Amazing Ruaile Buaile to headline charity event in Mullingar

The sensation that is Ruaile Buaile will headline a very special evening of music in Platform 5@ Clarke’s bar, Mullingar, on Thursday February 29 for a Benefit Night in aid of local man Thomas ‘Toss’ Maher and family.

It will be the first time Ruaile Buaile have played in Mullingar since their hugely successful gigs at the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil last August when they entertained 1,500 people each night for four sell-out concerts. They will be joined by a host of other local artists for what will be a unique charity event and a very special night of music and song.

Included in the line-up are well-known local groups DG and Dec and Two Doors Down, while it is planned to add a number of other local artists in the coming days. All involved are donating their time for free to what is a very worthy cause.

Ruaile Buaile have been together for 13 years and from humble beginnings, have grown into one of the most recognisable names in folk music. Along with Ballinagore singer and guitarist Niall Kelly, there’s Cathal Guinan on fiddle, Sean Bourke on banjo, Jack Godley (percussion) and Shane Lynam (vocals and base).

From upbeat old Irish favourites to ground-thumping trad, and unique twists on recent day classics, Ruaile Buaile have been busy bringing rousing concerts around the country.

The hugely successful group are thrilled to be returning to Mullingar again and are proud to be associated with this charity gig. Naturally, they have special memories of their time at the Fleadh Cheoil and hope to relive some of those experiences on February 29 in what is a unique Mullingar music venue.

Platform 5 was only opened last year by the Kieran and Carrie Clarke and family and has made a major impression on all music aficionados.

Doors open at 7pm on Thursday, February 29 and tickets, priced at €15 each, are on sale locally. A raffle will take place on the evening, prizes for which are being donated by local businesses.

Toss sustained life-changing injuries earlier this year and has been hospitalised for the past five weeks.

Damien Maher, a member of the organising committee and a first cousin of Toss said local people are keen to show their support to the family at what is a very traumatic time in their lives.

“Toss is such a big character, a unique personality and totally dedicated family man. This is devastating for them and we just want to ease their burden in whatever way we can, and let them know people are thinking of them and ready to lend support. We're delighted to have such talented artists giving generously of their time and really appreciate the support of the Clarke family," he said.

Tickets will be available in Clarke’s bar and from various committee members.

Anyone wishing to donate spot prizes or purchase tickets can contact Damien on 087 6506301.