The 2026 Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre programme of gigs gets underway this Saturday.
Revealed this past March, six shows make up the 2026 programme of gigs, beginning with the visit of Mick Flannery and Susan O’Neill to the outdoor venue. That show is now sold-out.
Tribute acts are to the fore in July, first with Heaven Can Wait, billed as ‘a tribute to the music of Meat Loaf’ on 18 July – also a sell-out – followed by David Bowie tribute act Rebel Rebel on 25 July.
Three more Saturday nights await in August with Hothouse Flowers (two tickets remaining at time of writing) taking to the stage on 8 August, Irish country standout Derek Ryan on 15 August, before Wexford’s Cry Before Dawn close out the summer series on 22 August.
If you’ve already got tickets and are looking for an alternative route to the venue, bus services are being run from the Gaol Road in Kilkenny ahead of each gig, returning after the gig end. Bus and show tickets are available via ticketsolve.com.
27 June: Mick Flannery & Susan O’Neill
In late February 2020, Mick Flannery and Susan O’Neill appeared live on The Late Late Show in Ireland to perform their stand-out song Baby Talk, which was released the following week. The performance sparked a creative connection between the two artists that would soon grow into something much bigger.
Soon after, Mick and Susan began writing and recording together, ultimately creating a full album of original songs. The result, In the Game, was released in September 2021 to widespread acclaim. It debuted at No. 1 on the Irish Independent Albums Chart, remained in or near the Top 20 for several weeks, and went on to become the biggest-selling record in Ireland by a non-major label in 2021.
Mick and Susan took In the Game on the road throughout 2022, touring extensively across Europe and North America. Their performances captivated audiences, with the album’s songs forming the backbone of a moving, timeless narrative about the life of musicians—on stage and off, in love and in struggle. In the Game has since become a cherished record both in Ireland and abroad, where it continues to find new listeners.
Now, five years after that first performance, Mick Flannery and Susan O’Neill return to the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.
18 July: Heaven Can Wait – Meat Loaf Tribute
Following a streak of critically acclaimed, sold-out shows across Europe, Heaven Can Wait boasts a dynamic cast of powerhouse vocalists and a full rock band. Expect electrifying renditions of Meat Loaf’s greatest hits, from the epic roar of “Bat Out of Hell” to the soaring passion of “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That),” and the storytelling thrill of “Paradise by the Dashboard Light.”
Featuring the incredible vocals of Lee Brady and a dynamic cast of powerhouse vocalists – a full rock band made up of the UK’s most highly-skilled and reputable musicians and female rock vocalists. Modern audiences may recognise the performers from an upcoming national television documentary coming this Christmas, showcasing the true-life talents behind Meat Loaf’s legendary stage presence — making this tribute all the more authentic and stirring.
25 July: Rebel Rebel – David Bowie Tribute
Rebel Rebel are Ireland’s premier David Bowie tribute, a six-piece band, faithfully recreating Bowie’s extensive catalogue covering over five decades. Both as professional musicians and huge fans of Bowie’s artistry, the respect for the man and his music is both evident and a cornerstone of their live performances.
Their two-hour-plus setlist is built upon Bowie’s most loved and enduring songs, interspersed with those specially requested by his dedicated legion of followers and fans, making each performance unique and special.
8 August – Hothouse Flowers
Something amazing happens when Hothouse Flowers step onto the stage –something that has been shaped by over thirty years of singing and playing all over the world, yet no two shows have ever been the same! There is a sense of musical adventure, an impulse to reach new heights and depths in music, where the unspoken aim is that the band and the audience become one and the world becomes a different place for a while.
Despite the band’s lengthy career, which is now well into its fourth decade, there is a sense of unfinished business. Every night, they want to play the best gig they have ever played and take the musical risks that can maybe make that possible. There are still songs to be written and emotions to share. Whether it’s in a tiny club, an arena or in a festival field, there is a sense that the best is yet to come.
15 August – Derek Ryan & Guests
Derek Ryan remains firmly established as one of the most gifted and enduring singer-songwriters in Irish country music. Renowned for his catchy lyrics, infectious melodies, and captivating stage presence.
With a new concert tour for 2026, Derek continues to delight fans with his remarkable ability to release fresh, original music while also celebrating the timeless hits from his extensive back catalogue.
His concerts combine high energy with true audience connection, offering a setlist that spans cherished classics and his latest hits.
From packed theatres to major festival stages, Derek Ryan’s performances showcase not just his musical talent but also his dedication to crafting songs that resonate across generations.
Guests for the Ballykeeffe performance include Dominic Kirwan and Jack Keogh.
22 August – Cry Before Dawn
Cry Before Dawn first formed in Wexford in 1982. Combining the intensity of guitar-driven rock with the rich heritage of traditional Irish pipes and whistles, they create a powerful and dynamic sound that sets them apart in the music scene
The band has reached incredible heights with two double platinum-selling albums and a collection of prestigious national awards. Among these, they won “Best Newcomer” in 1987 and “Best Irish Group” in 1989, showcasing their widespread acclaim and popularity across the nation. Renowned for their passionate and electrifying performances, they gained a dedicated following through extensive live shows in Ireland, the UK, and the USA, and sold out Ireland’s National Stadium on two memorable occasions
Since 2023, the band has been touring regularly and continues to sell out major venues across the country, including two consecutive nights at the Wexford Spiegeltent and three nights at the iconic Whelan’s Main Venue in Dublin. Their explosive performances at prominent international festivals like All Together Now, Forest Fest and Night & Day further reinforced their status as one of Ireland’s premier live acts
Bar and food facilities are available for all gigs.
