The performance of Golden Bough’s Celtic Festival – returning to Merced Theatre on Saturday, March 17 at 7 p.m. – promises to be a family-friendly celebration of popular folk music from Ireland, Scotland and Wales. “We’ll have sing-a-longs, clap-a-longs and a bit of Irish humor,” said the group’s harpist Margie Butler. “We’ll be wearin’ our green.”
Golden Bough is a trio of accomplished musicians based in Modesto. Margie Butler, Paul Espinoza, and Kathy Sierra travel the world performing on Celtic harp, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, accordion, penny whistle and bodhran. All three band members sing, too, blending their voices into joyful harmonies.
Each of the performers are music teachers with their own private studios. “I enjoy performing all over the world. Merced is close to home so many of our music students can attend,” Butler explained. They offer lessons for harp, penny whistle and guitar.
Butler encourages families to bring their children to the show. “Kids love music too,” she said. “It will be educational and entertaining. We’ll share stories about the songs and engage the audience. It’s important to hear the Celtic Festival since so many immigrants came from that region. Our American music has been influenced by Celtic folk songs.”
The Merced Theatre performance includes more than 20 traditional folk songs. Most people will recognize at least a few of their favorites. “‘Mick McGilligan’s Ball’ is one of my favorites because my father, an Irish tenor, used to sing it,” Butler said.
Tickets for the Saturday, March 17 performance of Golden Bough’s Celtic Festival at Merced Theatre may be purchased online at www.tickets.mercedtheatre.org or at their box office at 301 W. Main Street, open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m and one hour prior to events. For information call 381-0500.