Revamp for Rose festival

HOME-GROWN star Christy Hennessy will be among the entertainers at the revamped Rose of Tralee Festival, which runs from August 20 to August 24.

Other well-known artists, announced yesterday, include Aslan and singer Frances Black, who will be part of a family-orientated programme aimed at returning a festive atmosphere to the streets of Tralee.

Having survived a financial crisis and debts of almost €1m, the new festival management team has drafted a pared-down programme without compromising on entertainment.

“We’ve a vibrant programme of entertainment that is varied, imaginative and suitable for all ages” declared festival entertainment manager Oliver Hurley.

There will also be a fashion show, a You’re a Star Spectacular and plenty of local entertainers on the streets.

A €100-a-ticket, Rose ball gets activities underway, on Friday August 20, with music by the Groove Orchestra and demand for tickets to the black tie event is reported to be high.

A Children’s TV Spectacular is being staged in Siamsa Tíre on Saturday afternoon, followed by the choreographed parade of Rose contestants, with up to 80 dancers, on Saturday night.

The two-night, televised rose selection will start in the dome, on Monday night, hosted by Ryan Tubridy of RTÉ, and the winner will be announced on Tuesday night.