Thar Chuan is Chaolas
Thursday 12th January 2006, BBC2 Scotland, 6.45pm
“Thar Chuan is Chaolas” celebrates momentous milestones in the experiences of two Gaelic music festivals held on opposite sides of the Atlantic. 2005 marked a special anniversary for both Feis Bharraigh, established in Barra 25 years ago, and Feis Eilean na Nollaig, Cape Breton which was formed 15 years ago. The programme will mark the historical links between the two areas and celebrate the success both festivals have had as a focus for their own individual communities, but also in the passing on of traditions of language, story, music and dance.
Inspired by a proposal from a piper and a priest, a 2-week celebration of language and music at Fèis Bharraigh in 1981 marked the inception of a community-based movement which is now one of the most important arts initiatives in the country. The event in Barra has expanded to encompass 3 fèisean which run for two weeks in July and which allow children of all ages to be tutored in traditional music, song and dance. The Christmas Island community in Nova Scotia represents an equally amazing story of a small community chasing its dreams. With a well structured volunteer organisation Fèis an Eilein has grown from a hall full of locals to a gathering which embraces visitors from throughout Canada, the US and the “old country”, Scotland.
The main focus of the programme will be on the 2005 celebrations as the contributions of tutors, participants and organisers from both events help to compare and contrast the initiation and development of the festivals. The programme will speak to founding members, including Fèis Bharraigh’s priest, Fr. Colin MacInnes, and piper, Dr. Angus MacDonald, as well as Cape Breton’s Seumas Watson & Hector MacNeil. Participants, tutors and current leaders of both festivals, including Cathy Ann MacPhee, Kenna Campbell, Goiridh MacDonald and Rod C MacNeill, consider the initial concept of the Fèisean, the achievements of the past 15/25 years and the aspirations of each event beyond this important landmark.
The programme is produced by MnE TV and funded by Seirbheis nam Meadhanan Gaidhlig.
