The community of Bruff are coming together to celebrate the birthday and life of one of their own. Born and raised near the town in county Limerick, she is regarded as one of the worlds greatest female artists: Dolores O'Riordan.
Dolores, who tragically passed away in January of 2018, was the lead singer with The Cranberries, a band who rose to international success in the early 90's, selling over 40 million albums worldwide. Dolores was a prolific songwriter and also enjoyed a hugely successful solo career in the early 2000's.
The Festival, which is taking place on September 6th, 7th and 8th will showcase an eclectic mix of exciting artists. With a focus on original music, the festival will also host talks, community music gatherings, comedy, cabaret and spoken word acts.
Rainer Lindheim, Co-Promoter and Stage Event Manager and close friend of Dolores said 'We hope that this years event will be a seed-planter for an annual event to take place in Bruff on the first weekend of every September. It's spirit is to celebrate original artists music and in some way to help showcase their own dreams'
The town will also re-name the iconic park where Dolores was famously interviewed with her mother during her time as a judge on the Voice of Ireland. She will have a very special unveiling ceremony on Friday the 6th.
The festival committee comprises of members of the business, arts and music communities in Bruff. Committee member, Jack Clancy, who is the proprietor of Clancy's bar and music venue commented, 'We hope it will be a great weekend for the village and everyone both in Ireland and across the world who loved Dolores and wish to celebrate her legacy'
Brendan O'Riordan, brother of Dolores has said, 'we want to celebrate Dolores and her memory. I have spoken to so many people who she inspired with her music, her songs helped them cope through the dark times and encouraged them to write and play, many of them will be performing for the weekend. People in rural Ireland are often isolated and music helps bring communities together and that's what we aim to do on Dolores birthday'
Festival Coordinator Julianne Hennelly stated 'as an artist who works in the area of mental health I am honoured to be part of this project. Dolores has helped so many of us struggling with depression in Ireland and throughout the world, we want to celebrate her homeland which inspired her art and kind nature. Rural Ireland is the most beautiful healing place to be, with it’s friendly, easy going way of life. Bruff has it all, lakes, historical sites, rivers, parks, cafes, big music venues and most importantly a very strong community spirit'
Full programme and information on events throughout the weekend will be launched on August 17th.
For enquiries please contact a member of Dreams Team via email: [email protected]
Credits:
Poster portrait by Neil O Dwyre
Design by [email protected]
Photo of Dolores and mother Eileen in Bruff by cranberriesworld.com
Interview in Bruff : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wW5xv6uc88
P.S.
We are delighted Kellie Lewis will be performing at Dreams Fest, a local lady hailing from the Galtee Mountains. Dolores was her mentor on The Voice of Ireland and refers to her in the interview above. Here are some links to her time with Dolores on The Voice of Ireland.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7mLoCLy3YA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7mLoCLy3YA
