Athy's sold-out Star Wars orchestra was a 'night to be remembered'
The full orchestra in concert
ATHY was treated to a brilliant sold-out charity event, which was a thrill for both Star Wars fans and lovers of classical music alike.
Held on Sunday, 8 June, at the historic Dreamland Ballroom, the evening featured a spectacular performance of John Williams’ legendary Star Wars score alongside Gustav Holst’s ‘The Planets’.
The special concert, organised by Athy Lions Club and presented by the County Kildare Orchestra, dazzled a packed audience all while raising funds for the club who dedicate their time to vital community initiatives.
Local county councillor and President of Athy Lions Club, Brian Dooley, called the night “hugely successful.”
“County Kildare Orchestra were absolutely extraordinary. They blew us away in the Dreamland Ballroom.”
“You could see the hair standing on the back of people’s necks.”
Under the baton of esteemed conductor Lorcan Daly, the 70-member orchestra delivered an unforgettable musical experience.
Guests arrived to a lively atmosphere, enjoying a full prosecco and cocktail bar, provided by Pat Dunne and his son Brendan. The Dreamland Ballroom and the historical significance it carries, with past concerts featuring greats such as Thin Lizzy, U2, Christy Moore, and most recently Bob Geldof, proved to be the perfect backdrop for the event.
Proceeds from the evening went directly to the Lions Club of Athy, helping to fund their continued efforts in the community.
“Anything we raise will always stay in the town,” said cllr Dooley, who told the Kildare Nationalist about work the club has done with St Vincent de Paul Athy, the Family Resource Centre and the Willow Project, among others.
Cllr Dooley further explained that the club will donate some of the proceeds to the orchestra as they are a “completely voluntary” group who generously gave their time for the concert.
“I am very gracious to them,” he said.
Cllr Dooley also gave a huge thanks to Colm Walsh, Michael Cusak, Linda Byrne, and Lorcan Daly for the wonderful event and a “night to be remembered.”
