As the clock ticks in eager anticipation of the visit to Ennis by “The Greatest”, Muhammad Ali the Production 63 team is working hard to be able to bring you a flavour of what’s happening in Ennis in the lead up to the visit and during it.

This historic visit has been brought about because Muhammad Ali’s Great Grandfather was an O’ Grady from the Turnpike area of the town. There is however a major celebration on the day and while there will be an official ceremony to make him a Freeman of the town a huge crowd is expected to gather on the streets of the town to see the ceremony being relayed from the Civic Offices at Waterpark House in Drumbiggle on a large screen. A major entertainment programme is also planned for the day so we’re looking forward to getting our microphones out for that.

 
 
The Production 63 podcast next week will bring you a flavour of the anticipation and excitement that surrounds the visit which takes place on the afternoon of Tuesday September 1st.

It may not be a Production 63 event but we’re delighted to bring some of the excitement of the event to our global audience. Keep an eye open here for updates on Muhammad Ali’s visit to Ennis.

Although they hadn’t played together for a number of years it appears that the performance recently in Bunratty was somewhat of an awakening for former Stocktons Wing members Kieran Hanrahan, Mike Hanrahan and Tommy Hayes. The three performed at the Folk and Variety Club in early June and since then have had a number of requests to do some more. Production 63 announced this week that the lads will play an Ennis gig at Cois na hAbhna on Saturday August 15th.

Ger Sweeney from Production 63 said “we’re delighted that the lads are coming to Ennis. There was great chemistry on stage in June when they played in Bunratty. A number of Ennis people present asked that they would come back home for a night along with Limerick and Tipperary people who are anxious to have the lads play in their areas. On a number of occasions during the evening they each commented how nice it was to be playing together after a break and commented that it would be nice to repeat. Sure that was all I needed and after the concert before I could suggest an Ennis gig they suggested that we might look at it. There’s no doubt that this will be a night of mighty music and great fun”.

Tommy, Mike and Kieran are all very much in demand in their respective careers. The August 15th date was about the only date that was open for all three and it’s great that they’ll be coming home for this special celebration. Speaking on behalf of the three Tommy Hayes said, “it’s always lovely to come back to Ennis and we’re looking forward to making an appearance at Cois na hAbhna. Comhaltas have a beautiful venue there and I’ve played there on a few occasions since it has been extended but Kieran and Mike haven’t had an opportunity to do so yet. The three of us really enjoyed working together in June. Everything clicked on the night and I’m sure it will be even more special in Ennis. We’re certainly looking forward to the gig and hope to see many old friends on the night”.

Tommy Hayes is no stranger to Clare audiences and is involved in many musical projects in the county at present. His most recent album, with Ian Leslie titled Almost Home is just gone on release and has been very well received. Mike Hanrahan is successfully following his dream of being a chef and has been enjoying his detour to the kitchen. He is still very much committed to his music and was last seen in Ennis as part of the awesome line up of stars that joined Maura O Connell on Stage in Glor for the hugely successful tribute to her. Kieran can be seen in all sorts of places as his musical links continue to be varied and extensive. Whether it’s producing albums, radio programmes for RTE or being involved in music festivals Kieran Hanrahan is never out of the county for long.

No matter what they’re up to on a daily basis the three agree that sharing the stage together in Ennis is always a special occasion. The August 15th date at Cois na hAbhna will certainly be that. This is without a doubt a night not to be missed. Tickets are €22.50 and are available from Record Rack on 065 6820769 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              065 6820769      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or by contacting Production 63 on 065 6893567.