Christine Lampard Hosts A Century Of Stories Concert in Belfast
On a remarkable Tuesday night in Belfast, Christine Lampard took center stage to host a special concert celebrating 100 years of the BBC in Northern Ireland. The event, titled “A Century Of Stories,” was recorded for BBC TV and radio on September 24, featuring the talented Ulster Orchestra. The Newtownards native expressed her excitement about returning to Belfast to present the show, stating, “This is where it all began for me.” Lampard’s connection to the city shone through as she shared her enthusiasm for the fantastic production.
Performances and Special Guests
The concert was a star-studded affair, with performances from renowned artists such as Clannad, D:Ream, Tony Hadley, and Katharine Timoney. The lineup also included The Tumbling Paddies and St Kieran’s Primary School Choir from Belfast, showcasing the rich musical talent of the region. Additionally, the event featured specially commissioned audio-visual works by Eoin O’Callaghan, Siobhan Brown, The Darkling Air, and guitarist Rory Friers from And So I Watch You From Afar. These works were inspired by the BBC local program archives, adding a unique and sentimental touch to the evening.
Guest presenters added to the excitement of the event, with personalities like Marie Jones, Mark Carruthers, Lady Mary Peters, Hannah Peel, Gemma Bradley, Tim McGarry, and actors Derek Thompson and Tara Lynne O’Neill gracing the stage. Their presence added depth and diversity to the celebration of BBC in Northern Ireland, highlighting the cultural significance of the broadcaster in the region.
Celebrating Belfast’s Musical Talent
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, emphasized the city’s musical heritage and potential, stating, “As a City of Music, Belfast is rich with musical talent and potential.” The event served as a unique opportunity to showcase this talent, with new versions of familiar songs that hold special significance for the BBC NI audience. The collaboration between BBC NI and the city of Belfast reflected the central themes of people, place, and planet, aligning with the Belfast 2024 program’s vision for cultural enrichment and celebration.
The concert was a testament to the vibrant musical landscape of Belfast, bringing together a diverse range of artists and performers to commemorate the BBC’s century-long presence in Northern Ireland. The fusion of traditional and contemporary music, along with the heartfelt performances, created a truly memorable experience for both the audience and participants alike.
As the event drew to a close, anticipation grew for the broadcast of “A Century Of Stories” on BBC television and BBC Radio Ulster later in the year. Viewers can look forward to reliving the magic of the concert and experiencing the rich tapestry of musical talent that Belfast has to offer. Stay tuned for more updates on this exclusive TV event and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Northern Irish music and storytelling.