Old St. Patrick's Church hosts the 13th annual Siamsa na nGael entitled "Stories of Hope."
This program is a celebration of the finest in Celtic songs, dance, and stories.
This unique event specifically honors the feast of St. Patrick and highlights some world-class Celtic entertainers.
This year there are three guest narrators. They include former Chicago Police Superintendent Terry Hillard, Roderick Dixon, formerly of Three Mo' Tenors, and Aidan Conway, best known as the lead vocalist with Riverdance.
Guests will enjoy poignant tales that illustrate the connection between the Irish and the Americans: Native Americans, European Americans, and African-Americans.
The narration tells the story of Daniel O'Connell (the Liberator) who was the Irish statesman responsible for the repeal of the Penal Laws that oppressed and plagued Ireland's Catholics for decades. During that time, the great American and former slave, Frederick Douglass was in Ireland speaking-out on the evils of slavery.
It was actually the Irish people who bought Douglass' freedom from his former master. These stories emerged from our shared past and illuminate the bright future. Guests will enjoy performances by the Metropolis Symphony Orchestra, Old St. Patrick's Concert Choir, Trinity Irish Dancers, Pipe and Drum Band, Catherine O'Connell, and many more!
Proceeds benefit historic Old St. Patrick's Church, Chicago's oldest public building.
http://oldstpats.org/events/2009/03/17/siamsa-na-ngael/
