The Ormond Octaves, a four-part mixed community choir, based in Nenagh, will launch their CD, Ormond Octaves sing Choral Favourites, in the Thatched Cottage, Ballycommon, Nenagh, on Saturday, 22 November, at 8pm. The CD contains some of the choirs’ favourite songs, including Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, the traditional Irish tune Mo Ghile Mear and the childhood favourite Old MacDonald.

Niamh Ryan, musical director, says they are looking forward to a great launch night in Ballycommon: “The Ormond Octaves choir will sing songs from the CD and entertain the crowd. We extend an open invitation to all, to attend our special night. There is no entry fee and CDs will be on sale for €15. All proceeds will go the Nenagh Branch of the North Tipperary Hospice so it is all for a very good cause. We had great fun recording the CD and we hope it will provide enjoyment for all who purchase it and prove a good source of fundraising for the hospice.”

Flavin up with The Times

Mick Flavin makes a welcome return visit to The Times Hotel in Tipperary Town, on Sunday night, 23 November. The Longford man, who hosted a successful Mick Flavin and Friends Weekend in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, in October, will perform all his top hits like Wild Flowers, Maria’s Heading Put To California, The Old School Yard and My Donegal, when and the band take the stage in The Times.

Claremorris hosts major Sky 191 Christmas Show

One of the flagship shows on Irish TV on Sky 191 this Christmas will be recorded live in Claremorris Town Hall on Wednesday night, 3 December. Entertainment Ireland will feature a star-studded two hours of music and chat, and will be at the heart of the Christmas schedule on the new station.

Artists who will feature on the show include Johnny McEvoy, Dolores Keane, Eleanor McEvoy, Susan McCann, comedian Noel V. Ginnity, Frank McCaffrey, John Hogan, Na Fianna and the Redmond School of Dancing. The show will be hosted by Henry McGlade. Joining Henry on stage will be guest presenter Michael Commins, who will introduce and interview country legend Gene Stuart as well as Sam O’Doherty from Tipperary, who is sure to be a huge hit on the night.

Michael Fox will introduce three new performers who have already made a major impact with viewers of Entertainment Ireland. Olwyn Murray, Ann Marie Riordan and Ciaran Rosney are rising stars who seem destined for the top.

Kevin Griffiths, producer of Entertainment Ireland and MD of Frame Productions, says that they are delighted to be bringing this first Christmas show from the stage of the newly refurbished Claremorris Town Hall.

“The Christmas special will be one of the highlights of the festive schedule on the Irish TV channel and the Claremorris audience will be part of a great celebration”, he said.

Tickets for the show, which are expected to be in major demand, are available at €20 each from Frame Productions, by calling 094-937-2901, and early booking is advisable. CL