When Everyone Can Be Irish!

It may be a few days past St. Patrick's Day, but for those who want to continue to celebrate or who inadvertently missed the festivities, a local tradition will serve as a happy reminder of the "Wearin of the Green."

St. Peter's Church, up on North State Street, has been marking St. Patrick's Day for as long as I can recall.

In the 1950s and 60s, they held an Irish-themed variety show at the and sent hundreds of happy audience members out into the streets after the show humming the songs they'd heard presented. I was fortunate enough to have been a part of several of those productions in the 1960s and the cast had as much fun as those seated in the theatre.

For quite a few decades now, St. Peter's has been having a traditional Irish feast of the best Corn Beef and Cabbage you could find. They continue that longstanding tradition this Saturday at 5:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall. You'll find the main course and lots of extras cooked to perfection. There's nothing soggy or tasteless to be found.

Yours truly will be "tickling the ivories" during dinner, although I don't think the keys on a keyboard are made of ivory. Nevertheless, I'll escape my computer long enough to serenade the diners with "When Irish Eyes are Smilin," "My Wild Irish Rose," "Molly Malone," and a dozen other Irish ditties. You're welcome to sing along but not with your mouth full.

After a satisfying repast, I'd urge you to hightail it over to the Concord City Auditorium and listen to what promises to be one of the best musical events of the season.

The Granite State Symphony Orchestra, nearly 40 musicians strong, will be presenting a performance at 8 p.m. that is Russian-themed and certain to be a memorable experience for musical lovers and those who may be first-timers in discovering this hidden jewel in our city.

Who says there's nothing to do on a Saturday night??