What better day than St. Patrick's Day to watch a show dedicated to legendary Irish folk band the Dubliners? The Dominion bestowed a rare honour with a separate hoarding for the one-off show; in total contrast its with current resident Sister Act. A queue snaked around the corner as revellers festooned in shamrocks and emerald deely-boppers savoured the craic. Once inside the festival atmosphere quickly took hold.

A brilliant five piece band comprised of two guitars, two banjos and one fiddle literally brought the house down with an irresistible brand of folk that is waiting to be discovered by a broader audience. Led by guitarist Ged Graham the band gently narrates the Dubliners' history between songs that provoke laughter, tears and raucous nights carousing in the bars of Dublin. The stage essentially represents Donoghue’s, one of Dublin's most iconic pubs where the band began in 1962. A screen projected enchanting black and white images of a rich cultural past and provided additional context.

The Dubliners quickly forged a strong reputation as a live band, and hit the charts in 1967 with 'Seven Drunken Nights' which earned them a silver disc. They received a rare badge of honour when Irish broadcaster RTE unofficially banned them for four years. If there was ever a sign that you're doing something right it's when you receive a ban; the Dubliners had well and truly arrived. Songs from their first album, 'A drop of the hard stuff' were played and really got the crowd jumping. A lady and her daughter broke into a jig down the aisle as others tried desperately hard to clap in time. The songs are warm and rousing; they feel like old acquaintances you should have made friends with a lot earlier. The excellent 'Irish Rover' is one of many standouts and a reminder of their collaboration with kindred spirits the Pogues. The songs that made the Dubliners famous are basically cover versions of old folk songs. It made them the keepers of wondrous stories that are ultimately passed down to future generations.

Ged Graham with his thick white beard and rich tones could easily be a member of the Dubliners and naturally inherits their true spirit. Seven Drunken Nights fall into the category of tribute act, but they offer much more than a simple impersonation. We get a true reading of their music, inspiration and what made them tick as people. Touching portraits are presented of the classic line up: Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, Ciaran Bourke and John Sheahan all of whom have now sadly passed away. But what remains is the legacy of a life well lived and an indelible hallmark of quality. It’s no surprise that Tourism Ireland are co-sponsors of the show as it provides an enticing showcase for the Emerald Isle. Treading over empty beer cans we realised what a special night it had been.

***** Five Stars

Reviewed by Brian Penn

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