The Unforgettable Fire: A Tribute to U2 and Irish Rock

A full-scale theatrical performance to be presented by the students of the Uptown Music Collective St. Patrick's Day weekend, March 18 and 19 at 7:30, on the beautiful stage of the Community Arts Center in Williamsport.

The concert will feature upwards of forty student performers between the ages of thirteen and eighteen performing the music of such influential Irish rock acts as U2, Van Morrison, Thin Lizzy, Damien Rice, Sinead O'Connor, the Cranberries and more.

Ireland's rock music is characterized by its close association with the decades-long conflict between Irish Catholics and Irish Protestants that has rocked the island, as well as by fighting between Northern Irish nationalist groups and factions loyal to the British government.

From this environment of conflict and bloodshed emerged some of the most evocative and inspiring rock music ever performed, and the stirring lyrics and powerful choruses of artists like U2 have revolutionized the way the world thinks about the power and potential of rock'n'roll.

The flexible and talented students of the Uptown Music Collective will perform this music with an eye toward loyal and accurate reproductions of the original bands' distinctive sounds, and with the theatrical flair characteristic of Collective performances.

By performing the concert on the weekend of St. Patrick's Day, a holiday that celebrates the lineage and legacy of the Irish community, they hope to pay tribute not only to the amazing Irish rock musicians who authored the music to be performed, but also to the contributions the Irish have made to this area and to this nation.

Tickets are available at:  K&S music, Alabasters Coffee And the Comunity Arts Center box office.

Quotes From Students >>>>>>>

 “I think that The Unforgettable Fire will be one of our most creative and unique shows we’ve ever done!” – Katie Kahn, 15, Williamsport Area High School
 
"The music of Ireland is unlike any other, oftentimes there is sadness in the music that makes it beautiful. I can't wait to pay respect to the artists with this show." - Nuria Hunter, 17, Williamsport Area High School
 
“This show is huge; it’s unlike anything we have ever done. The songs are great and the audience is in for some major surprises.” – Gabe Stillman, 15, Williamsport Area High School