Belly Bang rock concert raises funds for charity
David O'Connor from the band Broken Glass on Broadway, who performed at the Belly Bang charity concert at The Piper Inn, Clonmel.
The Piper Inn in Clonmel recently played host to the biggest live music event in its history, as 14 acts took to two stages to entertain over 250 people well into the night for Belly Bang 2011, a local music festival organised by local artists and musicians. The event raised €2,000 for South Tipperary Hospice and €420 for the National Council for the Blind.
The Shed Quarters was the outside venue of the day and thanks to the shining sun it provided the perfect summer festival setting. The bands kicked off at 2 o’clock with a wide selection of local talent. Exceptional performances came from Responsible Looking Freaks; Laura Rice, who played a chilled-out set backed by an all-girl band; and Killkenny’s Lancelot Lynx, who had the venue rocking into the early evening. There were also surprise appearances by two local rap acts, followed by entertainment from a fire blower and juggler.
Action then moved indoors to The Wash House, where the party continued and the head-banging began. Dublin band Cold 100 joined Clonmel bands Alphonsus, Superblondes and Crow Black Chicken, who appeared at this year’s Glastonbury Festival and who played an electric set well into the night.
There were many novel ideas that helped to add a festival atmosphere to the event. Revellers were invited to take an item of clothing from a bath located in the corner of the Wash Room in exchange for a €1 donation to the National Council for the Blind. The party spirit escalated as Belly Bangers decked themselves out in vintage dresses, fur coats and 1980s jumpers. Some men even felt so liberated that they went so far as to don a ladies swimsuit (you know who you are!).
Belly Bang team leader Stephen McGrath underlined the positive reaction that the organisers of the festival received. “Everyone was blown away by how well organised the event was with wrist bands, a VIP area and strict security. At times it was hard work but the Belly Bang team rose to the occasion. Paul from the Piper Inn, DB Audio Productions and Slievenamon marquee hire couldn’t have been more helpful. Next year we hope to make it a two-day event- it will definitely be bigger”, he said.
- Kirsty Lyons
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Saturday 25 May 2013
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