THE Dubliners Encore, the official stage show celebrating one of Ireland’s greatest folk acts, comes to the University Concert Hall on Tuesday April 7, as part of a nine-venue national tour running through April.
Created and produced by original Dubliner John Sheahan and his daughter Ceoladh Sheahan, with Musical Director Phil Coulter, the show tells the full story of the beloved band whose 50-year career produced 30 albums and sales of 40 million records worldwide.
Five musicians, selected after a two-year nationwide search, recreate the spirit and sound of Luke Kelly, Ronnie Drew, Barney McKenna, Ciarán Bourke, and Sheahan himself, performing the band’s best-loved songs including The Wild Rover, Seven Drunken Nights, The Black Velvet Band, and Whiskey in the Jar. The show is narrated by Imelda May.
Fresh from seven sold-out nights at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre and a string of sell-out dates across Europe since its Late Late Show launch, the production has drawn praise from fellow artists. Singer-songwriter Declan O’Rourke described it as “nostalgic, educating, nourishing, funny, sad, incredibly rich, and spiritual,” while Imelda May called it “classy, emotive, informative – an impressive night of music.”
Producer Ceoladh Sheahan said: “Having spent two years creating a show with Dad that authentically captures The Dubliners’ story, the reaction from Irish, UK, and German audiences since the show’s launch has been incredible!
“Sold-out shows, standing ovations, and a roller coaster of audience emotions – from tears to laughter and everything in between – has been music to our ears. Audiences want more Irish dates, in more locations, so we are delighted to bring the show back home.”