Showcase of homegrown Mayo talent at local venue this weekend

This weekend, TF Royal in Castlebar is set to be the stage for a triumphant showcase of Mayo talent, as Castlebar’s own Ger Staunton and Alan Clarke, and Hollymount’s Lisa Canny bring their unique performances to the forefront.

Each artist, in their own right, is a force to be reckoned with – Ger Staunton, celebrated as Mayo's funnyman and one of Ireland's top comedy writers; Lisa Canny, a multi-award-winning traditional Irish musician turned folk-music artist; and Alan Clarke, a social media sensation and host of a top 10 Irish podcast.

On Friday night, December 22nd, Ger Staunton, Castlebar's finest comedian, steps onto the TF Royal stage for what promises to be his most significant show to date. Renowned for his "incredibly funny" style, as praised by The Examiner, and his "immaculately woven anecdotal riffs with a smooth pace and a dark twinkle," according to The Independent, Staunton's repertoire of hilarious stories and insightful anecdotes ensures an unforgettable night.

Simultaneously, in the Ruby Room at TF Royal, Hollymount native Lisa Canny takes the spotlight on Friday night. Canny, recognized as "One to Watch" by SPIN in 2022 and a topper of the "Best of Sofar Sounds" live list, brings a groundbreaking FOLK+ Live Experience to her home country. The unique FOLK+ Screen Show experience, featuring a masterful FOLK+ music short film, promises to leave the audience in awe. Following the screening, Lisa Canny and her band will deliver an explosive and immersive live set.

The excitement continues on Saturday night, December 23rd, with the return of Alan Clarke and The Big News Coming Soon Podcast. After a sold-out show at TF Royal in September, Clarke's podcast has soared in popularity, earning a nomination as one of the top ten podcasts in Ireland in 2022. In 2023, Alan himself secured the Best Newcomer title at the Gossie Awards. The one-off Christmas Show, featuring special guests and friends from the latest podcast season, guarantees a festive night of comedy, live music, craic, and banter. The lineup includes Garron Noone, Stephen Cowboy Kelly (3 Bucks Left), and more surprise special guests.

Mayo and beyond are urged to turn out in full support of these local talents, making this pre-Christmas weekend at TF Royal a celebration of West of Ireland entertainment.

Tickets are still available for all shows at tfroyal.ie.