DONEGAL-born founder of
Riverdance Moya Doherty has signalled her backing
for Derry's bid to become UK City of Culture 2013.
Doherty who co-founded the long-running smash hit
production with her partner John McColgan said the
city's success in the campaign would afford it an
opportunity to “share Irish culture with the world“.
“On behalf of all us at Riverdance we would like to
extend our warmest congratulations to you and the
team at becoming finalists in the UK City of Culture
2013 competition. Derry is rich in history and
culture and a win would result in a unique
opportunity to share the culture of Northern Ireland
and Ireland with the world,“ said Moya. |
“This is an exciting
time for Northern Ireland and the bid is a great
opportunity for cultural forces to unite and bring
the region one step closer to lasting peace. We wish
you every success with the bid,” she added.
The city’s status as a hub of Irish dancing talent
was underlined when almost 400 Irish dancers lined
the banks of the Foyle for Derry’s own Riverdance at
the weekend to |
 |
support the RNLI.
Current members of the Riverdance troop Claire and
Mark McCole also stepped up to support the record
attempt.
Claire said: “There were so many boys and girls of
all ages supporting the record attempt, I thought it
was fantastic. It really brought together culture,
talent and energy to achieve this record and raise
money for the RNLI. Well done to everyone involved.
Mark said Derry was “brimming with potential“
waiting to be tapped by City of Culture success.
“Events such as these create reasons for young
people to use their skills and talent and that’s why
I think the city’s Culture bid is such an
opportunity. It will encourage young people to get
more involved in culture and this can only bring
positive results. The city has great potential and
energy and there’s no better place to win this
title,” he said. |
