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Like cats out of a bag, the Absurdity flourished citywide!
Kilkenny's St. Patrick's Weekend
festival hosted
The Absurdist Pipe Band
for three days of shows.
The colour and craic of the crew became the perfect complement the the cities carnival atmosphere. With the huge crowds attending the parade being the icing on the cake.
festival hosted
The Absurdist Pipe Band
for three days of shows.
The colour and craic of the crew became the perfect complement the the cities carnival atmosphere. With the huge crowds attending the parade being the icing on the cake.
(Sure, we're even bigger in France) "CanCanStyle"
Walk or Drive...
Ya still gotta find somewhere to park!
If you were one of the lucky grown ups belonging to one of the Early Start attendees who were be doing some Samba Drumming and Percussion workshops the other week up in St. John's N S, Drogheda...
My advice was to walk.
The carpark was absolutely jammers!
My advice was to walk.
The carpark was absolutely jammers!
Necessity is the Mother of Invention
At
Abacas Special School Drogheda
When carrying a big drum in a parade was just never going to work...
Time for a new idea.
The brilliant children who live with autism at Abacus school Drogheda aren't all that fond of big noisy parades. So, we decided to have our own. 5 times actually. And right around their own school building.
A trolley for carrying the drums was invented and off we went.
Time for a new idea.
The brilliant children who live with autism at Abacus school Drogheda aren't all that fond of big noisy parades. So, we decided to have our own. 5 times actually. And right around their own school building.
A trolley for carrying the drums was invented and off we went.
It's Zoom O'clock
With
The Irish Stammer Association
Ever since I started Kada Ka Boom Arts, I have always loved that aspect of enabling folk to engage with the arts.
("Folks" being me too by the way.)
In life there can sometimes be certain challenges that just get in your way.
The Irish Stammer Association decided they wanted to get involved with bit of rhythm. As a nationwide group, it was thought best to just try a tester session online first, and take it from there.
An evening Body Percussion workshops is what followed with folk of all ages from all over Ireland getting into the groove.
Well the feedback was so positive, pland are afoot to bring us all together and see what sort of fun we could have on some actual Samba Drums.
Stay tuned!
("Folks" being me too by the way.)
In life there can sometimes be certain challenges that just get in your way.
The Irish Stammer Association decided they wanted to get involved with bit of rhythm. As a nationwide group, it was thought best to just try a tester session online first, and take it from there.
An evening Body Percussion workshops is what followed with folk of all ages from all over Ireland getting into the groove.
Well the feedback was so positive, pland are afoot to bring us all together and see what sort of fun we could have on some actual Samba Drums.
Stay tuned!
Brummie Land
Adventures
Perhaps romance wasn't top of the list on this recent trip to Birmingham,
(hence the love heart in the background just wasn't doing it for me)
Instead, it was upgrading time for some equipment and a meeting with the guys from Fair Deal music to check out their first hand knowledge of wireless, rechargeable mics.
(hence the love heart in the background just wasn't doing it for me)
Instead, it was upgrading time for some equipment and a meeting with the guys from Fair Deal music to check out their first hand knowledge of wireless, rechargeable mics.
Donegal Drumming
The Peace Plus Programme with Moyle National School, Scoil an Linbh Íosa, Carrigans and Balloughry Primary School.
Bit of a stroll this morning but Donegal children know how to have the craic.
A great big cross community, cross border project between three schools. Three different backgrounds, three sets of uniforms, loads of teachers smiling with their children, and not a bother on any of them.
The drums may have helped the smiles along but, they were there to start with.
Brilliant.
It's been an age since the drums of KadaKaBoomArts.com have had the opportunity to work with the children of Dunleer's Scoil Bhríde. Right in the heart of the wee county Louth, the last course took place here when the fourth class were junior infants.
(And that took quite a bit of hard working out for a staff room just settling into 2025)
The new principal was totally ready to give me a hand getting the drums into the hall, but we both reckoned it would probably be better if he stuck to his fresh and frosty (weather wise, not personality) meet and greet and I did the shifting of the gear.
Worked a dream, as all day long I was met with smiles and delight from everyone (staff included) at the Samba Drumming and Percussion workshops taking place in the school for the next seven weeks.
There's a certain amount of confidence that a school staff share. Confident each can do their own jobs well. Be it the secretary, teachers, resource teachers, special needs assistances, principles, caretaker, visitors, (that's me!) and all of the rest.
And when it works... everyone of the above benefits. (Not to mention the children!)
We'll be settling into spring by the time we conclude our course, but, no need to think too far ahead. What's the rush.
Balbriggan bound for Ardgillian College.
Nippy on the fingers but nice inside.
The first of three days working with Transitions year students and later in the month, music students.
A talented bunch too!
A talented bunch too!
A talented bunch too!
A talented bunch too!
Ho Ho Home-run
A wonderfully smile enriching few weeks for KadaKaBoomArts.com as our involvement in getting this big man to lots of the local schools took priority.
Seems like a great way to close the year too.
Merry Christmas everyone and a happy New year.
Seems like a great way to close the year too.
Merry Christmas everyone and a happy New year.
A Fastive Tune or Two
Anyone for
Christmas Coffee?
The life of KadaKaBoomArts.com is just full of adventures.
This one is becoming a regular one on the festive calendar.
Folks, who have no longer a connection to the school, can be found back in the hall they and their children spent so many years in. But now they're bidding on a four ball voucher for the local golf club, (and none of them playing golf) just to help raise a few quid for their old school...
The fact that I'm on the mic and they're having the craic too, is probably the main reason they find themselves there on a damp Wednesday morning.
I loved it.
This one is becoming a regular one on the festive calendar.
Folks, who have no longer a connection to the school, can be found back in the hall they and their children spent so many years in. But now they're bidding on a four ball voucher for the local golf club, (and none of them playing golf) just to help raise a few quid for their old school...
The fact that I'm on the mic and they're having the craic too, is probably the main reason they find themselves there on a damp Wednesday morning.
I loved it.
Smiles with a tad of sophistication.
So, after a month of visits to the six Salvation Army Ireland hubs in and around Dublin city, last night was our "Chorus of Hope" Christmas Carol Service in the Pepper Canister church, Dublin.
In being asked to take on the role of the events creative director, I was conscious of bringing the six different hubs together and yet making sure they all had an input into the evening. That way, taking a sense of ownership of it all.
A community arts model that has always produced great results for its participants.
And so it happened.
The community of the Salvation Army Ireland is an incredible down to earth organisation that aims to look after the physical and spiritual needs of the folk that use it.
And that's the homeless.
A tall order.
But in the pictures you'll see children, dapper ladies and gentlemen and frontline workers, (who work with a passion btw) with smiles and hope in their hearts.
Loved it..
In being asked to take on the role of the events creative director, I was conscious of bringing the six different hubs together and yet making sure they all had an input into the evening. That way, taking a sense of ownership of it all.
A community arts model that has always produced great results for its participants.
And so it happened.
The community of the Salvation Army Ireland is an incredible down to earth organisation that aims to look after the physical and spiritual needs of the folk that use it.
And that's the homeless.
A tall order.
But in the pictures you'll see children, dapper ladies and gentlemen and frontline workers, (who work with a passion btw) with smiles and hope in their hearts.
Loved it..
A word from The Salvation Army Ireland.
"Last night’s Chorus of Hope Christmas Carol service was an unforgettable celebration of festive joy! 🎶✨
A heartfelt thank you to the talented performers from The Salvation Army’s six Dublin Lifehouses, the Church Choir, the Salvation Army Brass Band, and the Irish Life Choir. The Irish Life Choir not only performed their own beautiful Christmas carols but also joined in wholeheartedly during the singalong, making the evening truly special.
We are deeply grateful to our Creative Director, Kieran Gallagher, for bringing the entire evening together and for his incredible dedication during pre-work and rehearsals with the Hubs and Centres.
A huge thank you to Divisional Leader Jonathon Rouffet, who warmly welcomed everyone and shared the story of Christmas between performances, inspiring us all with the true meaning of the season.
Our fabulous Café added to the festive spirit by serving hot chocolate and treats for everyone after the show, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Special thanks go to our amazing staff across all centres for organising residents to attend and for their enthusiastic participation. They came in large numbers, joined the singalongs, and brought their brilliant Christmas spirits with them!"
"We are so thankful to everyone who joined us to celebrate this joyous occasion. Your support means the world to us! ❤️"
"Last night’s Chorus of Hope Christmas Carol service was an unforgettable celebration of festive joy! 🎶✨
A heartfelt thank you to the talented performers from The Salvation Army’s six Dublin Lifehouses, the Church Choir, the Salvation Army Brass Band, and the Irish Life Choir. The Irish Life Choir not only performed their own beautiful Christmas carols but also joined in wholeheartedly during the singalong, making the evening truly special.
We are deeply grateful to our Creative Director, Kieran Gallagher, for bringing the entire evening together and for his incredible dedication during pre-work and rehearsals with the Hubs and Centres.
A huge thank you to Divisional Leader Jonathon Rouffet, who warmly welcomed everyone and shared the story of Christmas between performances, inspiring us all with the true meaning of the season.
Our fabulous Café added to the festive spirit by serving hot chocolate and treats for everyone after the show, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Special thanks go to our amazing staff across all centres for organising residents to attend and for their enthusiastic participation. They came in large numbers, joined the singalongs, and brought their brilliant Christmas spirits with them!"
"We are so thankful to everyone who joined us to celebrate this joyous occasion. Your support means the world to us! ❤️"
Galway's "The Bish"
on
World Teachers Day!
West Coast!
East Coast!
Dundalk Delights.
Dundalk is a bright, rich, vibrant town. Like so many of the communities I get to work in around Ireland.
It also has this lovely Square with water features and cafés. So when it was coming to the end of this project with the IWA's School Leavers group, the thought crossed our minds to make use of this space.
We're talking celebrating life, in all it's fullness and positivity.
So we did. And it was brilliant.
(Their own words are below)
Irish Wheelchair Association
Students from our Dundalk School Leavers Service took over Dundalk Square on Monday to showcase their Samba Drumming skills , bringing a wonderful beat to the heart of the town.
They put on a wonderful musical show for their families, friends and members of the public, bringing a smile to the faces of everyone around.
After working with Kieran from Kada Ka Boom Arts over the past 6 weeks they wanted to show the community what they learned.
They brought, entertainment, music, dancing and joy to everyone in Dundalk whilst having fun
We would like to say a massive thank you to Kieran for introducing us to Samba music and for teaching all the students and staff a new exciting skill.
Students from our Dundalk School Leavers Service took over Dundalk Square on Monday to showcase their Samba Drumming skills , bringing a wonderful beat to the heart of the town.
They put on a wonderful musical show for their families, friends and members of the public, bringing a smile to the faces of everyone around.
After working with Kieran from Kada Ka Boom Arts over the past 6 weeks they wanted to show the community what they learned.
They brought, entertainment, music, dancing and joy to everyone in Dundalk whilst having fun
We would like to say a massive thank you to Kieran for introducing us to Samba music and for teaching all the students and staff a new exciting skill.
To Drogheda we are Bound!
Holistic (Percussive) Harmonies
An adventure of a more mature nature for the drums of Kada Ka Boom Arts today.
As part of a Creative Cavan programme, Cavan County Council has allocated funding to deliver music workshops entitled "Holistic Harmonies – Music in Nursing Homes." Over these next few weeks.
Well, Leitrim/Sligo (and probably several other places) artist, Peter Crann, hooked up KadaKaBoomArts.com to the project.
And today we embarked on a percussive harmonies journey with two of Cavan's nursing homes. Castle manor and Sullivan Centre. Folk grooved, laughed, almost gave out about the noise... just until they realised they were the ones making it. And genuinely engaged and enjoyed all there was to offer. Staff eyebrows were raised on several occasions as they spotted one or two of their residents allowing their percussive talents to come to the fore.
It was brilliant and there's more to come.
As part of a Creative Cavan programme, Cavan County Council has allocated funding to deliver music workshops entitled "Holistic Harmonies – Music in Nursing Homes." Over these next few weeks.
Well, Leitrim/Sligo (and probably several other places) artist, Peter Crann, hooked up KadaKaBoomArts.com to the project.
And today we embarked on a percussive harmonies journey with two of Cavan's nursing homes. Castle manor and Sullivan Centre. Folk grooved, laughed, almost gave out about the noise... just until they realised they were the ones making it. And genuinely engaged and enjoyed all there was to offer. Staff eyebrows were raised on several occasions as they spotted one or two of their residents allowing their percussive talents to come to the fore.
It was brilliant and there's more to come.
Darkness into Light, St. Patrick's SNS
A wonderful early start this morning, as St. Patrick's Senior NS, Corduff, Dublin, took it upon themselves to include their school community in this weekend's Darkness Into Light event.
Obviously, the school isn't actually open at 4:15 am on a Saturday morning, so they reinvented the moment by having their own walk an hour before school started this very morning.
Proof that education ain't all about what happens within the classroom... Or, at least, not for these guys.
Brilliant!
Obviously, the school isn't actually open at 4:15 am on a Saturday morning, so they reinvented the moment by having their own walk an hour before school started this very morning.
Proof that education ain't all about what happens within the classroom... Or, at least, not for these guys.
Brilliant!
Scoil Chaitríona's Intercultural Day 2024
Ah, from just over a week ago.
Some screenshots from Scoil Chaitríona's Intercultural Day.
Some screenshots from Scoil Chaitríona's Intercultural Day.
One of my more unusual settings for today's Samba Drumming and Percussion workshops.... and I'm greeted to a parade of children, dressed in traditional costume and the sound of Lisa, our principal, announcing "28 different nationalities...how lucky are we."
All for their annual International Day celebration. Cool.
That'll do me!
All for their annual International Day celebration. Cool.
That'll do me!
The Mad Hatters
Ballymoney Spring Fair 2024
The Mad Hatters
Ballymoney Spring Fair 2024
Antrim Coast bound with The Mad Hatters.
The Ballymoney Spring Fair has become a wonderful way to kick into the Sunshine for the last few years.
How they manage to get the sunshine, to agree to turn up, is a highly guarded secret in those parts.
Here's a few snippets of fun from our afternoons adventures.
Ballymoney Spring Fair 2024
Antrim Coast bound with The Mad Hatters.
The Ballymoney Spring Fair has become a wonderful way to kick into the Sunshine for the last few years.
How they manage to get the sunshine, to agree to turn up, is a highly guarded secret in those parts.
Here's a few snippets of fun from our afternoons adventures.
Click images below!
Not quite a month later and only now do I manage to get a look at the official St. Patrick's Day video from Drogheda. Bang Bang Visual once again pulling out all the stops to bring the rich vibrancy of Drogheda Festivals to life on the digital screen.
As the the Artistic Director the Droichead Arts Centre 's "Droichead" project it was and adventure and a wonderful experience. We brought together an art centre's Director, five professional award winning artists, two primary schools, Drogheda's special Olympics team, two Drogheda musicians, an award winning choreographer, the Droichead Youth theatre and the Drogheda and District Men's Shed organisation.
All to create just one entry for the towns St. Patrick's Day parade.
These community arts projects hold a value for it's community as well as every individual involved. And it's a positive and long lasting one too.
The Children gained knowledge, experience and enjoyment, the artists got to explore even more historical aspects of their area, the community organisations got to engage and influence its direction the towns people got to see a mini show take place in front of their eyes... and all for free!
None of this takes place without a lot of time and effort from a lot of people and organisations. Which, I'm delighted to say, was recognised by the official parade committee on their awards night.
I'll only mention The Droichead Arts Centre in this post, as everything that happened, happened thanks to this organisation. This professional organisation. This community organisation. This wonderfully creative organisation.
Thank you!
I'm delighted to tell you all, that there's loads still happening and lots more to come.
Get a look at "droichead.com" and see how you can enjoy their work over these next few months. Be it , getting your hands dirty in the process or, equally as valuable, just being an audience member.
You won't regret it.
As the the Artistic Director the Droichead Arts Centre 's "Droichead" project it was and adventure and a wonderful experience. We brought together an art centre's Director, five professional award winning artists, two primary schools, Drogheda's special Olympics team, two Drogheda musicians, an award winning choreographer, the Droichead Youth theatre and the Drogheda and District Men's Shed organisation.
All to create just one entry for the towns St. Patrick's Day parade.
These community arts projects hold a value for it's community as well as every individual involved. And it's a positive and long lasting one too.
The Children gained knowledge, experience and enjoyment, the artists got to explore even more historical aspects of their area, the community organisations got to engage and influence its direction the towns people got to see a mini show take place in front of their eyes... and all for free!
None of this takes place without a lot of time and effort from a lot of people and organisations. Which, I'm delighted to say, was recognised by the official parade committee on their awards night.
I'll only mention The Droichead Arts Centre in this post, as everything that happened, happened thanks to this organisation. This professional organisation. This community organisation. This wonderfully creative organisation.
Thank you!
I'm delighted to tell you all, that there's loads still happening and lots more to come.
Get a look at "droichead.com" and see how you can enjoy their work over these next few months. Be it , getting your hands dirty in the process or, equally as valuable, just being an audience member.
You won't regret it.
Droichead Arts Centre's
St. Patrick's Parade
Droichead Arts Centre's have round up the Award winning team for their participation in this year's St. Patrick's day parade Drogheda.
Kada Ka Boom Arts is delighted to be taking on its role within the nitty gritty of it all.
Creatively, it's a crew that have two major padgents under their belts. Last year's award winning Salmon of Knowledge for the same event and the hugely successful Spooks Parade 2023.
With community groups and schools being brought in too, it should make a brilliant portrait of community arts in Drogheda.
Kada Ka Boom Arts is delighted to be taking on its role within the nitty gritty of it all.
Creatively, it's a crew that have two major padgents under their belts. Last year's award winning Salmon of Knowledge for the same event and the hugely successful Spooks Parade 2023.
With community groups and schools being brought in too, it should make a brilliant portrait of community arts in Drogheda.
2023!
Come see the Mythical Celtic Powers of The Cailleach, as she brings the storms and darkness of winter to our lives.
Her cold chill will grimacely make it's way across Drogheda's Ancient West street to eventually enhabit the surrounds of the 13th century Laurences Gate.
Yet, even in Winter, Morrígan's crow form thrives and battles with the long eared Irish Owl only to dance with delight their way into the darkness of the Irish winter nights.
Her cold chill will grimacely make it's way across Drogheda's Ancient West street to eventually enhabit the surrounds of the 13th century Laurences Gate.
Yet, even in Winter, Morrígan's crow form thrives and battles with the long eared Irish Owl only to dance with delight their way into the darkness of the Irish winter nights.
Back with a Bang!
With the holidays all behind us, it is on the road for some Absurdist Pipe Band shows.
First up.
Dalbeattie Civic Daze.
Down near the borders in Scotland, the community gather all their hive minds together to celebrate an identity of fun and creativity. And, as old friends of the community, The Absurdist Pipe Band gladly accepted the invited booking.
Our second show took place at
Lochgelly's Gala day.
Up in the kingdom of Fife, we paraded and performed for the hundreds that came out to support the event.
Craic was had by all, we made some new friends and now, with some tired but contented clown feet, we all make our separate ways back home.
First up.
Dalbeattie Civic Daze.
Down near the borders in Scotland, the community gather all their hive minds together to celebrate an identity of fun and creativity. And, as old friends of the community, The Absurdist Pipe Band gladly accepted the invited booking.
Our second show took place at
Lochgelly's Gala day.
Up in the kingdom of Fife, we paraded and performed for the hundreds that came out to support the event.
Craic was had by all, we made some new friends and now, with some tired but contented clown feet, we all make our separate ways back home.
Dundalk Pride 2023
Dundalk folk not letting the rain spoil their Pride day with a little help from
SofaSamba!
SofaSamba!
Workshopping in the heart of the capital!
MucknoMania 2023!
The children just kept turning up at this years MucknoMania...seemed wrong to so no,
so,
Lets do it.
so,
Lets do it.
Back in the Groove.
The Gathering.
Loud in Louth
dis-ABILITY LOUTH have engaged the drums of KadaKaBoomArts.com for March to travel all over Ireland's wee county in, what betweens us we've called the "Loud in Louth" project.
The pic below is from just one of the sessions we had either side of St. Patrick's day in the more than fabulous St. Ita's Special School, Drogheda.
The pic below is from just one of the sessions we had either side of St. Patrick's day in the more than fabulous St. Ita's Special School, Drogheda.
It's a Bank Holiday a month for the first 6 months of the year nowadays.
St. Brigid rules the roost for February but the focus for KadaKaBoomArts.com is on the next one. St. Patrick's day...or weekend encompasses the beautiful towns of Drogheda and Kilkenny as The Absurdist Pipe Band arrives in both towns over the weekend.
More to come...
More to come...
And we are off!
Lots and lost of doing, seeing, planning and being, here in KadaKaBoomArts.com land.
St. Patrick & St. Brigid
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With St. Brigid's day becoming a new Irish bank holiday this year, plans for St. Patrick's day need to get into motion a little sooner. And, The Droichead Arts Center, snuggling comfortably at the heart of the Arts community in Drogheda have set things in motion already.
Artists have gathered, pencils have scribbled on pages and schools and community groups have been contacted. Plans are afoot for an extra special entry in this years Drogheda St. Patrick's Day parade. One may have her Cloak… but the other one knows how to have the craic. Keep you posted. |
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Sacred Heart of Drogheda?
How brilliant it is to start the year off with a four-week serious of sessions in the very home of KadaKaBoomArts.com… Drogheda!
The host is the Sacred Heart secondary school’s 4 transition years classes. And you couldn’t ask for more positive energy than the vibe this group of teenagers supply you with. Manners, politeness, smiles and engagement, sure what more could you want. There was even a cup of tea and biscuits laid on the very first morning! (Thank you)
Click the pic and it should bring you to their Instagram page where spans and a snippet of a video of their mornings work can be seen.
The host is the Sacred Heart secondary school’s 4 transition years classes. And you couldn’t ask for more positive energy than the vibe this group of teenagers supply you with. Manners, politeness, smiles and engagement, sure what more could you want. There was even a cup of tea and biscuits laid on the very first morning! (Thank you)
Click the pic and it should bring you to their Instagram page where spans and a snippet of a video of their mornings work can be seen.
KadaKaBoomArts.com
made the
Ardgillan Community News
A wonderful return to Ardgillian Community college this month for a couple of days drumming with all of their Transition year classes.
Video snippets can be found on their Instagram news page.
Just click the image below for the link.
Video snippets can be found on their Instagram news page.
Just click the image below for the link.
KadaKaBoomArts
Christmas
Christmas concerts, Street Performances and some Ho Ho Ho entertainment has KadaKaBoomArts.com’s December, just about summed up!
In Dublin
The Swan center, amongst many other schools and community groups, had visits from the Big Man in Red courtesy of KadaKaBoomArts.com
In Scotland
The Absurdist Pipe Band were in cities, towns and villages big and small launching and celebrating their Christmas festivities!
In Kilkenny
Castlecomer City Center grooved to Rhythm Riots Christmas show.
In Waterford
The Mad Hatters launched the cities Christmas festivities.
Spooks Parade 2022
More Mad Hatters!
The Mad Hatters
Christmas Craic
Full of noise, fun, colour and Christmas Craic!
Meandering through parades, streets and watching crowds, engaging the imagnation with their 3 foot tall, light up hats and carnival percussion.
Continuing to bring great excitement and loads of fun for hearts, young and old.
The Absurdist Pipe Band's
Blotto and Schloppi Show!
The Absurdist Pipe Band's
"Blotto and Schloppi Show"
The two piece show, encapsulates the ridiculousness of the Absurdists with their seasonally tasteful tunes, but nonsense carrying on. Honking, squeaking and following of folk in and around the streets, shops (kitchens) and more whilst serenading all to the live backing sounds of the big bass drum and banjolele to the tunes of Rudolph, Santa's coming to town, jingle Bells and more.
Things heating up??
Well actually No.
Cooling down, but in a busy way!
As the remains of the bonfires smoke themselves out, we hit the month of November.
The leaves are truly falling now and the temperatures have finally officially dropped to below 10 degrees.
The drums of KadaKaBoomArts.com are about to set some kilometers under themselves with trips Galway’s Bish secondary school, Wexford’s Loretto secondary school as well returns to Balbriggan’s Educate together secondary school and (one of my favorites) St. Patrick's junior and senior primary schools in Corduff.
There is a session in there planned exclusive for teachers too and we join up forces with Tusla at the end of the month.
AND, the
Back in The Groove 2
“The Gathering”
is to happen all through this month.
As a reminder of what Back in the Groove project is all about…here is what we did last year…
The leaves are truly falling now and the temperatures have finally officially dropped to below 10 degrees.
The drums of KadaKaBoomArts.com are about to set some kilometers under themselves with trips Galway’s Bish secondary school, Wexford’s Loretto secondary school as well returns to Balbriggan’s Educate together secondary school and (one of my favorites) St. Patrick's junior and senior primary schools in Corduff.
There is a session in there planned exclusive for teachers too and we join up forces with Tusla at the end of the month.
AND, the
Back in The Groove 2
“The Gathering”
is to happen all through this month.
As a reminder of what Back in the Groove project is all about…here is what we did last year…
Spooks Media Coverage
I'd like to pass on a great big thank you to all the local media who brought such a positive vibe to the town of Drogheda in their coverage of The Spooks Parade 2022.
Drogheda Independent for their fabulous write up and images of the performance and performers.
DroghedaLife.com for helping me get the word out beforehand of the where's and when's in their wonderfully fun and energetic way.
And the DroghedaLeader.ie for not just their post parade coverage but also their on the spot live newsfeed coverage of the parade as it happened.
(still getting hits..Check out https://fb.watch/gzkPhsz9X0/)
I think ye are all a bit brilliant!
Drogheda Independent for their fabulous write up and images of the performance and performers.
DroghedaLife.com for helping me get the word out beforehand of the where's and when's in their wonderfully fun and energetic way.
And the DroghedaLeader.ie for not just their post parade coverage but also their on the spot live newsfeed coverage of the parade as it happened.
(still getting hits..Check out https://fb.watch/gzkPhsz9X0/)
I think ye are all a bit brilliant!
Spooks Parade
2022
"Dance or be Doomed"
“Dance or be Doomed” at this year’s Spooks Parade, set to take place in Drogheda this Friday 28th at 4pm.
Travelling from one end of the ancient town to the other, it starts at Barlow House and completes its goulash journey at St. Laurence’s Gate.
A pageant just full to the brim of creative folk from in and around the surrounds of Drogheda. All thanks to KadaKaBoomArts.com and the Droichead Arts Centre’s “Leanbh Children Festival”.
These include Kid Kast/Kid Kast Productions, Abbey Dance Studio’s Tracy Martin, St Brigid’s/St Patricks school and Presentation Ballymakenny school. The Brian Murphy Brass Quintet, The Samba Mammas and the Kada Ka Boom Crew.
Leading them off will be Kid Kast and thrie choreographed four piece, seven-foot tall, “The Skeleton Crew” show, with their big boggled eyes wickedly dancing their way throughout the streets.
The Abbey Dance studios Tracy Martin re-engages her role as chief choreographer for the parade, working this year with two schools. St. Brigid’s / St Patricks in Bóthar Brugha and the Presentation school in Ballymakenny.
“It has been just a great opportunity to engage with these young folk. Their enthusiasm is infectious. Full of energy and all are eager to show off their talents on Friday.”
Joining them will be the especially devised Brian Murphy Brass Quintet. A crew made up of a host of local musicians, they will be musically traversing there way from the solemn tones of Chopin’s downtrodden Funeral March, to the uplifting, spirits rousing, “Oh when the Saints come marching in”. Percussion will be provided by some of the towns finest musicians which this year include The Samba Mammas and the Kada Ka Boom Crew
One of the hopes of Kieran Gallagher, the artistic Director and original creator of the Spooks Parade, is that lots of folk will bring their children down not only to watch and enjoy the event but also to participate in the parade too.
“I’ve always loved seeing the children watching, all dressed up, in all sorts of costumes. This year we’d love if they joined us in the parade.
Just register at [email protected]
and you’ll be invited to march along with us.”
Kieran concluded by saying “I love the way his years Leanbh Children’s festival has had a focus of engaging children in their own environments, bringing the arts into so many of the children’s actual schools. The Spooks Parade just runs perfectly with the same theme as we bring our fancy dress Halloween parade into the middle of the children’s own town center.
Making the best positive memories for the future.
Travelling from one end of the ancient town to the other, it starts at Barlow House and completes its goulash journey at St. Laurence’s Gate.
A pageant just full to the brim of creative folk from in and around the surrounds of Drogheda. All thanks to KadaKaBoomArts.com and the Droichead Arts Centre’s “Leanbh Children Festival”.
These include Kid Kast/Kid Kast Productions, Abbey Dance Studio’s Tracy Martin, St Brigid’s/St Patricks school and Presentation Ballymakenny school. The Brian Murphy Brass Quintet, The Samba Mammas and the Kada Ka Boom Crew.
Leading them off will be Kid Kast and thrie choreographed four piece, seven-foot tall, “The Skeleton Crew” show, with their big boggled eyes wickedly dancing their way throughout the streets.
The Abbey Dance studios Tracy Martin re-engages her role as chief choreographer for the parade, working this year with two schools. St. Brigid’s / St Patricks in Bóthar Brugha and the Presentation school in Ballymakenny.
“It has been just a great opportunity to engage with these young folk. Their enthusiasm is infectious. Full of energy and all are eager to show off their talents on Friday.”
Joining them will be the especially devised Brian Murphy Brass Quintet. A crew made up of a host of local musicians, they will be musically traversing there way from the solemn tones of Chopin’s downtrodden Funeral March, to the uplifting, spirits rousing, “Oh when the Saints come marching in”. Percussion will be provided by some of the towns finest musicians which this year include The Samba Mammas and the Kada Ka Boom Crew
One of the hopes of Kieran Gallagher, the artistic Director and original creator of the Spooks Parade, is that lots of folk will bring their children down not only to watch and enjoy the event but also to participate in the parade too.
“I’ve always loved seeing the children watching, all dressed up, in all sorts of costumes. This year we’d love if they joined us in the parade.
Just register at [email protected]
and you’ll be invited to march along with us.”
Kieran concluded by saying “I love the way his years Leanbh Children’s festival has had a focus of engaging children in their own environments, bringing the arts into so many of the children’s actual schools. The Spooks Parade just runs perfectly with the same theme as we bring our fancy dress Halloween parade into the middle of the children’s own town center.
Making the best positive memories for the future.
The Spooks Parade 2022.
"Dance or be Doomed"
It all begins with the oversized headed skulls of “The Skeleton Crew” leading a grim bunch of ghoulish hooded characters in a Chopin style funeral march out onto the ancient streets of Drogheda. Grimly and desperately sad, they drag their doomed souls all across the town…dining on any ounce of goodness that can be found.
As bleak a way as it can ever get.
But, just when all hope is looking lost…Suddenly the loud shrill of a trumpet can be heard
Like an awakening call from the heavens above, the gathered crowd of moaning mourners all erupt into a full-on, New Orleans style carnival celebration. The party atmosphere takes over as heads, arms and umbrellas are all raised skyward in a dance-tastic celebration of life. Cheers and shouts of “Oh When the Saints…” can be heard. All accompanied by the tuneful tones of trumpets, trombones, and big old bass drums. Cymbals are smashed and the sky is a flood of purple and orange dancing umbrellas. All held in the youthful, energetic and choreographed hands of Drogheda’s future visionaries.
As bleak a way as it can ever get.
But, just when all hope is looking lost…Suddenly the loud shrill of a trumpet can be heard
Like an awakening call from the heavens above, the gathered crowd of moaning mourners all erupt into a full-on, New Orleans style carnival celebration. The party atmosphere takes over as heads, arms and umbrellas are all raised skyward in a dance-tastic celebration of life. Cheers and shouts of “Oh When the Saints…” can be heard. All accompanied by the tuneful tones of trumpets, trombones, and big old bass drums. Cymbals are smashed and the sky is a flood of purple and orange dancing umbrellas. All held in the youthful, energetic and choreographed hands of Drogheda’s future visionaries.
How to get involved?
Your little spook can be part of The Spooks Parade by simply registering at
[email protected]
And coming down to West street, all dressed up in their own fancy dress costume.
When indicated by our official, step in behind our dancers and in front of the Samba Mamma's.
It all finishes not too far away, just up at Laurence's Gate. Where we will have one final chorus of music and then send all monsters, witches, skeletons, super heroes, princesses and all of the rest...
home!
Parents/Guardians are welcome stay/hold the hand with their child within in the parade.
Your little spook can be part of The Spooks Parade by simply registering at
[email protected]
And coming down to West street, all dressed up in their own fancy dress costume.
When indicated by our official, step in behind our dancers and in front of the Samba Mamma's.
It all finishes not too far away, just up at Laurence's Gate. Where we will have one final chorus of music and then send all monsters, witches, skeletons, super heroes, princesses and all of the rest...
home!
Parents/Guardians are welcome stay/hold the hand with their child within in the parade.
Friday
28th October 2022, Barlow House, Narrow West street Drogheda
To
Laurence's Gate
4pm
It's all festivals and Entertainment
For
August.
In these shoes? I don't think so.
Irish Bank Holiday Tour 2022
29th July - Waterford Spraoi
Walkabout performance starting at John Roberts Square at 3.30pm, 4.30pm & 5.30pm.
https://spraoi.com/
30th July - Birr Vintage & Arts Festival.
Festival Market, Arts Hub @ The Old Courthouse Yard and all over town for the afternoon.
31st July - Birr Vintage & Arts Festival.
3pm Vintage Sunday Parade.
https://www.birrvintageweek.com/home
1st August - Kilmihil Festival of Fun.
Festival Parade 1pm and onwards from there!
https://m.facebook.com/KilmihilFOF/
Irish Bank Holiday Tour 2022
29th July - Waterford Spraoi
Walkabout performance starting at John Roberts Square at 3.30pm, 4.30pm & 5.30pm.
https://spraoi.com/
30th July - Birr Vintage & Arts Festival.
Festival Market, Arts Hub @ The Old Courthouse Yard and all over town for the afternoon.
31st July - Birr Vintage & Arts Festival.
3pm Vintage Sunday Parade.
https://www.birrvintageweek.com/home
1st August - Kilmihil Festival of Fun.
Festival Parade 1pm and onwards from there!
https://m.facebook.com/KilmihilFOF/
Ah here...hould on, I'm not there yet...
Qualified ‘n’ all now!
I officially received my qualifications from Corduff JNS first class to say what a “Great Job” and what “Excellent Ukulele Playing” I have done over the last year.
And I know it is official because it was signed….by everyone.
And I know it is official because it was signed….by everyone.
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Absurdity comes to Drogheda!
The Absurdist Pipe Band spent a ridiculously pleasant afternoon in Drogheda, enjoying all the culture and craic the town has to offer.
It was all part of Drogheda’s Saturday afternoon street entertainment to add to the vibe that is always buzzing around these parts..
Big thanks to “Drogheda Loves Bids”
It was all part of Drogheda’s Saturday afternoon street entertainment to add to the vibe that is always buzzing around these parts..
Big thanks to “Drogheda Loves Bids”
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Balmoral Bound
Funky Pirates!
Arrghh!
The Funky Pirates made their rough way to The Northern Ireland 2022 Balmoral Show.
And its never been beyond these guys to do the odd Cha Cha Cha…
And its never been beyond these guys to do the odd Cha Cha Cha…
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Drogheda Urban Art Trail
To celebrate the launch of "Drawda. Drogheda's Urban Art Trail" a special launch took place in the Old Abbey, Drogheda. Drums, food, music and creativity were order for the day.
With six Murals depicting Irelands mythical legends and God's placed all over the town, it seemed very appropriate that all the groove linked directly into the stories. Dagda, Salmon of Knowledge and Boann, to name a few. Excellent work from Drogheda Bids and the Droichead Arts Centre.
With six Murals depicting Irelands mythical legends and God's placed all over the town, it seemed very appropriate that all the groove linked directly into the stories. Dagda, Salmon of Knowledge and Boann, to name a few. Excellent work from Drogheda Bids and the Droichead Arts Centre.
The Cheek!
How dare this piping IMPOSTER
try to get in on our act as The Absurdist Pipe Band at Daniel and Michelle’s
Easter Saturday wedding in Ardgowan House, Scotland.
Sure, he didn’t even try to dress up!
try to get in on our act as The Absurdist Pipe Band at Daniel and Michelle’s
Easter Saturday wedding in Ardgowan House, Scotland.
Sure, he didn’t even try to dress up!
Ballymoney Spring Fare 2022 playing host to The Mad Hatters!
It's our first return to the festival scene and what a beautiful day it turned out to be. Our colourful sights and sounds were greeted with the best of smiles from folk of all ages.
The "Toon" (as folk up here call it) you played a blinder. Thank you.
It's our first return to the festival scene and what a beautiful day it turned out to be. Our colourful sights and sounds were greeted with the best of smiles from folk of all ages.
The "Toon" (as folk up here call it) you played a blinder. Thank you.
“On line we go”
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Hi Folks and welcome to the worlds of Kieran Gallagher and Kada Ka Boom Arts.
Here you will be able to find out about all the different elements that go into making
Kada Ka Boom Arts including the
Samba drumming and Percussion workshops
Zoom Body Percussion Workshops
Costume Creation Workshops,
&
The Mad Hatters
The Absurdist Pipe Band
The Funky Pirates
The Skeleton Crew
+
More Seasonal performances.
Also find out about the
Musician and Entertainer,
Kieran Gallagher
and the many different antics that he gets up to that don’t quite fit into the usual categories.
