Ukrainian choir set to unite with Laois locals for big community concert

A Ukrainian choir called ‘Mallows’  which which was set up January 2023 on the verge of taking part in its first 

Co-ordinated and facilitated by Music Generation Laois, the choir are meeting twice-weekly in Laois Music Centre under the direction of Nataliia Rehesha, a choral director from Kyiv who has been living with her family in Laois since March 2022.

The choir has brought about a new network of Ukrainians living in Laois, creating a space for them to support each other and express their rich culture in singing traditional Ukrainian songs.  

The formation of the choir sparked an idea to have a community concert with groups who work with Music Generation Laois throughout the year in various programmes across the county.  

The event at the end of March will feature Mallows Ukrainian Choir; The Heath NS Children’s Choir – MGL Whole Classroom Singing Programme; Children from Laois Partnership After-Schools Programmes; Uilleann Pipes Quartet – MGL Trad Programme; MGL Transition Year Music Ensemble; Mountmellick, Portlaoise and Rathdowney Men’s Sheds – MGL/Healthy Ireland Programme.  MORE BELOW PICTURE OF REHEARSALS.

"This concert promises to be a fantastic community event, bringing together a diverse range of musical genres and performers," say the organisers.

Admission is free but donations are welcome when it takes place on Friday, March 31 at 5pm in St. Peter & Paul’s Church, Portlaoise.    

Musical Extravaganza coming to Laois town

Mallows are supported by the Ukrainian Health and Well Being Support fund. The event is supported by Healthy Ireland/Department of Health, Laois County Council, Laois Offaly Education and Training Board Further Education and Training Centre and Local Creative Youth Partnership, Laois Partnership/CYPSE, Music Generation.