Talented duo to 'end the Ploughin’ tonight with a jive' in Tullamore
The National Ploughing Championships is set to get a serious dose of country music and dancing this September as Ger Long and Stephen Bennett join forces for what promises to be a fantastic day and night of live entertainment.
The country duo were on the Main Stage Bandstand at the National Ploughing Championships this afternoon, Thursday, September 17 before heading into Tullamore for a very special evening performance at one of the town’s most iconic venues.
Tonight, the pair will bring their “End the Ploughin’ with a Jive” show to Joe Lee’s Bar on Church Street, Tullamore, from 9.30pm until late, promising a mega night of country music, jiving and dancing.
For Ger Long, the return to Joe Lee’s is about much more than another performance.
Joe Lee’s Bar was the very first bar where Ger ever sang in public, when he was just 12 years old. What began with a young Ger being given the opportunity to sing a song or two has grown into a 25-year career performing on stages across Ireland and further afield.
Over the years, Ger has performed for audiences throughout Ireland and internationally, including appearances as far afield as Tampa, Florida, and the Hooley in the Sun.
Ger has never forgotten where his journey began and says Joe Lee and his wife Dolores will always hold a special place in his heart.
“Joe Lee’s will always be a very special place for me. Joe and Dolores always made me feel welcome and, when I was only 12, Joe would let me get up and sing a song or two with him while he played the accordion. Those early opportunities gave me the confidence to keep going and follow my love of music.”
“To be returning to Joe Lee’s after 25 years of performing is something I’m really looking forward to. It feels like coming home and coming full circle. I’ll always be grateful to Joe and Dolores for giving a young lad the chance to get up and sing.”
Stephen Bennett – Taking the Social Dancing Scene by Storm
Joining Ger is Stephen Bennett from Ardara, Co. Donegal, a talented country artist who has been making a huge impression on the Irish social dancing scene.
Stephen has been taking the social dancing circuit by storm, building a growing following with his energetic performances, strong vocals and passion for country music.
He has also recently released his first album, featuring a great combination of original songs written by Stephen himself alongside some much-loved country classics.
The partnership of Ger and Stephen brings together experience, energy and a genuine love of country music, with the pair promising to deliver a show designed to get people on their feet and onto the dance floor.
With their lunchtime performance at the Ploughing Championships followed by the evening show in Tullamore, Thursday, 17th September promises to be a full day of country music.
Whether you’re coming straight from the Ploughing or simply looking for a great night’s entertainment, Joe Lee’s Bar is the place to be.
NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Main Stage Bandstand
Thursday 17th September
12.30pm – 2pm
Ger Long & Stephen Bennett
END THE PLOUGHIN’ WITH A JIVE
Joe Lee’s Bar, Church Street, Tullamore
Thursday 17th September
9.30pm – Late
Ger Long & Stephen Bennett
25 years of Ger Long on stage. A rising star in Stephen Bennett. An iconic venue in Joe Lee’s. And one massive night of country music and dancing.
This is one Ploughin’ celebration you won’t want to miss!