African Dance, Karaoke, Live Music and More
Looking for exciting things to do in Galway this Friday? From African dance workshops to live music performances, there’s plenty on offer to suit all tastes. Kick off the evening with a high-energy African dance class accompanied by live drumming at the Mick Lally Theatre, before heading to the Pálás Cinema for a night of karaoke with MC Dónal Tuipéar.
Fans of rhythm and soul music won’t want to miss the second Irish Rhythm and Soul Weekender, taking place at the Galway Bay Hotel, while those seeking artistic culture can enjoy the stunning Flying Melodies exhibition by Gertrude Degenhardt at Kennys Gallery. Other top picks include the West Sessions at Monroe’s Tavern, live music with 3 Legged Dog at The Cellar Bar and a performance by John Blek and Eoin Dolan at the Galway Mechanics Institute. It’s all happening in the home of festivals that is our city of the tribes.
Mick Lally Theatre Druid Lane
7pm: African Dance Workshops with Live Drumming
A four-week workshop in African dance with live drumming takes place on Friday March 3rd, 10th, 24th and 31st at the Mick Lally Theatre on Druid Lane in Galway. This is a high-energy, fun-filled (all-levels) class in traditional West African dance. Each class will be accompanied by live drumming and will include a warm-up, dancing and will close with a community dance circle. Wear comfortable loose clothes and all dancing will be barefoot. This workshop is for over 18s and no experience is needed. Not only that, but these workshops are free of charge. Booking in advance is advised at the Town Hall Theatre here: African Dance Workshop Series THT
Pálás Cinema
8pm: Karaoke Dónal Tuipéar
Sing your socks off this evening with Karaoke at the eclectic Pálás Cinema beside the Spanish Arch in Galway city centre. MC Dónal Tuipéar steps out from behind his guitar to lead the night of lung bellowing song with your favourite classic hits and stomping anthems. For the first Friday of every month, the Pálás transforms into Karaoke heaven for the best of craic in the cinematic surrounds. Set in the modern ambiance and creative vibe of this trendy spot, Karaoke with Dónal Tuipéar is bound to start your weekend in style.
Monroe’s Live
11pm: Rage – Celebrating 30 years of Rage Against The Machine
Celebrating over 30 years since the launch of the debut album by the iconic Rage Against The Machine, Galway-based tribute band Rage will re-ignite their incendiary blend of punk, metal and rap at Monroe’s Live this Friday, March 3rd from 11pm. Their signature sound of fierce music and socially conscious lyrics will be brought to life with electrifying energy by this 5-piece of experienced local musicians.
With Donal Gibbons on vocals, Fiachra Cradock and Stephen Monaghan on guitar, Dave Donoghue on bass and Eimhin Cradock on drums, Rage is a collective of Galway’s finest, who together have over 25 years’ experience on the music scene in different guises. Now, they have united as Rage to perform the extensive back catalogue of anthems that have captured a legion of fans for over three decades.
Monroe’s Tavern
4:30pm: The West Sessions
From the slow and lyrical to the lively and upbeat, expect the unexpected at the West Sessions. You may come across world renowned trad musicians, such as Sharon Shannon, on their home turf performing with talented friends. Or spot a certain Mr Monroe on the bodhran. It’s all happening this Friday afternoon.
The Cellar Bar
Live Music with 3 Legged Dog
This Friday, March 3rd, join 3 Legged Dog at The Cellar Bar on Eglington Street. This vibrant acoustic band are renowned for their classic covers with a folk twist that is quintessentially Galway. Don’t miss your chance to catch this talented and experienced band live in action at The Cellar. With an extensive beer and wine list, this is the ideal venue to relax with friends, or to celebrate those big occasions with family and loved ones. Not only that, but this cosy pub is located just off Eyre Square, ensuring it is always bustling with locals and visitors alike. Offering a warm welcome every time, The Cellar continues to delight with high end service, cuisine, and craic.
Galway Mechanics Institute
8pm: The Black Gate presents John Blek and Eoin Dolan
Fresh from releasing his eighth studio album in 2022 entitled ‘Until The Rivers Run Dry’, musician John Blek returns to Galway from his native Cork to deliver his poetic alt-folk stylings in the unique venue. Combining his indie spirit paired with electronic and acoustic drums, Blek’s sound is one that unleashes his fierce independent spirit. Described as having McCartney moments and Scott Walker swagger, he brings his latest work to the city of the tribes with a thoughtful and entertaining live show at the Galway Mechanics Institute. Littered with stories, tonight will showcase his arresting vocals and intricate guitar playing.
And he will be joined by Galway songwriter and producer, Eoin Dolan, who will perform his often heart-breaking melodies that display his lyrical finesse through his own vintage psychedelic pop sound Eoin has self-released eight records and produced work for Field Trip, New Pope and Me Auld Flower. His latest release, Mirror Liver, is out now and you can unearth his original music at the Galway Mechanics Institute this evening.
Róisín Dubh
8pm: Pauric O’ Meara with support from The Rosecaps and Amble
Described as ‘one of Ireland’s most exciting young stars-in-the-making’ by the Hot Press magazine, Pauric O’Meara is making waves on the Irish music scene. His rich rhythms ensure the crowd are on their feet at his live shows, with a charming persona and passionate performance style that has captured the hearts of many. Based in Dublin, the Tipperary born singer songwriter brings his pop rock originals to the Róisín Dubh this Friday evening. It’s your chance to witness one of Ireland’s rising talents, who has sold out shows at The Workmans Club, The Grand Social, Dolans and Cyprus Avenue, as well as supporting major acts such as Hermitage Green and Hudson Taylor and stand out performances at festivals such as Electric Picnic, Sounds of Summer and Kaleidoscope.
The Skeff
10pm: Evoke
Eyre Square will be hopping tonight from 10pm with free live music from Evoke. This popular Galway band are gaining a strong following thanks to their high energy and dedication to musicianship. The young band are at the start of their musical career and are renowned for their powerful stage presence that can whip an audience into a frenzy with their rousing beats. Followed by DJ Dave G until late.
Kennys Gallery
Gertrude Degenhardt – Flying Melodies exhibition
A stunning display of images by artist Gertrude Degenhardt – Flying Melodies: An Exhibition of Paintings and Graphics continues at Kenny’s Gallery in Liosbán until St Patrick’s Day. Witness beautiful paintings and graphics from the renowned artist, as her exhibition, ‘Flying Melodies’, is showcased in the surrounds of Kenny’s Art Gallery. This collection of 40 original artworks contains both new and retrospective pieces.
Irish Rhythm and Soul Music Weekend in Salthill
Galway Bay Hotel
Fans of rhythm and soul music are in for a treat this weekend as Salthill sets the scene for the second Irish Rhythm and Soul Weekender. The venue overlooking the shores of Galway Bay will be transformed into a funk and groove fiesta, with individual tickets available for Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. It’s the ultimate soul, Motown, funk and groove celebration with three rooms dedicated to the differing styles under the one musical genre. With a ‘Too Darn Soulful Room’ melting to the sound of Northern Soul/Motown and Classic Soul, the ‘Check Out The Groove Room’ dedicated to Soul/Motown/Funk/Jazz-Funk/ Disco and a ‘Dust My Broom Room’ for R&B/Rare Groove and a hint of Latin, it will ignite the fire of fans across Ireland. And it’s a rare opportunity to catch the best DJs from across Ireland and the UK in one place. In addition, Eddie Holman will make an appearance at the event. For more see www.toodarnsoulful.co.uk
