Kilbarron to celebrate the life of Shane MacGowan this weekend
A CELEBRATION and commemoration of Shane MacGowan will take place this coming Sunday, August 18, in Kilbarron village.
Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest songwriters, Shane drew inspiration from his deep roots in the area, his time spent in nearby Carney Commons and his grand aunts and uncles, the now near legendary Lynches, who ignited in him such a passionate love of music, song and storytelling.
Nowhere is this influence more obvious than in his classic song, an ode to the Lough Derg region of Tipperary: The Broad Majestic Shannon.
And so, it is fitting that The Broad Majestic Shannon monument located in the heart of the village, stands as tribute to Shane's indelible contribution to music, his profound lyrical genius, and his enduring impact on generations of artists and fans around the globe.
At 3pm on Sunday, his sister, Siobhan MacGowan, will officially dedicate the monument to the memory of her brother and son of the parish.
The event kicks off at 2pm with Dancing at the Crossroads followed by traditional music in the Square, where Keelan McGrath & Friends will be joined by a host of local and visiting musicians.
At 4pm, performing in the marquee, Trad Rock/Folk band Tradstone no doubt will include a number of Shane’s classics. In the true spirit of a Fleadh, the sessions are sure to continue afterwards, the food court remaining open into evening. There will be plenty of carparking spaces at the village entrances.
SATURDAY WORKSHOP
On this Saturday, August 17, a workshop in Kilbarron Hall will allow participants the opportunity to delve into the lyrics of a selection of Shane’s songs, with particular emphasis upon references to local places, traditions and experiences. This event is ticket only, and at time of writing there are just a few spaces remaining - enquiries may be sent to:kilbarrondevassociation@gmail.com
This weekend will be a time for locals and visitors alike to gather, acknowledge and celebrate the genius of the man who has left us with some of the most beautiful lyrics ever written.
His sister Siobhan said: “There could be no tribute that would mean more to Shane than this tribute from the people of Tipperary. This place meant everything to him.”