Percy’s Party 

With County Leitrim Percy French Society 

Wednesday 1st May 2024, 7.30pm

Café, National Famine Museum

Strokestown Park House & Gardens

Percy French – born 1st May 1854, Clooneyquinn, Co Roscommon

170 years after his birth, barely a sing-song takes place in this country that doesn’t feature at least a couple of Percy French songs. Who doesn’t know the famous opening line ‘Oh Mary this London’s a wonderful sight’, the beautiful ballad of ‘Come Back Paddy Reilly’ or the rousing ‘Phil the Fluter’s Ball’. Perhaps not everyone can identify the composer of these famous Irish folk songs but most will recognise the lyrics and the melodies.

With performances across the country, including two sell-out shows in the National Concert Hall and featuring on the BBC’s Britain’s Great Railway Journeys, this charming show will now be performed in the Café of the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park House to celebrate the 170th Birthday of Percy French. The show is performed by twelve members of the County Leitrim Percy French Society, in period costume. Songs are linked with stories from the life of Percy French, explaining the background and inspiration behind the music, giving the show a warmth and authenticity. Under the direction of Tish Dunleavy as musical director the show is presented in a fun-loving and good-humoured way with audience participation welcomed and encouraged along the way.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.