Irish Rock Legends by Candlelight to be performed in two Tipperary venues

Music lovers across Tipperary are in for a rare treat this May, as the acclaimed Irish Rock Legends by Candlelight concerts make their debut at two of the county's most iconic venues.

Following the enormous success of Coldplay by Candlelight earlier this year, pianist Frank McNamara and The Bridgerton String Quartet are set to return for two unforgettable nights celebrating the very best of Irish rock music — all performed in the magical glow of candlelight.

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The first performance takes place at Hotel Minella in Clonmel on Sunday, May 25th at 8pm, followed by a second spectacular show at The Anner Hotel, Thurles on Thursday, May 29th at 9pm. These much-anticipated events promise a unique fusion of classical and contemporary, with timeless Irish rock anthems reimagined through the elegant arrangements of McNamara and his talented quartet.

Thurles man, Frank McNamara, renowned for his work as musical director of The Late Late Show and one of Ireland's most celebrated pianists, will once again bring his extraordinary talent and showmanship to the stage. He will be joined by The Bridgerton String Quartet, whose cinematic, emotionally rich sound has garnered standing ovations nationwide. Together, they will perform stirring instrumental interpretations of hits from legendary Irish rock acts such as U2, Thin Lizzy, The Cranberries, The Script, Sinead O’Connor, Van Morrison, and more.

Speaking ahead of the concerts, McNamara said: “There is something incredibly powerful about blending rock melodies with the texture and elegance of classical strings — especially when surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles. These Irish legends have written the soundtrack to generations of lives. We’re honoured to pay tribute to them in a way that’s both heartfelt and fresh.”

The intimate atmosphere of candlelight concerts has captivated audiences globally, and Tipperary audiences will once again have the chance to experience this breathtaking format in their own backyard. Whether you're a die-hard rock enthusiast or a fan of classical crossover, Irish Rock Legends by Candlelight offers something truly special — a celebration of Irish musical heritage performed by world-class talent in an unforgettable setting.

Tickets are expected to sell quickly, especially following the sold-out Coldplay by Candlelight events in February, which left audiences mesmerized and calling for more. With limited seating and an atmosphere that thrives on intimacy, early booking is strongly recommended.

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Don’t miss your chance to witness this fusion of Ireland’s greatest rock music with the beauty of classical performance — all under the warm, golden glow of candlelight. Join Frank McNamara and The Bridgerton String Quartet for a journey through iconic Irish rock, reimagined and illuminated.

Event Details:
Clonmel: Hotel Minella – Sunday, May 25th at 8pm
Thurles: The Anner Hotel – Thursday, May 29th at 9pm
Tickets available now from event outlets and online platforms. Prepare for a night where rock anthems meet timeless elegance — and where every note glows.