Solas

Solas is lighting up stages across the globe as they celebrate three decades of pushing boundaries and honoring traditions in Irish music. Hailed by The Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced,” and by The Wall Street Journal as “an Irish traditional band bearing all the marks of greatness,” Solas continues to captivate audiences with their spellbinding musicianship and genre-defying creativity.

Formed in New York City in 1995, Solas quickly rose to prominence as a revolutionary force in Irish-American music. The very first iteration of Solas brought together a lineup of extraordinary talent including multi-instrumentalist Séamus Egan, fiddler Winifred Horan, vocalist Karan Casey, guitarist John Doyle, and accordionist John Williams. Together, they redefined the Celtic sound for a new generation, weaving traditional Irish tunes with elements of folk, bluegrass, Americana, and contemporary songwriting.

Now, with twelve critically acclaimed albums and a reputation for dynamic, emotionally charged live performances, Solas has set new standards for musicianship, repertoire, and intensity. Their debut album Solas (1996) established a bold new voice in traditional music, and each subsequent release has showcased the band’s remarkable ability to tell stories that resonate across time and cultures.

Among their most ambitious works is the 2013 concept album Shamrock City, a deeply personal project inspired by Egan’s great-great-uncle, who immigrated from Ireland to the mining town of Butte, Montana in the early 1900s. The album is a powerful meditation on immigrant identity, labor struggles, and lost dreams, and it solidified Solas’ reputation as not only virtuosic musicians but evocative storytellers.

Their 2016 release, All These Years, marked the band’s 20th anniversary and featured contributions from every past and present member. It was both a celebration of their journey and a showcase of their creative evolution.

While the band has seen various lineup changes over the years, the spirit of innovation and reverence for Irish tradition has remained constant. As Solas takes to the road for this milestone tour, they’re joined by a stellar lineup that honors the band’s legacy while lighting the way forward. Founding members Seamus Egan, Winifred Horan, and John Williams are joined by guitarist Alan Murray and – depending on the night – audiences will be treated to the luminous vocals and flute work of Irish folk star Nuala Kennedy or the genre-defying brilliance of multi-instrumentalist and vocal polyglot Moira Smiley. Each performance promises its own unique magic, as these world-class artists breathe new life into the band’s rich and ever-evolving soundscape.

This powerhouse ensemble brings the magic of Solas to life in a performance that promises to be both a homecoming and a new beginning. Audiences can expect an unforgettable musical journey filled with driving rhythms, soaring melodies, and heartfelt vocals that pay tribute to Irish roots while embracing new creative frontiers.

Solas’ music has always existed at the intersection of tradition and transformation. Whether interpreting a centuries-old ballad or unveiling an original composition, the band approaches each piece with curiosity, skill, and deep emotional resonance. Their ability to evolve without losing their essence has made them a cornerstone of the Celtic music scene and an inspiration to countless artists.

As Solas marks their 30th anniversary as a band, they invite longtime fans and new listeners alike to join the celebration!

photo credit: Matthew Muise

Celtic Angels Christmas

Let the Celtic Angels Christmas whisk you into the heart of the season with a radiant celebration of Irish charm and holiday cheer. This glittering showcase blends timeless Christmas classics with beloved Irish melodies, creating an unforgettable evening from the very first note.

Step into the wonder of an Irish Christmas as The Celtic Angels surround you with soaring vocals, lively spirit, and pure festive magic.  Experience the exhilarating artistry of The Celtic Knights, world-class Irish step dancers from Ireland and Scotland, brought to life by the vibrant, high-energy sound of the Trinity Ensemble.

Featuring the luminous voices of Victoria Sexton, Aoife Barrett, Jessica Hayes and Maryann Lynch—alongside the mesmerizing fiddle brilliance of Myn Fitzpatrick—these powerhouse performers, all hailing from the Emerald Isle, captivate with breathtaking vocals and harmonies that will stay with you long after the final bow.

Under the direction and choreography of Belfast’s own Sarah Costello Hyland ADCRG, with assistant director Dan Drew, the show transports you on a heartwarming journey through snowy streets and cozy Irish snugs, where dancing is encouraged, sing-a-longs are inevitable, and good craic is guaranteed.