Inspiring night remembered Noel Scullion and Liam O'Flynn

Images: Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer.

An emotional and inspiring night of remembrance and music took place in Kilcullen Town Hall last Saturday, writes Brian Byrne, as the community came together to honour the legacy of two much‑loved figures, the late artist Noel Scullion and legendary uilleann piper Liam O’Flynn.

Hosted by Kilcullen Community Action, the event celebrated the remarkable contributions of both men to the Dún Ailinne Interpretive Park, a space dedicated to preserving and sharing the heritage of Dún Ailinne. The evening was marked by a powerful sense of community, belonging, and pride in local history.

Those in attendance reflected on how Scullion and O’Flynn helped bring the story of Dún Ailinne to life through art and music. Their work, it was noted, has left an enduring imprint on Kilcullen and continues to inspire both residents and visitors.

The musical highlight of the night was a performance by acclaimed All‑Ireland winning uilleann piper Colm Broderick from County Carlow, who played on the very pipes once played by the late Liam O’Flynn. The piece, composed by O'Flynn for the dedication of the Interpretive Park in 2008, was 'Dun Ailinne and the Clann March', a piece commissioned from him by KCA and sponsored at the time by Sir Anthony and Lady O'Reilly of Castlemartin.

Joined by Niamh Dalton on concertina, Broderick’s playing filled the hall and was described as a fitting and moving tribute to O’Flynn’s memory. Specially commissioned art pieces were presented to members of the families of both men.

Kilcullen Community Action was praised for organising what was widely regarded as a touching and fitting tribute to two great artists, ensuring that their legacy and heritage will continue to resonate in the community for years to come.

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