From 18th century blind Irish harpist Turlough O’Carolan to songs by contemporary musicians such as James Taylor, Tom Waits, Sting and Richard Thompson – a feast of entertainment was provided by talented Donegal duet, Ian Smith and Martin Crossin Friday evening. 

The two artists – the former from the Rosses and the latter from Milford – received a standing ovation as they opened a packed weekend of activities as part of the annual arts and cultural festival at An tSean Bheairic (The Old Barracks) in the quiet coastal town of Falcarragh. The festival today (Saturday) features a sean-nos singing competition for children, a sean-nós dancing exhibition and workshops and a céilí mór (an Irish traditional dance). On Sunday evening there will be a multi-media presentation on Irish Republican martyr Wolfe Tone hosted by Paddy Cullivan.

Scottish-born Smith a fine guitarist and songwriter with a wide repertoire, has produced a number of CDs including ‘Restless Heart.’ In addition to work by other musicians, he performed some of his own songs Friday evening including ‘Grafton Street,’ about a homeless man on Dublin’s busiest shopping street. Belfast-born Crossin is both a skilful multi-instrumentalist and a master maker of handcrafted uilleann pipes. His rendition on tin whistle of the plaintiff Irish tune, ‘The Lonesome Boatman,’ was superb.

Leading traditional sean-nós dancers Frank and Eileen Sweeney added to the celebratory mood of the evening when they accompanied Smith and Crossin with a rousing performance on the floor. 

Once a disused police barracks originally constructed in 1890, An tSean Bheairic was renovated 25 years ago and transformed into a vibrant community centre with its own library, cafe, gift and craft shop and heritage centre. It also hosts a wide range of conferences, workshops and seminars and is a Fáilte Ireland Visitor Information Point.

The festival was officially launched by manager of An tSean Bheairic, Paddy McHugh; Séamus Mac Aoidh, Secretary and Chairperson, Seosamh Ó Dubhchóin.