A scene typical of the dance hall days, where the showbands attracted capacity crowds.

Dance hall days discussion for Mayo lecture

Published: Fri 10 Oct 2025, 9:02 AM

THE legacy of the dance hall days in Mayo will be the subject of an insightful evening lecture taking place in Knock today.

The public lecture takes place in Knock Museum this evening (Friday, October 10) at 6 p.m., with Professor Rebecca S. Miller, Professor of Music at Hampshire College, USA, where she will delve into the cultural legacy of Monsignor James Horan, the iconic Tooreen Dance Hall, and their impact on Ireland's vibrant showband era of the 1950s and '60s.

Following the talk, there will be a questions and answers session and also a book signing of her recent publication, 'Are You Dancing?'

Admission is free, but booking is advisable. Contact: (094) 9375034 or email museum@knockshrine.ie.