Celtic tunes of Barra MacNeils returning to Cornwall

Image of Shawna O'Neill
By Shawna O'Neill
Celtic tunes of Barra MacNeils returning to Cornwall
Barra MacNeils photo.

CORNWALL, Ontario – Attending Barra MacNeils’ An East Coast Christmas concert is tradition for many in our region, especially fans in the Glengarry area, according to Stewart MacNeil.

“We see a lot of people from Glengarry County who have been following us for a long time,” said Stewart, who expressed that the whole band is excited to return to Cornwall on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at Aultsville Theatre. “It’s very much a family event; a lot of people like to take it in every year as one of their things to do on their Christmas schedule.”

The Canadian Celtic group of siblings, who have been playing together for over 30 years, will set off next week, taking their East Coast sound West to 26 cities before the holidays.

“It’s a seasonal show, a lot people can expect (our usual performances)…and our banter and stories are just ongoing. It’s tricky really, picking your music; there’s a lot of stuff people want to hear,” said Stewart, who noted that the band’s first Christmas album came out 20 years ago on vinyl.

Since the band last ventured to our area they have performed on tours through a number of national parks, Atlantic Canada and even on a cruise that explored Sable Island. They also won Fans’ Choice Entertainer of the Year at the 2019 East Coast Music awards.

“We were very touched (to win)…it’s just a great award when the fans show up and decide to vote…just keeps you going,” said Stewart.

“We have a lot of fun with it (our Christmas tour) as it has been a fan favourite…and it certainly does get us in the Christmas spirit,” said Stewart.

Tickets can be purchased for $57.50 at the Civic Complex Box Office, which can be reached at 613-938-9400. For information on the band, visit barramacneils.com.

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