merrion street

Wednesday, April 9th, 2014—Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, will tomorrow night be attending the Ceiliúradh (Celebration), a special evening of music, spoken word and dance taking place on at the Royal Albert Hall, London.

This concert will be the cultural highlight of the 4 day State visit by President Higgins and his wife, Sabina, to Britain as guests of Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle.

Ceiliúradh (Celebration) will showcase the strong artistic and creative links that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom, as well as recognising the significant contribution of the Irish community in Britain.

Earlier in the day, Minister Deenihan will attend IRELAND at LONDON, the national stand for Irish publishing at the London Book Fair. The Culture Ireland programme has supported Irish publishers to attend the Fair since 2009 and attendance at the Fair is vital for Irish publishers to sell new Irish titles and promote Irish writing to international contacts.

Minister Deenihan commented:

“The Ceiliúradh is an important concert which will allow Irish creativity, performance and talent to shine as part of this historic visit. Promoted by the Culture Ireland division of my Department, the concert will be a unique and intimate evening of shared stories, music, song and dance. Importantly, this occasion offers us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate our exceptional and long-standing cultural connections with Britain. I hope it will encourage, deepen and strengthen these relationships, which benefit us both, into the future.”

Minister Deenihan concluded “I am delighted that this unique concert will be live streamed by RTÉ. The diaspora, and those who love Irish culture throughout the world, can enjoy the evening. In Ireland, people will be able to listen live on RTÉ Radio 1 or view the concert later that evening when broadcast on TV.”