Concert For Appalachia at Whelan's: Rhiannon Giddens and Mary Coughlan join line-up of fundraiser gig

A star-studded line-up has been announced for the upcoming Concert For Appalachia at Whelan's in Dublin on December 16 – organised in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

The night of music and poetry will raise funds for BeLoved Asheville, a mutual aid social justice charity which is leading recovery efforts and creating housing for thousands of people displaced by the flood waters and landslides in the mountain region.

Rhiannon Giddens has been announced as one of the star names – with the Limerick-based multi-award-winning artist set to perform with renowned guitarist Niwel Tsumbu.

Other acts set to play on the night include the incomparable Mary Coughlan, I Draw Slow, Loah, and Enda Scahill with Simon Creehan.

The Appalachian region of North Carolina was severely impacted by Hurricane Helene in September. Homes, roads, schools and entire communities were swept away – with the storm ultimately claiming the lives of 234 people, and leaving thousands homeless.

The fundraiser gig is being organised by Erin Fornoff, an Appalachian spoken word poet who has lived in Ireland for the past 15 years. Her own "hometown was destroyed by Hurricane Helene", she says.

"There are deeply held ties between Appalachia and Ireland," Erin resumes. "The thing both places have in their DNA is a passion for helping others, even across the pond."

Tickets are priced at €28, and are available here.