TG4 will debut 'Ceol na gCoillte' - a stunning documentary unveiling Ireland and Canada's shared history - on Sunday, October 27.
'Ceol na gCoillte' is an evocative and visually stunning feature documentary that unearths a hidden chapter in the intertwined histories of Ireland and Canada.
Led by legendary Irish musician Dáithí Sproule, this documentary promises to captivate audiences with its exploration of Irish immigrants' lasting cultural legacy in Canada.
At the heart of the documentary is the untold story of the Irish settlers who ventured into Canada’s vast pine forests in the early 1800s. Bringing with them their rich musical traditions, these immigrants profoundly influenced the cultural fabric of the regions they settled in across Canada.
'Ceol na gCoillte' follows their journey, illustrating how the Irish spirit not only survived but thrived in this new and rugged world, reshaping the soundscape of Canada with a unique blend of Irish and Canadian folk music.
Dáithí Sproule. Credit: Tg4
Dáithí Sproule, a master of the Ulster song tradition, retraces the steps of these early settlers, bringing their stories to life through music. His personal journey from Derry and Donegal to the logging camps of Canada forms the emotional core of the film, weaving together the past and present in a timeless narrative.
The documentary features breathtaking performances from iconic musicians like Maighréad and Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill, Niall Hanna, Yves Lambert, and Graham Wells, offering a fresh perspective on traditional songs that have transcended generations and borders.
Producer and Director Méabh O'Hare describes the making of 'Ceol na gCoillte' as an extraordinary journey across Canada. The crew travelled extensively, uncovering incredible music traditions, musicians and history. Working with Dáithí Sproule, a legendary singer with a deep understanding of traditional song, was a highlight of the project and his knowledge and easy relatable manner, added a profound layer to the documentary.
Yves Lambert. Credit: TG4
"We discovered how these incredible ties still remain with Ireland and are found right across Canada but particularly in places such as Ontario, Quebec and Newfoundland. The film celebrates the enduring spirit of the Irish immigrants and it highlights the profound impact of Irish music on Canadian culture, bridging the gap between past and present with its rich and vibrant musical heritage," said O’Hare.
'Ceol na gCoillte' is more than just a historical documentary; it’s a living testament to the power of music to transcend borders and generations. It brings together the past and the present, the old world and the new, in a visually stunning narrative that will resonate with viewers of all ages.
'Ceol na gCoillte' was made possible with the support of the Irish Language Broadcast Fund of Northern Ireland and the Canadian Media Fund, whose contributions helped bring this powerful transatlantic story to life.
Don’t miss the premiere on October 27th at 21:30 on TG4 and TG4.ie, where centuries-old melodies continue to sing the story of a people, a journey, and a shared cultural heritage that remains as vibrant today as ever.
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