Mark in 'Miscellany'

Here we go again - I can hardly believe that it’s that time of year so soon.

Time that is, for the by now annual fundraiser hosted by Tom and Phena Bermingham at their home in Mooretown just three miles outside Kilcullen on the Athy Road (N78) in aid of Michael Garry House Hostel for the Homeless, Newbridge.

For those who are not familiar with the event or who may be new to the area, Miscellany Sunday has been held each year (bar one) since 2000 to raise funds for the Michael Garry House Hostel for Homeless People in Newbridge.

The event is neither choreographed nor staged; it just happens. It is more “rambling house” than “coffee morning” and is reminiscent of how people used to socialise; by gathering in the homes of friends and neighbours sharing stories, making music, dancing (mind the dresser!) and breaking bread together.

To fulfill all elements of this age-old means of entertainment, Miscellany Sunday has an eclectic mix of music, singing, drama, poetry and art accompanied by mince pies and mulled wine, with copious amounts of tea, coffee and cake for the designated drivers!

So far there are confirmed appearances by members of Kilcullen Drama Group, in production at the moment with a new play – Theft by Eric Chappell, elements of Kildare Youth Orchestra, guitarist and singer Ludaigh Moran, violinist/fiddler Aoife Kelly, “Beefy and Friends”, James Healy, Bernard Roche, Dick Jeffers, Roy Thompson. There will, as usual, be many more on the day and updates will appear on ‘A Kilcullen Diary’.

So, where and when? Well, just follow out the Athy road for three miles from Kilcullen and the house is on the left – look out for the big sign and the balloons and the clutter of cars!

The when is Sunday December 6 from 2:30pm-ish to 6:30pm-ish.

This is not a ticketed event; it isn’t sold on a per table basis and it doesn’t have a corporate sponsor! (Although we’d welcome their money!)

We put a discretionary contribution basket/box in the hall where people can make a donation if they wish to, either on their arrival or as they leave, and, thankfully, donate they do. Each year the event has raised well in excess of €2000.

All are welcome, and Phena has asked me to stress that point. We have been very fortunate to be supported in our endeavours each year by so many people and we really do appreciate that many return each year and we look forward to seeing you all again. It would also be great to see some new faces and it is to you, those who have not yet been able to come, that we extend an invitation to do so this year. And if you are a musician, singer, poet, dancer or have any artistic tendencies or you just like to spend time in the company of ordinary folks who come together to support a service for all people in our society, then Miscellany Sunday might just be the place for you.

So if you are living in the Kilcullen, Calverstown or Ballyshannon area, do come along and spread the word and encourage folks you know from farther afield to come too.

Further information from Roy Thompson at 485996, or Phena Bermingham at 485232.

Hope to see you there.

Roy Thompson.