March 15, 2017 -- Those who want to feel Irish more than once a year can head to The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage at Santa Monica College a week after Saint Patrick's Day for a concert by the traditional Irish group Dervish.

On March 24 at 7:30 p.m., the band BBC radio has called “an icon of Irish music” will take the stage to perform a repertoire that ranges from "high energy jigs and reels to reflective songs," event organizers said.

Fronted by vocalist Cathy Jordan, the band, which is composed of some of Ireland's finest traditional musicians, has shared the stage during its 25 years with legendary acts including James Brown, The Buena Vista Social Club and REM.

Picture of Dervish
Dervish's tours have included concerts in China, Israel and Rio.
"Dervish concert performances are a myriad of tones and moods ranging from high energy tunes, played with fluidity and intuitiveness, to beautifully measured songs, from charming lyrics of life and love, to inspiring melodies that lift audiences from their seats," organizers said.

"All the elements are drawn together by Cathy Jordan’s masterful stage-presence. Her stories to the songs and her interaction with the audience draws people into the music in a way very few performers can achieve."

Originally called The Boys of Sligo, the band's sound is deeply rooted in the traditional music of Sligo and Leitrim, counties in north-west Ireland's Atlantic coast.

The counties' coastline, mountains and rural landscapes have inspired generations of musicians, artists and writers, including poet W. B. Yeats.

A review in the Irish Times said Dervish is “simply a brilliant and uncluttered testimonial to music imagination and talent," while The Guardian wrote that "they carry Irish history with them.”

For information and tickets visit www.thebroadstage.com or call 310-434-3200.