The line up for the annual Christmas Eve busk has been announced, the first one since the death of much loved Irish musician, Glen Hansard.
This was confirmed by Catherine Kenny, CEO of homelessness charity, The Simon Community, who told RTÉ Radio that the singer's death will make this year's event particularly poignant. She said that Hansard's absence will be felt especially this year, but that his fellow musicians will carry on the tradition that he helped to create.
Glen Hansard sadly died after being involved in a motorcycle in Dublin in the early hours of July 31. More on this here.
He started out by busking on Grafton Street, before going on to become one Ireland's most celebrated performers, a career which saw him win an Oscar for co writing Falling Slowly, a track which featured in the Irish drama, Once in 2007. More on this here.
The Christmas Eve busk began as a simple sing-song in Grafton Street in 2010, and has since developed into an officially held charity event outside Dublin's Gaiety Theatre.
This year's event will see Danny O'Reilly, Mundy, and Imelda May perform on the street in an attempt to raise funds for and awareness of those who are experiencing homelessness.
Since it began in 2010, the Christmas Eve Busk raised over €1 million for Dublin Simon Community, with the funds going directly towards the frontline services, seeking help for others who are sleeping rough, at risk of losing their homes or living in temporary accommodation.
Glen Hansard's funeral took place at St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin Centre in August, which saw U2 singer Bono read out 'Beautiful Day' in a moving tribute to the late singer.
Speaking at the service, Bono said: “It’s a lullaby for Glen’s family and friends".
Check this out and Ireland's Classic Hits' Radio report on it here.
