Solstice Céilí

750 generations ago, we first danced together on this island. Around a fire, we celebrated the zenith of the sun’s arc in the company of our tribe. Now, 12,000 years later, you are invited to come together, to continue this legacy.

Come dance ecstatically to sound fossils from the past, time travelling through the millennia of movement. To fundamental beats that connect us with the spirit of this place and to the pounding feet of our ancestors. Resonating rhythms will rouse us to move together in time, through time, in a playful ritual that celebrates life, connectivity and our innate creativity.

This year’s céilí features Palaeolithic polkas, wacky waltzes and raving to reels, along some of the novel céilí dances we have co-created together. On this, the longest day, come join us for a céilí like no other, as we close out a festival like no other!

Funded by Cork City Council’s Arts Project Scheme and Cork Midsummer Festival.

Céilíographer Martin O Donoghue

Damhsa Liomsa ensemble Frances Curran (Fiddle & Banjo), Jack O Malley (Synths & Beats), Peter O Sullivan (Guitar & Horn), Kevin Hegarty (Bodhrán), Stephen O Brien (Uilleann Pipes), Brian Leach (Dulcimer), John Drew (Bouzouki), Ken O Donnchú (Accordion), Martin O Donoghue (Horns, Whistle & Fear an Spraoi)

Special guests Justin Grounds (Composer & Baroque Violin), Ali Bastian (Vocals), Anita Bennis (Whistling), Cork Midsummer Festival Céilí Dancers

Creative team Millie Egan (Set Design), Sonia Caldwell (Prop Design), Holger Lonze (Bronze Age Horn), Paddy McCormack (An Grianstad Vessel), Steve Isherwood (Sound Mix), Thomas McCarthy (Sean Nós Singing & Mentoring)

Residency partners Greywood Arts and Teaċ Daṁsa