Ceiliúradh

Ceiliúradh was a celebration of Irish culture that took place in the Royal Albert Hall on 10 April 2014, to mark the state visit to London of Irish President Michael D. Higgins. It was attended by the President and Sabina Higgins, with Prince and Princess Michael of Kent representing the Royal Family.
The event was broadcast live on RTÉ, while an hour long highlights package was broadcast on BBC4 the following Sunday.
The event was promoted by Culture Ireland, and produced by South Wind Blows, an award winning production company in association with the venue.

Background

The event was designed as a tribute to thousands of Irish people who have made Britain their home. It was intended to showcase the links that exist between Ireland and the U.K. in the artistic and creative domains.

Running order

The running order for the event was as follows:

House Band with Fiona Shaw - The Exiles Jig, with reading of The Song of Wandering Angus by W B Yeats
Joseph O'Connor - The Thrill Of It All
Paul Brady - Nothing But The Same Old Story
House Band with Irish dancers - Medley of tunes with dancers Caitín Nic Gabhann, Seosamh O’Neachtain, Michael Maguire and Ellie Maguire
Conor O'Brien - My Lighthouse
Elvis Costello with Steve Naïve and Conor O’Brien - Shipbuilding
Olivia O'Leary - Silent O Moyle, The Minstrel Boy
Imelda May - Kentish Town Waltz, It’s Good To Be Alive
Glen Hansard and Lisa Hannigan - Falling Slowly, The Auld Triangle
Elvis Costello - Tripwire, (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding
The Gloaming - Opening Set
Fiona Shaw - Postscript by Seamus Heaney
All guest singers and London Irish Choir - The Parting Glass

Dermot O'Leary acted as compere for a number of the acts.

House band

The house band for the event comprised a host of Ireland's top musicians.