Country to raise a glass for Arthur’s Day

OVER 1,000 musicians will play 500 free music events in local pubs across Ireland to mark this year’s Arthur’s Day celebrations.

A number of tasty acts have been added to the bill including Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro, Dublin chart toppers Kodaline and Meath indie rock outfit Ham Sandwich.

They will be performing in ticketed and surprise pubs alongside a stellar line-up of Irish and international music acts on September 26.

The other announced acts include The Script, James Vincent McMorrow, The Original Rudeboys, Girl Band, Bouts, Manic Street Preachers, Emeli Sandé, Janelle Monáe, Daley and the legendary Bobby Womack.

As has been the case in pervious years, the full line-up of who will play where will remain a secret until the night itself.

However, tickets for five specific music events are now on sale for e10, with proceeds going to the creative and cultural Arthur Guinness Projects initiative.

Fans can buy tickets to the pub venues including Dakota and Whelan’s in Dublin, Lavery’s of Belfast, Nancy Blake’s in Limerick and Rearden’s in Cork.

But there will also be a choice of 500 free music events featuring the best of Ireland’s musical talent playing in local pubs across all 32 counties.

Northsiders Kodaline said Arthur’s Day was really special to them.

“It’s great to be part of something where over a thousand Irish musicians will perform as part of one huge music event on the same night all over the country, and all in local pubs,

? the lads said.

“There are a lot of talented musicians out there that find it hard to be heard, so it’s good to get a platform to showcase their music and get some new fans.

?

Fellow musicians Ham Sandwich added:

“It’s great to be part of the music line up for September 26. The Arthur’s Day team also told us about how some local pubs will be transformed into creative spaces showcasing local talent outside of music.

“It’s cool to let other art forms have a platform to breathe outside of a gallery or studio.

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This year, Arthur’s Day will support, promote and showcase the next generation of Ireland’s passionate artists, sports fanatics, and food lovers who are creating and inspiring positive change in Ireland.

Guinness is also collaborating with over 20 publicans and Arthur Guinness Projects’ applicants to transform their local pubs into creative hubs for Arthur’s Day.

Further details will be revealed closer to the day.

As well as the music, the home of Guinness, the Storehouse at St James’s Gate Brewery will be transformed into a creative hub showcasing Ireland’s talent and creativity.

Visitors will be treated to impromptu performances, design illustrations and carnival sets, bringing to life the cultural contributions of Guinness throughout the years from 1759 right through to today.

And to add to the excitement, 500 lucky

‘Golden Ticket’ holders will be invited to experience a daytime live music performance from a renowned Irish artist, as well as being treated to an innovative food event showcasing the best of local produce.

A selection of the 2013 Arthur Guinness Projects’ applicants and winners will also be showcased at the Storehouse in video and photographic displays.

Millions of people across Europe, Indonesia, Malaysia, The Caribbean and Australia will be taking part in the Arthur’s Day 2013 celebrations.