DeBarra’s gets its belly rubbed

This month will see an absolutely massive milestone celebrated in the county as arguably Cork’s most iconic music venue opens for live performances for the first time in over 14 months.

Having been forced to close in March 2020, DeBarra’s Folk Club in Clonakilty is back in business at last, ready to welcome audiences back to its intimate beer garden and brand new yard garden.

Over the coming weeks, DeBarra’s will welcome some of the country’s finest musicians, writers, and comedians to perform on the outdoor stage.

The line-up includes Kulini, Wayward Folk, The Next New Low, Niall Thomas, DeBarra’s Trad Session, Maria Doyle Kennedy, and of course, the one and only John Spillane, with even more to be announced over the coming weeks.

DeBarra’s is also thrilled to present a world-exclusive collaboration between story and song with acclaimed West Cork based-writer David Mitchell (‘Cloud Atlas’, ‘Utopia Avenue’) virtually joining one of New Zealand’s most cherished singer-songwriters Hollie Fullbrook of Tiny Ruins for a unique and intimate performance.

Speaking about the re-opening, Ray Blackwell, manager of DeBarra’s said he thinks of the venue as a “big old mythical creature” who has been asleep for a while and is now about to open her eyes.

“Now she’s waking, she needs her belly rubbed and ears scratched regularly. It’s great to hear music and laughter and applause in her once again, to witness experts in their craft and trade back doing what they do best. It stirs the beast, tends the itch for now, and gives us some hope for tomorrow. Onwards!” he said.

DeBarra’s new programme is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht Sport and Media.

All shows have limited capacity so early booking is advised. Tickets will be made available to DeBarra’s members before going on general sale.