High hopes that for annual Lissadell shows
'If there's any way it could be done, we would be positively disposed to the idea'
The light of evening, Lissadell? the sun shines on Benbulben as Leonard Cohen and his band perform on Sunday evening.
Wednesday August 04 2010
Following the spectacular success of last weekend's historic series of concerts at Lissadell House, hopes are high that the moneyspinning venture could become an annual event. Although no firm commitments have yet been made, there are positive indications that there would be a willingness both from the promoters and the owners of Lissadell House to stage a similar event next year if circumstances permit.
Lissadell Estate manager, Isobel Cassidy, expressing delight at what she termed the "runaway success" of last weekend's concerts, told THE SLIGO CHAMPION the owners would be ' positively disposed' to the idea of it becoming an annual event.
"There are a huge amount of factors to be considered, but if it was thought by the the promoters that there was any way it could be done, then we would certainly be positively disposed to it," she said.
Concert promoters, POD Promotions, are also believed to be thrilled with the success of the weekend when 30,000 people packed into the purpose built amphitheatre for memorable concerts by Westlife and Leonard Cohen.
Several thousands had travelled from all over the world to Sligo, many of them visiting the area for the first time, thereby giving the town and county a massive showcase and a huge economic boost.
With hotel and guesthouse beds fully booked not only in Sligo but in many neighbouring counties, and the successful Fringe Festival generating a welcome boost for traders in the town centre, the event proved to be the biggest money-spinner hosted locall since the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil was hosted here in the early 1990's.
Conservative estimates put the value to the local economy in excess of €10 million, so there is no doubt that the county would welcome a return to Lissadell with open arms.
"We've had a terrifically positive reaction," Ms. Cassidy confirmed. "Everybody was impressed with Lissadell itself and with Sligo in general. A common response was that people who had never been here couldn't believe we had so much to offer and they pledged they would come back. That has to be positive for everyone," she said.
Also backing the idea of an annual concert festival is Westlife singer, Shane Filan, who said the Lissadell concert had been one of his career highlights.
"After the success of last weekend, I'm sure everybody would love to do it again. It was a great weekend for Sligo, the place was really buzzing, and we were very proud to be part of it all. Hopefully we will get the chance to play there again," he added.
- JIM GRAY
