Well, it’s all go here in Galway.
The Westend has a fresh coat of paint and is like something out of the Mediterranean with a relaxed city vibe. Dotted with outdoor seating, the summer season is now in full swing, now that it is a pedestrian zone from 6pm. .
There’s an exciting line-up of events this Saturday that will leave you entertained all night long. Get ready for Rofi James, Galway’s beloved pop-rock powerhouse, as they make a welcome return to Monroe’s Live. The Cellar will come alive with the energetic party band Footloose, while downstairs, Emo and punk fans can enjoy live music from the genre.
At The Skeff, be mesmerized by the fresh twist that Galway-based singer and composer Tobi Kaye brings to the pop genre. The Quays Music Hall invites you to dance in the aisles with Gorilla Radio, a popular Mayo covers band. And for a night of burlesque and cabaret, experience the sensational Dirty Circus Show at The Roísín Dubh.
Plus, don’t miss DJ Trevor White and DJ Killian Murphy spinning the decks at DNA Nightclub. All this and more awaits you at the 2023 Galway Brittany Festival, celebrating the twinned regions of Galway and Brittany.
Monroe’s Live
10pm: Galway Pop-Rock Powerhouse Rofi James Set for Welcome Return to Monroe’s Live
Fresh from releasing their latest single ‘Over You’, Galway’s favourite pop-rock band, Rofi James are set for a welcome return to home shores with an exciting performance at Monroe’s Live on Saturday, May 20th. Having recently brought their signature sound to Edinburgh, the band described as “a stadium act just waiting for a stadium,” will deliver a rousing set at the award-winning Dominick Street venue.
Growing from strength to strength, Rofi James are the epitome of the west. Never straying far from their acoustic and busking roots, Rofi James have their sights set on producing new original work, forging ahead with their dark pop rock melodies, with a string of critically acclaimed singles including ‘Berlin Wall’ ‘Open Eyes’ and ‘I Tried’. Now a trio, consisting of Rónán Ó Flaithearta (Rofi), Jamie Murray (James), and Joseph Flaherty, Rofi James are a fresh new voice on the Irish music scene. With a hard edge to their tracks, their latest offering ‘Over You’ delves into the complexities of a toxic relationship and the need to let go.
From their humble beginnings “during the days of teenage discos and bad haircuts” to co-headlining festivals across the country, Rofi James are a musical tour-de-force. Don’t miss your chance to catch them in action at Monroe’s Live on Dominick Street on Saturday, May 20th from 10pm.
The Cellar
Footloose and Absent EMO/Punk Night downstairs.
Party band Footloose are set to shine at the Cellar bar on Eglinton Street this Saturday night. A Galway staple, the reviews for this dynamic and flawless cover band speak for themselves. Described as one of the city’s “best bands” their rousing renditions of classic hits and rock anthems have secured their place as one of the city’s most beloved cover groups. Their ability to deliver back to back tunes with flair and panache is the reason so many return to see Footloose in action time and time again. Don’t miss your chance to catch Footloose at the Cellar this Saturday May 20th. Meanwhile, Emo and punk fans will have a chance to enjoy the best of live music from the genre in their downstairs venue.
The Skeff Late Bar
9pm: Tobi Kaye
The Galway based singer and composer brings a fresh twist to the pop genre thanks to his strong gospel, blues, and rock influences. His original works unleash a dark romanticised social commentary on life, love and war. Baring his heart on his sleeve and his soul through his lyrics, Tobi Kaye is a rare talent who is on the rise. Not to be missed at the Skeff this Saturday night, with stomping originals, classic covers and anthems to have you on your feet all night long.
The Quays Music Hall
11pm: Gorilla Radio
Popular Mayo covers band, Gorilla radio will have you dancing in the aisles at the Quays Music Hall in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter. With over a decade of experience on the Irish circuit, the band are set to entertain tonight at this vibrant and bustling venue. Comprising of Noel Kenny (vocals/guitar), Joey Kennedy (vocals/lead guitar), Paul Newell (vocals/bass), Seanie Walsh (bass) and, Matteo, on keyboards, Gorilla Radio will take you through the top anthems in style. From Simon and Garfunkel to Kylie and Jason, expect classic hits with a rock and pop flair. It’s going to be an energetic night of rousing tunes with a rollicking vibe.
The Roisin Dubh
8pm: Experience the Sensational Dirty Circus Show
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of burlesque and cabaret, brought to you by the renowned sauce merchants of Galway, The Dirty Circus. Join this extravaganza of talent and diversity this Saturday, May 20th.
With special guest hostess, Miss Carmen Mon Oxide, guiding you through a night of debauchery and decadence, showcasing the finest burlesque skills and captivating performances. This Saturday, Miss Memphis Shell takes the stage with her powerful and enchanting burlesque routine, while Aidan Cairns impresses with his mesmerising pole dancing in thigh high boots.
Don’t miss out on the Galway debut of the incredibly talented Sexy Tadgh, whose electrifying performance at Electric Picnic garnered rave reviews. Experience the magic and confusion brought by international mentalist Dean Jacob, who will be gracing Galway with his presence for the first time.
And that’s not all! Witness the high energy dance kicks of the Broadway Baby and the unique artistry of Jen The Hooper as she brings an alternative approach to circus entertainment. Not only that, but you can stay on to enjoy the captivating performance by John Conneely Inc. after the show.
DNA Nightclub
We Love Saturday with DJs Trevor White and Killian Murphy
DJs Trevor White and Killian Murphy will be spinning the decks at DNA nightclub, Galway’s liveliest late night club venue. The tunes will be thumping and the bass jumping as DJ Trevor White ignites the dance floor with a curated mash of old school and new music. A staple on the DJ scene across Ireland, he turns up the heat with flair and panache, generating a melting pot of rhythm and beats that build to the all-important crescendo of dance on the main floor. Meanwhile, DJ Killian Murphy takes on the basement venue with his signature style. The 28-year-old is making waves on the industry with his brand of creativity and club anthems. It’s all happening this Saturday at DNA.
2023 Galway Brittany Festival
Festival to celebrate the twinned regions of Galway and Brittany
The bond between Galway and Brittany is strong; having been formalised over forty five years ago with the twinning of Galway and Lorient. Galway Brittany Fest showcases and celebrates the strong connections between these two beautiful places.
2023 Galway Brittany Festival highlights
6pm: Traditional music played at the Claddagh Basin on one of the Claddagh boats
10pm: Strangely Familiar: Outdoor Photo Exhibition of Lorient, The Claddagh Basin
The annual INTERCELTIQUE festival takes place in the heart of the city of Lorient every August. Participants come from Brittany, Ireland, Scotland, Cornwall, Wales, Cumbria, the Isle of Man, Cape Breton Island, Galicia, Asturias, Acadia, and the entire Celtic diaspora. Galway Photographer Steve Scott was invited to represent Ireland with his solo photographic exposition, and while he was there he wanted to capture with his camera the traditional costumes that had been worn by the various participants.