River Dance star Ciara Sexton with composer Kathy Fahey during a rehearsal of Fáinne Óir in the TF Royal Theatre, Castebar.. Photo: Alison Laredo

Fainne Oir heading for sell-out of its world premiere in Mayo

With just three days to go to the first-ever public performance of Castlebar composer Kathy Fahey’s musical masterpiece ‘Fainne Oir’ at the TF Royal Theatre on Friday night next, all those interested in witnessing first hand the premiere of this original Mayo orchestral and contemporary dance musical are advised to book their seats now before the show sells out.

Excitement around Fainne Oir has been reaching fever pitch in recent weeks, with stunning videos and recordings of final rehearsals by Mayo Concert Orchestra in association with choreographer and Riverdance performer Ciara Sexton, generating huge public and media interest locally, nationally and internationally.

Those attending the Fainne Oir (Golden Ring) gala premier are in for a real treat at this one-off special event, which beautifully relates the story of the struggles and triumphs of the O’Malley family during the Great Irish Famine through orchestral music, vocals, visual art, narration and dance - with a special voice-over introduction by singer Sean Keane.

Special guests will attend a pre-show VIP reception at the Black Tie (optional) event before the lights go down and the 15-piece musical work opens with the captivating Fainne Oir Overture.

Mayo Concert Orchestra PR team member, Finola Reilly, explained: “County Mayo proudly hosts the premiere of Fainne Oir: a music and dance extravaganza created by local talent Kathy Fahey.

"This moving journey into the desolation of the Irish Famine and hope offered through emigration demonstrates how love and community triumph even in the hardest of times.

“The ambitious project features a creative partnership between two outstanding women: local composer/director Kathy Fahey and Ciara Sexton, former lead dancer from River Dance; supported by Mayo Concert Orchestra and local choir group, Vox Fusion.

"Acclaimed actress Sarah Lafferty narrates the emotional story. Bespoke hand-painted backdrops are provided by feted artist Padraig McCaul, while the contemporary music is beautifully enhanced by traditional musicians Stephen Doherty, David Doocey and Diarmaid Moynihan.”

In advance of the premiere, composer and Belcarra native, Kathy Fahey, paid special tribute to Mayo Concert Orchestra, choreographer, Ciara Sexton, all the musicians, singers, dancers and creative team, for their hard work, professionalism and dedication to mastering the Fainne Oir production. She also made special mention of Mike Hannon, without whom she said Fainne Oir would never have happened.

Fahey stated: "I am overwhelmed by the support and sheer dedication of Mayo Concert Orchestra, Voxfusion, Padraig McCaul, Ciara Sexton and her troupe, Sarah Maria Lafferty, the whole production team, cast and crew. We've all been working so hard to make this an outstanding production. Thank you so very much to all involved, and of course to the main man behind the scenes, Mike Hannon. Thank you also to our many sponsors, patrons and investors. without all of those people this would not be possible."

Last remaining tickets can be secured on the Fainne Oir website, www.fainneoir.com www.ticketmaster.ie or directly from the TF Royal Theatre in-house or online at www.royaltheatrecastlebar.ie