A fitting tribute.
Fresh from the news that the iconic Luke Kelly will be getting two new statues in his honour comes the announcement of a musical and literary celebration to mark the grand unveiling.
President Michael D. Higgins will be on hand to officially present the sculptures to the public this Wednesday 30 January on what will be the 35th anniversary of Kelly’s death.
That evening, Dublin City Council will host an honorary concert featuring a top bill of musicians and spoken word artists at the Liberty Hall Theatre.
Taking to the stage will be last surviving member of The Dubliners John Sheahan, Glen Hansard, Damien Dempsey, Finbar Furey and rising poet Natalya O’Flaherty, who seriously impressed when she appeared on The Late Late Show two weeks ago.
Also paying tribute on the night; Lankum man Ian Lynch, singer-songwriter Aoife Scott, Andy Irvine and George Murphy, who was born on the second anniversary of Kelly’s passing and has drawn comparisons to the late singer.
Broadcaster John Kelly will MC the evening, with tickets priced at €11.80 which are available now via Ticketmaster and usual outlets nationwide.
“I couldn’t think of anyone more appropriate to honour with sculptures either side of the Liffey,” said concert director Leagues O’Toole.
“Luke Kelly’s presence as a bard, an activist, and a friend to the people of Dublin City is as palpable in spirit as it ever was.
“35 years after his passing his voice resonates proudly from streets, venues, pubs and homes back and forth the river.”
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
