in GALWAY
Cover Christmas with a BORN Gift Card
From Friday December 12th To Thursday January 8th 2015
Welcome to TheCRAIC
The CRAIC addicts
Welcome to the 38th edition of the Craic in Galway magazine. I read
Director and Photography
Darius IVAN
recently about the rhythms of nature and how winter is traditionally a
info@divmedia.ie, (087) 635 29 33
period of hibernation. It is a time when energy levels can be low and we were designed to rest up, reflect and renew until we come out of our
Editor
shell again sometime in February. This isn’t the case in the city as Galway
Avril HORAN
is alive and kicking on the spirit of Christmas. We have been out and
avrilhoran@divmedia.ie
about and there has been non-stop party action along the cobblestone
Advertising Manager
streets. We want to wish all of our readers, at home, on City Link and
Pete DUFFY
online, a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We will take a little rest
peteduffy@divmedia.ie, (087) 355 46 33 Styling & Photography
ourselves and will be out again with all the hottest action on January 9th. Many thanks to our advertisers, contributors, staff, and everyone
Sunny JUDDY
who has supported us throughout 2014. We are overwhelmed by the
sunnyjuddy@divmedia.ie Contributors
numbers who have enjoyed our little but large magazine and delighted
Cara LYONS Dara KELLY Katelin BERNARD Spud MURPHY Psychic POPPY
with our ever increasing social media presence. We might even hit 20,000 genuine facebook likes before 2015. One of our highlights was to become a finalist in the Galway JCI Young Entrepreneur of the Year awards and, while we didn’t win, we really feel a part of the fabric of this city, as we do our very best every two weeks to promote it in a positive
published by
light - in print and online. There is a myriad of bad news out there, but
divmedia.ie Guaranteed publication of your events photos with our media packages! If you want to secure your place in one of the 5,000 copies of this creative and colourful CRAIC magazine, distributed across the city and county every second Friday, please contact: Email: info@divmedia.ie or Call us (087) 635 29 33
you won’t find it here, as we bring the best of nightlife, entertainment, photos, features and reviews throughout these pages.
Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for 2015
Love, The CRAIC Squad
Featured in TheCRAIC 38
Merci Beaucoup p.4 The Strypes p.14 Santa Dash p.22
now available on all buses
Consoles for Christmas p.10 Musical Mayhem p.38 Christmas Vox Pop p.45
UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS LINE UPS TICKETS NEWS & MORE
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY NOW FOR €15 PER PERSON EMAIL INFO@MONROES.IE
LATE, LIVE COVERS BAND
EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY FROM MIDNIGHT!
MONROES.IE
FOR FULL LISTINGS, TICKETS, OFFERS & MORE
The CRAIC on
Friday 12th Dec 2014
CRAICing News!!! By Avril HORAN
• 1pm: Songs for Mary, a charity concert for Mary English who has breast cancer, takes place at St Joseph’s Church featuring, Friar Alessandro, a tenor from Italy who is touring internationally, and the Ignite Gospel Choir. • 5pm: Enjoy Christmas by candlelight in Clifden as the town will be plunged into darkness and lit only by candlelight - a special evening for you to explore the local shops, bars and restaurants.
• 8pm: Lilly Pad Productions presents The Playboy of the Western World at An Taibhearc. • 8pm: The Night Joe Dolan’s Car Broke Down, a critically acclaimed play by Padraic McIntyre, takes place at the Black Box Theatre. • 8pm: A benefit concert takes place in Kilcummin Church, Oughterard, with Sean Gavin, Kevin Hough and Gary Hastings to raise funds for the Church grounds. • 9pm: Dakota are set to entertain downstairs at The Quays bar while Whitewater will play upstairs in the music hall. • 10pm: Fresh from playing the Hard Working Class Heroes festival, Brian Casey will introduce you to the songs from his second EP ‘Rain Songs’ armed with a guitar, a keyboard and a drummer at the backstage bar at Monroe’s Live followed by the Lakers on the main stage at midnight.
G
alway native Patrick Gillen (89) has been awarded France’s highest military honour, the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur, in recognition of his role in the Normandy landings in World War II. Born on Market Street, Patrick has three brothers and one sister in Galway and is uncle to City Councillor, Niall McNeilis. “I am very, very proud of my uncle,” said Cllr McNeilis, “he is an amazing guy and it is a great honour for him”. Patrick now lives in Cork and is one of the last surviving D-Day veterans. He was among the first wave of troops to invade Sword Beach on June 6th, 1944, and was handed the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur in recognition of his role in the Normandy landings –which remains a part of wartime history.
4
The ceremony was held at the Mercy Hospital in Cork, with the honour for gallantry and sacrifice bestowed upon Patrick by French Ambassador Jean-Pierre Thebault. “This award recognises the commitment and the role Patrick Gillen played during the Second World War,” said the French Ambassador. “He participated in the elite unit, which played a very important role side by side with his American and French comrades, who landed on the beaches” Patrick said he was “very honoured and rather surprised aswell” to receive the honour “at my age” and dedicated it to the thousands of young men who lost their lives in WWII and his “friends who sleep in the fields of France”.
in GALWAY
• 8pm: Following last year’s sell out shows, Sean Keane invites you to join him for another festive treat of song, dance and music in Christmas by the Hearth at the Town Hall Theatre.
Seahorse Returns to Galway
Ireland’s award winning aquatic Specialist has just opened a new shop in Galway
Everything you need for your
aquatic paradise, now in Galway
"See our website for more about what we do!" www.seahorseaquariums.com www.saveourseahorses.org
Unit 2 Kilkerrin Park Lisbaun Tuam Rd Galway TEL (091)764563
Unit 3, St Joan’s ind Est Turnpike Road Ballymount, Dublin 22. Ireland TEL (01) 459 5650
The CRAIC on
Saturday 13th Dec 2014
CRAICing News!!! By Avril HORAN
• *Wait for it…Leisureland is re-opening today! It’s back and they say it’s better than ever following flood damage. • 11am: A free Christmas concert takes place today until 1pm at the Galway City Museum. • 12pm: Be enchanted by a Christmas Fair at Claregalway Castle with music, mulled wine, fire show, storytelling and ‘Made In Galway’ artisan stalls. • 1pm: Santa is coming to the Galleon for the annual festive treat at the landmark restaurant. Enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch and entertainment with DJ Will Softly. • 8pm: Lilly Pad Productions presents The Playboy of the Western World at An Taibhearc. • 8pm: The Night Joe Dolan’s Car Broke Down, a critically acclaimed play by Padraic McIntyre, takes place at the Black Box Theatre. • 8pm: Youth Ballet West presents a double bill, Teenage Kicks and Ballet Egyptien at the Town Hall Theatre. • 8pm: Cois Cladaigh presents a Christmas concert in aid of Galway Simon at St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church. • 8pm: Catch comedian Tommy Tiernan at the Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry, with his latest Out Of The Whirlwind tour. • 10pm: Discover Lady Vegus, a female fronted party band covering music from artists such as Adele, Bruno mars, AC/DC, Pink, Fleetwood Mac at Monroe’s Live with the fantastic Lewd Tunes on the main stage at midnight.
Freeman of the City
T
he city’s highest honour will be granted to Mr Billy Lawless after a unanimous decision by Galway City Council. Mr. Lawless is being recognised as a Freeman of the City for his work on behalf of Galway, Irish immigrants, and the Irish in the United States over a number years. Last month, Mr. Lawless introduced President Obama at a major rally in Chicago following the President’s announcement of major immigration reforms. Billy Lawless is a prominent business figure in Galway’s sister city of Chicago but it his work as an immigration advocate that has brought him to attention in political and media circles in Chicago and in Washington DC. Mr. Lawless was named last year as one of the top ten Irish American community leaders. A native of Rahoon, where his family were involved in dairy farming, Billy was a prominent oarsman with city rowing clubs, including Coláiste Iognáid and Tribesman. He opened The Gallows Pub in Prospect Hill in the 1970s and
subsequently ran the Twelve Pins in Barna before moving to Chicago in 1998 and helped open Wrigleyville’s first Irish bar, The Irish Oak, followed by a more modern Irish bar/restaurant, The Grafton, in Lincoln Square in 2002. After guiding both to their current status as local haunts and tourist favourites, he moved on to open two Michigan Avenue destination restaurants, The Gage, in 2007, and Henri, in 2010. Under his direction, The Gage has become one of Chicago’s most booked restaurants, and Henri has earned rave reviews from the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, and Time Out Chicago, among others. Billy and his wife Anne, née O’Toole, this year earned US citizenship and were sworn in at a conferring ceremony when they took the Oath of Allegiance and registered to vote. Billy and Anne have four children, John Paul, Amy, Clodagh and Billy, Jr. Billy and Anne return frequently to Galway and to Menlo where they have a home. It is expected that the conferring of the Freeman of the City will take place at a ceremony in the Spring of 2015.
Pantum printer
inc cartridge - low running cost!
Free
€99
Win a printer with our like and share competition on Facebook!
Joyeux Noël from all the staff in
Our new Christmas menu is out..
RITEPRICEINK
All ink/toner cartridges catered for, low cost compatibles + refills 44 Dominick Street Lower, Galway Phone:(091) 563 000, Email: info@rightpriceink.ie
www.rightpriceink.ie
www.rougegalway.com 091 530681 or 087 9600157 38 Lower Dominick Street
MAKE YOUR FISHING FANATIC HAPPY WITH JODEA FLYKEEP
THIS CHRISTMAS Call: 0879128065
Thurs/Fri 11th&12th Dec 9am - 8pm Tues/Wed 16th&17th Dec 9am - 8pm Thurs/Fri 18th & 19th Dec 9am - 8pm Sunday 21st Dec 10am - 6pm Mon/Tues Dec 22nd & 23rd 9am - 8pm
www.thejodea.com
The CRAIC on
Sunday 14th Dec 2014
CRAICing News!!!
By Avril HORAN
• 12pm: The Christmas Fair at Claregalway Castle continues today with with music, mulled wine, fire show, storytelling and ‘Made In Galway’ artisan stalls. • 12pm: Head to Busker Brownes on Cross Street for the best jazz brunch in town with the Galway Bay Jazz Band. • 12pm: A cake sale takes place at the Station House Hotel, Clifden organised by the Scoil Mhuire parents association. • 1:30pm: South Galway Athletic Club 2nd annual Ballinderreen 10k takes place today starting and finishing in Ballinderreen village. • 2pm and 4:30pm: Santa’s Christmas Magic Show will take place at Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill, with music, fun, candlelight and Christmas magic. • 7pm: Enjoy live jazz with your tapas at the Black Cat restaurant and wine bar in Salthill. • 8pm: For some Sunday salsa with a live band, head to Deli La Tasca on Dominick Street. Food, fun and craic! • 8pm: Youth Ballet West presents a double bill, Teenage Kicks and Ballet Egyptien at the Town Hall Theatre. • 8:15pm: Tommy Tiernan brings his Out Of The Whirlwind comedy tour to Peacocks hotel in Clifden this evening. • Midnight: The Sunday Sessions presents Fortune Cookie at Monroe’s Live backstage bar for an eclectic mix of funk soul and rock.
One Step Closer to Purple Flag Status
G
alway city has been informally deemed as “joyful, clean and secure” after dark as judges from the Purple Flag international award made their way through the city streets on December 5th into the early hours of December 6th to review the city centre. The Purple Flag recognises excellence in the management of town and city centres at night, similar to the Blue Flag system for beaches. The international award is an indicator of where to go for a good night out and will bring positive publicity to the city. In order to achieve the Purple Flag accreditation, Galway must bring all stakeholders together to ensure the city is a safe and attractive destination at night. If achieved, it will be a further boost to tourism in the city. Judges evaluated the city from 5pm until 5am, starting at the Meyrick Hotel, where they had a bird’s eye view of the Christmas Continental Market in Eyre Square – which was lit by purple lights. They visited the Eyre Square Centre, where they chatted to local traders and took the Christmas train to the Black Box and Town Hall
Theatres. Refreshments were served in the form of starters at Blakes in the Latin Quarter, followed by dinner at the Malt House restaurant. They also visited the Garda Command Centre at Millstreet to see all of the monitoring cameras in action across the city. Then it was onwards to the Crane bar for a trad session followed by the 5th birthday celebrations at Monroe’s Live. The night ended with a visit to all of the volunteers on the Cope Sleep Out in Eyre Square. Business leaders were among those raising money for Cope, who assist the homeless and those suffering from domestic violence. “They said their experience of the city at night was joyful,” says local Councillor, Niall McNeilis. “They commented on the cleanliness of the city at night and also the high level of door security. Many thanks have to go out to Sharon Carroll of Galway City Council and Maeve Joyce of the Galway Chamber for all of their effort and hard work. If we secure this international award, it will be a major boost to our bid as the European Capital of Culture 2020,” he concluded.
The CRAIC in Monroe’s Live Celebrating 5Years By Darius IVAN
The Galway Gamer- Consoles for Christmas
The CRAIC on
Monday 15th Dec 2014
By SPUD MURPHY
• 8pm: Ireland’s acclaimed harmony-rock Green
Cars
band will
Little
play
an
acoustic gig at the Town Hall Theatre, following the release of their number one debut album, Absolute Zero, and a completely sold out run of Irish dates including two nights at Vicar Street. • 9pm: Catch three legged live
at
The
downstairs,
playing
acoustic
of
set
Quays an
everything
from Kodaline & Of Monsters and Men, to MGMT & Mumford and Sons. • 9pm: Catch iRocks winners, Rofi James, every Monday at Barr an Chaladh, Woodquay. • 9pm: The Cellar bar is host to
Play,
where
musicians
can jam with support from a backing band in this open night with a difference.
All
welcome. • 9:30pm: Enjoy the best of swingin’ tunes by the Black Magic Big Band at Busker Brownes on Cross Street. • 9:30pm: A traditional Irish music session takes place at the Crane bar on Sea Road with Freda Hatton and Kevin Whelan.
W
hen it comes to being a fan of video g a m e s , Christmas is one of the best times of the year because it sees a whole host of new games hitting the shelves, along with plenty of sales to pick up plenty of classics for a small fee. This year, Christmas looks set to be even better than usual. It seems that all ages are catered, through a lot of different genres across a few different consoles. So what games can people expect to find in their stockings this year? Mighty franchises like FIFA’s football series, Call of Duty, Assassin’s Creed, and the WWE wrestling games are always a hugely popular choices. They provide a whole year’s worth of fun online activities aimed at folks in their late teens and older, each with their own unique style of gameplay. This year looks great for younger kids too as Nintendo seem to have
10
them completely covered. Between the mighty Wii U and the 3DS, Nintendo have a ton of kid-friendly games available. From the latest renditions of Pokémon to Super Smash Bros. and Super Mario Kart; there is so much family fun to be had with their brightly coloured characters and pick-up-and-play controls. For those who want an entirely new experience this Christmas, the Playstation 4 or the Xbox One could be the way to go. These consoles are incredibly powerful and are set to light up sitting rooms all over Galway in the next few weeks. With huge hard drives to hold a massive amount of games, jaw-dropping graphics and an ever growing stack of fantastic games available; these machines could be the perfect Christmas present for any gamer who wants to move forward to the next generation of gaming. Which games are you looking forward to discovering under your Christmas tree this year? in GALWAY
dog
Merry Christmas to all our customers wishing
bombon
3 Augustine St. vinies
Thank you to all our customers over the last 11 years!
Have a Merry Christmas!
Inside every Good Girl.. ..is a Bad Girl
Le Paradis Club GALWAY’S EXOTIC DANCING VENUE 7 Dominick Street Upper, Galway Tel: 091-860556 www.LeParadisClub.com
The CRAIC on
Straight talking from the trailor trash mouth of Southern Belle, Candy, and the more refined Cara from Connemara.
Tuesday 16th Dec 2014 • 6:30pm: A free festive evening of words and music takes place in Christ Church, Clifden,‘The Magic & Mystery of Christmas’.
• 7pm: Join Martha Fraser of Embrace Health and Pat Divilly Fitness at the Online Marketing in Galway Meet Up at the Harbour Hotel. • 8pm: A Surf and Kite Surf night takes place at the Oslo, Salthill, with surf and kite surf movies to help improve technique. • 8pm: Enjoy live jazz at Rouge restaurant on Dominick Street with Mike Corbett on piano and Keith McDonald on trumpet. • 9pm: Catch Fred and James live at the Quays downstairs, on Quay Street, two guys who like to play their acoustic guitars, sing songs, tell jokes, stories, and have an odd pint of Guinness in front of an audience. • 9pm: An open mic night takes place at The Western hotel on Prospect Hill. • 9:30pm: A trad session takes place at the Crane bar on Sea Road with John O’Halloran and Mick Crehan.
By Cara LYONS
Dear Candy: I don’t know quite how to explain this but… Santa keeps breaking into my house and leaving a raw turkey in my bed when I sleep. I don’t know why he is doing it, and I have asked him to stop, but every morning I wake up and the turkey is there. He is making a total mess of my house too. When he’s here, he brings over his elves and they light little fires in my bins, and I have to keep putting them out with an extinguisher and chasing away the elves with the brush. He is eating all of my food and drinking everything! I thought it would be rude of me not to let him stay
for a while when I first saw him, especially because he looked so bad and he was dirty and smelly too - probably from going down chimneys. I keep spraying him with perfume. I always loved Santa and wondered what it would be like to meet him, but now I don’t know why he is doing this to me. He has been here for weeks, leaving his dam turkeys and stealing all my socks! I have asked him to leave but he doesn’t say anything. I thought he would be very busy this time of year why is he still here with me? Do you think he had a fight with Mrs. Claus? Please help!
Candy: Oh my Gawd! I accidently swallowed a Christmas decoration cus I was laughing so hard and now I think I have tinsel-itis! You sleighed me! That ain’t Santa stupid! My mamma used to tell me about some guy who used to dress up like that and go into people’s houses just to take their stuff and do all kinds of weird things to them. I think they called him crazy Claus. That’s snow joke! Haha! But seriously, if you wanna get this guy outta your house you could just set a trap for him in the garden. Just dig a big hole and cover it with leaves, twigs and socks and he will fall right
12
in. Then feed him some turkey with sleeping pills. Then haul him out and package and post him to a faraway land. Anyway speaking of crazy! I heard that Miley Cyrus is having roast twerky for Christmas haha! Just kiddin’ she’s gonna lick the halls with tongues too long-y! Happy Christmas to all my fans! And if the real Santa is reading this which I know he is I mean come on I’m Candy…I have been such a good girl and you need to ignore what anyone else has told you. Also, I want the white one now not the blue one….you know what I’m talking about. in GALWAY
• 7pm: Unwrap the Magic of Christmas at the Town Hall Theatre as Branar take you on a joyful journey to the most magical night of the year. Inspired by the classic poem, this bi-lingual show combines storytelling, original live music and puppetry to create a fun and magical festive show for audiences aged 5 and upwards.
Cara:
091- 520002
Sweet merciful mistletoe! There is an intruder in your house and you need to call the police immediately! Do not sleep in the same house as this stranger any l o n g e r. D o n o t t r y to trap him or lure him with socks.
Please leave and do not enter your home until it is s a f e . Yo u a r e a l l m a d ! To t a l l y m a d ! Happy Christmas!
www.lovefromcara.com Find Cara’s Good Karma TV on YouTube.com
www.platinumtanningstudio.ie
The CRAIC on
Wednesday 17th Dec 2014
The STRYPES Suit-Up By Avril HORAN
• 10am and 12pm: Unwrap the Magic of Christmas at the Town Hall Theatre as Branar take you on a joyful journey to the most magical night of the year. • 7:30pm: Catch An Taibhdhearc Christmas PantoÁille agus Allta- aka Beauty And The Beast for a fun-filled evening.
• 8:30pm: Enjoy Comedy Cocktails upstairs at Busker Brownes on Cross Street. • 9pm: David Owens will launch his new album, Honeymoon, upstairs at the Roisin Dubh on Dominick Street. • 9pm: FYC will play live at The Quays downstairs, a 5 piece rock, pop, funk, ska, reggae covers band from Galway. • 9pm: The Harp The Accordion And The Uglies – an eclectic band with a harp from England, an accordion from Italy, percussion from Spain, a clarinet from France, a violin from Finland, a double bass from Hungary and a classical guitar from Italy who are also supported by a visual artist from Spain will gig at Monroes Live on Dominick Street. • 10:30pm: Don’t miss the ‘Screamin’ Bluecats’ at Garvey’s in Eyre Square for a night of rockabilly magic. You ‘aint nothin’ but a hound dog!
H
aving played on a rooftop in Paris, Cavan foursome, The Strypes found themselves at an acoustic gig at Hanley’s Menswear on Shop Street in the city. While speaking to lead guitarist
and vocalist Josh McClorey , we found out that the craic is “good” for the band and that while it was “rainier” on the Parisian rooftop, it was also “very scenic”. Meanwhile, they also discovered some similarities between playing in Paris and playing in a Galway menswear store - “we’re all here, theres guitars, cameras and we’re all a bit hungover, so its all the same really!” joked Josh.
Marrow Match Staff and alumni of NUIG are getting behind a campaign to encourage people to consider donating bone marrow inspired by the story of Paul Giblin, an engineering graduate and champion rower who is battling Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Paul is one of Ireland’s most decorated rowers, with 17 Irish Senior champion titles, as well as twice taking gold at Henley Royal Regatta among his many achievements. Now 31, Paul is currently undergoing his fourth regime of chemotherapy, having also had an autologous (own) stem-cell transplant and radiotherapy. His best, and
14
possibly only chance to return to health, will be to find a match on the Global Registry, the pool from which all bone marrow donations are drawn. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will run a dedicated Bone Marrow Recruitment Clinic on Monday,15th December in the Cumasu Centre, Racing Lodge, Doughiska Road, Galway. The clinic will take a small sample of blood to add to the database, and cross check for matches. E-mail BoneMarrow@ibts.ie for more information and visit http://marrowmatch.eu/
in GALWAY
• 8pm: Christmas Crooners returns to the Town Hall Theatre this evening to get you into the festive spirit - jam packed with festive favourites and the Christmas hits of Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra. Join a fantastic cast of West-End Singers, backed by The Jazz- All-Stars.
both C, events in HDHEAR mme of ra g AN TAIB e. ro p g elic theatr an excitin mous Ga fa ’s presents y a lw Ga ! English in r isteach Irish and open - ta s y a lw a are Our doors
VISIT
OUR
EASY-TO-USE
ONLINE BOOKING: WWW.CREOLE.IE
49 Lower Dominick Street, Galway | Tel: 091895926
cember
17-21 De
2014
Alltaae’ ilge s u g a e l ‘Áil d the Beast’ as G IT’S
GALWAY ARMS INN
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Coffee, Drinks
Bar - Grill - B&B
Live sport on two big screens
galwayarmsinn@gmail.com
(091) 564 555
an O OHHH N ‘Beauty is back! e im m to n The pa IS!! ge HH YES IT H .O … ck on sta … NOT ime is ba m to n a p ‘Áille tmas hearc, with d The Chris h ib a T n e year in A uty and th again this ion of ‘Bea rs e v h is Ir mime – an loved panto agus Allta’ h c u m e e, revival of th eous dam Beast’ - a an outrag ith w , le who is al sty ible beast, rr in tradition te e th d beauty an old! sweet little a heart of g ith w e c n ri really a p
19 Middle Street, Galway. www.antaibhdhearc.com Tel 091562024
The CRAIC on
Thursday 18th Dec 2014
Christmas at BORN CRAIC ad
• 6:30pm: The December Over The Edge Open Reading takes place this evening at the Galway City Library on Augustine Street - with Marion Cox, Christine Murray, Edward O’Dwyer • 7:30pm: Comedian Tommy Tiernan brings his Out Of The Whirlwind tour to the Claregalway hotel, Claregalway. • 7:30pm: The Salthill Community have organised a Christmas Party on the Prom with a drinks reception, four course meal, live band and late DJ • 8pm: Frank Naughton presents A Vintage Christmas at the Town Hall Theatre with very special guest Sandra Oman.
• 9:30pm: Catch the swingin’ style of the Juke Joint Stomp at McSwiggans bar in Woodquay. • 9:30pm: An open traditional Irish music jam takes place every Thursday at the Western Hotel on Prospect Hill. • 10pm: The GMIT final year film fundraiser takes place at Monroes Live Main Stage. With Galways own rock band Ka tet, Rofi James, Derek Ellard and Ryan Keane. • 10pm: Catch local band, Three Legged Dog live at Garvey’s in Eyre Square, playing an acoustic set of everything from Kodaline and Of Monsters and Men, to MGMT & Mumford and Sons. • 10pm: The Uncurables will play at the Backstage Bar at Monroe’s Live - an amalgamation of musicians from Northeast and Northwest Galway playing a mix of rebel and Irish roots music with a few of their own.
Treat Your Loved One to a Born Gift Card
L
ast year, I received a Born Gift Card for Christmas and it was one of the most thoughtful and useful present to get. I could shop for clothes guilt free and pick out the items I wanted for myself. If you don’t know what to buy your loved one, nearest and dearest, then I can speak from experience that I was overjoyed to receive one myself. You can treat them to a Born Gift Card and take the worry out of
16
Christmas shopping. The Born stores have the latest fashion trends at very affordable prices. From Christmas party dresses to casual winter separates it is a one-stop-shop for your fashion fix – for men and women! They have a number of outlets nationwide and for even more of an incentive, they are open on Stephens Day from 12-6pm. It is an ideal treat and a thoughtful way to shop for a present without the worry of disappointment.
in GALWAY
• 9pm: Peter Byrne and the Glass Onion Band will play live at the Quays downstairs.
The CRAIC in BORN Newtownsmith
By Darius IVAN
The CRAIC on
Friday 19th Dec 2014
CRAICing News!
By Avril HORAN
• 6pm: The NUIG Med Ball takes place at the Radisson Blu hotel this evening. • 7:30pm: Antoinette Casserly School of Dance presents A Winter Wonderland at the Town Hall Theatre. • 8pm: Crystal Swing will perform at The Arch House, Portumna, Co. Galway for a special Christmas Party Night Dance.
• 8pm: Produced and directed by Galway filmmaker, Tony Walsh, Croi An Chladaigh - From The Woods To The Water - will be screened at the Town Hall Theatre. This unique visual journey captures the building of the iconic Galway Hooker, Croí an Ċladaiġ. • 8pm: The Christmas pantomime, Áille Agus Allta – Beauty And The Beast through Irish takes place at An Taibhearc, Middle Street nightly until December 21st. • 8:30pm: The Galway Actors Workshop presents Dumping Dave and other stories at the Town Hall Studio. Directed by Sarah O’Toole. • 8:30pm: Tribes Basketball Club are holding their Christmas Jumper party in An Pucan tonight. • 9:30pm: Shaunna McEvilly launches her debut EP ‘Towers’ at Kelly’s on Bridge Street. • 11pm: The Last Friday Club takes place at the Backstage Bar at Monroe’s Live - for all those over 30, who want to get out for a good night of music and fun, but are not sure where to go. Oddity will take to the Main Stage at midnight.
On Song for Saving Grace Galway singers Lucia Evans and Nicola McGuire are lead vocals on a new charity single to raise funds for neuroblastoma sufferer, Grace Kenneally. The song, Saving Grace, was written by Charlie Mason and Richard Hymas and was re-recorded by Ray Diamond at the Forge Recording Studios. Ray arranged the music, musicians and vocalists to create the beautiful song, which is rocketing up the iTunes chart. Backing vocals are provided by the pupils of Gaelscoil Dara, including
Grace herself, as she battles the aggressive form of childhood cancer. They are joined by Paul Vignoles on drums, Jer Madden on keyboard, Yvonne Fahy on the accordion and Maureen Fahy on the fiddle. The idea first came about thanks to Galway lady, Deirdre Wheat, who is currently living in New York. She spread the word about Grace and inspired writers Charlie and Rich to create the beautiful melody. For more see www.savinggrace. ie. A great idea for a Christmas gift.
Anyone for an Irish Coffee? USA Today have included an Irish Coffee beside the fireplace at the Kings Head as one of the best winter beverages from around the globe. Irish Coffee at the historic pub on High Street makes the list along with Gluhwein in Germany and Austria, Glogg in Sweden and Svarak in Czech Republic. The famous hot coffee, whiskey and sugar cocktail, topped with whipped cream
18
was invented in 1943 at Foynes Airport in Co. Limerick. USA Today gives the King’s Head a special mention, by telling their readers to “sip it at The King’s Head, a pub founded in 1649 in an 800-year-old building. Its sister restaurant, The Malthouse, in a flower-bedecked courtyard behind it, serves excellent local seafood, like Galway oysters, crab and lobster.” in GALWAY
• 8pm: Singer and musician, Ann Kirrane, will play at the Crane bar on Sea Road.
Book Your Christmas Party in 4Aces
The CRAIC at 4 ACES CASINO, Dominick St. By Darius IVAN
The CRAIC on
Saturday 20th Dec
2014
CRAICing News!
By Avril HORAN
• 2pm and 4:30pm: Santa’s Christmas Magic Show will take place at Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill, with music, fun, candlelight and Christmas magic. • 6:30pm: The Galway bands BYOB Christmas gig takes place at the Nuns Island Theatre Galway with Dott, It Was All A Bit Black and White, Otto and The Dix, Gummidge, Barry and the Richardsons, Steven Sharpe and the Broke Straight Boys and more. • 7:30pm: He’s Out Of The Whirlwind, as Tommy Tiernan continues his Co Galway tour this evening at Haydens Hotel, Ballinasloe. • 8pm: In a welcome return to the Town Hall Theatre, one of the finest singers to emerge from Galway, Mary Coughlan, will play all her trademark songs in concert this evening, including The Double Cross, Ancient Rain, The Magdalen Laundry and Delaney’s Gone Back on the Wine. • 8pm: The Riverside Crew Mcc Christmas Party takes place at the Glen Oaks Hotel. Music by Whiskey Dancer and DJ. • 8:30pm: The Galway Actors Workshop presents Dumping Dave and other stories at the Town Hall Studio. Directed by Sarah O’Toole. • 8:30pm: The Harp,the Accordion and the Ugly band, an eclectic band supported by a visual artist from Spain will play at Johnston Hall, Kinvara this evening. • 10pm: Psytribe Éire are back to bring you the choicest of high quality psychedelic music at The Cellar bar on Eglinton Street. • Midnight: Experienced covers band, Electric Lemon will play the top tunes from the charts now plus the classics from way back on the main stage at Monroe’s Live.
Cheers to Florida! 18 girls from the west of Ireland and Sligo/Enniskillen have gone through a rigorous tryout in order to be on the Elite Girls Cheerleading Squad, representing Ireland in the World Championships in Florida in April 2015. They are currently fundraising for this trip of a lifetime, in a bid to beat their current best of coming 10th in the world. They require a minimum of €10,000 for the trip and every cheerleader will try to raise €1,500 each through training events in primary schools, bake sales, book swaps and so much more. You can help by donating online at: www.indiegogo.com/
projects/team-ireland-all-girlcheerleading-in-florida.
EUREKA celebrating 1st year in Salthill!
Senator Hildegarde Naughton Wishing you
a Happy Christmas
and a Prosperous New Year!
Nollaig Shona agus
Athbhliain Faoi Mhaise Daoibh!
/HildegardeNaughton @1Hildegarde
13 Saint Francis Street
THE ONLY SPANISH Boutique In Galway
Buy One Get Second Half Price facebook.com/bombongalway
The CRAIC on
Sunday 21st Dec 2014
Santa Dash 2014
Avril HORAN
• 12pm: A Christmas Fair and Festive Fun Day takes place at Peacocks hotel, Clifden, with a special visit from Santa at 1pm. • 12pm: Catch the True Spirit of Christmas with a fundraising market at Aras na nGael on Dominick Street. For the Educate Together National School in Knocknacarra, which opened its doors in September this year • 12pm: The Loughrea Christmas Fair takes place today at the Loughrea Hotel and Spa, meet Santa and Friends and browse the stalls for a festive and family fun day out.
• 4pm: A Community Carols event takes place at the Circle of Life Commemorative Garden in Salthill,to remember loved ones. • 7:30pm: Catch Tommy Tiernan on his latest Galway tour with Out Of The Whirlwind at the Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort. • 7:30pm: A winter solstice celebration takes place at Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill, marking this special turning point of the year with an evening of seasonal ritual, candlelighting, meditation and intentions. • 8pm: One of Ireland’s best known male voice, Red Hurley, brings O Holy Night to the Town Hall Theatre - a magical evening of seasonal, Christmas and spiritual favourites’. • 8pm: The annual Mol an Oige Concert takes place in the Church of Ireland in Clifden featuring some of Connemara’s finest young musicians, singers and dancers. • Midnight. Female Fronted band, Lady Vegas, will take to the stage at Monroe’s Live. covering music from artists such as Adele, Bruno mars, AC/ DC, Pink and Fleetwood Mac.
I
n the last edition, I dressed up as one of the pink ladies from Grease, for an event in aid of the Picture Palace. For this edition, may I introduce you to Santa Claus. Tis the season, and nothing would stop me taking part in the Santa Dash 2014 – not even a Christmas party the night before with my local gym in Moycullen, Moyfitness, which went on til the wee hours. What could be more hilarious than watching hundreds of ‘Santas’ running up and down the prom in aid of the Children in Hospital Charity – with a hangover? It would be the best ‘cure’. With the Santa Dash, you receive a Santa suit with your running number, and it’s a case of onesize fits all. It was a sight to see, as we pinned and tied the red and white concoctions onto ourselves, at the Claddagh Hall. And it was all about the accessories, as they came complete with black belts,
22
hats and beards. Seasoned Santa Dashers warned us the outfits might fall apart during the race. As we sweated it out in these large costumes, I thought of local endurance athlete Gary Thornton. While Gary recently completed, and won, a 42k extreme adventure race in the searing heat of the desert, we were faced with running 5k in a jolly red sweat suit. I mean, it’s the same thing really. I can only imagine this is what hot yoga feels like. As the sea of red and white took off before us, my mantra mimicked that of Dorothy in Finding Nemo “just keep jogging, just keep jogging”. My legs were like two dead weights thanks to my less than perfect state, but I managed to toddle along at a reasonable pace - before stopping for a welcome drop of water, and a breather - at the half way point. >>> in GALWAY
• 2pm and 4:30pm: Santa’s Christmas Magic Show will take place at Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill, with music, fun, candlelight and Christmas magic.
CRAIC at Opening of Colm Quinn BMW showroom in Galway By Darius IVAN
The CRAIC on
Monday 22nd Dec 2014
Running for a Good Claus By Avril HORAN
• *We say farewell to the Galway Continental Christmas market in Eyre Square today. • 2pm and 4:30pm: Santa’s Christmas Magic Show will take place at Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill, with music, fun, candlelight and Christmas magic. • 8:30pm: The Harp, The Accordion and the Ugly, an eclectic band supported by a visual artist from Spain, will play at Nuns Island Theatre this evening. • 9pm: Catch iRocks winners, Rofi James, every Monday at Barr an Chaladh, Woodquay. • 9pm: The Cellar bar is host to Play, where musicians can jam with support from a backing band in this open night with a difference. All welcome. • 9pm: The Uncurables, an amalgamation of musicians from Northeast and Northwest Galway playing a mix of rebel and Irish roots music with a few of their own, will play live at The Quays downstairs. • 9pm: Hank Wedel, who is well known over the past thirty years for his work with the bands Princes Street, Open Kitchen and, laterly, Small Town Talk with Declan Sinnott will perform with family band Greenshine – who count Christy Moore and Sharon Shannon amongst their legion of admirers - at Monroe’s Live. • 9:30pm: Enjoy the best of swingin’ tunes by the Black Magic Big Band at Busker Brownes on Cross Street. • 9:30pm: A traditional Irish music session takes place at the Crane bar on Sea Road with Freda Hatton and Kevin Whelan.
>>> Children on scooters and roller blades passed me by, as I willed myself to glide smoothly to the finish line. It was more of a creaky plod, but I made it, thanks to the knowledge that if I stopped, I would feel a lot worse. I finished the 5k in 37 minutes, not bad for a person in my condition I consoled myself, and tried not to think of those who completed the 10k just a few minutes later. Sigh. As we revelled in our achievement and tasted the last few drops of the best cup of tea, ever, we wandered through Shop Street in our attire and onwards to the
Christmas market in Eyre Square, where we enjoyed the wide eyed wonderment of every child and rolled eyes of every adult. It was the best craic. We decided to stay in a pack as my fellow participants declared that “five Santas are better than one”. We even posed for a photo with a thoroughly bemused tourist. We waved goodbye to a few other like-minded Santas soaking up the atmosphere on a sunny winter’s day, before returning to our normal attire, and the real world.
TECH GATE 2014
www.vandaluddy.com
Wishing you a
Merry Christmas
091-522696 goodtimes@lohans.ie Open 9am—late 7 days a week
The CRAIC on
Tuesday 23rd Dec 2014
CRAICing City of Film!
By Katelin BERNARD
• 12pm: It’s the last day to catch the Winter Wonderland in Portumna, Co Galway, with Olaf and friends from Frozen. With Santa and the elves, fun and festivities. • 4pm: The Harp, The Accordion and the Ugly, an eclectic band supported by a visual artist from Spain, will gig at Campbell’s Tavern, Headford today.
• 8pm: Enjoy live jazz at Rouge restaurant on Dominick Street with Mike Corbett on piano and Keith McDonald on trumpet. • 9:30pm: For some comedy this evening, try the Comedy Cocktails showcase with Donal Vaughan, John Sheehan, John O’Hare, Declan Brennan, (and hopefully) Martin Angolo at the Roisin Dubh on Dominick Street. • 9:30pm: A trad session takes place at the Crane bar on Sea Road with John O’Halloran and Mick Crehan. • 11pm Amazing Apples for Christmas Coming Home Party at Halo Nightclub. It’s an opportunity to gather far away friend together for a long awaited catch up and to take part in some festive fun. Mulled wine reception, mistletoe and more...
G
alway has become the only Irish city to be designated a UNESCO city of film and the fifth city in the world to have achieved the permanent status. 50 organisations were involved in the bid process, which began over two years ago, and it is a major boost to the city. Bill O’ Herlihy, Chair of the Irish film board stated that “Film has always run through the veins of Galway and holds a strong cultural, artistic value.” It is estimated that the film and television industry in Co. Galway generates around 70 million for the local economy every year. President Michael D Higgins said “This permanent award will raise Galway’s worldwide profile as a significant player in the creative sector”
26
The selection means that it also boosts the chances of becoming European capital of culture 2020. Meanwhile, a graduate from NUI Galway’s Huston School of Film and Digital Media, Will Collins has been nominated for an ANNIE Award the Oscars for animated films. Now in its 42nd year, the ANNIE Awards recognise the year’s best in the field of animation and is animation’s highest honour. Will, originally from Kanturk, Co. Cork, graduated with a Masters in Screenwriting in 2006. The animation, Song of the Sea, has been nominated in the Best Animated Feature and Best Character Development, in the same category as blockbusters such as The Lego Movie and How to Train Your Dragon 2. The awards ceremony will take place in Los Angeles in January 2015.
in GALWAY
• 9pm: Catch Fred and James live at the Quays downstairs, on Quay Street, two guys who like to play their acoustic guitars, sing songs, tell jokes, stories, and have an odd pint of Guinness in front of an audience.
On Your Bike
RE/CYCLE CENTRE 42 Prospect Hill, Galway City
Tel: Derrick O’Regan: 091 563393 or Mobile: 087 9425479
Email: onyourbikecycles@gmail.com www.onyourbikecycles.com
New, Used and Rental Cycles for All SAleS, RepAiRS, SeRviCe, ReStoRAtioN, ACCeSSoRieS, HiRe.
ay d n ht u S Nig Galways only hobby and games store!! We stock everything you need for your gaming and hobby needs.....board games card games, minis, paints, coffee and of course our own amazing donuts which are freshly prepared every morning.
Home of the €3 coffee and donut deal Even if you are not a gamer you are still welcome to come on in and enjoy some great coffee and donuts with us.
UNIT 2, THE BRIDGE MILLS, LOWER DOMINICK STREET, GALWAY. TEL: 091-567930 EMAIL :DUNGEONSANDDONUTSGALWAY@GMAIL.COM FIND US ON FACEBOOK: DUNGEONS AND DONUTS GALWAY
Open Mic Partake or Spectate! Enjoy the Craic, Delectable Food Craft Beers, Wines
2 Courses Only
€22
51 Lower Dominick St, Galway Tel (091)449252 info@dela.ie www.dela.ie Twitter:@delagalway Facebook:delarestaurant
The CRAIC on
Wednesday 24th Dec 2014
HAPPY CHRISTMAS!!!
• *Its Christmas Eve! • 9pm: FYC will play live at the Quays downstairs, a 5 piece rock, pop, funk, ska, reggae covers band from Galway. • 10:30pm: Don’t miss the ‘Screamin’ Bluecats’ at Garvey’s in Eyre Square for a night of rockabilly magic. You ‘aint nothin’ but a hound dog!
The CRAIC on
Thursday 25th Dec 2014 • *Happy Christmas from everyone at the Craic in Galway magazine! • 10am: The 25th COPE Galway Christmas Day swim takes place today and aims to raise money to help fund local services in homelessness, domestic violence and for older people. The swim will take place at Blackrock, Salthill from 10am to 1pm. In honour of its 25th year, they are hoping to attract 250 people to raise €200 so as to reach the target of €50,000. • 10am: The annual Goal Mile takes place at Dangan, NUIG today so you can walk or run for this great charity; with a Goal Mile taking place in Spiddal at 12pm after the swim. Meet at Texaco Garage.
The CRAIC on
Friday 26th Dec 2014 • 11am: The 13th Fields of Athenry 10km will take place today. The race is being held on its now traditional route, finishing under the medieval arch in Athenry. The race has sold out for the last few years and 2013 saw a record number of finishers with 1,131 crossing the line. • 9pm: The annual St. Stephens Day ball in memory of Keith O’Reilly will return again this year to the Radisson Blu hotel.
Sharon Shannon Party at Abbeyglen Galway music icon, Sharon Shannon, flew in to Ireland from a concert in China for President Michael D Higgins especially for her annual
Christmas party, which took place at the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden. Great craic was had by all.
Merry Christmas from
The CRAIC on
Saturday 27th Dec 2014 • 10:30am: The Rusty Spokes Moycullen Christmas Spin takes place today in aid of Crinniu - a Moycullen based charity that help the needy. Meet at Dooleys Pub in Moycullen from 10.30am for registration. There will be 2 spins 45k and an 85k both starting and finishing in Moycullen. Bowels of Stew will be served afterwards along with a few drinks. All are welcome. • 8pm: Join singer/ songwriter Dolores Keane in Concert at the Salthill hotel, Salthill. • 8:30pm: For some comedy, head to the Roisin Dubh for A Christmas Karl With Karl Spain & Friends, Kevin Mcgahern (Republic Of Telly), Fred Cooke, and more. • 9pm: Singer George Murphy, who burst onto the Irish music scene over a decade ago as a 17-year-old contestant on You’re a Star, will bring his unmistakable powerhouse of a voice to Monroe’s Live.
CRAICing Radio Star!
I
admire well groomed women -
Skincare Clinic, located at Calbro Court
with tailor-cut clothes, perfect
on the Tuam Road – above Laura Ashley.
manicures and white toothy grins
Overjoyed - and scared. I have become
framed by a swash of delicate red
very conscious of the bags under my eyes
lipstick. They have coiffured hair
recently, they seem to have developed a
every day and a subtle glow of the skin
life of their own, along with some unruly
achieved only by that perfect balance
laughter lines that I have been working on
of fake tan and moisturiser. A waft of
for the past number of years. Its winter and
perfume fills the air as they walk past
I feel like a wreck.
on their high heels, accessorised with just the right handbag, coat, gloves and HD brows.
Without the camouflage of make-up, and erratic eyebrows, I was self-conscious when I met Irene. It was clear that I didn’t belong
I, on the other hand, have an irregular
to the dedicated primpers and pluckers. I
pattern with beautician appointments.
awaited the usual critique about the need
I am unable to find my tweezers at the
for a proper skin care routine, the need to
moment and convince people I am letting
drink lots of water and the need to peel off
them ‘grow’. I still shave me bits, having
all of the layers and start again on my dry/
yet to discover the joys of laser treatments.
oily combo. “You have lovely skin” said the
Fortunately, I don’t have a tash, so waxing
Athenry lass, which took me completely by
• 11pm: Join DJ John Daly at Electric Garden and Theatre on Upper Abbeygate Street for the Epoch Christmas Edition with Colin Finnegan and Lynam.
or bleaching are not something I have had
surprise. I have never been complemented
to wrestle with. I have had my fair share
by a beautician before. It was great. Then
of the ‘brazilians’ when they first came
again, Irene is no ordinary beautician.
• 11pm: DJs Ryan Griffin and Adrian Hanley will take to the decks at Halo nightclub on Upper Abbeygate Street.
allows. My daily hairstyle is a pony tail
into vogue, my first shellac was for my wedding, which I subsequently picked off, and I enjoy the odd facial, when money and my fashion sense is dictated by warm jumpers and how to hide the belly.
“I started off doing science,” she explained, “and I loved part of it, but not all of it. I did a beauty therapy course to tide me over and to see what I wanted to get into. I began working in a clinic with high tech treatments, such as laser treatments, and
It is to this end that I was overjoyed to
I loved it - knowing how it all worked and
be offered a Radio Frequency treatment
seeing the results.
30
in GALWAY
by Irene Trowell at the Galway Laser and
CRAICing Beauty By Avril HORAN
“I saw an opportunity to create a standalone laser and skin care clinic. I don’t do the regular beauty treatments at all and have stepped away from the beauty side. Its more machine based. We do a lot of laser treatments and skin peels as we are very results driven”. Irene offers everyone a free trial and consultation of the Viora Reaction skin tightening antiaging treatment. It has been called the ‘Cinderella facial’ in some circles as it has immediate effects. As such, Irene completes one side of the face during the trial, so a comparison can be made. My heart sank as I thought perhaps I would be leaving with a lopsided complexion. Fortunately, there are some perks to this job, and she offered to do the other side if I liked the results. The technology is new and the Galway Laser and Skincare Clinic has the only machine of its kind in the west. It is a non-invasive treatment and requires no down time. You can go straight back to work after a session and, after the very first treatment, collagen fibres are contracted, giving an immediate firmed and tightened appearance. It works as a nonsurgical facelift alternative. “This is quite new on the market,” explained Irene, “this particular machine is only out in the last two years, after years of testing. It is a radio frequency therapy and uses radio waves rather than laser or light. The radio waves make tiny vibrations to stimulate collagen production and the fibres will
tighten on the day. “Collagen is like a huge network of intertwined elastic bands. As we get older, they start to break. Just like elastic bands, they start to snap and become very loose and saggy. With radio frequency energy, we can tighten the fibres and there is an immediate effect in the short term. However, we need to stimulate new collagen cells for it to work in the long
as you might anticipate some discomfort, she would move on to the next area and work her way upwards from the chin to the forehead. I was relaxed the entire time. As it came to an end, I was excited to see the results. And there it was. The skin on my neck had tightened, reducing any double chin look, my eyebrow was raised slightly and the bags under my eye were considerably reduced. The bottom line here is that – it worked! I am putting this in bold for effect so you can skip over the entire middle piece of this article if you feel the need to. There were other results but I was primarily concerned with my own particular hang up. So excited was I that I immediately wrapped myself back up into the blanket and persuaded her to do my right side. I wasn’t going anywhere. She worked on the eye area only, and I was delighted with myself. There is an answer to my prayers and I just hope that Santa will be kind and give me a gift voucher to the Galway Laser and Skincare Clinic for Christmas.
term and for the tightening effect to last. And compared to laser treatment, it’s easy!” Still apprehensive, I lay down as she applied a cooling gel to the left hand side of my face and began the treatment. I felt no discomfort whatsoever despite my subconscious busily preparing for the worst. It was a simple ‘pfft’ of heat from the hand held machine, which increased in intensity over the area. Just
Prices start from €80, depending on which area you would like to have treated. A course of six is required for the best results. For more contact Irene at the Galway Laser and Skincare Clinic; www.galwaylaserskincareclinic.ie; phone 091 762484.
The CRAIC on
Sunday 28th Dec 2014
Swing Jam
By Avril HORAN
• 12pm: A Christmas 5-A-Side Tournament in aid of Cancer Care West takes place today at the Drum Cages, Galway, organised by Salthill Devon FC. • 12pm: Head to Busker Brownes on Cross Street for the best jazz brunch in town with the Galway Bay Jazz Band. • 8pm: Join singer songwriter Mick Flannery, who has won top awards for his songwriting in Nashville, Tennessee at the Roisin Dubh on Dominick Street. • 9pm: The Jes past pupils Christmas get together takes place this evening in the Dail bar. • • 9pm: Catch DJ Will Softly at Kelly’s Bar on Bridge Street and entry is Free!
Do you know someone who has a great voice and never seems to do anything with it? Well I would love to talk to them and help to bring their lyrics to life! • Music Producer with over 20 years experience in songwriting • Comfortable studio to allow creativity to flow • Ideal for singers who don’t play an instrument and want to realise their songs • Discounts for block booking sessions • Free first our consultation
Do you know someone who has a great voice and never seems to do anything with it? Well I would love to talk to them and www.thedreamsloft.com help to bring their lyrics to life! •20 years songwriting experience •Comfortable studio •Ideal for singers •Discounts available
www.thedreamsloft.com
Galway Girl Wins International Dance Competition. Galway
S
wing dancer, Norma Owens, has returned home to Galway following a whirlwind tour of the United States that culminated in double first-place awards at the Rocky Mountain Balboa Blowout in Denver, Colorado. Norma discovered Balboa dancing in 2009 while attending a swing dance workshop. She had learned various dances since the age of 5, but it was the swing music for this dance that won her heart and which ultimately led her to pursue that style. As a young girl, Norma’s father restored the old gramophone that had belonged to her grandmother, and together they would spend weekends trawling through antique shops looking for shellac 78s to play on it. This was her first introduction to swing music. Decades later, when she found herself walking into a room full of swing dancers, she says that the experience gave her goosebumps. Balboa is a vintage dance form that originated in the 1930s on the Balboa
Peninsula in southern California, a popular seaside resort with those seeking a brief escape from downtown Los Angeles. Glamorous dance halls like the Balboa Pavilion quickly sprung up near the terminus of the Pacific Electric Railway, which brought hordes of eager fans to enjoy the big band music of Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and the Dorsey Brothers, amongst others. The Rendezvous Ballroom had a whopping capacity of 4,000 and yet it was so crammed that signs were reputedly posted forbidding “breakaways”, meaning that dancing couples were obliged to remain in a close embrace. Ed Thompson, one of the original Balboa dancers, said that Balboa is “the only way to hold someone close in your arms and still dance to the best music.” As such, Balboa earned the nickname the ‘Sweetheart Dance’. Nowadays, Balboa has fused with a more open dance style called Bal-Swing, giving presentday dancers the option of dancing in a variety of closed or open positions,
ready to take to the dance floor. The first contest was a test of partnering skill, where couples sign up together; the second a test of social dancing skill, where the dancers are paired with random partners and only discover who they will dance with in the final moments before the competition. To her delight, Norma was awarded on the night with a double win, taking first place in both contests with her partner, PJ Capra (USA).
and the dance enjoys a niche following that spans the globe, from Sweden to Australia, and from Korea to Russia. Norma has spent the last few years travelling all over Europe and the United States to learn this dance from the top international instructors. Earlier this year, she was presented with an opportunity to visit America, where she continued her training, and also competed in several dance competitions. For the first time in history, Ireland was represented in Balboa
contests in Arizona, Ohio, and Washington (pictured here at Camp Balboa Seattle, dancing with David Bradford). Norma even found time in between for two trips to Germany, where she also performed and competed in Balboa. Having accrued multiple 3rd- and 2nd-place prizes at these various events, Norma’s last trip in America was to Denver, Colorado, for the Rocky Mountain Balboa Blowout. After spending two days adjusting to the mile-high altitude, she was
Norma is now back home in Galway and looking forward to continuing her dancing through Swing Jam, which she founded with her husband Paul in 2011 to rekindle the enjoyment of swing era dances in the city of Galway and beyond. Swing Jam has introductory courses starting in January, with beginner classes in both Balboa and St. Louis Shag. Norma’s background in education and her fun-loving spirit means that the focus of Swing Jam is on making these dances accessible to all. “A dance class is a great way to meet new people and try new things, plus it’s all done to fantastic music and is really great fun! The atmosphere is very friendly, and we welcome people of all ages and backgrounds through our doors,” says Norma. For more information about swing dance classes, visit www. swingjam.ie, see the Swing Jam page on Facebook, or phone Norma directly on 087 9037485.
The CRAIC on
Monday 29th Dec 2014
Áille agus Allta - Beauty and the Beast By Dara KELLY
• 11am: For all of those brides and grooms to be, the G Hotel will hold a champagne show around today to view their designer wedding suite, fully set up, and they will treat you to a glass of champagne – by appointment only.
• 8pm: Join Michael English and Friends for music and dancing at the Salthill Hotel. Tickets available on the door on the night for cash only, €15 per person. • 8pm: The Nice List’ - A Night of Music in Aid of COPE takes place at the Roisin Dubh this evening with My Fellow Sponges, Julie Hawk, David Owens, Katie O’Connor and Pa Reidy Music • 9pm: Loose Tongues, a three piece with power pop covers, will play live at The Quays downstairs. • 9pm: Salthill Devon’s big Race Night fundraiser takes place this evening at the Harbour Hotel. The first race off will be at 9pm sharp and it promises to be an enjoyable night for all, and with MC Mr Brendan Shaughs. • 9pm: Catch DJ Will Softly at Kelly’s Bar on Bridge Street and entry is Free! • 10pm: The fantastic Kila are set to entertain at Monroe’s Live. Suas Síos (Up Down) is their new album, their tenth studio album, and is a work of beauty, maturity, a work that encapsulates the exuberance of their music, their relentless vision and their sheer talent.
The Christmas pantomime is back on
Tá Geamaireacht na Nollag ar ais arís
stage again this year in An Taibhdhearc,
i mbliana sa Taibhdhearc agus is ‘Áille
with ‘Áille agus Allta’ – an Irish version of
agus Allta’ – ‘Beauty and the Beast’ as
‘Beauty and the Beast’ - a revival of the
Gaeilge a bheas ar stáitse an babhta
much loved pantomime in traditional
seo – geamaireacht i stíl thraidisiúnta
style, with an outrageous dame, sweet
le Dáma dochreidte, Áille atá séimh
little beauty and the terrible beast, who
cineálta agus brúid mhór ghránna….
is really a prince with a heart of gold.
ar Prionsa é i ndáiríre, atá fial flaithiúil.
The panto takes place from December
Beidh an gheamaireacht ar stáitse an
17th-20th at 7:30pm, with matinees on
17ú – 20ú Nollaig ag 7.30pm, agus
December 18th at 12pm and December
beidh seónna breise an 18ú Nollaig ag
20th and 21st at 2:30pm.
12pm agus an 20ú agus 21ú ag 2.30pm
There are plenty of well known actors
freisin.
taking part in this year’s production, as
Tá neart aisteoirí mór le rá agus a lán
well as children from around the city and
leanaí ó chathair agus ó chontae na
county. Actor Diarmuid de Faoite plays the
Gaillimhe ar fad ag glacadh páirte ann. I
part of Dilín Ó Deamhas-O’Dea, a wealthy
measc na n-aisteoirí, tá Diarmuid de Faoite
widow from Connemara originally, while
(Corp agus Anam), a bhfuil páirt Dilín Ó
Tara Breathnach (Tina from the soap
Deamhas-O’Dea aige - baintreach shaibhir
Ros na Rún) plays the part of the Queen,
de bhunú Chonamara. Tá páirt na Banríona
Úna Ní Fhlátharta is ‘Beauty’ and Eoin Ó
ag Tara Breathnach (Tina as Ros na Rún). Is
Dubhghaill takes up the part of the Beast.
ag Úna Ní Fhlátharta (Corp agus Anam)
For seasonal heartwarming joy, music singing and dancing, don’t miss the panto at An Taibhdhearc! It will be something for all the family to enjoy this Christmas. An Irish language show that will be accessible to all!
atá páirt ‘Áille’ agus is é Eoin Ó Dubhghaill (Aifric, Ros na Rún) a bheas mar an Mac Allta sa léiriú freisin. Ná caill é mar is cinnte go dtaitneoidh sé leis an teaghlach ar fad, le neart ceoil, damhsa agus siamsaíochta. Gach eolas agus ticéid: www.antaibhdhearc.com nó glaoigh ar 091562024
For more information and tickets: www.antaibhdhearc.com or call 091562024
Ticéid ar lacáiste agus lascaine do theaghlaigh ar fáil.
Concession tickets and family discounts available.
34
in GALWAY
• 2:30pm and 7:30pm: With a script specially written by Peter Kennedy, Renmore’s 36th annual Pantomime, Cinderella, promises to be a spectacular adventure of laughter, music and song at the Town Hall Theatre.
Welcome to Newest Regular CRAICing venue
The CRAIC at CARBON Nightclub , By Darius IVAN
The CRAIC on
Tuesday 30th Dec 2014
CRAICing Fashion!
By Sunny JUDDY
• 11am: For all of those brides and grooms to be, the G Hotel will hold a champagne show around today to view their designer wedding suite, fully set up, and they will treat you to a glass of champagne – by appointment only. • 2:30pm and 7:30pm: With a script specially written by Peter Kennedy, Renmore’s 36th annual Pantomime, Cinderella, promises to be a spectacular adventure of laughter, music and song at the Town Hall Theatre. • 9pm: Catch Fred and James live at the Quays downstairs, on Quay Street - two guys who like to play their acoustic guitars, sing songs, tell jokes, stories, and have an odd pint of Guinness in front of an audience.
Styling Session with Sunny Juddy. This is the perfect time to treat yourself or your loved ones to the gift of styling - a voucher for a personal shopping session with Sunny Juddy . Sunny Juddy is a Galway based artist, fashion /costume designer, stylist and current student of interior design. She has excellent knowledge about fashion trends, technical garments, body shapes and will help you out to create outfits for any occasions, with any budget. You can follow her creative work on facebook and buy a styling
36
voucher online at www.divmedia.ie Livia( a student of archeology at NUIG) says : “A shopping session with Sunny Juddy was a great experience. I have never done anything like this before before. I am very conservative, and do not like to change the way I dress. But, seeing what Juddy created for me, and listening to her perspective, I started to look at myself in a different way. Moreover, I could see that she still kept my inner me in this outfit. Thanks Juddy!” in GALWAY
• 11pm: It’s time once again for the Silent Disco at the Roisin Dubh on Dominick Street.
Eglington Street, Newtownsmith, Galway, Tuam and Galway Shopping Centre
Mon - Wed: 09:30 - 18:00 Thu - Fri: 09:30 - 20:00 Sat: 09:30 - 18:00 Sun: 12:00 - 18:00
Vila, Only, Vero Moda, Closet, Glamorous, Converse, Jack and Jones, Diesel, Selected Homme, Namelt
The CRAIC on
Wednesday 31st Dec 2014
CRAICing Music!
By Avril HORAN
• *Happy New Year’s Eve! • 2:30pm: Catch this year’s Renmore Pantomime, Cinderella, at the Town Hall Theatre. Wellknown Galway performers, electrifying dance routines and the charming little Renmore Smurfs bring sparkle to this seasonal feast of family entertainment, directed by award-winning twins Brian & Seán Power. • 8pm: The Affinity New Year’s Eve bash kicks off at the Victoria Hotel with DJS Thrillseekers, Standerwick and Chris Metcalfe.
• 9pm: The annual Shuffle! New Year’s Eve bash takes place at The Cellar on Eglington Street with Danny Duggan spinning some of his enviable soul records and Jo Doran getting the groove started with the best in all things soulful and beaty. For the best of Northern Soul, 60s Ska, R&B, Jump Blues, Reggae, Dancefloor Jazz, Mambo, Latin Boogaloo and Funk. • 9pm: Catch DJ Will Softly at The Kings Head • 9pm: Join Peter Byrne and the Glass Onion band downstairs at the Quays on Quay Street. • 9pm: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Kormacs Big Band at the Roisin Dubh. • Midnight: Roll in 2015 with Monroe’s Live as they celebrate 50 years in business!
MUSICAL MAYHEM AT THE CRANE BAR Recently I discovered something new. Now, it is an event that has been running for the past five years here in Galway, but for me, it was new. As I am the one who has to do the diary section for each edition of the magazine, you may have noticed my penchant for swing, jazz, blues or a combination of any of these genres. So when invited to a bluegrass gig at the Crane bar on Sea Road, I just thought, cool. Some nice vibes, good talent and a relaxing atmosphere to ward off the winter worries. It was actually Musical Mayhem, a monthly concert series run from the Crane bar and organised by local band, Mikey and the Scallywags. It showcases new and upcoming talent and can be a concoction of any kind of musical genre. Such is its success, they recently celebrated their fifth birthday of the event, at Monroe’s Live. “It originally started in Nimmos at the Spanish Arch and became too big
38
to keep it in there,” explained Mikey McCrory. “We moved it over to The Crane and we try to get three different acts of different genres, usually all original music, to showcase new talent. Tonight we have singer songwriter John Conneely, bluegrass band The Oldtown Rounders and an all-female quartet called Mongoose. We used to be the host band, but we took a step back to give space for new bands,” he said. And all three acts were brilliant. It was such a great night and I thoroughly enjoyed the music on offer. I was particularly intrigued by Mongoose, with their beautiful harmonies and carefully carved lyrics. There is a certain novelty about watching a female double bass player and all four women from Dublin were multiinstrumentalists. I am certain one of the songs began with the words “and sometimes you run out of cellotape” which is, of course, something we have all experienced! >>> in GALWAY
• 9pm: A New Years Eve party of heavy hitting bass music Djs from Berlin’s red hot underground scene, takes place at Kellys on Bridge Street hosted by The Dub Doctor. Join Braintheft Dj Team, featuring Dj Giotto Beatty and Bar Thez.
from everyone at Citylink www.citylink.ie
Santa Express
Full Timetable in Operation Every Day except Christmas Day (Unless Santa needs a lift!)
Christmas Gift Vouchers Available
ON-BOARD
Toilets on-board
www.citylink.ie
The CRAIC on
Thursday 1st Jan 2015 • *Happy New Year from all at the Craic in Galway. • *For T V lovers, UT V Ireland launches today and includes Galway girl, Mar y Regan, as political editor.
• 2:30pm and 7:30pm: With a script specially written by Peter Kennedy, Renmore’s 36th annual Pantomime, Cinderella, promises to be a spectacular adventure of laughter, music and song at the Town Hall Theatre. • 5pm: Connacht play host to Munster at The Spor tsground in the Guinness Pro12. Kick-off at 5pm. • 9pm: Peter Byrne and the Glass Onion Band will play live at the Quays downstairs.
Photo by JULIA DUNIN
>>> If the acts on the night are a marker for the quality of music at the event, then I will no doubt become a regular of Musical Mayhem. The next Musical Mayhem event is scheduled for February as they are taking a break for Christmas. And it may become even bigger. “We would like to build up to hosting more events and do what we do here, but in bigger venues,” said Mikey. “After the 5-year event in Monroes, we realised
that it was such a nice space for us and allowed us to make it more theatrical, even more of an event.” So watch this space. Musical Mayhem is on the up and for more information you can check out Mikey and the Scallywags facebook page. They are currently finishing off their own album and the Craic has discovered the working title for it – For All The Soul Shakers. You heard it here first folks. We will see them in 2015.
Classical Christmas
For a free musical treat this Christmas, The Galway Music Residency will present live classical and Christmas favourites performed by The Galway Ensemble in Residence: ConTempo Quartet and its apprentice stars – the Brennan-Cahill Saxophone-Piano Duo and The Elwood Guitar Quartet on Saturday, December 13th from 11 am – 1 pm in the Galway City Museum, Spanish Arch. Museum visitors will also be treated to a special holiday performance by ConTempo and Bel Canto in the main foyer.
Gavin Brennan and Aileen Cahill are no strangers to Galway audiences having performed here last February as part of The Galway Music Residency’s ‘Rising Stars’programme. The Elwood Guitar Quartet - Michael Clarke, Katie Neville, Marc Oliver and
40
Radek Lomejko - formed in 2013 at Maynooth University with the aim to display the diverse capabilities of the guitar within the setting of chamber music. They have a repertory which extends from baroque to contemporary classical. Bel Canto’s voices blend beautifully together, performing trios, duets, timeless classics and arias in their own unique style, with stunning voices and beautiful melodies. Galway’s 3 leading sopranos, Delia Boyce, Hildegarde Naughton and Sandra Schalks sing everything from classical, operatic, music-theatre, Irish and popular genres – all arranged by their musical director Mairead Berrill. They have already developed an enviable reputation for their unique sound featuring innovative three-part harmonies. in GALWAY
• 1pm: The Resolution Run takes place today, a 5k through the city streets of Galway. Race number pickup is open from 10:30 to 12:30 in Monroe’s Tavern near the Spanish Arch and the Race will star t at exactly 1:00pm. The course star ts and finishes at the Spanish Arch, includes Shop Street and passes most of the city ’s famous landmarks along the way.
Day Breakfast Menu / Wraps / Bagels / Gourmet Sandwiches & Salads AllAll Day Breakfast Menu / Wraps / Bagels / Gourmet Sandwiches & Salads
FREE WiFi FREE WiFi
STUDENTS’ SPECIAL STUDENTS’ SPECIAL Coffee / Tea Coffee / Tea Scone / Croissant Scone / Croissant Deep Fill Sandwich Deep Fill Sandwich Bottle of Water Bottle of Water
€7 €7
DAILY SPECIAL DAILY SPECIAL
SOUP & SANDWICH SOUP & SANDWICH
€6 €6
The Hot Chocolate Specialists Java Johns only serve the best REAL Hot Chocolate . All our Hot Chocolates are made from Real Chocolate Drops & not powder . Served as standard with Fresh Cream & Marsh-mellows , additional extras include Sticky Toffee or Caramel Flavoured Sauces . Coming real soon to our extensive Coffee Menu is a Sticky Toffee Coffee .
This is In addition to Vanilla , Chocolate , Roasted-Hazelnut or Caramel flavours you can add to your Americano , Latte or Cappuccino coffees . All our coffees are available with full fat , skimmed or Soya Milk. Java Johns is open
8am-6pm daily Seven days.
The CRAIC on
Friday 2nd Jan 2015
CRAICing Horoscopes!!! By Psychic POPPY
right now, all the answers that you seek are
• 3pm: T h e I r i s h Po k e r Fe s t i v a l b e g i n s t o d a y a t the Radisson Blu hotel w i t h t o d a y ’s h i g h l i g h t e d e v e n t , t h e G a l w a y C u p. T h e I r i s h Po k e r C h a m p i o n s h i p is now in its ninth year and i s o n e o f I r e l a n d ’s m o s t sought after and coveted titles. • 7:30pm: Catch this y e a r ’s Renmore Pa n t o m i m e , Cinderella, a t t h e To w n H a l l T h e a t r e . We l l - k n o w n Galway per formers, electrifying dance routines and the charming little Renmore Smur fs bring sparkle to this seasonal feast of family entertainment, directed by award-winning t w i n s B r i a n & S e á n Po w e r. • 8 p m : T h e Wi l l i a m s t o w n Handball Club are holding a fundraising Boston Te a Pa r t y and Social in the Oakland Hotel, Glenamaddy with a meal at 8pm and music from 10pm.
already within you! They cannot be found through the intellect but rather through your deepest feelings. Any emotional situation you find yourself involved in now can provide great insight for you. Trust your gut instinct and your intuition. Treat it with respect and confidence as you are on the ball right
Saggitarius: ‘Follow your passion. You are ready for any challenge. There are opportunities for adventure and excitement.’’
now with it. If you find yourself dreaming
Well, my horses. It’s all happening for you
looking for during our waking hours. If you
now this festive season! Opportunities
are going through a challenging situation,
for passion and excitement are headed
there might be aspects of it right now
your way. This is something you have
that you’re unaware of. Call on Archangel
a lot at night right now, keep a pen and paper beside the bed and jot down anything you can remember. Sometimes dreams hold the key to answers we are
prepared for and that you hoped would happen. You may feel like you’re not quite ready for it but you are, so don’t be worried. This card can be a sign of an advancement or promotion of some sort in your career. It can be a sign of gaining self confidence and embracing life. Perhaps you have become more energetic, extrovert and willing to help those around you. Are you someone
• 8pm: Catch Matt Keane live in concer t at the Claregalway Hotel. Matt is a member of the famous traditional Keane family f r o m C a h e r l i s t r a n e , C o. G a l w a y. T i c k e t s a v a i l a b l e at the hotel reception.
who loves a challenge and has youthful
Haniel (or the universe or whatever/
enthusiasm? Perhaps a person like this
whoever you believe in) to help you and
has come into your life and is trying to
provide you with enlightenment. This is
help you. Let them help. They were sent
not the time to take action. Think about
to do this. Be brave, creative, optimistic,
what you want and about what you are
charming, active and playful! Get out
doing carefully. This is a time for reflection
there and show people what you are
and meditation. Just have faith that things
• 8 : 3 0 p m : K u d o s Te e n a g e Disco takes place at Kudos n i g h t c l u b, O r a n m o r e t h i s evening.
really made of!
and events will work out perfectly as they are supposed to. You will know when it is
It is sometimes tempting and pleasant to look for answers from others, be they friends, family or professionals such as a therapist, life coach or a medium. However,
42
time to make a move. Try to remain patient and be at peace in the knowledge that your own inner guidance and intuition will not fail you. Have faith in the power of your subconscious and in the mystery and awe of the universe. Be willing to forgive any wrong doing, including by yourself. Keep loyal to your loved ones and have patience. in GALWAY
Capricorn: ‘Powerful psychic insights. Reflection and meditation that provide valuable information. It’s time to be at peace.’
Find Snowie in Eyre Square Shopping Centre www.bigbearpromotions.ie
The CRAIC with Snowie and the Snow Globe By Darius IVAN
The CRAIC on
Saturday 3rd Jan 2015 • 2:30pm and 7:30pm: With a script specially written by Peter Kennedy, Renmore’s 36th annual Pantomime, Cinderella, promises to be a spectacular adventure of laughter, music and song at the Town Hall Theatre.
Aries: An opportunity to improve your plans It’s time to listen to your intuition for
etc”.The other way around is the same thing.
inner guidance. If you start to face your fears
important to have balance in your life. Don’t
instead of ignoring them or criticising them,
take on too much (multiple jobs/projects/
you’ll grow stronger for it. It’s human to have
saying yes to too many Christmas parties!).
moments where you are afraid. But by facing
Reconsider your“to do”list. Is everything on it
your fears, you can overcome them and
essential? Probably not. Be careful with your
evolve to a higher level!
budgeting while still trying to have some
Taurus: The Sun is in your cards. Life can be and actually is wonderful when you look closely! It is time to thrive
Too much play can be harmful too. It is very
fun. Don’t make everything so stressful!
Libra: It’s time to celebrate! There is a great reason to celebrate this festive season.
through the power of positive thinking.
Something good has happened for you
• 3pm: The Irish Poker Championship takes place today at the Radisson Blu hotel with a €100,000 estimated prize pool.
Keep your words, thoughts and actions
or for a loved one. Maybe it’s time to take a
positive at this time. Believe in yourself and
holiday from work. Embrace, acknowledge
those around you during this magical time in
and spend time with the people who love
your life. Inspirational new ideas can lead to
and support you now.
• 6pm: The X Factor’s Chloe Jasmine – the posh bird – will appear live in Clifden at the Station House Theatre. Chloe will tell all about her x-factor experiences in a q and a, sign autographs and will then perform, followed by a DJ and dancing. Buffet dinner by candlelight will be served before the show. €30.
Gemini: Plans are working out very well. Professional and financial success
• 8pm: Catch Matt Keane live in concert at the Claregalway Hotel. Matt is a member of the famous traditional Keane family from Caherlistrane, Co. Galway. Tickets available at the hotel reception.
Scorpio: Determination will lead you where you want to go! This card is a sign of career advancement. Others will
looks likely right now. Always good for the
acknowledge your success. You may feel
Christmas period! You have a keen sense of
some uncertainty regarding your situation
finance matched with a good idea of what
but there is no need to fear. Step out of
will succeed. You have worked hard and you
your comfort zone and charge forward
probably would like to take a little time to
with confidence, making sure that you use
yourself this holiday period.
balance, self control and hard work. You’ll
Cancer: New Beginnings! A lovely card
get there.
to get during the festive season. It looks like
Aquarius: Leap of Faith Sometimes we
the start of a new life for you. You are finding
get paralysed by our fears. Sometimes we
your purpose and reigniting your passions.
have to take a leap of faith. Believe in yourself.
You are starting to look at all aspects of your
You have all the tools you need to take that
past with a forgiving and compassionate
new path, start that college course, start the
heart and eye.
research into an area of interest. The life you
Leo: What do you really want? It’s time to decide. So my lions...this holiday
are waiting for is out there but you have to take the first step. Follow your heart!
period may not be much of a holiday in
Pisces: Two hearts Two hearts, any two
terms of forgetting about the world. Maybe
hearts can create something wonderful. A
you need to spend some time by yourself
friendship can grow deeper or a romance
thinking about what you actually want out
can blossom. This is the card of kindred
of life. It is time to be very clear and time to
spirits! Now is not the time to give up on
start making clear decisions. Then you take
those you love. Any disagreements you have
action on it. During the Christmas period, it
had with friends or family can be peacefully
is very easy to overdo it on food and drink.
resolved now. Heal the wounded feelings if
Try to avoid this and keep to a healthy diet.
they are there. Develop friendships and deep
Detox your life!
bonds this season.
Virgo: Find some balance in your life. As they say “All work and no play...yadda
44
in GALWAY
• 8pm: Join Sharon Shannon’s Big Band and Mundy at Monroe’s Live on Dominick Street.
abundance and public recognition.
VOX POP What’s the CRAIC?
Nela, Matus and Martina Bolanovsky The craic is in Galway, we are in Galway, and Santa is the Craic too
Emma nad Aoibheann from Donegal The craic is ninety! Christmas in Galway is the craic.
Michelle Lally The atmosphere Christmas is the craic
of
Claire Flynn and Nessa Keane The CRAIC is the craic!
Michael Brennan Jonathan Jennings Whenever I’m looking for the craic I’m going to Monroe’s, it’s the best craic there!
Sam Conroy Cliona Byrnes
and
Not much, we are heading off to do our 12 pubs now. That’s the craic.
Rino Mitsuya Japan
from
The craic is fun, music and food!
Michael Lally The craic is to come to Lally Menswear to dress up and then go partying wherever you want!
Jenny Davoren and Andrea Fox
Imron Sultan Ali
The town is lovely, I’m happy, guys decorate the street with christmas lights and thats very good.
The CRAIC is all around the town and it is a great magazine. I always enjoy reading it. It is fabulous and a great introduction to the town.
Meriel & Leo The craic is definitely Christmas!
Wearing Christmas jumpers on nights out, hot chocolate at the market, music, ice skating,
Sunday 4th Jan 2015 • 10:30am: It’s the last day to tr y out your ice skating skills as Galway On Ice will take its leave from the harbour ’s winter wonderland today. • 12pm and 4:30pm: Join Cinderella and the Renmore Smur fs at this year ’s Pantomime at the Town Hall Theatre. • 1pm: A wedding showcase – with T V3’s Xposé takes place at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel, Bushypark. An afternoon hosted by Xposé presenter, Lisa Cannon, as she prepares for her own upcoming nuptials. Meet and hear from some of Galway ’s most exciting wedding exper ts on emerging trends on tips on how to create your dream wedding. • 3pm: The Monster Stack takes place today as par t of the Irish Poker Festival at the Radisson Blu with a €10,000 estimated prize pool. • 8pm: Comedian Brendan Grace will tickle your funny bone at the Salthill hotel tonight. Brendan’s latest show features some brand new material and some old favourites from his vast reper toire over the last 40 years.
Spanish Style Christmas Tapas By Dara KELLY
Invite your friends over for Christmas en casa! Ask them to email their favourite seasonal songs and create a bespoke playlist to keep everyone dancing (and singing along). The cheesier the better. Speaking of cheese, here are some tasty tapas-style party platters that can be prepared in advance.
Roast spiced nuts Fill a baking tray with unsalted mixed nuts (almonds, cashew, pecan, hazelnuts). Add a couple of tablespoons of melted coconut oil and your choice of spices – cinnamon if you like sweet, smoked paprika, or chilli and salt if you want a kick. Mix well and place in oven at 160oC. Leave to roast for about 15 minutes, shaking or stirring once or twice. Allow to cool fully to become crunchy.
make a hedgehog. Use a variety of cheeses: mature cheddar, mozarella, parmesan and feta.
Asparagus spears with jamón serrano. Break the woody base off each asparagus spear, place in boiling water for 1 minute, then remove and plunge into cold water to keep them firm. Wrap a slice of jamón serrano around the top of each spear and arrange on serving dish.
Chorizo frito Cut good quality chorizo sausages into bite-sized pieces. Use a variety of types – smoked, sweet and spicy. Cook on medium heat, turning frequently, for about 10 minutes until fat runs and the chorizo becomes crispy. Drain on kitchen paper and serve with tiny chunks of fabulous fresh bread.
Cheesy Hedgehog Old school rules at Christmas! Spear cubes of cheese, olives and cherry tomatoes on cocktail sticks and insert into half a grapefruit to
46
Smoked salmon tapas Use a thin slice of smoked salmon on a variety of bases: slices of cucumber, oatcakes and the traditional brown bread. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a dusting of paprika.
Guacamole Rolls Place corn or wheat tortilla wrap under the grill until one side is heated. Remove, flip over and spread the other side with mashed avocado mixed with a dash of fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. Place under the grill for 1 minute. Remove in GALWAY
The CRAIC on
gstattoos.com | 087 667 34 75
48
in GALWAY
Gs Tattoos and Piercing 36 William Street