Female Singers Taking to the Stage in Downpatrick

DOWN Arts Centre welcomes four fantastic female singer / songwriters, Eilidh Patterson, Edelle McMahon and Sorcha and Hannah, to take the stage at 8pm on Saturday 24 November writes Rachel Kennedy.

Regular Nashville visitor Eilidh Patterson to perform in the Down Arts Centre.

Eilidh Patterson is back with her second album, This Is Now.  This Derry girl has been delighting audiences across the UK and the States in recent years with her beautiful and captivating songs.

A regular visitor to Nashville, Tennessee Eilidh recorded This Is Now on the legendary Music Row with a stellar cast that included some of Nashville’s finest musicians. This latest release explores the genres of folk, bluegrass and pop, whilst maintaining throughout the pure, clear vocal that has become Eilidh’s trademark sound.

Talking about recording the album, Eilidh said, “Getting to record an album of my own material in Nashville TN has been a dream of mine since I started singing professionally. From the very first day of recording ‘til the last, I loved every minute. It was intense at times but I’m definitely one of those people who works best under pressure!

Patterson has gained high praise from the industry and audiences alike.  Beth Nielsen Chapman described her voice as “velvet and air”, and Maverick Magazine commented, “Eilidh has a voice as clear as the frosty night air and her self-penned songs suggest a maturity beyond her years.  Brilliant.”

Edelle McMahon will woo the audience in Downpatrick with her modern interpretation of tradional themes.

Joining Eilidh will be Edelle McMahon, whose folk style encompasses traditional Sean nos elements as well as more contemporary influences, and duo Sorcha and Hannah who have blown a bracing northerly gale through traditional song, casting it in an endlessly inventive and playful new mould, bringing comfort even to the most restless of souls.  Join us for a night of unforgettable live new music.

As the festive season approaches, don’t forget to book your panto tickets for Little Red Riding Hood, taking place at the Great Hall, Downshire Estate, on Friday 30 November at 7pm.

Change of date for your diary, Andy Irvine will now play DAC at 8pm on Friday 14 December, in association with Rath Celtair Folk Music Club.

To purchase tickets (Eilidh Patterson £8 / £6; Little Red Riding Hood £7 / £5; Andy Irvine £10 / £8) and for further information on any Down Arts Centre events, please contact the box office on 028 4461 0747. The complete Down Arts Centre Season Programme is available to download at www.downartscentre.com