Dungiven to feature in Ceolta, a new BBC Gaeilge music series to be broadcast in 2025

Filming has started on Ceolta, a new BBC Gaeilge series which explores the diverse musical landscape of Ulster.

Presented by Fiachna Ó Braonáin and Eve Belle, this six part series will broadcast on BBC Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer in early 2025 and features live performances from a host of local talent. The lineup includes some familiar faces and emerging artists across a broad spectrum of genres including trad, country, folk, punk, pop and jazz.

BBC Gaeilge Commissioning Executive Karen Kirby says: “There is such a rich range of musical styles and influences in Ulster and bringing local musicians together for Ceolta has been a real privilege.

“Across the series there will be some truly special performances to whet the audience’s appetite.”

Ceolta takes viewers on a musical journey visiting venues in Dungiven, Moy, Bangor, Forkhill, Boho and Belfast and our presenters - singer and songwriter Eve Belle from County Donegal and Hothouse Flowers’ guitarist Fiachna Ó Braonáin who hails from Dublin - also take to the stage for two special performances.

Fiachna Ó Braonáin says: “I have felt exceptional energy and a warm welcome in Ulster for many years as I performed music here, from both musicians and audiences alike.

I am now delighted to seize the opportunity alongside Eve to deep dive and visit magical music venues as part of the new television series Ceolta!” 

Eve Belle says: “I always feel privileged to be a part of the local music scene, and for that reason, I am extremely grateful to be working on Ceolta, a series that highlights and shines a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible music in this area.”

The series includes performances from Paul Casey, Mary Dillon and Neil Martin, Cliona Hagan, Duke Special, Winnie Ama any many others. Later in the series Fiachna will join his Hothouse Flowers bandmates on stage at The Courthouse in Bangor. 

Ceolta is made for BBC Gaeilge by Sonas Productions with support from Northern Ireland Screen’s Irish Language Broadcast Fund and will broadcast on BBC Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer in early 2025.