Derry’s 'rich sense of place, talent, and community' highlighted in new television series

The popular travel and music television series Ireland with Michael, presented by Wexford native and Emmy™-nominated singer Michael Londra, is set to return for its fifth season today January 9. Since its North American debut on Public Television in 2021, episodes from the popular series have aired over 44,000 times, with a broadcast reach of 97% of all U.S. households across 49 states.

With its signature blend of rich storytelling and spectacular visuals, the show has become synonymous with celebrating Ireland’s people, places, and traditions, making it a favourite amongst PBS viewers.

The programme, produced by Michael Londra in partnership with Detroit PBS, reaffirms its position as a cultural ambassador for the island of Ireland, reaching nearly every corner of America with its intimate storytelling and spectacular visuals.

Season 5 consists of eight 30-minute episodes that shine a light on the beauty, history, and culture across various Irish regions.

This season includes an especially resonant episode highlighting Derry's significance as a beacon of Northern Irish history, creativity, and spirit.

Exploring Derry’s Stories and Spirit the local episode offers a heartfelt look at one of the island’s most historic and culturally rich cities.

The story begins with a visit to Killeavy Castle near Sliabh Gullion, where Michael takes in the serene majesty of the surrounding Mourne Mountains. Known for its deep-rooted folklore and breathtaking scenery, the area introduces viewers to the raw beauty of the north.

Once in Derry, the focus shifts to the thriving creative energy of the city.

Michael visits Dart Mountain, near Park village, where he learns the time-honoured craft of artisan cheese-making, reflecting the area’s strong agricultural character and pride in locally sourced produce.

Further exploring the culinary richness of the region, Michael ventures into gin-making, crafting his own blend and spotlighting the innovation or the region’s food and drink creators.

He also stops at the award winning Ebrington Hotel to chat about local food and sustainability with Chef Noel McMeel, one of Ireland’s most celebrated chefs.

The episode concludes with a musical tribute, as Michael’s travels are accompanied by the enchanting sounds of Celtic harps and the unmistakable melancholy of the Uilleann pipes. These performances underscore the deep cultural resonance of the region, bridging modern-day artistry with centuries-old traditions and offering an emotional connection for those familiar with the city’s cultural heritage.

For audiences across Ireland, this episode is an evocative celebration of Derry’s rich sense of place, talent, and community—a city that continues to tell our shared story through its people, landscapes, and legacy.

Michael Londra is an Emmy-nominated Wexford-born singer and producer best known for his work on Beyond Celtic and for serving as the original lead tenor of Riverdance on Broadway. With his longstanding dedication to highlighting Irish culture, Michael has become an influential cultural ambassador. Whether through his television series, live performances, or guided tours, his commitment to Ireland's heritage continues to inspire audiences both at home and abroad. A skilled theatrical producer, Michael is also a lead producer of Get Happy, a Broadway-bound musical set to premiere in 2025, based on the MGM classic movie Summer Stock.

Viewers can stream Ireland with Michael Season 5 from January 9 here