> Beijing Irish festival 2012

Get ready for a spectacular celebration of Irish music, song and dance! In a unique collaboration between the Embassy of Ireland in Beijing, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong, the best of Ireland’s musical tradition will be showcased on stage at the Forbidden City Concert Hall.
We look forward to welcoming….

City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong with Guest Conductor Canice Gleeson
Currently in its twelfth season, the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong (CCOHK) holds a unique position as one of the most active chamber orchestras in the Asian region.  Founded by oboist and Artistic Director, Leanne Nichols, the Orchestra regularly collaborates with leading international artists. 

Davy Spillane, uilleann pipes and low whistle
One of Ireland’s best known traditional musicians, Davy Spillane was born in Dublin and has been playing uilleann pipes and low whistle professionally since the age of 15.  He has recorded more than twelve albums and his music was instrumental in the development of the theatrical phenomenon Riverdance.

Katie Target-Adams, singer and harpist
Born in Scotland and now resident in Hong Kong, Katie's musical performance is a blend of her angelic voice with the small folk harp (clarsach).  She performs songs from a wide range of cultures and musical genres, including Irish and Scottish ballads.

Celtic Connections Choir
Formed in May 2010 under the direction of Canice Gleeson, the Celtic Connections Choir comprises twenty-four singers who all share a common passion for Celtic music and choral singing.  The Choir is fast becoming one of Hong Kong's most exciting Choral groups, promoting the rich heritage of Celtic music

Drake Irish Dance, Atlanta, US
Drake Irish Dance, one of the most prestigious Irish dance schools of the United States, was founded in 1990 by Dublin-native, Karl Drake.  The Irish Connections concert features Drake champion dancers Catie Foley, Amanda Carpenter, Dan Walsh, and Peter Gardner. 

Celtic Storm                                                                                                                                                            Celtic Storm is the only Irish dance toupe in Shanghai and first danced for the public during Ireland Week 2008. Their performances have been thrilling audiences ever since and their professionalism has won them bookings at the Ireland Pavillion at 2012 World Expo Shanghai, Irish Consulate events in Shanghai and many other Irish promotional events.

Christy & Erin Jensen
13 year old Christy and 11 year old Erin are two of Beijing’s finest young dancers!

To attend:
Tickets: http://www.fcchbj.com/ticket/989 or www.mypiao.com
Ticket price: 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 380, 580 RMB
Venue details here

Irish-themed fun for children!  The star attraction of the day will be performances by champion dancers from the Drake School of Irish Dance, as well as some Irish dance instruction for the little ones.  In addition, kids can look forward to plate-painting, balloon artists, games and other Irish-themed creative pursuits.  Oh, and watch out for the leprechauns!!  
Keep an eye on www.thefamilier.com for further details. 

To attend

Open to the public
Free of charge - However it is necessary to RSVP for a specific time slot - www.thefamilier.com.  
Venue details here                                                                      

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