Face of the Festival

The Face of the Festival was a wild idea that started in 2005, and hasn’t gone away! It acknowledges a person who embodies the spirit of the festival and is an outstanding ambassador for Celtic culture.

The Face of the festival for 2023

let’s make that faces

are Aifric Boylan and CiarAn O’Grady!

Well, this year we could not go past Aifric and Ciaran. They have generously mentored young musicians, sharing their expertise and passion for the Celtic music. This year they have been supporting the talented musicians in the band Coeltori Narrm at Comhaltas Melbourne.

We were also thrilled to welcome the duo to the 2023 Festival lineup. Their joyous combination of fiddle with a rare baritone concertina brings a rich insight into old and often forgotten tunes.

Aifric and Ciaran's music is full of subtle dynamism that enthralls audiences.

Update on our 2019 fACE , Caleb Anderson.

This year Caleb will head to Scotland, supported by the festival and our partners Feis Rois, to join their Ceildh Trail. He will tour with other young and talented Scottish artists as part of this highly recognised development program for young artists.

The festival has had an ongoing partnership with Feis Rois, collaborating with young musicians from the highlands of Scotland and Australia to present innovative projects that have been showcased here at the festival, Cape Breton and Scotland. We look forward to Caleb sharing his learning and experiences with us on his return.

PAST FACES OF THE FESTIVAL

2019 Quinlan Hames and Caleb Anderson - Performers

2018 Matt Jolly - Festival Infrastructure

2017 Anna Lake - Festival Team

2016 Douglas Clan – Colleen, Clarissa & Tenisha

2015 Mark Butler - Singer

2014 Cathy Blake & Clan

2013 Mary McEvilly - Fiddle Player

2012 Geoff Jones &Pete Moir - Pipes and Drums

2011 Catherine Fraser - Fiddle Player

2010 Pria Schwall- Kearney

2009 Maria Forde - Singer Songwriter

2008 Jimmy Moore - Singer

2007 William Hutton - Singer

2006 Claire Schultz - The Grand Hotel

2005 Fionnula Callahan - Set Dancer and larikin