Mick Flannery to perform at Cloughjordan Amphitheatre

Live music returned to Cloughjordan in great style on Friday, June 25, when Ireland’s leading blues and jazz singer Mary Coughlan took to the stage, ‘amuigh fionn spéir’, at Cloughjordan Amphitheatre.

The North Tipperary music venue was among the first in the country to present a live concert under the phased reopening guidelines.

This was the first live concert for over 18 months for musicians, technicians, and audience alike, and the excitement was huge.

One hundred ticket holders attended the outdoor venue, which is located at the back of the eco-village estate.

As the musicians warmed up on stage, Mary herself was busily tweeting pictures and messages to her social media followers. At 7.45pm she made a grand entrance and bounced onto the stage to a rapturous reception.

For over two hours the audience were treated to an extraordinary performance from one of Ireland’s truly iconic stars.

Every song, from well-known classics to brand new material, was delivered with passion and ease by this seasoned performer.

The night, the first of ‘craic agus ceoil’ in months, was a very special occasion for the artist and the audience alike.

Permitted outdoor capacities have increased to 200 for cultural gatherings from July 5 and the amphitheatre have several concerts confirmed for July and August.

Next up on July 16 is Cork singer-songwriter Mick Flannery; then up-and-coming young singer-songwriter Susan O’Neill on July 30.

Finally, on August 6, a rare live outing for original trad/world music fusion pioneers Kíla in what promises to be another great gig for music lovers.

Tickets for all concerts are available on eventbrite.ie and further information on activities at the amphitheatre are at facebook.com/clougharts.