A meandering waltz through the streets of a Mayo town

Ballina will welcome world-renowned spectacle theatre company Macnas to the town this Saturday (July 15) for a dramatic street show to mark the high summer point of the Ballina 2023 celebrations and the closing night of Ballina Salmon Festival.

RIVERSONG – a meandering waltz through the streets of Ballina that has its heart in the ebb and flow of the River Moy – will commence at 9.30 p.m. and meander through town, drawing on local myths, legends and folklore, including the legendary ‘Táin Bó Fliadhais’ (the Cattle Raid of Mayo) in a spectacular street theatre performance.

The performance includes percussion, music, costume song, circus, dance and beautifully crafted floats to bring magic to the streets that promises to awe children and adults alike.

According to Macnas: “The river sings of an unfolding of the past, the present and the future – her voice echoes through the streets, a pulse beckoning you to follow. She speaks of the ancient stories and holds their memories deep within the water’s edges.

“From the blue of the night, characters, creatures and melodies emerge that tell the tales of the forgotten myths. She invites you to listen to the stories, dance to the rhythms and bring home with you the magic that is hidden in the River’s Song.”

Over 100 participants from the local community will perform alongside the Macnas team of artists as the parade meanders through the heart of the town, and spectators will enjoy a thrilling immersive and interactive experience that promises to awaken all the senses.

RIVERSONG will be followed by the traditional Ballina Salmon Festival fireworks display at St. Muredach’s Cathedral from 11 p.m. to mark the close of the festival.

RIVERSONG commences on Mercy Road, Ballina, on Saturday (July 15) at 9.30 p.m. and the parade will make its way through Garden Street, Bridge Street, Tolan Street and Emmet Street before concluding on Bachelor’s Walk. The duration of the parade will be approximately one hour at any one point. Large crowds are expected, and rolling road closures and diversions will be in place. Motorists are warned to expect long delays.

Further information is available at www.ballina2023.ie.