Theatre Nights: Musical nostalgia feast at Everyman

Well, no doubt about it, we’re back to the great old days at the Everyman this weekend.

Gerry McAvoy is on stage tonight, celebrating what would have been Rory Gallagher’s 78th birthday. Rory’s long-time bassist performed on practically every record our lad made, and in 2012 formed Band of Friends to not only remember the great bluesman but celebrate his legacy by touring the world playing his music live.

Gerry has reshaped the band and they are now joined by Cork’s own Brian Tambling, formerly of Stage Struck.

Tomorrow night, catch the electrifying When Ireland Rocked. Marking the huge musical revolution in Ireland of the late ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, it celebrates the songs of iconic acts and artists and the enormous musical footprint they left behind: Thin Lizzy, Horslips, Rory Gallagher, Gary Moore, Boomtown Rats, Stiff Little Fingers, The Undertones, Mama’s Boys, U2… What a great legacy.

As if that were not enough, Saturday brings the Legends of the 60s Show, the ultimate feelgood mix that will transport you back to that magical golden decade. Elvis, The Beatles, The Monkees, The Rolling Stones, Roy Orbison, Tom Jones, Cliff Richard, The Beach Boys, the Drifters…

But it doesn’t end there – on Sunday it’s The Magic of Motown with all the classics from Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and many more. What a weekend!

Just pick the one that lights the flame of nostalgia for you – or go to them all!

We should also remind young theatregoers that tickets should be booked in good time for Zog, at the Everyman from Wednesday to Saturday next week.

This roaring, soaring musical for brave little dragons is proving so popular they have already had to shoehorn in extra shows! Times are varied, with 10.30am, 1.30pm, 4pm, 4.30pm shows, depending on the day, so best check the website, www.everymancork.com or call: 021 450 1673.

Ye Vagabonds are well sold out at the Opera House tonight, but you could always try for a return or two – you never know.

Pat and Faye Shortt are there tomorrow, and the Kilfenora Ceili Band on Saturday, celebrating the return of spring.

One for soccer fans on Sunday when one of Manchester United’s greatest strikers, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, shares captivating stories from his illustrious career. Special VIP packages can be obtained for that – check the website for details.

Psychic Sally is at the Opera House on Tuesday, and Megaslam Wrestling on Wednesday, so something for everybody indeed! 021 427 0022 or www.corkoperahouse.ie for all info and bookings.

Have you been to see The Four Faced Liar at Cork Arts Theatre yet? If not, then hurry, as it ends this Saturday. Written by Ger Fitzgibbon for Theatre Makers Ltd, it’s an unforgettable blend of voices from our beloved Shandon and the people who inhabit its surrounding communities. Until Saturday at 8pm.

From March 10-14, the Hubcap boys are back, with Mary’s Hopes and Dreams, exploring life in rural Ireland today. 8pm. 021 450 5624 or www.corkartstheatre.com.

The brilliance and diversity of women composers is showcased in the Finding A Voice Festival 2026 from today to Sunday. Founded in 2017 by Róisín and Clíona Maher, it offers a rich, varied programme of live performances, workshops, talks, and more.

The programme includes a free concert marking the launch of award-winning Irish pianist Máire Carroll’s recording of Caterina Schembri’s solo piano suite A Birch Forest Seen, Imagined, and Remembered, on the Ergodos record label. Plus the Banbha Quartet, Chamber Choir Ireland, the visionary sound world of Hildegard of Bingen, and more. Full info and tickets on www.findingavoice.ie.