Limerick music-lovers are in for a treat this summer following the announcement of an exciting new festival, set to take place in June at the University Concert Hall in University of Limerick.
University Concert Hall (UCH) has announced details of the inaugural Limerick Summer Proms, a three-day festival set to captivate audiences in a celebration of ‘pride, music, and unity’.
The musical spectacular, which will run from 21-23 June, will feature performances from renowned ensembles, the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and Irish Chamber Orchestra, as well as a family-friendly, animated concert with live piano.
Kicking off the festival on Friday, 21 June, SHINE, presented by The Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride Festival in collaboration with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and University Concert Hall, promises an evening of celebration and solidarity. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Ireland's first Pride March, this event will feature a vibrant showcase of genre-spanning music with sing-along moments of pride, community and humanity, performed by members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, including artists like Shobsy and Wallis Bird.
On Saturday, 22 June, Midsummer Magic takes centre stage as University Concert Hall partners with Irish Chamber Orchestra to deliver a musical journey through the ages, featuring iconic overtures including Mozart’s Magic Flute and Mendelssohn’s evocative Hebrides Overture. Under the baton of celebrated conductor Wyn Davies, acclaimed Soprano Anna Devlin will delight audiences, singing popular arias including O Mio Babbino Caro and the hauntingly beautiful Intermezzo from Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana.
Closing out the festival on Sunday, 23 June, families are invited to experience the wonder of Magic Piano & Chopin Shorts on screen. This animated film concert, accompanied by live piano performance from Michael McHale, introduces audiences to the timeless music of Chopin through a series of unique animations, including the whimsical tale of Anna and Chip-Chip's adventure aboard a magic, flying piano.
Director of University Concert Hall, Sinéad Hope described the exciting event as a ‘milestone’ moment.
“The Limerick Summer Proms represent a milestone in our commitment to fostering cultural enrichment and community engagement. This festival celebrates diversity and inclusivity while offering a unique musical experience to audiences of all backgrounds.”
Limerick Summer Proms is partnering with Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride Festival, Limerick Pride, the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, and the Irish Chamber Orchestra on the event, which is proudly supported by University of Limerick, University Concert Hall and Limerick City and County Council.
“The Limerick Summer Proms reflects our unwavering dedication to nurturing cultural diversity and fostering inclusivity within our community. The three-day festival underscores our commitment to offer enriching experiences that embrace individuals from all walks of life. Join us for a weekend of pride, music, and unity,” said Dr Marie Connolly, Director of Human Rights, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Limerick.
Lisa Daly, Festival Director of Limerick pride, said of their partnership with the event: “Limerick LGBTQ Pride is dedicated to promoting positive visibility and inclusivity for LGBTQ+ individuals. Our partnership with Limerick Summer Proms reflects our ongoing mission to advocate for equity and representation in our community. Events like SHINE help to create spaces where LGBTQ+ voices and allies are heard and celebrated. We can’t wait to hear a unique spin on some Pride classics.”
For ticketing information and event details, visit uch.ie or call the Box Office on 061 331549.