Previous Performances
The Ballaghaderreen Arts Festival first took place in 2023 and has hosted some incredible performers and events over the years. Below is just a small sample of those who have performed at our festival.
Sharon Shannon & Guests
Internationally acclaimed accordionist Sharon Shannon brings her vibrant live show to Ballaghaderreen with her stellar trio, featuring Alan Connor and Gerry “Banjo” O’Connor. Blending traditional Irish music with global influences, the trio delivers an uplifting performance full of energy, virtuosity, and world-class musicianship.
Celtic Tenors
The Celtic Tenors promise a sparkling, good-humoured performance featuring beautiful Celtic songs, classical favourites, a cappella pieces, and contemporary hits. With over a million albums sold worldwide, their unique blend of world-class vocal talent and engaging stage presence guarantees an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment.
David McSavage
An evening of stand-up comedy headlined by one of Ireland's best known and most loved comedians David McSavage, best known for his hit TV show The Savage Eye.
Joined by special guests, this promises a night of bold, provocative humour from one of Ireland’s most distinctive comedic voices.
Big Love - Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Formed in 2023, Big Love is a fully live six-piece Fleetwood Mac tribute show celebrating the iconic Buckingham–Nicks era, with a nod to the classic Peter Green line-up. Featuring authentic performances, costumes, and lighting, this two-hour show brings the timeless Fleetwood Mac songbook to life for fans of all ages.
Broken Theatre Circus
A spectacular one-hour circus show featuring world-class performers flying high in the Big Top. With breathtakingly jaw-dropping aerialists, dazzling acrobats, jugglers, and clowns, this thrilling showcase promises fun and wonder for audiences of all ages at the Ballaghaderreen Arts Festival.
Seamus O' Rourke - Padraig Potts
Set in rural Ireland, this heartfelt coming-of-age play by award-winning writer and performer Seamus O’Rourke follows Padraig Potts as he navigates the hopes, heartbreak, and humour of youth. A nostalgic tale of love, longing, and self-discovery, it captures the innocence and challenges of growing up in 1970s and 80s Ireland.
The Importance of Being Earnest
A Trivial Comedy for Serious People follows Jack and his friend Algy as they lead double lives in the pursuit of love, only to find themselves tangled in a web of lies. Featuring an all-star cast, this witty and charming comedy explores the absurdities of identity, romance, and social expectation.
Saving Gaelic Football with Jim Gavin
The “Saving Gaelic Football” event featuring former Dublin manager Jim Gavin in conversation with Seán O’Rourke, the discussion explores the future of the game and proposed rule changes, while paying tribute to the late John O’Mahony and Tommie Gorman who originally planned the event.
Frankie McCafferty's Lisdoon Nirvarna
Lisdoon Nirvana is a dramatic monologue with live music, written and performed by Frankie McCafferty and directed by Charlie Bonner. Set during the final Lisdoonvarna Festival in July 1983, it follows 17-year-old Macker’s coming-of-age journey from Donegal to Clare.