I saw Hidden Ireland with Peter Greenburg on Amazon Prime Video. It’s a remarkable show about neat, interesting places to see in Ireland. I learned Ireland is both The Republic of Ireland (an independent state, official Ireland) and Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom,) where Dublin is the capital of The Republic of Ireland, and Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. I had no idea! Seriously, I thought Ireland was one country.

Please, don’t get me started on FOMO (fear of missing out)! I could get lost on the Internet, wanting to learn everything. I love learning! I’m curious about things, so having easy access to tons of information can get overwhelming.

Okay, I’ve calmed down, back to why I’m writing this post.

I also learned (from Hidden Ireland) about the Armagh Rhymers, which I found captivating!

They are a group of performers and musicians, founded in 1970, and per the blog. Homegrown Plus Primeire by Stephen Winick, “They have delighted audiences at festivals, arts centers, theatres, and schools, throughout Ireland and around the world. Through music, storytelling and drama, they provide an experience that is entertaining, educational and cultural. Their colorful costumes evoke a sense of tradition and history and encapsulate the spirit of the “wren boys,” young people who donned traditional disguises and went from house to house, entertaining their neighbors. In these ancient house-visiting traditions of Ireland, the kitchen floor became the stage.”

They wear masks handmade out of woven flax, willow, and straw, depicting animals or other beings. When watching them, you forget there’s a person in there. Artisans created the masks with great detail that brings each one to life. The performers also wear what appears to be burlap/ jute clothing (hessian sackcloth (The Armagh Rhymers Wikipedia.))

Here’s a video on YouTube of the Armagh Rhymers. They made me smile watching it!  There is something mystical and magical about them, and the musicianship is quite outstanding.

 

I was glad to have learned about them. Though the Armagh Rhymers mostly perform at festivals, they also do great things for their communities, going to schools and nursing homes, educating, and entertaining.

I just wanted to share the Armagh Rhymers. It’s on my bucket list to see them perform live. Here’s their Facebook page.

To Ireland’s Secrets,

Francesca

 

Created by a human for humans. 

© 2023 FrancescaME | All rights reserved.