Performers from the first Somebody Special concert in August 2025.

‘Somebody Special’ Gaza fundraising concert at Mayo venue next month

Tickets are selling fast for the return of the much-loved ‘Somebody Special’ concert, which takes place next month at Claremorris Town Hall Theatre. The special fundraising concert in aid of Gaza, will be held on Saturday, February 28, at 7.30 p.m.

Following the enthusiastic response to the initial performance in August – with audiences praising both the calibre of the musicians and the atmosphere on the night – the organisers are encouraging people to buy tickets now for another memorable evening.

Produced by Hollymount’s Pat McGovern, Somebody Special brings together a group of outstanding local musicians and singers from Hollymount, Roundfort and Irishtown. The performers share songs they love in a spirit of friendship, music and community, spanning traditional, folk, gospel and bluegrass styles, with contemporary Irish dance by Molly Hughes adding another memorable dimension to the evening.

The concert is a joint undertaking between the Somebody Special musicians and the Claremorris Palestine Solidarity Group. Members of the group organise weekly peaceful vigils across nine towns in Mayo, including Claremorris, to show solidarity with Palestine and to keep humanitarian issues in the public eye.

Pat McGovern originally brought the musicians together through his long-standing involvement with The Rise and Shine Trust, where he has volunteered for over a decade. What began as a shared love of music and friendship grew into the recording of the Somebody Special album at Launchpad LK Studios in Limerick, featuring a wide mix of traditional, folk, gospel and contemporary songs, including the title track written by Galway’s Don Stiffe.

All proceeds from next month’s concert will go to Medical Aid for Palestinians, which works to support access to healthcare and dignity for Palestinians. Copies of the Somebody Special CD will also be available on the night, with proceeds supporting the Gaza fund.

Tickets (€27.50, including booking fee) are on sale now from Claremorris Town Hall Theatre Box Office (094 931 0999) and online here.

Early booking is strongly advised to ensure you don’t miss this very special event.