For more information visit www.mayoconventioncentre.com or follow us @conventionmayo

9th /10th /11th (Matinee) February | Show 8pm | Tkts €10 / €5 u12's

The TY students in St Gerald's College, Castlebar, in association with St Joseph's Secondary School, proudly present the comedy musical ‘Little Shop of Horrors' in T.F. Royal Theatre, February 9th-11th, 2016 at 8pm.

Seymour, (Cormac Gibbons) an orphan and a nerd, is taken in and given a job by Mr. Mushnik, (Daniel Plaster) the owner of a rundown Florist in the seedy part of town, Skid Row.

Seymour spends his time doing menial tasks and dreaming of the shop assistant, Audrey (Sarah Moran). Sadly, for him, Audrey is dating a psychotic dentist named Orin (Conal Rice).

One day, just after an eclipse of the Sun, Seymour discovers a strange plant.

He buys it and names it Audrey II (Paul McDermott). While caring for Audrey II, Seymour discovers the plant's rather unique appetite. It lives off blood!

The plant grows and grows, as does Seymour's infatuation for Audrey.

Will the plant take over the world or can they stop him in time? Join us to find out!

Tickets are available from cast members, St Gerald’s College (094) 9021383, or on the door each night.

BEN PORTSMOUTH

Ben, a multi talented musician, singer and songwriter had Elvis's DNA in his blood from an early age. His father was an avid Elvis fan and Ben grew up on a diet of Elvis songs. Having honed his musical talent Ben started his journey as an Elvis Tribute Artist in 2005 when he formed the "Taking care of Elvis" band.

Audiences and promoters quickly realized that this was someone with a special talent. He looked like Elvis, sang like Elvis and had an on stage charisma that had audiences believing at times they were watching the King himself. This talent saw Ben rapidly rise through the ranks of Elvis Tribute Artists in the UK.

In 2006 Ben was voted the best Elvis at the prestigious international Elvis festival at Porthcawl Wales, the largest of its kind in Europe. He was the youngest competitor and was the total opposite to the stereotypical Elvis impersonator – he was sexy, didn't need a wig and was wearing the most authentic outfits flown in from America.

Success in the UK was followed by success in Europe and Ben qualified to represent Europe in the final of the "Images of the King" contest in Memphis 2010 to find the World Champion Elvis Tribute Artist. It was a daunting task to be competing against the best casino Elvis Tribute artists in what is effectively Elvis's backyard. However Ben was up to the online casino dgfev task, inspired no doubt by his first visit to Graceland. Ben was voted World Champion ETA by both the judges and the public vote. When Ben returned to the USA some months later and won again at another major Elvis festival near New York the global Elvis industry sat up and took notice. No Elvis Tribute Artist had made a first time appearance at two consecutive major festivals casino online in America and walked away the winner of both.

In August 2012, Ben made history when he won the Elvis Presley Enterprises “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest’which took place in Memphis, crowning Ben as the “Worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist”,the only artist from outside the USA to ever win this prestigious title.

This success has led to offers from US promoters and all over the world for Ben to headline shows and in 2013 Ben was chosen to headline a special Elvis week on the David Letterman show.Ben's career in Europe has also taken off where he is playing on the biggest stages to audiences across Europe that are measured in thousands.

However Ben is humble and down to earth. He can't believe he gets the opportunity to entertain as an Elvis Tribute Artist and he wants to stay in touch with his core fan base. There will always be a place for the smaller more intimate concert where he can connect on a more one to one basis with his audience. When Ben performs it's as if he is inhabiting the persona of Elvis. His triple octave vocal range and perfect pitch allows him to hit the most challenging high notes. His guitar virtuosity enables him to authentically recreate Elvis's 1968 comeback concert.

There was only one Elvis but Ben is the closest you will ever get in terms of Elvis's looks, his singing voice and on stage charisma

A fitting tribute to the King of Rock and Roll.

Source: http://www.takingcareofelvis.co.uk/about/

Paddy returns to the Royal Theatre this January 2016.

A second date has just been announced for Sunday 3rd January and tickets are selling fast.

Don't be disappointed, get your tickets today!

By phone: 094 9023111

Online: www.royaltheatre.ie

2016

A GENERAL ELECTION

THE EUROS

AND A BRAND NEW MARIO ROSENTOCK STAGE SHOW

GET READY FOR THE LIVE SHOW OF 2016

“MARIO ROSENSTOCK LIVE”

TICKETS ON SALE THIS THURSDAY, 9AM

Following the phenomenal sold out nationwide tours of 2010 (GIFT GRUB LIVE), 2012(GIFT GRUB LIVE 2) and 2014 (GIFT GRUB LIVE 3) with sales of over 150,000 tickets, Mario Rosenstock is delighted to announce a brand new stage show for 2016 – MARIOROSENSTOCK LIVE. MARIO ROSENSTOCK LIVE.

Mario Rosenstock Live will feature ALL NEW SKETCHES with brand new characters AS SEEN ON TV plus your GIFT GRUB favourites - with a General Election in the offing and Ireland off to the European soccer championships it can only end in tears of absolute joy!(MARIO ROSENSTOCK LIVE, will feature a host of brand new characters developed on 'THE IAN DEMPSEY BREAKFAST SHOW' on TODAY FM and the critically acclaimed ratings smash 'THE MARIO ROSENSTOCK SHOW' on RTÉ One.

MARIO: "I can't wait for people to see the new show and be a part of it - there's going to be even more audience interaction this time so, watch out, If you're in the audience, you might be on stage too!"

Michael Scott's iconic production first opened on Janurary 2nd 2001 starring Tony Winner Anna Manahan and Veteran Irish Actor Des Keogh at "SPIRIT" in Dublin.

The Setting was by Michael McCaffery and costumes were by Synan O Mahony. Michael Scott composed an original score and also did the lighting design.

The Show was an instant hit and toured Ireland for the entire year. the Production also played at the Assembly Rooms at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, andwas invited to play in New York.

Also in 2001 a DVD was recorded live at the Gaiety Theatre Dublin with Sony Entertainment.

In 2002 the Production toured to the Irish Repertory Theatre New York. A radio version was also recored by BBC Radio 4 with a cast which included : Anna Manahan, Des Keogh , Niall Tobin, David Kelly, Pauline McLynn and XXX.

In 2004, television stars Mick Lally and Anne Charleston took over the roles touring in Ireland also taking the production to XXX in the UK . Also Jimmy and Una McLean created a a version of the production which toured in Scotland. Mary McEvoy and Geraldine Plunkett also joined the the list of people playing the female characters. The Production continued to our on a casual basis until the untimely death of Mick Lally in 2010.

In 2014 Michael Scott revived the production with Jon Kenny and Mary McEvoy. Ann Charleston rejoin the show for a month of performances at Assembly at George Square for the Edinburgh Festival. Mary and Jon continue to play the show in Ireland.

Taken from the archive of City Theatre Dublin - http://www.citytheatredublin.com/matchmaker-archive

Irish Association of Barbershop Singers Convention,

Castlebar, Co. Mayo. 2^nd and 3^rd Oct

Timetable of events open to public audience:

All events take place in the Royal Theatre, Friday 2^nd and Saturday 3^rd October –

Public Audience tickets for Friday and Saturday competitions available to purchase during the day at the Royal Theatre.

Day only ticket at €10 (covers admission to all competitons for one day only).

Evening Concert Ticket at €15.

Combined Day Ticket and Evening Concert Ticket: €20

Fri 2^nd October.

2pm to 4pm. National Male and Female and International Quartet Competitions.

8pm to 10pm ‘The West Awakes to Barbershop’ Open Entertainment Concert.

Sat 3^rd October.

10am to 12noon Workshop in a cappella singing given by members of International award winning quartets:

Hot Note and Storm Front – open to all Mayo and regional choir members –

limited places at €10 per person available by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

1.30pm to 3.30pm National Male and Female Chorus Competitions.

3.30pm to 4.45pm International Quartet, followed by International Chorus Competitions.

4.50pm to 5pm Massed Singing

Adm €10 (This is a Day Only Ticket which covers adm to all Saturday competitions & Massed Sing)

8.30pm to 10.20pm Winners Gala Concert

An Ellen Kent Production... Carmen.

One of the most famous and seductive operas of all time, the irresistibly emotional Carmen guarantees an evening of passion and romance.

The story is of the bewitching gypsy girl whose tantalising beauty lures a soldier to desertion and leads to her own murder - and the score includes one famous melody after another: the Habanera, the Seguidilla, the Flower Song, the Chanson Boheme and perhaps the best-known baritone aria of all, the Toreador's Song.

With international soloists, a highly praised chorus and full orchestra. A traditionally staged, dazzling new production set in Seville and reflecting a Goya painting - including a replica of Seville’s main square with fountains, flowers and orange trees.

'Impassioned and sultry' - The Observe

'Hot-blooded, a joy' - The Independent

'A Spanish treat for opera lovers' - Bristol Evening Post

'It is a stunning show, worth five stars all the way through' - Brighton Argus

'Sexy Carmen is a feast for the eyes and ears' - Edinburgh Evening News

'In fact this may have been the best Carmen I’ve ever seen' - Oxford Mail

Fri 6^th Nov | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €49.25, €47.25, €33.20

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Calling all Mayo and Regional Choir Members and Choirs: enhance your singing skills with world renowned singing and presentation coaches - as part of the International Barbershop Convention, Castlebar, 2-4 October 2015. Places limited. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

EXTRA SHOW ADDED DUE TO DEMAND!

Fri 25^th Sept | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €30

International multi-award winning singer Tommy Fleming takes to the stage for his first major acting role in a brand new original drama/musical entitled 'Paddy'.

This must-see show, which is co-written by Tommy Fleming alongside singer/songwriter Gerry Carney and Tommy Marren (writer of the hugely successful 'Its the Real McCoy), tells the story of Patrick Murphy who emigrates to England to start a new life on the building sites of London.

With a gripping storyline that is set in both Ireland and England over a 25-year period - alongside 13 original songs - 'Paddy' promises to be a unique night of stunning drama and spectacular music.

Simply unmissable!

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, Castlebar

Lisa Canny is a multi-instrumentalist singer/songwriter from County Mayo. With roots in Irish traditional, folk, pop, and soul music, Lisa’s unique sound has been compared to a wide range of artists from Kate Bush and Sinead O’Connor to Ingrid Michaelson and Hozier.

Lisa is set to release her debut single entitled “Lifeline” on 12th June 2015. She wrote the song with Grammy Award winning songwriting Jodi Marr. Although only new to the singer/songwriter scene Lisa has already grabbed the attention and backing of major players in the industry including Miles Copeland (The Police, Sting), Julian Emery (McFly, Busted), and George Noriega (Shakira, Ricky Martin). The next year looks hugely promising for the small-town girl with the big voice!

With 7 All-Ireland titles to her name on traditional harp and banjo, Lisa toured the US and Canada extensively with Celtic Crossroads as lead singer and musician, appearing on their PBS special DVD in 2014. At home on the road Lisa has also toured France, Germany, Austria, Russia, Italy, the UK & Ireland with groups Fuinnimh, Celtic Spree and Ragus. After graduating with a First Class Honours degree in Irish Music and Dance at University of Limerick in 2010, Lisa went on to achieve a First Class Masters degree in Ethnomusicology at University College Cork.

In September 2012 Lisa went to ASCAP’s songwriting retreat in France. She was invited by Miles Copeland (former manager of The Police) after he saw her perform in L.A. During her time in France Lisa worked with some of the biggest artists, songwriters, and producers in the business including Priscilla Renea Hamilton (Rihanna, Madonna, Selena Gomez, Cheryl Cole), Jodi Marr (Mika, Paloma Faith, Ricky Martin), Hillary Lindsey (Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw), and Claudia Brant (Barbara Streisand, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé).

In August 2014 Lisa signed a publishing deal with London/Nashville company AbFab Music Publishing (ASCAP)/Little Ruth Music (ASCAP).

Fri 7^th Aug | Doors 8pm. Show 9pm | Ruby Room | Tkts: €13

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Dear All,

We are aware that there was a major issue with our text messaging service provider yesterday evening, Tuesday 30th June. We send copy content to a company based in GMIT Castlebar. The company is called 'Messaging 365', they together with Vodafone send out text messages on our behalf. We tried all evening to contact both companies to establish what happened and to stop multiple texts sending to our customers. We did not hear back from the company until 11.15pm, at which point they confirmed the matter was being investigated and that all activity on our account had been ceased. They apologised profusely for the frustration caused to our customers and assured us the error would not occur again.

If you wish to permanently be removed from our database, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Regards,

Sandra O'Farrell
Social Media Manager

Ger Duffy Photography was on hand to capture some moments of Tom Jones captivating performance at The Royal Theatre in Castlebar last night (21st June). See below for all the photos.

Following previous sell-out Irish tours in 2010 and 2008, Menopause The Musical comes to The Royal Theatre this year for 2 performances only on 24th & 25th October. Tickets are now on sale.

Starring X Factor sensation Mary Byrne, Sue Collins (The Nualas), Eurovision winner Niamh Kavanagh and Linda Nolan (The Nolans) the hilarious Menopause The Musical has entertained and inspired women across the world since 2001. Don’t miss it this No 1 girl’s night out.

This hilarious celebration of women and 'The Change', the all-singing, all-dancing comedy brings together four women (at a department stores lingerie sale), who have nothing in common but a black lace bra and hot flushes, night sweats, memory loss, chocolate binges, not enough sex, too much sex, plastic surgery and more!

Sat 24^th & Sun 25^th Oct | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €30

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

On behalf of everyone at The Royal Theatre, TF Royal Hotel and Harlequin Hotel; we would like to extend a massive congratulations to the very talented Donna Ruane, of Castlebar Musical & Dramatic Society (CMDS).

Donna won Best Supporting Actress at the AIMS Awards 2015 in Killarney over the weekend, for her role as Aunt Eller in CMDS's production of Oklahoma here in The Royal Theatre last December.

This is a major award to win, and fantastic achievement for Donna and all at Castlebar Musical & Dramatic Society - especially in the first year of the society! Watch out for news of this years show coming shortly...

Attention! Your attention please!

The police, theatres and members of the public are here by warned to be vigilant and on the look out for two men dressed in black hats, black ties and sunglasses - otherwise known as The Blues Brothers.

Yes folks...They’re back and on a mission! Direct from a residency in Chicago and a national tour of the USA.

Last time round they smashed box office records, crashed, crooned and rocked their way into the lives of anyone with a heartbeat! Featuring original members from the many West End runs the production has endured, this show brings you all those amazing, favourite and classic moments once again. Armed with a new set, new twists, new moves, new songs and freshly laundered suits! This show promises, as always, to deliver!!

The boys are joined on their mission to bring soul and blues back into your heart by the fabulous Bluettes; three sassy ladies with attitude and voices to knock you off your perch and an incredible Blues Brothers Band who are the best of the best. All your favourite songs are here... of course! Everybody, Gimme Some Lovin', Think, Shake a Tailfeather, Sweet Home Chicago, plus loads, loads more.

So... dust off your pork pie hats, dig out your shades, put on your dancing shoes and prepare to party like never before because The Blues Brothers are back in town and request your company for a night of only the best songs, music, moves, thrills and spills this side of Chicago.

P.S. Just don’t tell the Police, OK?

Bank Hol Mon 26^th Oct | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €25

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Castlebar Gospel Choir will perform a selection of Disney Classics in concert at the Royal Theatre this Saturday the 6th of June. Relive the magic of Disney’s classic movies through song for one night only. Featuring songs from Disney movies such as Frozen, Toy Story, Tarzan, Mary Poppins and more!

Castlebar Gospel Choir was formed in 1999 and has grown over the years in confidence, size and repertoire. Members are drawn from Castlebar and many of the towns and villages around Mayo. The choir, under the directorship of Kathy Fahey, can be heard at Saturday evening masses at Castlebar Church.

Sat 6^th June | Doors 6.30pm. Show 7.30pm | Tkts: €15

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Albert Hammond has received the Ivor Novello Award 2015 for Outstanding Song Collection. Albert has composed many superb hits including “The Air That I Breathe”, “When I Need You” and “One Moment In Time”. Donovan, who presented the award to Hammond, said: “I don’t know how he did it, but he did it, he’s an enigma.” Albert received a standing ovation from all of the attendees including Elton John, Annie Lennox, Brian May, Black Sabbath, Ed Sheeran and many others

One of his most celebrated songs famously asked for “One Moment In Time”, but in fact Albert Hammond has provided dozens of such moments over a career that has produced hits across the last six decades.

And what moments they have been. Since writing his first chart smash – Little Arrows, a Number Two for Leapy Lee in 1968 – Hammond has enjoyed success as a recording artist and a producer while, as a songwriter, the hits have just kept coming.

And it’s the sheer range of his work that sets Hammond apart. He has scored hits on pop, country, R&B; and Latin charts. His songs have been recorded by everyone from Elton John to Tina Turner, Julio Iglesias to Johnny Cash, Whitney Houston to The Carpenters. He has co-written with talents as Diane Warren and Hal David, Mike Hazlewood and John Bettis. And his songs have driven worldwide record sales of over 300 million.

His work will need no introduction to The Ivor audience, but even a casual music fan would be familiar with this most outstanding of song collections. From his own hits such as “It Never Rains in Southern California” and “The Free Electric Band” to enduring favorites’ such as “The Air That I Breathe” (Number One for The Hollies in 1974) and “When I Need You” (Number One for Leo Sayer in 1977), Hammond pretty much owned the 1970s.

But while some songwriters dip in and out of fashion, Hammond’s ageless craft has always managed to move with the times .So he and Warren co-wrote 1987’s rock powerhouse “Nothing Gonna Stop Us Now” for Starship, nominated for an Oscar. He and Bettis penned the pop-soul belter and 1988 Olympic theme “One Moment In Time” for Whitney Houston and won an Emmy. And he and David came up with 1984 “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before” for Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson, crossing Latin and Country genre boundaries. In the Nineties, he wrote for Diana Ross¸ in the Noughties he worked with Duffy. One of his finest songs “Don’t Turn Around” was recorded by artists as varied as Tina Turner, Aswad and Ace Of Base..

In recent years he has reclaimed such gems for himself, re-recording same of his best known songs for his Legend albums (where he also sang a duet with his son, Albert Hammond Jr of The Strokes ) and taking the catalogue back on the road.

But really, his is a legacy, that will endure though the ages, not so much moments in time as timeless moments.

Don’t miss your chance to see the legend Albert Hammond live in concert at The Royal Theatre, Castlebar on Sat 10^th October.

Sat 10^th October | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tickets €25

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: Click here to Buy Now

International multi-award winning singer Tommy Fleming takes to the stage for his first major acting role in a brand new original drama/musical entitled 'Paddy'.

This must-see show, which is co-written by Tommy Fleming alongside singer/songwriter Gerry Carney and Tommy Marren (writer of the hugely successful 'Its the Real McCoy), tells the story of Patrick Murphy who emigrates to England to start a new life on the building sites of London.

With a gripping storyline that is set in both Ireland and England over a 25-year period - alongside 13 original songs - 'Paddy' promises to be a unique night of stunning drama and spectacular music.

Simply unmissable!

Thurs 24^th Sept | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €30

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, Castlebar.

Tickets Online: Available from Tommy Fleming's website - HERE

MCD and The Royal Theatre are thrilled to announce the legendary Tom Jones will play a date at The Royal Theatre, Castlebar on Sun 21st June.

Tom Jones is indeed a living legend. His irresistible show traverses musical eras and genres, cuts across class divides and appeals to young and old, male and female, mainstream and cutting edge. He has always been about the power of the song, the power of the voice. This is a unique opportunity for music fans to experience one of the most iconic voices of all time, perform hits from his vast catalogue, in an intimate theatre setting. Tickets from €59.50 incl b. fee go on-sale this Monday, May 18th at 9am.

Tom Jones’ 49-year career has remarkably gone from strength to strength. Along with sustaining his popularity as a live performer and recording artist for nearly five decades, he has garnered—at the age of 74—the best reviews of his career for his two most recent albums Spirit In The Room and Praise & Blame (Island/Universal). Critics across the world are unanimous in their approval and admiration for both the recorded work and the performance of it in concert. Jones has a fundamental interest in a wide range of music. Although he is well known for hits including It’s Not Unusual, Kiss, Delilah, What’s New Pussycat, I’ll Never Fall In Love Again and If I Only Knew, he is first and foremost an artist with a true rhythm and blues soul. He has remained a vital recording artist, with his 1999 album Reload the biggest selling (5m) of his then 35-year career. Tom was a key player in Martin Scorsese’s Red White & Blues series, and in 2004 released an album of roots rock n roll with Jools Holland. In 2008, 24 Hours, was a critical career highlight with many of the self-penned tracks being an insightful and evocative reflection of his spirited and rich life.

In 2015, Sir Tom continued his role as Coach on BBC’s primetime television show The Voice. Now in its fourth Series, Tom was working alongside Will.i.am, Rita Ora and Ricky Wilson coaching talented hopefuls in their search to become successful musical artists.Currently fresh from performing in Los Angeles at the 25th Anniversary of MusiCares honouring Bob Dylan, and the 57th Annual Grammy’s alongside Jessie J, Tom is ready to hit the road again with his 2015 US and European tour.

“His biggest asset is the voice of thunder, last night it filled the Madrid Sports Palace with power and strength. Jones chose a deep and varied repertoire, in which there was rhythm & blues, gospel, country and rock…the voice ignited the public.”

- Rolling Stone (Madrid)

Sun 21^st June | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €59.50

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

The fourth Mayo International Choral Festival is fast approaching and what a festival it promises to be!

Following on from last year, which saw Mayo come alive with the arrival of 33 national and international choirs, this year’s festival promises to as exciting with more top class choirs and internationally renowned adjudicators.

For those choirs eager to get on the competitive ladder!

The Premier Competition will once again be the highlight of our festival as it will form the backbone to our ‘Gala Choral Concert’. For the past three years audiences have been enthralled by the standard of choral singing on offer. Every winning choir from the festival will compete to take home the ultimate accolade of ‘Choir of the Festival’. The evening will conclude with our wonderfully unique ‘massed choir’ featuring several hundred choral singers from visiting and local choirs joining together en-masse to raise the roof in spirited song!

With support from Mayo County Council, Fáilte Ireland and the Royal Theatre.

Afterglow with entertainment in the Café Bar at the Theatre.

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Fri 5^th June | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €10.

Parke/Keelogues/Crimlin GAA Club recently officially launched Strictly Come Dancing 2015 and the organisers and participants are very much looking forward to the upcoming fundraiser, which takes place at the Royal Theatre, Castlebar, Friday 5th June.

Ten couples, all of whom are well known personalities from around the locality have enlisted for this year’s event. They are Barbara Flynn and Liam Foy, Paula Cloherty and Marcus Connaughton, Anthony Dunne and Aine Quigley, James Kelly and Barbara Ronayne, Darren Durkan and Sally Lydon, Pat Lynch and Kelly Dunne, Emily Connor and Kevin Neary, Pat Naughton and Karen Connor, Cathy Geraghty and Shane Flynn and John Cloherty and Maeve Hopkins. Under the guidance of the gifted choreographer Jason Guthrie, our ten couples are getting into the spirit of things and having great fun learning how to ballroom dance.It will surely be a wonderful night out, not to be missed.

Be sure to get your tickets in time to avail of the once in a lifetime opportunity to see some of the local legends strutting their stuff on the night. Check out our Parke Keelogues Crimlin Strictly Come Dancing Facebook page for all the strictly goss!!!

https://www.facebook.com/parkekeeloguescrimlinstrictlycomedancing

Tickets are now on sale from usual outlets or contact club officials -
Marcella Dunne 087 9905362 or Ger Murphy 087 2304158.

Barbershop Singing Convention, October 2015 officially launched.
Quartets and choruses to converge on Castlebar from around the globe!

The Irish Association of Barbershop Singers (IABS) recently launched their 2015 Convention in fine vocal harmony at an evening of singing and much banter. The event was launched by Maire Hunt, Chairperson of IABS, and Edward Horkan, represented the Mayo International Choral Festival (Chairman), the working team on the ground who will assist with the running of the event. The national award winning female Barbershop quartet - Note-Orious 4 and also the sizzling Sandbars male quartet provided a taste of what's to come in October - and boy were they in top vocal form!

Maire Hunt said “We are delighted to be bringing our celebration of Barbershop Singing to Castlebar this year. We have great interest from a lot of overseas groups who want to come to the West of Ireland. Our big announcement is that we can confirm that Storm Front, one of the premier quartets in the USA, will be our guests at the 2015 Convention”. She also thanked the Mayo International Choral Festival for their ongoing help, the Royal Theatre, the TF Royal Hotel and Harlequin Hotel for their assistance with the launch.

Edward Horkan, stated that, as Chairperson of Mayo International Choral Festival and on behalf of the committee, he was delighted to welcome Maire Hunt and the Barbershop Singers to the official launch of The IABS Convention and is looking forward to an extremely successful event this October.

Pat Jennings who spoke on behalf of the Royal Theatre and Martina Nicholson from The Harlequin Hotel said that the team was eager to show the Barbershop delegates true Mayo hospitality throughout their stay in Castlebar.

Michael Baynes, Castlebar tourism and events coordinator, expressed the importance of so many visitors coming to Castlebar over the IABS weekend and what a fantastic opportunity it was for both the Barbershop delegates and the people of Mayo to have such a wonderful convention in the county town. He thanked IABS for deciding to host their convention in Castlebar.

Every year the Irish Association of Barbershop Singers (IABS) hold Quartet and Chorus competitions for National and International Barbershop Singing in different locations around Ireland. While the emphasis is on competitions, it also impacts the streets and nightlife of Castlebar, generating a significant boost to the local economy. Castlebar can expect top quality concerts, and a host of free performances, taking place at key locations across the town on a Barbershop Trail.

All events are open to the public and the evening concerts are the highlight of the weekend, when the award winners take to the stage! Barbershop groups from many countries travel each year to enjoy the Irish convention including from the U.S.A., England, Scotland, Wales, Holland, Finland and Sweden.

The internationally renowned event is being hosted by Mayo International Choral Festival, who contacted IABS in 2013 to consider hosting the event in Castlebar, and subsequently invited the IABS committee to have one of their meetings in Castlebar, where they experienced first hand the hospitality and friendliness of Mayo people, as well as performance and accommodation facilities.

The Irish Association of Barbershop Singers was founded in Offaly in 1988 and promotes the tradition of barbershop singing in Ireland. The first Irish Barbershop Convention was held in Birr in 1989. Since then a dedicated and growing number of Barbershop enthusiasts have ensured the growing popularity of this very distinctive four-part harmony a cappella style of singing. There are many studies and theories relating to the history of Barbershop, and many believe that, as the name implies, it started in barbershops in the USA, while people were waiting their turn for a haircut or shave.

The barbershop soon became the place to hang out, and the singing continued in the streets after the barbershop closed for the day. By the early 1900s, barbershop had become immensely popular, and no show was complete without a Barbershop Quartet. The influence of barbershop music on other forms of popular music has been profound. Frank Sinatra sang in a barbershop quartet before he became famous as a solo singer. The vocal quartets of bands such as those of Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller were also greatly influenced by the barbershop style. Close harmony was the hallmark of many pop groups such as the Beach Boys and the Four Seasons, and is very popular today with many singers and groups.

Castlebar, Thursday 1st - Sunday 4th October 2015.

For more information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Or visit: www.iabsconvention.com

Tickets to the concerts, open to the public, available at a later date.

'Storm Front' - special guests from the USA

Irish TV to broadcast “Mayo Day Live” - A two-hour live show from Mayo's county town, Castlebar.

Irish TV will broadcast a live entertainment programme ‘Mayo Day Live’ on Saturday May 2nd from the The Royal Theatre in Castlebar to celebrate the inaugural Mayo Day.

‘Mayo Day Live’ a 2 hour live television production produced by Irish TV and broadcast on Sky channel 191, will be a celebration of County Mayo - its heritage, its culture and its people - and will contain a mix of performances, music and chat in a gala-style setting. The event is being organised in association with Mayo County Council as part of the Mayo Day celebrations that are sweeping the County on May 2nd.

The show will feature a star-studded line-up of performers including: HomeTown, The Clew Bay Pipe Band, Mundy, Matt Molloy & friends, Lisa Canny and Hurricane Highway. An Taoiseach Enda Kenny will deiver a live address from his hometown on the night.

TV personality and former Rose of Tralee Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin will host the night. “I’m delighted to be involved in ‘Mayo Day Live’ on Irish TV. Mayo is a unique county, which has made an immense impact both nationally and internationally. It has a lot to be proud of and now it’s time to showcase the beauty, energy and vibrancy of county Mayo to the World. It’s really exciting to have a live broadcast from my home county to celebrate Mayo Day and I’d really encourage people to come along and experience this unique event first hand.” said the Carnacon native.

The live broadcast will be shown on the Irish TV channel on Sky 191 between 8pm and 10pm on Saturday May 2nd but Irish TV CEO Pierce O’Reilly is encouraging the Mayo public to come along to the TF Royal Theatre and support the event. “This programme will trace the history and heritage of Mayo and feature performances from some of the county’s greatest artists and entertainers as well as contributions from its most decorated citizens. It is a great opportunity for people to be part of a live TV audience and experience a live TV event here in our own county”.

Tickets, €20, are limited - with all proceeds going to local Mayo Charities.

The Irish TV channel can be watched on Sky 191, Freesat 400 and all over the world online at www.irishtv.com. Irish viewers can also watch on Eircom’s eVision 191 and all Free to Air boxes.

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Sat 2^nd May | Doors 7pm. Show 7.45pm.

All seats must be taken by 7.30pm.

Tkts: €20

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Happy birthday, Shakespeare! Today is the universally accepted date on which to celebrate the birth of William Shakespeare, who was born in 1564.

We are delighted to announce that rehearsals are well underway for the epic production of 'DruidShakespeare' on 17th, 18th and 20th June.

Shakespeare’s tales of ambition, destruction, responsibility and rebellion are performed with an exceptional cast, live music, thrilling dramatic stage combat bloodshed moments and some of Shakespeare’s most hilarious comic scenes, with a rousing parade of characters.

A fascinating story of families, wars and the making of nations, DruidShakespeare is an exploration of English history through an Irish lens – the story of three men who would be king. It spans decades, chronicles rebellion and witnesses the rise and fall of great men and those who dare oppose them.

DruidShakespeare is a stand-alone experience so audience members do not need any prior knowledge of the plays or the historical background to enjoy it. Adapted by one of Ireland’s most exciting writers, Mark O’Rowe, DruidShakespeare distills the narratives of these four works into a unified dramatic action. Shakespeare’s language has been preserved, as has the chronology of the plays, but O’Rowe’s adaptation removes ancillary characters and streamlines the narrative to harness the drama of these epic works.

Directed by Tony-award winner Garry Hynes, Mark O’Rowe’s new pared down version of Shakespeare’s four history plays, the key foundational narrative of the English monarchy, will be presented by a 13-strong stellar cast, including members of the Druid Ensemble, the bedrock of the company.

As Shakespeare was writing Richard II, Henry IV (Pts. 1 & 2), and Henry V, English forces were being sent to Ireland to quell rebellions and these expeditions are referred to throughout the plays. Richard II’s story is the loss of innocence. A king since he was a child, when he finds his throne under threat he must consider how a king can become a man. Henry IV’s story is the price of arrogance. Having plucked the crown from his cousin’s head, he enrages nobility and jeopardises the loyalty of his supporters until he has only his family to turn to. Henry V’s is a coming-of-age story. He squanders his youth with scoundrels and mistresses, but must face up to his fate as heir in order to win over nobility and unite his country.

Two giants of theatre – Druid and Shakespeare – together for the first time in over a decade, the production is a special celebration of Druid’s 40^th year making theatre. Druid takes four epic works grounded in history and contemporise them with Mark O’Rowe’s incisive adaptation, Conor Linehan’s original music, movement direction from David Bolger, award-winning design from co-director Francis O’Connor and live singing from a 13-strong cast including some of the Druid Ensemble. Cast: Clare Barrett, Derbhle Crotty, Gavin Drea, Bosco Hogan, Garrett Lombard, Karen McCartney, Charlotte McCurry, Aaron Monaghan, Marie Mullen, Rory Nolan, John Olohan, Aisling O’Sullivan and Marty Rea

Suitable for ages 12 years and up.

Wed 17^th June, 7.30pm – Performance part 1

Thurs 18^th June, 7.30pm – Performance part 2
(Performance Part 1 and Performance Part 2 are
sold together as one ticket over two evenings.)

Sat 20^th June, 2.00pm – Full performance

Full Price €60 – Concession €52

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, Castlebar, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.
Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000
Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

LITTLE HOURS have been announced as support to Hudson Taylor on Fri 1st May. Tickets, €22.50, are on sale now.

Little Hours (made up of John Doherty & Ryan McCloskey) are on route to taking their Alternative Pop sound to the main stream, with the recent release of their self-titled debut EP "Little Hours". Their EP includes the infectious lead single 'It’s Still Love’.

Since their arrival on the Dublin music scene from their hometown, Killybegs, in Donegal they have been growing in stature.

Anyone lucky enough to catch their performances on this Summer’s festival circuit, including Electric Picnic, (Little Hours were just one of ten artists out of more than 500 entries chosen to play the festival in 2fm’s Play The Picnic with Oxfam competition) will understand why this is a band on the rise and one you need to see before the end of the year.

Little Hours have already supported artists such as Gavin James, Tom Baxter, Amber Run and James Bay. The Donegal duo are now preparing for their next headline show in Whelans on Thursday 28th May.

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Hermitage Green will embark on a Summer Tour across Ireland and the UK. Dates will include Wexford’s Opera House, Dublin’s Whelans, The Garage in London and also see the band play Belfast, Galway, Cork, Kilkenny, Castlebar and their hometown Limerick. The summer tour will commence following the release of their highly anticipated single “Jenny”.

Following their chart topping debut album ‘Live at Whelans’ and debut EP ‘The Gathering’ Hermitage Green’s tour will feature the brand new single Jenny along with many new tracks penned for their debut studio album. Famed for their energetic live performances, these new songs will continue to win the hearts of music fans across the world.

The five-piece Hermitage Green formed in July 2010 in what started out as a spontaneous jam session between friends and soon developed in to a strong acoustic outfit with an original sound for which the band have credited their contrasting musical tastes.

Hermitage Green have spent the last couple of years touring relentlessly, winning over legions of fans and selling out shows in Ireland, the UK, Australia and the US. Incendiary live performances and a curious arrangement of instruments help to give Hermitage Green their distinctive live sound.

Seeing Hermitage Green live, you can expect hard-hitting rhythm sections driven by the tribal combination of bodhrán and djembe, rhythmic guitar lines with dobro melodies and soaring four-part vocal harmonies.

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Check out these photos, by Ger Duffy Photography, of HomeTown in concert on Easter Sun 5th April 2015. What a fantastic show!

If you love the sound of Big Bands and ballroom dancing atmosphere, then this is the event for you! Get to the Royal Theatre on Friday 10th April for a music and dance extravaganza. The Big Chris Barber Band and Strictly Winners contestants will grace the biggest suspended dance floor in Connaught for Barbers upcoming European tour.

Enjoy the captivating jazz and blues sounds from the amazing 10-piece Big Chris Barber Band, who are including the Royal Theatre, Castlebar as one of only three Irish dates.

The evening also features 'Strictly Winners 2015 - which will see many of the strictly and social dancers from around the county dance it out on the dance floor, all for their chosen charity. The Chris Barber Band will play before and after the contest.

This unique event is a night for all who love to listen or love to dance - don't miss a fantastic night of Big Band ballroom dancing atmosphere!

Inspired by the King Oliver Creole Jazz Band, Chris formed his first Barber New Orleans Band in 1949 at the age of nineteen. In 1953, along with Monty Sunshine and Lonnie Donegan, he joined forces with Ken Colyer. Then, with the replacement of Colyer by Pat Halcox, Ken Colyer's Jazzmen became Chris Barber's Jazz Band in 1954 and has been one of Europe's most successful traditional jazz bands ever since.

Over the years, Chris Barber's Jazz Band evolved into the Chris Barber Jazz and Blues Band, a richly-textured group, blending brass, reeds, and electric guitar into a unique and unmistakable mix of blues and jazz.

More recently Barber has been carrying the torch of trad jazz into a sixth decade of creative professional activity, expanding his group to include 10 players known as The Big Chris Barber Band while consistently delivering music of unpretentious warmth and historic depth.

This night will see the Strictly Winners dance contestants battle it out for the Strictly Winners title, raising vital funds for Western Care, St. Anthony's Special School and The Irish Cancer Society. Each of our eight couples; John Conroy & Aoife Hastings, Tom Ralph & Josephine Sheridan, John & Teresa Moran, John Geraghty & Eileen Toner, Tracey Heneghan & Attila Feliki, Mary O' Sullivan & John Power, Ann Kelly & Jim Lawlor and Frances MacNamara & John Paul Reilly will battle it out on the dance floor for a place in the top three. The top three dancers on the night will be judged by a panel of three dance teachers and will be judged solely on their dance ability at that stage and not their fundraising.

The Strictly winner will receive €1000 towards their chosen Charity as well as top prizes on the night.

Fri 10^th April | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €22.90

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

HomeTown have just uploaded a fantastic cover of The Calling's hit song 'Wherever You Will Go'. Magnificent vocals and dazzling harmonies from the boys! You can watch the video below.

Catch HomeTown in concert this coming Sun 5th April at The Royal Theatre. Doors 7pm, show 8pm.

Tickets €25. Call 094 9023111 / 0818 300 000 or visit www.royaltheatre.ie / www.ticketmaster.ie

Check out these photos, by Ger Duffy Photography, of Mike Denver in concert on Tues 31st March 2015. Mike also filmed his new DVD on the night!

Hometown, who are due to perform at the Royal Theatre this coming Easter Sun 5th April have a video message for their fans.

The HomeTown sextet of Brendan, Cian, Dayl, Dean, Josh and Ryan has already been making waves in Ireland. Their debut single 'Where I Belong' became the fastest-selling single from a debut artist and the quickest selling single from an Irish artist in 2014. The single, penned by Irish chart toppers Kodaline, managed to beat Ed Sheeran and One Direction to the number one spot, a feat that is a source of great pride for the group.

Over the past twelve months, they have grown as a group, supporting Shane Filan on his Irish tour and playing to a 14,000 capacity crowd at the annual Childline concert in Dublin’s 3Arena.

This will be an extra special show for one certain member of the band, Cian Morrin. Cian is a born and bred Castlebar man, and this will be his first 'hometown' show since joining the band. After being eliminated from the X Factor three years ago, he believed his chance of chart success had passed him by. He was training to be a national schoolteacher but dropped out when he got the call from Louis Walsh. ‘I was on the X Factor in 2012 and I made it to Bootcamp but then got knocked out’, he says. ‘It is a cruel machine and I was 17 and quite naive about the whole thing, but I learned a lot form that experience. I gave everything up when I got into the band. For me my goal is to sell out a tour in Ireland and the UK by next year.’

We are giving one lucky winner 2 tickets to any Easter show of their choice!

Pick between Dolores & Sean Keane, HomeTown, Smash Hits, We Banjo 3, Strictly Winners '15, Vintage Glamour & Nostalgia or Hudson Taylor.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER!

Check out these photos, by Ger Duffy Photography, of The Kilfenora Ceili Band in concert on Sun 29th March 2015. What a fantastic night of music!

JURASSIC ADVENTURES HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FROM 9TH APRIL TO 1ST OCT

Dr. Grant, general manage and creator of the theme park, will not be able to attend its official opening, as he is caught in the middle of a cyclone. Therefore, he gives phone instructions to his daughter Alexandra and his assistant Paris Milton so they, with the help of an intern (Diego Carter), can manage the theme park and put it to work.

This causes comical situations with the interaction of the actors and the children in the audience - such as the presentation of the first Palaeolithic man created from fossilized DNA (Sapi) and how kids take the necessary instructions on how they should behave when they finally see the dinosaurs of the island. Accidents, technical failures, escapes, storms and many special effects will transport audiences to an adventure full of tenderness, with the birth of the first baby dinosaur of the park (Chub) and exciting situations that culminate with two dinosaurs (Dana and Raptor) in an epic fight.

Jurassic Adventures presents a ground-breaking set up which takes the audience to a Jurassic theme park. Using theatrical art technologies such as a 7.1 sound system, a climate system that simulates artificial olfactory environments, state of the art lighting, all in harmony with a stage-styled theme park scenery, the audience is not only transported to the park itself, but also participates in the adventure.

The cast unveil the most intriguing secrets of a theme park where everything is possible, from experiencing a cyclone, to interacting with two "real” dinosaurs equipped with a new hydraulic technology which makes realistic body movements and sounds, and which freely roam, throughout the auditorium.

Thurs 1^st Oct | Doors 1.30pm. Show 2.30pm
Tkts: €13 (Child), €16 (Adult) €48 (Family)

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

One of Ireland's greatest comic talents Jon Kenny comes together with the legendary Irish actor Mary McEvoy in a revival of Michael Scott's iconic production of The Matchmaker. After a hugely successful show last October, The Matchmaker will take to the stage at The Royal Theatre again this coming Sat 28th November.

John B Keane's hilarious hit play follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn from all parts of the country. At the centre of this celebrated production is John B’s marvellous and mischievous wit coupled by his unparalleled way with words.

John B. Keane takes us back to a simpler time, when even phones were few and far between and the only web was one left behind by spiders!

Sat 28^th Nov | Doors 7pm. Show 8pm | Tkts: €20

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: Click on 'Buy Tickets' button, bottom right.

Cumann Rince Naisiúnta, a world wide Irish Dancing Organisation, celebrated it's thirtieth anniversary with the launch of the Craobhacha Oscailte na Cruinne (World Open Championships).

This year, this spectacular event takes place again in Mayo at The Royal Theatre. Over recent years CRN has expanded across the world to include regions in Australia, China, North America and mainland Europe.

CRN will continue it's Open Platform policy at the World Open Irish Dancing Championships. This means that any dancer regarrdless of their school or organization may compete.

More details to be announced. For more information on this event please visitwww.crn.ie

Fri 26^th - Sun 28^th June | More info soon

Deja Vu, the spectacular barbershop quartet from Cork, have been announced for Vintage Glamour & Nostalgia on Sat 11th April.

Vintage Glamour & Nostalgia is an evening of fabulous, authentic glamour; evoking the glamour of the 40’s and 50’s with fun, entertainment and exhibitors on the night.

‘The Living Vintage Company’, in association with the Harlequin Hotel, is displaying their private collection of authentic clothes and accessories in a vintage fashion show extravaganza in the Royal Theatre, Castlebar as a fundraiser in aid of Cystic Fibrosis, Castlebar Musical Society and the IABS Convention. The evening will also feature exhibitors of vintage photography, artifacts, jewelley, and clothes, and entertainment of the era. From the austerity of the second world war right up to ‘The glorification of the female form’ in the 1950’s these times are brought to life on the catwalk by beautiful models who smile and model in the 1940-50’s style of gentleness and femininity. Whether pencil slim or full and flirty, Living Vintage post-war styles gives ladies back their femininity. Living Vintage evenings are great fun, most enjoyable, lots of “ooh’s and aah’s” and a good few laughs! Young people look to certain periods of history and wish they had experienced it, while others who have lived through it love to remember it. You only need one hat or one suit to set off a trip down memory lane!

Owned by sisters Bridget Owens and Marian Keenan, Living Vintage is a not for profit organisation and all monies raised are donated to the designated charities.

Living Vintage is delighted to be invited by Mr Pat Jennings, and he very much welcomes this first visit to Castlebar after very successful shows in Ballybofey, Enniskillen and Strabane. Bridget explains: "Living Vintage evenings are great fun with plenty of laughs and many happy nostalgic memories. We are extremely proud of our collection of authentic forties and fifties fashion, including designer and some very rare dresses. All the outfits are accessorised with the appropriate vintage hats, gloves, bags, furs, jewellery and of course, seamed stockings”. Bridget weaves a story through the evening with her sparkling script - a hilarious storyline involving one of the models, Marian, sharing her quest and frustrations in finding a date and/or husband!! And all happens whilst modelling an amazing range of 1940-1950’s attire!

So, ladies and gentlemen, sit back, relax and be transported back to the glamour of the 1940’s and 1950’s. Let our stylists and make-up artists transform your modern visage to an iconic presence of yesteryear, and be entertained by sweet vocal harmonies from a barbershop quarter.

Fantastic prizes on the night for the best dressed Man, Woman and Couple, sporting the fashion of the era. Exhibitors of vintage photography, artifacts, jewelley, and clothes.

Tickets from €20

Tickets In-Person: Committee Members, or Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, Castlebar or Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online:

www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Dolores & Sean Keane - Sat 4th April

Doors 7pm, Show 8pm. Tickets €30.

Brother and sister, Dolores and Sean Keane are coming together for an incredibly special concert at The Royal Theatre. Dolores, who was a founding member of De Dannan, is known the world-over for her deep, yet melodic voice. Sean Keane, together with Frances Black and others, was a founder member of the group Arcady. He was voted Performer of the Year by readers of Irish Music Magazine in 97/98 and 98/99

HomeTown - Sun 5th April

Doors 7pm, Show 8pm. Tickets €25.

HomeTown, the new boyband sensation managed by Louis Walsh, play their first ever concert in Castlebar. Brendan, Cian, Dayl, Dean, Josh and Ryan has already been making waves in Ireland. Their debut single 'Where I Belong' became the fastest-selling single from a debut artist and the quickest selling single from an Irish artist in 2014.

Smash Hits - Sun 5th April

Show 11pm. Tickets €10.

Smash Hits! are a unique, entertaining tribute to the golden era of early 90s dance, pop and R‘n’B. This Dublin six-piece is comprised of experienced musicians performing the best of classic 90s tracks from acclaimed artists such as Vanilla Ice, MC Hammer, House of Pain, Take That, Spice Girls, Haddaway, Prodigy and Snap, amongst others.

We Banjo 3 - Mon 6th April

Doors 8pm, Show 9pm. Tickets €17.50.

Award-winning quartet, We Banjo 3, combine Irish music with old-time American and bluegrass influences to reveal the banjo’s rich legacy and roots. When this band of brothers take flight in a wave of virtuosity, verve and joie-de-vivre, feet tap and pulses race.

Jurassic Adventures - Thurs 9th April

Doors 1.30pm, Show 2.30pm. Tickets €13/€16/€48.

Jurassic Adventures presents a ground-breaking set up which takes the audience to a Jurassic theme park. The cast unveil the most intriguing secrets of a theme park where everything is possible, from experiencing a cyclone, to interacting with two "real” dinosaurs equipped with a new hydraulic technology which makes realistic body movements and sounds, and which freely roam, throughout the auditorium.

Strictly Winners '15 - Fri 10th April

Doors 7pm, Show 8pm. Tickets €22.90

The winners of several different Strictly Come Dancing events compete against each other to see who will be the ultimate Strictly Winner! You also get to warm up on the night to The Big Chris Barber Jazz and Blues Band, a richly-textured eight-piece group, blending brass, reeds, and electric guitar into a unique and unmistakable mix of blues and jazz. The band will play before and after the contest!

Vintage Glamour & Nostalgia - Sat 11th April

Doors 7pm, Show 8pm. Tickets from €20

‘The Living Vintage Company’, in association with the Harlequin Hotel, is displaying their private collection of authentic clothes and accessories in a vintage fashion show extravaganza. This will also be a fundraise in aid of Cystic Fibrosis, Castlebar Musical Society and the IABS Convention. So sit back, relax and be transported back to the glamour of the 1940’s and 1950’s.

Country Music’s brightest star Nathan Carter returns for a massive weekend extravaganza of country music on 8th, 9th & 10th May 2015.

The weekend kicks off on Friday 8th May, when Nathan and his band will light up the stage with a very special concert - featuring all the classic hits and songs that have made him a firm favorite with audiences. Special guests on the night will be Louise Morrissey & Brendan Quinn. There will also be dancing after the concert with Matt Leavy.

On Saturday 9th May, things continue with our ‘Super Dance’'. Gerry Guthrie & Band kick things off from 9pm - 10.45pm, before the man himself Nathan Carter take to the stage from 11pm - 1pm. There will also be after show dancing with Stuart Moyles.

That brings us onto the last day of the weekend, Sunday 10th May. There will be afternoon dancing kicking off at 3pm with Nathan Carter.

Accommodation and entertainment packages are available for €199. This includes 2 nights B&B; at the on site 4-star Harlequin Hotel, or 3-star TF Royal Hotel, and admission to all entertainment over the weekend. Please The Royal Box Office or TF Royal Hotel on 094 9023111 for more information. Or alternatively call the Harlequin Hotel on 094 9286200.

Tickets for Fri 8th: €27.90
AvailableIn-Person: Royal Box Office and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Available By Phone:094 90 23111 or 0818 300 000

Available Online: www.ticketmaster.ie

Tickets for Sat 9th: €20
Available on the door.

Tickets for Sun 10th: Under 10's FREE, 10-16yrs €10, Over 16/Adults €15
Available on the door.

Some photos from the first night of Peter Pan on Ice at The Royal Theatre on Mon 16th March.

The Royal Theatre welcomes Peter Pan On Ice next week - so let's take a look at what work is required to get the stage set up for this amazing show. It involves creating an 8cm-thick ice rink, containing 14 tons of actual frozen water, and bringing a stage set and equipment to the west of Ireland that will just about fit in two 40ft trucks!

Watch the video below:

After a stomping show here in Castlebar last Christmas, Hermitage Green are set to return again this summer. Famed for their energetic live performances, Hermitage Green will return to the Ruby Room on Fri 12^th June.

Seeing Hermitage Green live, you can expect hard-hitting rhythm sections driven by the tribal combination of bodhrán and djembe, rhythmic guitar lines with dobro meolodies and soaring four-part vocal harmonies.

Hermitage Green have spent the last couple of years touring relentlessly, winning over legions of fans and selling out shows in Ireland, the UK and Australia. Incendiary live performances and a curious arrangement of instruments help give Hermitage Green their distinctive live sound. Captivating audiences and earning the respect from music pundits, it seems fitting that their debut album should capture the raw power of the band on stage.

The five-piece Hermitage Green formed in July 2010 in what started out as a spontaneous jam session between friends and soon developed in to a strong acoustic outfit, with an original sound for which the band have credited their contrasting musical tastes.

The band released their debut EP, ‘The Gathering’ in September 2012, rocketing straight into number 1 in the iTunes chart. The band followed this success with tours of France, the UK, the Middle East, South Africa and the US. Their sold-out extensive Australian tour featured many highlights, including playing Sydney Harbour on Australia Day.

Their Electric Picnic performance, to a delighted 7000 capacity Electric Arena tent, capped a busy summer of festivals.

Fri 12^th June | Ruby Room | Doors 9pm. Show 10pm | Tkts: €20

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie

Please note the performances of Peter Pan on Ice will now not take place on Tues 17th, Wed 18th and Thurs 19th of March. The shows on Mon 16th, Fri 19th, Sat 20th and Sun 21st remain unaffected and will still be taking place.

Upcoming talent Ovie Etseyatse (known as 'Ovie') has been announced as support for HomeTown on Sun 5th April. Ovie lists Michael Jackson, Jay Sean, Chris Brown, Usher and Craig David among his influences. See the music video below for Ovie's new single 'Broken Record'.

Tickets for HomeTown, with support from Ovie, go on sale this Friday 13th March at 9am from usual outlets. Ticket price: €25.

Wed 17^th June, 7.30pm – Performance part 1

Thurs 18^th June, 7.30pm – Performance part 2
(Performance Part 1 and Performance Part 2 are
sold together as one ticket over two evenings.)

Sat 20^th June, 2.00pm – Full performance

Tickets on sale soon. Full Price €60, Concession €52

DruidShakespeare is an exploration of English history through an Irish lens.

As Shakespeare was writing Richard II, Henry IV (Pts. 1 & 2), and Henry V English forces were being sent to Ireland to quell rebellions and these expeditions are referred to throughout the plays.

Adapted by one of Ireland’s most exciting writers, Mark O’Rowe, DruidShakespeare distils the narratives of these four works into a unified dramatic action. Shakespeare’s language has been preserved as has the chronology of the plays but O’Rowe’s adaptation removes ancillary characters and streamlines the narrative to harness the drama of these epic works.

DruidShakespeare will be presented by a 13-strong cast, including members of the Druid Ensemble, the bedrock of the company.

Please Note: Performance Part 1 and Performance Part 2 are sold together as one ticket over two evenings. Saturday performance starts at 2pm. Duration of full cycle is 6 hours.

Tickets In-Person: Royal Theatre Box Office, Westport Road, and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.

Tickets By Phone: 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000

Tickets Online: www.royaltheatre.ie or www.ticketmaster.ie