TR Dallas to star at Drumcree Bog Festival

TR Dallas has played gigs all over the world during his long career, but it’s unlikely that he’s played at a more unusual venue than a north Westmeath bog.

TR will kick off this year’s Drumcree Bog Festival on Saturday May 4 with a ‘Dance on the Bog’ from 9pm. The dance is a non-alcohol event at which children are welcome and food will be served.

A fixture on the Irish music scene since the late 1960s and as TR Dallas since 1980, Moate native Tom Allen has toured and performed with some of the biggest names in country music including Don Williams, Johnny Cash and Foster and Allen.

He has also performed in venues around the world including the spiritual home of country music the Grand Old Opry in Nashville.

The following day, Sunday May 5, the bog will host a range of events including a traditional turf cutting competition, welly throwing and horseshoe throwing.

There will also be music and dancing throughout the day with John Hogan, headlining, along with local musicians.

A native of Kilbeggan, John first sprang to prominence in 1987 when he scored a number one hit with his single Brown Eyes.

During the course of his career, John has toured all over Ireland and the UK as well as playing in Spain Portugal. He is also extremely popular in the Caribbean island of St Lucia, so much so that he is the only Irish person to be given the honorary title of Freeman of St Lucia.

In addition to top quality music, food will also be available on Sunday, while people are also welcome to bring their own picnics. Sunday’s event runs from 1pm to 7pm.

The entry on Sunday is €10, while children are free. All proceeds will be divided between the North Westmeath Hospice, Midland Simon and local church funds.