What an Extravaganza

Another wild and windy night, saw us all waking to a bright sky, although the wind continued blustery and strong and having had a late start to the day we all mooched around for most of the morning, before I took the opportunity to go with Anthony and John Leech MP to visit Lahardane to see the Titanic memorial park http://addergoole-titanic.com/ the story is well told on the website, but what a location !- at the foot of the mountains, and the sad story told around the square, in the blustery sunshine…it was very moving .. a lady from the society even came out to give John a personal guided tour, brilliant ! then it was back to the house, before we all gathered our things, and moved into Ballina, for a night in the Ballina Manor Hotel  (luxury ) and whilst the others had things to do, ready for the big show tonight, I took the chance to have a quick look round on the River Moy ,soak in the bath ( 1st in 3 months !!),and  have a relaxing meal…before going to the Ballina Arts Centre, for the Gathering Gala Show, and what a show it turned out to be !

With brother Sean posing with a Vintage tractor and accommodating MP outside, and then inside for the great show…

an introduction by brother Anthony  with far too many stars to list ( you’ll have to look at the website ), but hundreds of dancers, including the star of ‘Lord of the Dance’ –James Keegan, local talent groups including ‘Flat out’ .. choirs –Fr Peyton cluster choir (including  my relations ..), what a great show with performers from both sides of the Irish sea (and Atlantic)Fantastic, the packed audience clapped,stamped their feet and cheered all the performers…late into the night, until we all gathered in the Hotel for an ‘after show party’ with more music,and the chance to meet many of my cousins…very,very late into the night …a creditable performance, which both Anthony and Lawrence have been heavily involved in…now they may be able to relax a little more, and enjoy the rest of the ‘Gathering’…Goodnight from Ballina !