Irish-American supergroup Cherish the Ladies will “blow the roof off” Frauenthal in West Michigan Symphony concert
MUSKEGON, MI, February 14, 2022— The New York Times calls their music “passionate, tender, and rambunctious” and The Washington Post praises their “astonishing array of virtuosity.” For over 37 years, Irish-American Cherish the Ladies has won the hearts of audiences worldwide with their rousing blend of traditional music, captivating vocals, and propulsive step dancing. The Grammy-nominated supergroup—whom conductor Keith Lockhart called “energetic, fun and innately musical”—has shared the stage with leading symphonies across the United States in performances that “blow the roof off” and “set the world on fire.” Cherish the Ladies will appear with Scott Speck and the West Michigan Symphony at 7:30 pm Friday, March 25. Sponsored by Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge, the performance will take place at the Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon. For tickets, starting at $30 for adults, $10 for students, call 231.727.8001, visit the Frauenthal box office or purchase online at www.westmichigansymphony.org.
“Cherish the Ladies is an exquisite experience,” said Music Director Scott Speck, who collaborated with the ensemble previously with the Mobile Symphony. “These women make great music — and they are hilarious at the same time.” Under the leadership of Joanie Madden, 2021 National Heritage Fellowship Award winner and All-Ireland flute and whistle champion, the current lineup includes accordionist Mirella Murray, fiddler Nollaig Casey, guitarist Mary Coogan, vocalist Kate Purcell, and keyboardist Gabriel Donohue. World champion Irish step-dancer Michael Holland, Canadian champion dancer Nathan Pilatzke along with North American Champions Noel Spillane and Caitlin Ward will add their magical footwork to the performances.
Recognized as the BBC’s Best Musical Group of the Year and Top North American Celtic Group at the Irish Music Awards, Cherish the Ladies has collaborated with such musicians as Vince Gill, Nanci Griffith, Pete Seeger, The Clancy Brothers, the Chieftains, Don Henley, and Arlo Guthrie, among others.
“Safe Nights at the Symphony” Protocol
In an effort to create the safest environment possible while attending WMS performances, the Symphony’s “Safe Nights” protocol remains in effect for this concert. Patrons of all ages will be asked to provide proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test (taken within 72 hours of the concert) for entry into the Frauenthal Center. All patrons will be required to wear a mask covering their mouth and nose while attending performances. Children under the minimum age for vaccination are welcome with face-covering masks and proof of a negative test. Ticketholders with green “Symphony Safe” wristbands should wear their wristbands for quick entry. If you would like to pre-register your vaccine status and receive a wristband, visit the WMS offices between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Virtual Concert Hall webcast The performance will be available for online viewing in WMS’ Virtual Concert Hall beginning at 7:30 pm Friday, April 1 and continuing through April 10. Online viewing is included in all subscription packages and available for single ticket “pay-per-view” purchase at westmichigansymphony.org.
