Séan McCann The Shantyman Will Take To The Stage At Market Hall For A Night Of Irish Celebration

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Séan McCann, dubbed The Shantyman, will take to the stage at Market Hall on March 20 for a celebration of Irish song.

“I love Peterborough,” said McCann. “I’ve always had a great time at Market Hall. I really look forward to coming back, it’s a great little room.”

McCann, who co-founded the band Great Big Sea with Alan Doyle, recalls playing at Market Hall both with the group and as a solo act.

McCann released his album ‘Shantyman’ on Sept. 6, 2021, labor day.

“Sea shanties are historically songs designed to help people do difficult things, by working hard and by working together,” he said. “I’ve been The Shantyman my whole life, I’m very fluent in these songs and I felt like they really had a place today. There’s no way we’ll get through the pandemic, hopefully we’re almost there, but the only way to get it done and to get through it is to do it together. And that’s what sea shanties were meant for.”

On March 20 McCann will be celebrating St. Patrick’s day at Market Hall with both Great Big Sea hits and his own shanties.

“Expect a high energy performance,” he said. “"St Patrick’s day is really St Patrick’s month where I’m from in Newfoundland. The bands are born during St Patrick’s celebrations.”

McCann, who is 10 years sober, notes the heavy presence of alcohol that surrounds both ‘Newfie’ culture and Irish culture, especially during St. Patrick’s day.

“We loose sight of how great Irish music can be. For many years I stayed away from this date, but I feel strong enough now. Just because I’m sober doesn’t mean I can’t sing these great songs. The songs are beautiful, and I’m coming armed with some great Irish songs and some Great Big Sea hits and my own. It’s going to be a great night.”

‘The Shantyman Sings for the Saint: A Celebration of Irish Song with Séan McCann’ is a solo two set acoustic performance featuring traditional Irish singalongs and stories.

Tickets are available online at tickets.markethall.org.

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