Star mezzo soprano and broadcaster is MC for top Mayo parade

Louisburgh-born and Castlebar-based broadcaster Anne Marie Gibbons has been selected Master of Ceremonies (MC) for the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Castlebar next Tuesday.

Anne Marie is stepping into the role as a replacement for Henry McGlade who is overseas on this occasion, having previously never missed the event in 30 years.

Among other duties, the position involves introducing the parade floats and participants as they reach the main viewing stand situated on Main street in the town.

It also entails keeping the crowds informed of its progress through the town and introducing the entertainment on stage on the viewing stand.

Anne Marie, an accomplished mezzo soprano, has performed all over the world in some of the most renowned theatres and concert halls.

Such international credits include Covent Garden, London, English National Opera, London, Leeds, Birmingham, Paris, Versailles, Madrid, Adelaide, Lausanne, Nice, New York and Sydney.

In Ireland she has appeared with orchestras including the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the Irish Baroque Orchestra, not to mention the Mayo Concert Orchestra.

As well as being a popular presenter on Community Radio Castlebar (CRCfm), she successfully combines teaching and performing.

She is the founder and director of Mayo Vocal Academy, based in Castlebar, which provides tutelage to singers and performers of all ages, levels and genres.

Many of her students have gone on to study music at third level while others are working professionally on the national or international stage.

The Castlebar parade gets underway at 12 noon from McHale Road.