Celtic Women Portland OregonDestinyPreview
Can’t hold out until St. Patrick’s Day next year to immerse yourself again in all things Irish? You’re in luck, because the all-female musical ensemble Celtic Woman will perform in Eugene and Portland in May.
Founded in 2005 by a former musical director of that other Irish juggernaut, Riverdance, Celtic Woman has released 10 albums of original music, traditional folk songs and contemporary covers. The group has sold over eight million albums and been named Billboard Magazine’s number one World Albums Artist six times.
Celtic Woman concerts showcase the music, dance and culture of the Emerald Isle, along with a parade of evening gowns worn by the four current members of the group: singers Máiréad Carlin, Susan McFadden and Éabha McMahon, and violinist Máiréad Nesbitt.
The current Destiny tour is making more than 70 stops in North America in celebration of the group’s latest album — also titled “Destiny” — and its companion DVD. An entirely new production, the show features many songs from the new album, plus traditional Irish songs sung in Gaelic such as “Bean Pháidín” and “Siúil A Run.” Newer songs including “Walk Beside Me,” “The Whole Of The Moon” and Ed Sheeran’s “I See Fire” are also performed, along with new renditions of audience favorites “Amazing Grace,” “You Raise Me Up” and more.
Celtic Woman’s voices and harmonies are undeniably beautiful and the supporting musical arrangements add depth to the polished folk-pop performances. On stage, the elaborate production includes a large supporting cast of musicians, singers and dancers, with theatrical lighting and effects.
Celtic Woman performs at 7:30 p.m. May 20 at Eugene’s Hult Center for the Performing Arts (1 Eugene Center). Tickets cost $51-$123.25 (plus fees). Contact:
www.hultcenter.org or 541-682-5000.
Portland hosts Celtic Woman at 3 p.m. May 22 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall (1037 SW Broadway). Tickets cost $45-$105 (plus fees). Contact:
www.portland5.com or 800-273-1530
By Kim Himstreet
The Bulletin
Apr 29, 2016 at 12:02AM
