The Leeds Gathering 2008: 6th to the 17th of November
Organized by the Irish Arts Foundation, based in Leeds, events are designed to appeal to both those of an Irish background and people from the wider community with an interest in music and the arts. Rowena Harris, Development Officer, explains, "The idea is to provide a unique opportunity for the Irish community in Leeds to showcase their rich and vibrant cultural traditions. This year also sees an exciting development of the Gathering's and indeed Irish Arts Foundation's national remit: we are working in partnership with our colleagues at Liverpool Irish Festival and the Return to Camden Festival in London where the IAF are hosting various events. It is through this shared expertise that we can really raise the profile of Irish Arts on a national level".
In additional to the ongoing support from DION, we are delighted this year to have received citywide support from Leeds City Council Area Management Teams. This has enabled us to organise these events across the city and expose the vibrancy of Irish arts to a whole range of new audiences.
Now in its fourth year, The Leeds Gathering features some of the most dynamic local, national and international performers and artistes in the world of Irish Arts. This year's festival is to be headlined by Frankie Gavin with Mike Galvin, Mary Coughlan, Dick Gaughan and Grada. These names represent some of the most established acts on the Irish Music circuit and they are complimented by a plethora of local and national arts practitioners throughout the festival.
The Irish are one of largest and longest established minority groups in the country. Every year more and people find out that they have some level of Irish heritage, The Leeds Gathering is a powerful example of Irish people showcasing their culture at it's best - make sure you're a part of it!
For further information and a full programme of events (available early October) email the Irish Arts Foundation at row@irisharts.org.uk or visit the website