The Winterval Festival in Waterford is in full swing, and this year’s addition of the BIG TOP LIVE series has been such a positive addition. Nestled in the heart of the festival on Brown’s Lane, the BIG TOP venue perfectly exudes the magic of Christmas. The venue is festive, welcoming, and meticulously organized. It’s not just a credit to Waterford but also showcases the City’s ability to host major events. The festival crowds have been phenomenal, and last night was no different.
The headline act of choice last night, Mick Flannery, was one of the most anticipated shows of this season. Known for his raw emotion and storytelling that leaves listeners in awe, Mick performed a mix of tracks from his back catalog and his latest album, Goodtime Charlie. Musically, he and his band were impeccable — tight arrangements, stunning vocals, and that trademark Flannery melancholy that fans adore. His artistic talent is undeniable, and the band really helped to heighten the audiences experience also.
The evening began with a performance from Fin Furey, a name you’ll want to remember. From the first strum of his guitar to the last lyric, Fin brought an authenticity and warmth to the stage that was magnetic. His music could be described as contemporary folk mixed with some modern touches and a cheeky sense of humor in between, his stage presence was as genuine as it gets and what stood out most was his kindness offstage; Fin made time for everyone who approached him after the show, leaving a lasting impression not just as a musician but as a person. It’ll be exciting to see where his journey leads next.
As for the BIG TOP LIVE itself, it deserves immense praise. The venue was beautifully set up, the acoustics of both artists were superb, and everything ran like clockwork. The staff were friendly and efficient, ensuring the audience had a seamless experience. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care went into creating this space.
Mick Flannery’s set had many many highs, and the crowd were left mesmerized by those vocals he has become known for. The evening overall showcased the beauty in Irish music. With performers like these leading the way, the future of Irish music feels bright heading into the new year.
Fin Furey photos:
Mick Flannery photos:
Photos & Words – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography
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