'RíRá Mullingar' chronicles the Fleadh's homecoming

One hundred and thirty six pages of exquisite photography chronicles the homecoming of Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann to Mullingar in, RíRá Mullingar: a Fleadh Cheoil Chronicle.

The new publication from film maker, photographer and storyteller, Noel McIntyre, a book launch takes place in the Mullingar Park Hotel this Wednesday November 8 at 7.30pm.

Noel is inviting guests to attend a two-hour extravaganza, featuring film, still images, and live musical performances from musicians and dancers who participated in the Fleadh Cheoil.

"This special event will bring people back to the moment and into the scene, to relive the magical energy of this historic event," begins Noel, who was behind Mullingar's inaugural international film festival a number of years ago. On the night, he will discuss the development of his new book.

RíRá Mulllingar will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

"The return of the Fleadh Cheoil to Mullingar in 2022 was publicised and billed as ‘The Homecoming’, and it was expected to be the biggest event in the town’s history," continues Noel. "Really what happened, was that Fleadh Cheoil 2022 - 2023 was the biggest cultural event the country has ever seen. Music and the arts brought more than one million people together in Mullingar, to sing, play, dance or listen to traditional Irish seisiúns in the streets. It was an unprecedented and unforgettable experience."

A native of Mullingar, Noel set out to chronicle the event, show people the sights and sounds of those weeks, and tell the Fleadh Cheoil story his way. The result is RíRá Mulllingar, a Fleadh Cheoil Chronicle, an exquisite new book of original photography, which showcases the town, the music, and the human spirit in all its glory.

Retailing at €49.50, the book launch in the Mullingar Park Hotel is free, but it is a strictly ticketed-event. Tickets can be accessed on Eventbrite, through rirabooks.com.

Praise for RíRá Mullingar:

“As my eyes pass from one image to the next I can almost hear the music and feel the energy of the town. Noel is allowing us an inside view to his town and to a gathering of our people that goes back to our free beginnings,” - Liam Ó’Maonlaí, Hot House Flowers.

“This book summons up the sights, sounds, and memories of those amazing days in Mullingar. In the tradition of our great local artists, Noel McIntyre has skillfully chronicled the feeling and the fellowship of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, and our people at their very best,” Bressie, musician, author, and co-founder of A Lust For Life.

“Beautifully atmospheric photographs capturing the flavour and fun of the Fleadh family," - John McColgan, award-winning producer and director of Riverdance/