Oldcastle concert to feature local PP
St Brigid's Church, Oldcastle, is the venue this Sunday night, 15th August, for the latest fundraising event in the campaign by the Friends of Oldcastle & District Alzheimer's Day Care Centre, who are raising funds to purchase a much-needed minibus for the centre. Providing the entertainment on the night will be the renowned and widely acclaimed Kentstown and Seneschalstown (K&S) Accordion Orchestra, under the leadership of musical director Gerry Kelly, as well as local parish priest and noteworthy singer, Fr Ray Kelly. The K&S Accordion Orchestra is a sub-set of the K&S Accordion Band which was formed 32 years ago and has a current membership in excess of 80. The band has travelled all over the world performing concerts and taking part in competitions. The Senior Orchestra have just returned from a very successful concert tour of Belgium and the concert in Oldcastle will feature some of the music from the concert programme which brought them international acclaim following their historic performance at the Menin Gate War Memorial in Ypres. They have also competed in national and international competitions and have won the All-American Championships, numerous All-Ireland Concert Band titles and are current North of Ireland Champions. In addition, they have won the All-Ireland Marching Bands title for the past two years and will defend their title in Cavan at Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann on 22nd August. Fr Ray Kelly is parish priest of Oldcastle and is also a widely known entertainer and performer. He has already performed at two concerts in Oldcastle over the past 12 months in aid of the Oldcastle Alzheimer's Minibus Fund. He has also performed at various fundraising and charitable events in the wider area and has been extremely generous with his time. He has released two CDs 'Simply Me' and 'More of Me', which are still very popular. His performance covers a wide variety of music, including musicals, rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and Irish ballads/folk songs. His energetic performance at concerts captivates his audience and has people dancing in the aisles, leaving them cheering for more. Fr Ray is a past member of St Mary's Musical Society in Navan and also a former member of the All Priests Show who have entertained audiences worldwide, including in America, Australia and Britain. Those attending the concert in Oldcastle are guaranteed a great night's entertainment and the organisers are hoping for a full house. This gala concert commences at 8pm sharp with doors opening at 7.30pm. Admission of €10 can be paid at the door on the night.