The Drogheda branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann returned from the All-Ireland Scoraíocht finals in Tipperary with silver medals for their performance inspired by local heritage and folklore.

Linking to the 400 year celebrations of St Oliver Plunkett and incorporating local tunes and songs, the 45-strong group of musicians, singers and dancers finished runners-up to Camross from Co. Laois. Branch Chairperson Lolo Robinson praised all of the members of the group who have given huge commitment and brought great enjoyment to branch activities.

"The Scoraíocht creates an opportunity for everyone to get involved, from our youngest to our more senior members, and they have done Louth proud."

The humorous interplay of leading characters St Oliver, St Brigid and St Patrick, performed by Leon Kerley, Emer Maguire and Michael Grogan had the audience amused throughout. The script by Daithí Kearney included tunes such as 'Marching to Drogheda' and 'The Drogheda Weavers', representing repertoire with local connections. Dancers from the Robinson School of Irish Dancing provided wonderful energy and contributed to the jollity of the production.

The climax was a performance of a new setting of the prayer to St Oliver Plunkett by Daithí, which will be part of the big celebrations in Drogheda this July.

Drogheda will also host the Leinster Fleadh from 11-13 July, the weekend after the celebration of St Oliver Plunkett. Fleadh chairperson Orla Brannigan says the town can look forward to welcoming the finest musicians, singers and dancers from throughout the province and beyond.  

"The Scoraíocht success was a great celebration of traditional culture in Louth and a taste of what visitors can experience when they visit this summer. Drogheda audiences will also have an opportunity to experience the award-winning Scoraíocht as part of this event."

Drogheda Comhaltas continue to meet each Wednesday evening in St Oliver's Community School and will now turn their attention to preparing for the Louth County Fleadh in May.