May arriving in March this spring
The word “unmissable” is thrown around a lot these days, but when the one and only Imelda May sets her sights on Leeside, you’d better believe those tickets will go fast.
As of Tuesday, tickets are on sale for May’s upcoming tour which will see the beloved Irish artist bring her acclaimed ‘Raised on Songs & Stories: The Lock In tour’ to Cork Opera House on 9 March 2027.
In keeping with Irish tradition, ‘Raised On Songs & Stories: The Lock In’ is a night of music, poetry, storytelling, and audience participation.
“It’s not the exact same show as before but it’ll have the same elements of being a loose, intimate, personal night of story and song, but this time in a ‘Lock In’ environment,” says May, who admits a good lock in is one of her favourite times in life.
“It’s when laughter becomes louder, stories are elaborated, and songs become truer and the room either hushes or erupts depending on the vibe.”
Through the show, May attempts to reclaim the misconception abroad that the Irish pub is a place of “drinking” rather than an important part of Ireland’s rich culture of sharing songs and stories.
“Whether at a time of funerals, weddings, birthdays, or any needed night, it’s a place where we gather as a community to celebrate life.
“It’ll be a night of capturing golden moments together, following where it flows, and warming our hearts with magic. Can’t wait to see you all again.”
Born and raised in The Liberties area of Dublin, May has become one of Ireland’s most celebrated female artists as a singer, songwriter, actor, producer, poet, presenter, and storyteller.
Known for her eclectic blend of rockabilly, jazz, blues, and soul, May’s breakthrough self-written and produced album, ‘Love Tattoo’ (2008) catapulted her to international fame and remains the biggest selling album by a homegrown female artist in Ireland. Over time, May’s music evolved, embracing more introspective themes including in her most recent album ‘11 Past the Hour’ (2021) which marked her fourth Number 1 album in Ireland and fourth Top 10 in the UK.
Joining May as special guests on her tour are Limerick-based duo The Woodgies. After growing up in Geneva, the sisters moved to Limerick to immerse themselves in Ireland’s traditional music scene, studying traditional song and chant while exploring the musical heritage that has long been part of their family story. At the heart of The Woodgies is the connection between two voices which gives their music a distinctive identity that sits beyond straightforward folk.