Tomáseen Foley returns to the Medina Performing Arts Center with his captivating performance of Irish dance, music, and story

By Patricia Nugent

Growing up on a small farm in a remote parish in the West of Ireland—where the storytelling was as natural as breathing—native storyteller Tomáseen Foley has spread his captivating narrative gift to audiences all over the world.

Along with an impressive ensemble of musicians and dancers, he rekindles the joy and charm of the season with Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas, coming to the Medina Performing Arts Center on Sunday, November 27.

“In its 27th year, we welcome Tomáseen back with his signature heartwarming and witty new stories,” says Brian Bigley, who, along with his wife, Kristen, produces the event. “Our show always sells out, so we encourage folks to buy their tickets early. This year, to meet the demand, in addition to the Medina show, we’ve added one downtown at the Hanna Theatre on Saturday, November 26 at 7:30 p.m.”

As one newspaper described the show, “It was like a cup of Irish coffee in a neighbor’s kitchen on a dark night. It was warm, comforting, and full of good cheer.”

You’ll be magically transported to the night before Christmas circa 1950s in a remote farmhouse in Ireland. Through his beguiling tales, Tomáseen brings to life the yuletide tradition of neighboring families gathering around the fire spinning stories, singing uplifting songs and kicking up their heels.

Grammy Award-winning guitarist William Coulter and multi-instrumentalist Eimear Arkins will “raise the rafters” with their beloved Irish music. And many notable dancers, such as Marcus Donnelly, a highly celebrated former World Dance Champion, will add to the spectacle. Some local dance talent will take the stage as well.

And just in time for holiday gifting, Brian says he’s come out with a CD, along with William Coulter and Tomáseen narrating the lyric Irish poetry of William Butler Yeats. It’s called Celtic Knots: An Irish Love Story and is available at KBBProductions.net.

Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas takes place Sunday, November 27, at 2:30 p.m. at the Medina Performing Arts Center, 851 Weymouth Road in Medina. There are two 55-minute acts with a brief intermission. Proceeds from a bake sale will benefit a local Irish dance school. Buy tickets, which range from $25-$33, at KBBproductions.net. Questions? Call 216-777-5769.