Minister Humphreys launches Comhaltas 1916 Centenary Programme

The Comhaltas Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCE) 1916 Centenary Programme to commemorate the 100th year anniversary of the Easter Rising has been unveiled. Misiter for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys launched the programme today at Brú Ború, Cashel, Co. Tipperary
Highlights include the commissioning of Macalla 1916, a new suite of music composed by Michael Rooney. It will premiere at a state reception for 1916 relatives on March 26 next year.
Macalla 1916 will then embark on a nationwide tour across Easter and October, before touring overseas in North America in late '16.
Also on the programme is a major 1916 themed pageant, which will form part of the official open of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Ennis, Co. Clare, on August 14t.. The winners of the 2015 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will perform at the official state reception in Dublin Castle on Easter Sunday next year.
Ceremonies to mark the centenary will also be held by the 420 branches of Comhaltas worldwide.
“I am delighted that Comhaltas has put together such an ambitious programme for 2016, Minister Humphreys said today. "Just last weekend the commemoration of the funeral of Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa kicked off the State’s ceremonial calendar for the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme. Now, more and more organisations like Comhaltas are announcing their own plans for 2016, which will complement the Government’s extensive programme.
“Comhaltas has an incredibly proud tradition of promoting Irish culture at home and abroad. Its 420 branches across the globe are a thriving source of Irish music, song, dance and storytelling, and I have no doubt that Comhaltas members will enthusiastically embrace its centenary celebrations for next year.
“Members of the public are also in for a treat with a series of Comhaltas concerts planned for across the country over Easter 2016. I am pleased too that my Department’s Culture Ireland will be supporting the international element of the Comhaltas 2016 programme. By working with organisations like Comhaltas and the GAA I am confident that we can bring the 2016 commemorations to communities in every county across the country.”
Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, said:
“Our cultural identity was central to the aspirations and motivation of the 1916 Easter Rising. This was evident in the poetry, songs and writings of the leadership and others. This is encapsulated in the slogan “Éire ní hamháin saor ach Gaelach chomh maith”. This cultural emphasis is reflected in the ethos of Comhaltas and will define our extensive centenary programme at home and worldwide."