Maria Doyle Kennedy: Come for the tunes, stay for the joy

Maria Doyle Kennedy.

Renowned polymath Maria Doyle Kennedy will take to the stage at Dolans this Saturday March 22. Limerick songwriter Dylan Flynn (performing solo) will join her as a special guest.

With over three decades in the arts, Maria has forged a diverse and accomplished career as an actor, musician, and filmmaker. 

However, music remains her first love. Having spent time in several bands, she founded her own record label in 2000 and has since released 11 solo albums. 

Her most recent release, Fire on the Roof of Eden, was named one of The Irish Times’ Albums of the Year, while Hot Press hailed her as “one of Ireland’s most accomplished vocalists and a national treasure.”

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Maria is at her happiest performing live, and she is eager to connect with her audience in Limerick. 

“Very happy to be coming to play for you this week,” she said. “These will be the last gigs for a while because if I don’t get my arse into the studio and finish recording, I will be done for altogether! Come for the tunes, stay for the joy!”

Maria’s artistic journey began in 1990 with her starring role in Alan Parker’s cult classic The Commitments, launching a screen career that now spans over 50 films and TV series. 

Her notable roles include performances in The General (directed by John Boorman), Cartoon Saloon’s Wolfwalkers, The Tudors, Downton Abbey, Orphan Black, Outlander, and Kin. 

One of her personal favourite roles was an appearance in Father Ted, a beloved moment for many fans.

In addition to her music and acting, Maria has made significant strides in filmmaking. 

Her short film A Different Kind of Day earned 14 international laurels, while Colour Code, a moving tribute to Sandra Bland, won the Audience Award at the Portland Film Festival. 

She is now in the final stages of developing her first feature-length project with Screen Ireland.

As Maria Doyle Kennedy prepares to grace the stage at Dolans, fans can expect heartfelt lyrics and an undeniable passion for performance.

The After Show Party happens on Dolans Upper Deck with indie, alternative and disco right after the live gigs on Saturday night.

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