Why should the Americans have all the fun? We’re wondering why the GAA have never considered a large-scale half-time show in Ireland for our biggest sporting events, the All-Ireland Hurling and Football matches. Although Daniel O’Donnell is a sure cert for belting out Amhrán na bhFiann, here are Top 5 Irish acts we would love to see rock Croke Park for the interval.
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5. Bewitched
Let’s be fair, you all know the words to C’est La Vie but you were just PRETENDING you didn’t. So, what better half time show could we possibly envision than to fake our Irish dancing skills to the dormant Bewitched (who are also conveniently planning a Big Reunion on an ITV2 documentary).
Why they should be the choice: Fight like me Da as well…
This. But on a bigger scale. Amazing.
4. The Frames
Top of the “indie” Irish choices out of a list that would have included the likes of Bell X1, Mundy, Paddy Casey etc etc are The Frames, fronted by our own Oscar-winner Glen Hansard. The inclusion of the Frames would do wonders for our reputation internationally, finally dispelling the myth that not every Irish song contains a tin whistle or banjo.
Why they should be the choice: After Amhrán na bhFiann, there is not an Irish man or woman who do not know the lyrics to Revelate.
Glen Hansard, King of the Storytellers.
3. The Cranberries
Last year they reunited for their sixth studio album and tour, what better way to round off the end of a year of touring than a homecoming to Croke Park. Who wouldn’t want to belt out Linger at a half time show, sure haven’t we been doing that for years now anyway in our homes? No? Just us.
Why they should be the choice: Their second song will be Zombie. As if an Garda Síochána don’t have enough hassle on match day.
An imagining of what Croke Park will look like when everyone pours onto the pitch.
2. The Corrs
Beginning with a moment to take in the achievements of Jim Corr initially as the greatest guitar player/conspiracy theorist of all time, the whole stadium will burst into a rapturous applause and perfectly timed singing to Runaway.
Why they should be the choice: Jim Corr, of course.
1. Riverdance feat. Father Noel Furlong (Graham Norton)
If we are in the realms of dream half-time shows and a wish list, this would definitely be ours. We challenge you to find one Irish person who has not, at one stage or another, attempted Michael Flatley’s solo from Riverdance. Now, imagine the reunion of Flatley and Butler in a wonderous combination on stage, Irish men and women everywhere half-tipsy on match day attempting the solos in the stands and then, the real icing on the cake, as if elected from the greatest impersonators, Father Noel Furlong joins the Riverdance dancers for the final act.
Why they should be the choice: Have you read the above? It’s what dreams are made of.
Imagine this. But on a bigger scale.
Beyoncé who?
