in Ireland.  “Modern zoos provide suitable breeding pairs, raising funds, and educating the public to the plight of critically endangered animals,” said Kelly, adding,” In the past animals were exclusively managed by individual zoos, but this practice has been replaced by databases and management protocols to aid in cooperative communication, thereby bridging a global network between zoos.”

 

Colorado native Dr. Chris Bowles part of historical archeological find in Scotland

 

A long lost Dark Age kingdom hidden for 1,400 years has been discovered at Trusty’s Hill in Galloway Scotland.  The site at Trusty’s Hill in Galloway was known to be a center of Pictish culture.

Excavation began in 2012, has revealed a complex type of fort, dating back to 600AD and is believed to be the ancient Kingdom of Rheged’s.

The find has been creating a recent reaction from the media and when The Celtic Connection reposted an article on our Facebook (www.facebook.com/celtic.rockies) we heard from proud mother Kathy Bowles (Colorado Springs) that the dig’s co-director Dr. Chris Bowles “Low and behold he is a Coloradoan born and raised..!”

 

We reached out to Chris (and mother Kathy) while on deadline for February 2017 issue and he quickly got back to us to give a little backstory on how a Colorado boy found his way to Scotland and into the history books:  “My name is Chris Bowles and I was delighted to learn or your interest in our discoveries at Trusty’s Hill, which we are suggesting may have been the capital of the Dark Age kingdom of Rheged. My mother Kathy passed on your interest and thought I should contact you direct.

 

As she said on your Facebook page I was brought up in Colorado. I’m originally from Fort Morgan, but lived all over the state (with brief stints in upstate New York and Houston) through to my graduation from CU Boulder as an undergrad in ’98. I always loved stories of King Arthur growing up, and also archaeology. I put the two together at CU with a BA in anthropology and a medieval history minor, and then came over here to Edinburgh in late 98 for a Masters in early medieval archaeology. I came back to Colorado for a year after this and worked in Louisville, then went back to Scotland, this time to Glasgow, to get a PhD. I finished this in 2006. Since 2008 I’ve been the county archaeologist for the Scottish Borders (the region in south-east Scotland between Edinburgh and the English border). I live in a little village called Clovenfords about 25 miles south of Edinburgh with my family; wife Claire (a best-selling author in her own right!) and 2 year old son Harry (Harrison…you might guess why).

 

In 2011 myself and Ronan Toolis the co-director of an archaeology contracting firm, GUARD, thought it would be a good idea to try and excavate at Trusty’s Hill. It had been excavated in 1960, was known for some Pictish symbols carved into bedrock (about 500 miles from the nearest Pictish symbols!) but remained obscure. We thought we might be able to prove the carvings were genuine and hopefully get some evidence for the date of the fort that sits on the hill’s summit. We raised some grants, especially from the Heritage Lottery Fund, got permission from the state agency Historic Scotland, and excavated with some fantastic volunteers from the Dumfrieshire and Galloway Natural History and Antiquarian Society (DGNHAS) over two weeks in 2012. Our results were phenomenal! The fort had been purposely burnt to the extent that the rock in the ramparts were vitrified. The artefacts included imported 6th-7th century AD pottery from the Loire region of France and Anglo-Saxon metalwork. The residents themselves were engaged in high status metalworking. The carvings at the entrance were proved to be genuine and sat opposite a rock-carved basin. On analogy with other site’s, we’re arguing that the two together formed a ritualized entranceway to the fort consistent with royal inauguration. We’ll of course never be certain, but the likeliest reason for there being a royal site here is that it was a capital of an early medieval kingdom…and the only one that fits the bill historically is the kingdom of Rheged. Historically and in medieval literature Rheged is best associated with King Urien, who later became part of the Arthurian legend.”

 

Dr Bowles said in an interview with history.com that the people living at Trusty’s Hill were not engaged in agriculture themselves but that “This was a place of religious, cultural and political innovation whose contribution to culture in Scotland has perhaps not been given due recognition. Yet the influence of Rheged, with Trusty’s Hill at its secular heart … and Urien its most famous king, has nevertheless rippled through the history and literature of Scotland and beyond.”

The book on the site, The Lost Dark Age Kingdom of Rheged, by Chris Bowles and Ronan Toolis is available now.

 

Denver Duo THE HYDES named “New Group of the Year!”

 

LiveIreland announced the winners of their “2016 Livies” last month and Colorado based duo THE HYDES were named “New Group of the Year!”   Bill Margeson from LiveIreland had this to say about the siblings: “Iain and Joanna Hyde are from Denver. Heretofore, we haven’t thought of Denver as any kind of hotbed of Irish music. These two change all that instantly. Iain is a creative and superb guitar player in support of his sister Joanna on fiddle. They had some guest stars sit in on this album, and there is no more rapidly rising act in the business than these two. To say the least, they are gathering a lot of attention … this album instantly establishes The Hydes in the forefront of our music. This is a magical duo to watch, and major talents are lining up to play with them.”

Joanna Hyde told the Celtic Connection readers about being a recipient of this prestigious award in Traditional Irish Music:  “We’re most grateful and honored to have received the LiveIreland Award! The album we released last year (Green & Blue) has definitely helped us take a step forward with music, and is really a culmination of our growing up in a great musical environment that helped us discover our love for Irish among other folk/roots/acoustic styles. Recording both here in Colorado and “across the pond” in Ireland, with so many wonderful musician friends, feels like bringing all of that full circle; we’re so appreciative of the community here and musical adventures we’ve been lucky enough to have, and we’re excited about our future projects!”        www.hydesmusic.com

EJ Jones and  Piper Jones Band in Denver Feb 25 to give  Concert and workshops.

Piper Jones Band is centered around beautifully and energetically played Highland and Scottish smallpipes accompanied by the percussive chords of the bouzouki and drum. In addition to original instrumentals and traditional tunes from Ireland, Scotland, and Appalachia, the group sings powerful harmonies and can lead the audience in traditional Celtic dances. EJ is ranked as a professional level competitive piper in the Eastern US Pipe Band Association and recently had the honor to represent the US at the 2014 MacCrimmon Trophy piping competition at Festival Interceltique Lorient in Lorient, France.  These events are sponsored by the Spanish Peaks International Celtic Music Festival (www.celticmusicfest.com), Kolacny Music , Scottish Lowlands Families and Clans of Colorado.

Workshop is Saturday Feb 25 9A-4P at Lakewood United Church of Christ, 100 Carr Street, 80226.

Cost is $25.00  No experience necessary Non players welcome. Door prizes!

Questions call Ken 303-234-0469, Jim 719-695-2108, Carolyn 303-604-1836.

Piper Jones concert will be Saturday February 25, 7PM at Hampden Hall, Englewood Civic Center.

Tickets are $20 and will be available at the door.

Sunita Staneslow, Solo Celtic Harp Concert. Saturday February 4th 7:30 pm at

Unity Spiritual Center Denver 3021 South University Blvd.Denver Colorado 80210

“ masterful improvisations . . . an incredibly gifted harpist . . .Her music transcends the worldly plane”

International Folk Harp Journal.  Tickets at the door. Doors open at 7pm, Adults $15 / 12 and under $10 Information: contact Kolacny Music 303-722-6081

 

 

This year’s Colorado Dulcimer Festival, February 3-4 in Littleton, features nationally acclaimed dulcimer performers Susan Trump (mountain dulcimer) and Jody Marshall (hammered dulcimer) as well as five who have taken prizes multiple times in national dulcimer championships: Karen Alley, Bonnie Carol, Steve Eulberg, Tina Gugeler and Erin Mae.  “This festival draws the best dulcimer musicians from around the country, and the variety of music at the concerts is just wonderful” says Linda Colville, a long-time attendee and member of the festival planning team.

 

Everyone is welcome at the 7:00 pm Friday and Saturday concerts at St. James Presbyterian Church, 3601 West Belleview Avenue.  Each concert is entirely different, featuring half of the performers each night.  Concertgoers can expect to hear a variety of instruments and ensembles playing traditional music, with a few surprises.  Tina Gugeler, who has performed in these concerts for many years, says “When artists of this caliber get together, all kinds of creativity results.”  Tickets are $15 at the door ($10 for children and students).

 

During the day, those same musicians teach workshops to festival participants from Colorado and 8-10 other states.  Workshops are offered for all levels from very beginner to advanced players, and rental instruments are available.  The festival also promotes other dulcimer-playing experiences, including jams, a band scramble, a dulcimer orchestra, and a dance (and dance band).  “We want to nurture a healthy dulcimer community in Colorado and give everyone opportunities to explore new ways to enjoy making music on these lovely instruments” says Bonnie Carol, a long-time supporter of the festival and one of the national champion teacher/performers.

 

To further the goal of growing and maintaining the dulcimer musician community, this year the festival is offering a children’s mountain dulcimer program on Saturday February 4 from 1:30 – 4:20 pm.  The workshop is geared toward children ages 8-12 and mountain dulcimers are provided for participants.

 

Participants can register in advance for individual workshops or the entire festival at www.coloradodulcimerfestival.com.  There is a discount for advance on-line registration by January 22, and registration can also be paid at the door on the day of the festival.  Full details are at the website.

 

The Colorado Dulcimer Festival began in Ft. Collins 14 years ago, the brainchild of Steve Eulberg.  He got it going, originated the dulcimer orchestra, and established its supportive, fun-loving mood.  Since the festival moved to Littleton 3 years ago and Steve moved away, a team of volunteers has managed it, and Swallow Hill has been a key sponsor for the last 2 years.  “I couldn’t be happier with how the festival has developed, and I’m honored to be invited back to teach and perform,” says founder Eulberg.

February 2017 Ceolta Notes

By Rodger Hara

 

Great news for The Hydes – Bill Margeson, radio host at the online Irish music station LiveIreland, announced recently that they were given the “New Group of the Year” award for 2016 by LiveIreland.  The award note says in part “This is a magical duo to watch, and major talents are lining up to play with them.”  Congratulations to Joanna and Iain!

 

The Wicked Sheehogues play from 5 PM to 8 PM at Clancy’s in Wheat Ridge on the 18^th.

 

Avourneen plays at 8 PM the 4^th in the Tuft Theater at the Swallow Hill Music Hall, 71 E Yale Ave, Denver. Tickets start at $12 and the website is swallowhillmusic.org.  They are in the cozy confines of Ned Kelly’s in Littleton at 9 PM on the 11^th.

 

(photo) Wild Mountain rocks out at Clancy’s on the 17^th from 7:30 – 10:30 PM and is working on an album they hope to have done by St. Patrick’s Day.

 

Potcheen fans can catch them on the 17^th at 9 PM in the Bohemian Biergarten in Boulder, on the 18^th at Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub and Ale House in Colorado Springs at 9 PM or at the Bootstrap Brewery in Niwot on the 25^th at 6 PM.

 

The Commoners are playing 5 nights in Hawaii from the 6^th – 11^th (Great road trip, that!) and play for The Great Guinness Toast at Mulligan’s in Fort Collins on the 18^th at 9:30 PM.  They are recording an all original album that will be out before March.

 

The Mountain Road Ceili Band, as usual, is on stage at The Margarita at Pine Creek in Colorado Springs on the 17^th from 6:30 –9:30 PM.

 

Big Paddy can be found on the 25^th at the Grossen Bart Brewery in Longmont from 8-11 PM.

They too are finishing a full-length album and to be released in March.

 

Chancers Hooley plays at the Grossen Bart Brewery in Longmont from 6-9 PM on the 4^th and the Blue Spruce Brewing in Centennial 7-9 PM on the 24^th.  They are also finishing a CD to be released in March.

 

The Colorado Dulcimer Festival takes place on the 3^rd and 4^th at St. James Presbyterian Church, 3601 W. Belleview Ave, Littleton. Evening concerts at 7 both nights open to the public, $15, $10 for students and children. Daytimes include a dozen workshops in beginner to advanced hammered and mountain dulcimer, a band scramble, a classical music ensemble, a contra dance (play in the band or dance), student open stage, and the evening concerts by the performer/teachers of the festival. Preregistration for whole festival is $130, and day of festival $140. There is a workshop for children age 8-12 on Saturday afternoon; $40 includes the workshop and the evening concert. For more Info go to Colorado Dulcimer Festival.com.

 

The Bedlam Boys play at Kinfolks in Manitou Springs on the 17th from 8-11PM and at Jack Quinn’s, Colorado Springs on the 25^th, 8 PM to Midnight.

 

THE CLADDAGH MAN By Fern Balaun  (for January 2017 Celtic Connection , Denver Colorado)

 

Mr. Neil Johnson from CROI heart association in Galway presenting a certificate to Tommy Holohan for the fundraising he has done for this heart association. Tommy’s two sons who ran with him in the NYC marathon in November are pictured along with Tommy’s wife Maire, and two grandchildren.

1. 

   Patricia Dolan presenting the book “The Claddagh Boy” to Tommy (from Fern), according to the story!

 

Most think of the word “Claddagh” as a ring built of love, loyalty and friendship but there is more, so much more.  The  Claddagh.  It is a memory echo of old Eire, its people, its culture, its unique flavor faded to those memory echoes now.

Those whose heritage is that of The Claddagh people of old, well, they are special people.  I know one.  His name is Thomas Holohan, known to me as “Tommy.”  This is my story of Tommy as I know it which is, at its best, an incomplete picture of a Claddagh Man.  You will find a little more of Tommy in his talk, “I Was Born in the Claddagh” that was recorded at the Galway Museum in 2015. He is a modest man so you will not learn everything there is to know about him there either.  But, to me, he is the quintessential Claddagh Man as I understand that to be. There are no few words that can describe this term, but a few of them are that a Claddagh person’s spirit is rooted and stays in The Claddagh.  Tommy is that person and he is as familiar with the two old streets of the Claddagh, Rope Walk and Dog Fish Lane, as if they were still being traveled today.  He has a drawing of every cottage of the Claddagh and the names of the people who lived in each cottage in the day…a marvelous drawing. The thatched cottages there were planted at haphazard angles, close together in the hospitable Irish way, side by side, end to end, giving a jigsaw effect. It was written of that day, “It is a triumph of unconscious beauty.”

Tommy has all the articles of his Claddagh thatched cottage home which was torn down in the 1930s.   He is an expert on the history of The Claddagh as known by the descendants of those ancient people, not that written by “outsiders.” He knows the stories and the lives of his Claddagh family intimately – the O’Tooles and Conneeleys.

Tommy told me one time about the Claddagh men who were fishermen with their specially built boats for the rough Irish Sea, called Galway Hookers.  And he said the men caught and brought in the fish but the women took over from there, processing the fish, giving the men a little money for their drink, then leaving the men with the babies and peddling the fish in Galway Town.  But for me, the most endearing thing about his telling me of the Claddagh men was that they were all very good at calming the babies for they were the only men of Ireland who cared for the little ones while their wives were taking care of the fresh catch and handling the family money.  I asked Tommy if he was good at calming the babies and he said, “Oh yes, I am good with the babbies” (The Irish pronounciation of babies).”

So that is only scratching the surface of the stories that Tommy will tell you about his heritage in the Claddagh.

Then there is Tommy, the painter.  I do not know that side of him as well because I got so caught up in Tommy, the Claddagh Man.  But in addition to his antique collecting of Claddagh memorabilia and the history of the Claddagh, he is also a runner.  At 65 years, he still trains and runs marathons to raise funds for two Irish heart associations.

As I understand it, Tommy has never smoked and does not ever drink.  He runs. When I was in Galway for the seven months in 2014, I would be here or there in the city and there would be a man running and training his body to respond to long distances.  I might yell out to him and wave and he would wave but never pause. Then I found out he was about to set a record in Ireland.  Yes, at that time he had run 18 consecutive New York City Marathons and the record would be 20 consecutive years.

So now, it is 2016 and he has run the 20th consecutive year and set a record.  His two sons ran the record setting run in New York City this year along with Tommy and all finished together.

I tried my best to get the news of that record being set and finally learned that nothing was made of it!  I couldn’t believe it, partly because a big article and interview was held after the 18th run and now nothing?  Something must be done.  Could I help?  Stay tuned to my story.

Now back to my meeting Tommy – I don’t believe it was a coincidence. An arranged meeting I would call it.  You see my great, great grandmother was born in the Claddagh in 1800 and immigrated as a young girl to the United States.  She married here to Joseph Campbell and is listed in the early 1800s census records as “born in Ireland” but never where in Ireland.  I searched most of my adult life for legal records of her but even a hired genealogist was unable to trace her back to Ireland. So, when I decided to live in Ireland for a year (which eventually became seven months), I looked for legal records everywhere possible.  Not finding any, I became reconciled to finding out what it was like in the days when she would have lived there.  This search was a time when Madelaine of Peg’s Cottage in CO Tipperary was posting a lot of Irish information on Facebook so I posed the question of where and how I might look while I was in Galway.  She kindly posted my question and, in answer to my quest, Helga Gleeson came into my life.  Yes, she knew a man who might be helpful in my search and his name was Tommy Holohan – and friendships were born.  I called Helga as soon as I arrived in Galway and then called Tommy.  I believe that call was on a Sunday and Tommy was soon wheeling up to my place in Westside with a load of Claddagh information, photographs, history, memorabilia and a book, “Down by the Claddagh” that he left with me to read. From then on until I left my lovely dark isle, I searched all the places suggested but found nothing.  So, I walked in the Claddagh regularly, feeling very much like my family was there in a thatched cottage.  When I prepared to return home to Colorado, I tried to return Tommy’s book but he gently kissed my cheek and said, “It is yours.”  I couldn’t believe it but there it was, the kindness and hospitality of the Irish right there in the Claddagh Man!

So, I am home now and in 2015 I wrote of my time in Ireland and the book was published in the fall.  I rested and Ireland waited.  Yes, my destiny was to return to reflect on all I had learned there.  So, in August 2016 I returned to Galway to see those wonderful Irish folks who I met there and who have become my friends. I phoned Tommy thinking he was one busy person so he would probably not have time to come to see me.  But he did!  Not once but twice and, in the second meeting he brought another book with information about the Claddagh in it for me.  The reason I tell you this is that, while we were all talking over coffee, he stated that he would really like to find a copy of the book, “The Claddagh Boy.”  He had only ever found one copy and it was very expensive.

When I returned home in August, I began looking for the book.  I did find a copy. It was expensive.  I pondered.  I pondered some more.  I contacted the seller and he would not budge on the price – it was, after all, a collector’s item.  So, I made a deal with myself.  I really, really wanted to give that book to Tommy for all the kindnesses he had shown to me.  So, how could I do that.  It came to me, I did that and the book is now Tommy’s, with gratitude from one very connected to her Irish ancestors in the Claddagh.

In addition to the surprise gift congratulations to Tommy on the recognition of his record 20th run in this year’s marathon and the money he have raised to help those in need in your country. And thank you for being a great historian for your people in The Claddagh. Thank you for your part in the story, Claddagh Man!       Fern Howe Balaun,

 

 

January 2017 Ceolta Notes

By Rodger Hara

 

Take Down the Door livens up the old Salina Schoolhouse, 604 Gold Run Rd, Boulder, CO 80302, up Four Mile Canyon just outside of Boulder at 7:30 PM on the 14^th.  Doors open at 7, tix at the door (if they haven’t taken it down…)

 

Chancers Hooley plays at the Strange Craft Brewery in Denver from 6 – 9 PM on the 7^th and the LeftHand Brewery in Longmont from 5 -8 PM on the 22^nd. They are also working on a new CD that they hope to have completed in time for St Patrick’s Day

.

Brian Clancy takes the stage (and sometimes the cake…) at Jack Quinn’s, downtown Colorado Springs on Thursdays at 7:30 PM – January 5, 12, 19 and 26.

 

Adam Agee and Jon Sousa, fresh from there successful European tour, are on the Nomad Theater stage in Boulder, 1410 Quince Ave., on the 6^th.  Contact [email protected] for time and ticket info.

 

Sandra Wong & Jon Sousa provide the music for the Ft. Collins Contra Dance, Club Tico, 1599 City Park Dr., Ft. Collins on the 7^th at 7 PM.

 

Andy Reiner & Jon Sousa are the musicians for the Boulder Contra Dance in the Avalon Ballroom, 6185 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder on the 20^th at 8 PM.

 

Avourneen has a busy month beginning at 8 PM on the 6^th at Jack Quinn’s in Colorado Springs, followed by a 9 PM show on the 7^th at Ned Kelly’s Irish Pub in Littleton.  They follow that up with providing the music for the Denver Contra Dance in the Highlands Masonic Center, 3550 Federal Blvd., Denver, on the 13^th at 8 PM (lesson at 7:15 PM) $10 / $8 members / $5 students and at 7 PM on the 21^st for the Pikes Peak Contra in the All About Dance Studio, 2318 Vickers Drive, Colorado Springs, $8.

 

You can also catch Adam Goldstein opening for the late night burlesque show at the Clocktower Cabaret, 16th and Arapahoe on Denver’s 16th Street Mall, on the 14^th and 28^th.

 

The Mountain Road Ceili Band is at their regular 3rd Friday gig at The Margarita at Pine Creek on the 20^th starting at 6:30 and playing until 9:30 PM.

 

Potcheen opens the month at the Halfway to RenFaire Kilt Night on the 6^th at 7:30 PM in Cheers, 119964 Washington St. in Northglenn, CO.  On the 14^th they rock out at

Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub in Colorado Springs at 9 PM and follow that with a gig on the 20^th at the Black Nugget in Carbondale at 9 PM.

 

Martin Percival’s Nollag seó World Premier Huge Success

Tuesday nights in Denver are not the easiest evenings to ask people to come out and see an Irish Christmas show; especially when Celtic Woman are in town performing their Christmas show on the same night!  But, on December 20^th folks did come out to see Martin Percival premier of Nollag seó: Christmas Celebration of Music, Song and Dance at the Newman Center at DU.  The almost capacity crowd was thrilled by world class performers from Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Celtic Woman, Miami City Ballet and London’s West End which include: Martin Percival, Mark Milner, Lisa Kelly, Chris Barton, Aisling Toal Casey, Claire Anderson, Ciara Sexton, Eimear McNicholas, Emma Anderson, Marcia Speights, Renae Marshall, Robyn Kinzie, Tara Strazdas, Blaine Donovan, Greg Molony, Levi Hatgi, Robbie Ross, Scott Porter, and Shaun Casey.  At the end of the night the show was given a standing ovation by all followed by glowing accolades on social media.   Post show Percival was elated. “To say I’m relieved is an understatement! I’m so proud, humbled, grateful and inspired by the cast, crew and anyone else who helped me realize my dream! To see a vision from my head created on an amazing stage and be performed by amazing people is beyond life changing! This is the start of a great new journey and I’m delighted that so many people could be a part of it. Thank you to every single person in that audience last night – you were the fuel to keep this old man dancing.”  (Martin, standing with flowers 3^rd from right)

Nollag seó World Premier in Denver!

Christmas Celebration of Music, Song and Dance

(Lisa Kelly formerly with Celtic Woman, Photo Credit: Mike Colletta)

 

Embark upon a journey this festive season with this dazzling new show from Martin Percival and his mulit-talented company. Brand new musical arrangements of holiday favorites and traditional tunes, given a uniquely Celtic twist in a beautifully woven story that is guaranteed to get you into the Christmas Spirit. Don’t miss the world premiere of this imaginative new show December 20^th at the Newman Performing Arts Center at DU.

Nollag seó conjures the excitement and joy of Christmas through dance, music and song with a host of world class performers from Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Celtic Woman, Miami City Ballet and London’s West End which include: Martin Percival, Mark Milner, Lisa Kelly, Chris Barton, Aisling Toal Casey, Claire Anderson, Ciara Sexton, Eimear McNicholas, Emma Anderson, Marcia Speights, Renae Marshall, Robyn Kinzie, Tara Strazdas, Blaine Donovan, Greg Molony, Levi Hatgi, Robbie Ross, Scott Porter, and Shaun Casey.  Music Arranged by: Trevor Rutkowski, featuring the musical talents of Sean Softley and Trevor Rutkowski.

Nollag seó  December 20, 2016 at 7:30pm    Ages-family friendly! Tickets at 303-871-7720 or www.newmantix.com

Theatre-Gates Concert Hall, Newman Performing Arts Center

2344 East Iliff Avenue; Denver, CO 80208