The Arranmore Shorefront Stage hosted a ‘miraculous’ festival on August 17th and 18th as musicians from all corners of Ireland gathered to perform on one of the most beautiful stages in the world.
Over the course of two unforgettable days, this event, organised by Maria McCormack and Over the West Online Radio, proved to be a resounding success, with whispers of a sell-out event anticipated for next year.
Reflecting on the experience, Maria McCormack expressed, “It is one thing to have a dream, but it is another to live it.”
Maria’s vision was to create an opportunity for her artist family members to perform on a memorable stage, and the radiant sun made it feel as though they were on a tropical island in the Mediterranean.
Over the West Radio founder Maria McCormack, Frankie McCreevy and Tara Brigid and Laura May
The audience soaking up the sounds by the shore
The hospitality extended by the Islanders was unparalleled. A special acknowledgement goes to Dominic Sweeney from the Red Ferry, who arranged for three late ferries over the weekend, going above and beyond for all the artists. Gratitude is also due to Jerry Early and his staff at Early’s Bar for their tremendous support, hosting an Over the West night on Saturday.
Sean Boyle the Sailor and Jerry Early
Maria also thanked Noirin Muldowney for her invaluable support, as well as Donegal County Council for granting the use of the stage. Helena Ní Ghallachoir was recognised for her filming of the event and her ongoing guidance, while Nigel Hegarty from Hedgehog Studios provided exceptional sound for the performances, earning the title of the “soundest sound man around.”
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the audience members who came out to support the artists, as their presence made the event all the more enjoyable. Most importantly, Maria expressed her deepest gratitude to the 25 artists and bands who traveled from Limerick, Dublin, Meath, Louth, Down, and all parts of Donegal.
Ian Smith from Keadue
Jacqueline Toner from Letterkenny
The Lion Colhoun from Dublin
Over the West is committed to innovating the landscape for emerging artists, and this event marks just the beginning of their journey. To support Over the West, individuals can join the Supporters Club, and artists interested in joining this vibrant family can find more information at www.overthewestonlineradio.com
Listeners can tune in to Over the West Online Radio by downloading the radio app for their smartphones from the Play Store or by setting up the skill on Alexa.
Check out more photos below:
Zoe McCauley from Dungloe
Carol Wilson from Rathmullan
Audience enjoying the concert
Shauna McDaid from Letterkenny
Luke McGhee from Quigleys Point
Dirt Tax from Ramelton
Shauna Scanlon from Ballybofey
Rapper CM from Falcarragh
Odhrán Gallagher from Kilmacrennan
Maria McCormack and Tara Brigid
Mary Dunne from Letterkenny
