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Rhythm of the Bann returns to Coleraine

Rhythm of the Bann returns to Coleraine

Mon, April 08, 2019

As the song says, “ladies and gents, this is the moment you’ve waited for!”

Details for The Rhythm of the Bann festival Coleraine have been launched.  The two day programme of musical extravaganza will take place this April on the 26th and 27th in various venues throughout Coleraine town.

The perfect weekend to round off the Easter holidays, will see a number of specifically themed, choral, musical and theatre style performances and shows for all the family. All brought to you under the artful direction of our very own greatest showman, Peter Corry on behalf of the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “Rhythm of the Bann is set to fill Coleraine with song, dance and theatre for what is set to be an unforgettable weekend of unique entertainment. Whether you are a performer or a music fan the programme will showcase the very best in the sector paving the way for the exciting return of a choral celebration to Coleraine next year. The town has a rich history in this field and we are looking forward to building on this and developing what is set to be a very exciting annual event.”

Peter Corry of Peter Corry Production states: Rhythm of the Bann 2019 will offer international performance and workshops that will not only be engaging but educational and of a very high standard with high quality international coaches and performers involved in the festival.

On Friday evening St Malachy’s Church will be home to three wonderful choirs.  Adoro, Cantemus and Dalriada Chamber Choir.  Adoro has performed at many prestigious events in Northern Ireland including services of thanksgiving for HM The Queen for the Diamond Jubilee and 90th Birthday.  Local Choir Cantemus sing a mixture of ancient & modern repertoire, from Bach to Stopford; Wesley to Parry - and the Dalriada Chamber Choir voices blend beautifully to deliver chilling harmonies, rousing emotions and tapping toes. Local violinist Jasmine Morris a member of the Ulster Youth Orchestra and former winner of the Robert Lewin Scholarship will also add to this musical evening.

On Saturday evening, The Showman Is Coming! THE Northern Ireland born but internationally renowned Peter Corry will lead a cast of dynamic dancers, singers and talented performers.  The Showman Is Coming combines the passion of Moulin Rouge, the spectacle of Barnum and the energy of The Greatest Showman, all under one roof at the Lodge Hotel. 

Peter Corry Productions strongly recommends this event is also the perfect opportunity for young people of all ages to get involved with the offer of world class workshops aimed at enhancing their artistic side. These events are of world class standard and not to be missed on Fri 26th and Sat 27thApril. This is also a great way to prepare to take part in next years’ Festival.

“Thank You For The Music” is a workshop in the Town Hall, led by Ashley Fulton who is originally from Magherafelt and one of the top vocal coaches in the UK. Three sessions for a mix of ages and abilities are available.

The Saturday workshop will take place in the Methodist Church Hall and is aptly entitled, “On Broadway”.  Coleraine is proud to welcome Ian Weinberger who is currently the Associate Music Director of the smash hit musical Hamilton on Broadway.  His other Broadway conducting credits include Kinky Boots and Titanic (Lincoln Center).

The international hit, Hamilton: An American Musical, is about the life of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, and is a multiple Tony, Grammy, Olivier and Pulitzer Award winning show. In the words of a former American President “where rap is the language of revolution and hip hop it’s urgent soundtrack”.

Details of all shows, tickets and how to get involved in the workshops, can be found on www.rhythmof thebann.com

The Rhythm of the Bann Festival will enthuse, engage and stir passion in everyone with a love of music, song and dance. Music to suit all tastes from musical theatre, gospel, jazz and choral to blues, swing, anthems and hymns, and hip hop! Just like the river itself, the Rhythm of the Bann is a blend of movement, music, patterns and flows.

This April, “Let’s be glorious.”

Only in Coleraine, this April, does Hamilton meet the greatest showman.

“So tell me, do you wanna go?”