Communities all over Nova Scotia are abuzz with anticipation of warm weather, longer days, and the excitement that comes with spring. Across the province, events are taking place to mark Gaelic Awareness Month, which happens in May each year. Colaisde na Gàidhlig (The Gaelic College) in St. Ann’s is celebrating Gaelic Awareness Month with a week-long féis: May 7th to 13th.
The first of its kind for the College, Féis Colaisde na Gàidhlig promises to be an exciting week of learning and fun. Every day of the Féis features an exciting array of classes, workshops, seminars, and performances, with some of Cape Breton’s finest singers, dancers, and musicians. From Gaelic preschool to after-school Gaelic, and adult Gaelic drama, there is programming for all ages and skill levels. The weekend’s events include a square dance, music and dance classes, a cod fish supper, and milling frolic.
The week promises to be exciting for Colaisde na Gàidhlig, which has been introducing many positive initiatives as of late.
“We are very pleased to welcome the broader community to Colaisde na Gàidhlig for the Féis. It’s sure to be a great week for all those involved,” says Director of Education and Programming, Tracey MacNeil.
The Féis wraps up with two concerts. On Saturday, May 12th, after a day of music and dance lessons, Colaisde na Gàidhlig will host some of the region’s finest musicians with Cuirm-Ciùil nam Pìob, a concert showcasing the Gaelic College Piping Ensemble, beginning at 2pm. To cap off the week, Sunday will feature Gàidhlig air an Ard Urlar: A Concert of the Finest in Cape Breton / Nova Scotia Gaelic Cultural Artists at 2pm. It is sure to be a spectacular afternoon, including artists such as Shelly Campbell, Rodney MacDonald, Tracey and Paul K. MacNeil and family, Colin, Keith and Kyle MacDonald, Colin Watson, John Pellerin, and more!
A complete schedule of events, as well as more information on Féis Colaisde na Gàidhlig can be found on the Colaisde na Gàidhlig website.