Friday night ceilidhs

The Benevolent Irish Society (BIS) will welcome established and emerging PEI talent to this year’s season of Friday night ceilidhs. The weekly series features 18 family-friendly shows running from May 22 to September 25 at 7:30 pm at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown. The performances showcase PEI musicians, storytellers, dancers, and special guests.

“We celebrate our province’s Irish culture and heritage throughout the year,” says Kathy Roney, Chair of the BIS Social and Ceilidh Committee. “Our audiences especially love our authentic ceilidh, traditionally an event that brings communities together with music, dance, and song. It is a favourite among Islanders and tourists alike.”

The opening ceilidh on May 22 will feature Fiddlers’ Sons (Eddy Quinn, John B. Webster), Blu Gillis, fiddler Fiona MacCorquodale, and step dancers Grace Sulis-Chiasson and Lillianna Bradley. On May 29, Michael Pendergast and The Pendys will perform with special guest Ray MacDonald, fiddler Flora MacLaine, and step dancers Grace Sulis-Chiasson and Lillianna Bradley.

The two-hour shows include a 50/50 draw and light refreshments at intermission. Advance tickets may be purchased online at Locarius.io, or with cash at the door, if seating is available. Doors open at 6:30 pm.

The Irish Cultural Centre is located at 582 North River Road in Charlottetown. It is air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible, and free parking is available. Visit benevolentirishsocietyofpei.com for more information.