Blarney Brothers return to Westville

THE Blarney Brothers return to the Westville Old Boys’ Hall for two shows on Sunday, 3 May.

This indefatigable three-man musical outfit has been at the heart of South Africa’s music scene for four decades, livening up parties and gala events with their own special brand of music, including Irish ballads, catchy pub songs, popular ‘newies’ and the occasional Irish jig.

Comprising siblings Paul and Damien McIlroy and fellow band member, Tony Fisher, who all settled in South Africa in the 70s, the three Irish-born musicians joined forces to form their own professional band in August 1974, landing a six-month contract to perform six nights a week at Durban’s Astra Hotel in Russell Street.

With a swiftly-growing fan base, they moved on to the Pool Bar at the Lonsdale Hotel, then on to the Killarney Hotel. Thereafter, they signed up as an entertainment act aboard a cruise ship, Oceanic Independent, heading for Cape Town in 1976. They stayed on in the Mother City to perform at the Elizabeth Hotel, before signing on with the Holiday Inn Group.

This led to a Blarney Brothers deal being struck with Southern Suns to appear on their national entertainment circuit, touring up and down the country at regular intervals over the following number of years.

A career highlight during the following decade was a commission to make the seven-part television documentary series, You Don’t Have To Be Irish. Since the early 90s, the group has undertaken numerous international tours.

“We are always game for a party and look forward to renewing ties with old friends as well as meeting new ones” said Paul McIlroy.

Westville Old Boys’ Hall is situated at the Westville Country Club, 1 Link Road in Westville. Shows are on at 2pm and again at 6.30pm. The venue opens 90 minutes before the show.

Tickets cost R170 each and include a main meal. Pensioners pay R150 each. Book through Computicket, or contact Roland on 082 499 8636 or roland@stansell.za.net.