GALLERY: Stories, Songs and Laughter with Frances Kennedy in Drumsna

Fionnuala Maxwell and Rosie Stewart at July Lend an Ear session in Drumshanbow who are both traditional singers; Fionnuala runs the Leitrim Larks whereas Rosie hosts the Rainbow Singing Circle in Glenfarne.

There’s no better way to ease into September than with an evening of laughter, song, and storytelling. The Leitrim Larks are back with their monthly “Lend an Ear” session, and September’s gathering promises to be something truly special. On Thursday, September 4 from 7–9pm, Duignan’s Bar in Drumsna will be filled with music, stories and great humour. Admission is free and everyone is welcome — whether you want to sing, tell a tale, share a spoken-word piece or simply sit back and soak up the atmosphere. 

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The September session will be headlined by none other than Frances Kennedy, a natural-born storyteller and singer whose performances brim with life and laughter. Originally from Cork and now living in Listowel, Frances grew up in a community where neighbours swapped songs and stories as easily as cups of tea. That spirit of fun and connection has never left her. Frances is beloved for her sharp wit, quick humour and the down-to-earth honesty she brings to every performance. Her stories sparkle with authenticity, her songs carry both heart and mischief and her presence in a performance space feels like sitting down with an old friend. She has a way of drawing audiences in, reminding us of the richness of our traditions and the joy of sharing them.

The evening is hosted by The Leitrim Larks, a group dedicated to celebrating, rediscovering, and reimagining the rich heritage of song, story, and spoken word in the county. The Larks provide a welcoming space where anyone — from seasoned performers to shy first-timers, can share their voice. Their “Lend an Ear” sessions have quickly become a highlight of the local cultural calendar, bringing together singers, storytellers, poets, and listeners in an atmosphere that is both relaxed and inspiring. And that’s not all on the horizon. 

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The Leitrim Larks have also teamed up with the Rainbow Singing Circle for a very special event - the Leitrim Song Tour 2025 on Thursday, August 28. This unique bus tour will wind its way through the north of the county, stopping off at various places for songs and stories along the journey. Starting and finishing at the Rainbow Ballroom in Glenfarne, the evening promises a magical mystery tour of music, heritage, and community spirit.

Check out “Leitrim Song Tour” on Eventbrite for further information These gatherings are about more than performance; they are about community, about keeping alive the traditions that shaped us and about making space for new voices and new stories. Whether you perform yourself or simply enjoy the magic from your seat, you leave feeling part of something bigger.

So book your seat on the song bus, join us in Glenfarne on Thursday, 28 th at the Rainbow Ballroom and then mark your calendar for Thursday, September 4, and come along to Duignan’s Bar, Drumsna. Bring a song, bring a story, or simply bring yourself. With Frances Kennedy as the evening’s special guest, it promises to be a night to remember. The Leitrim Larks “Happy as Larks” series is supported by Leitrim County Council and Creative Ireland.

For further information or to host a Leitrim Larks’ event, check out www.fionnualamaxwell.com or contact 086 8664639