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Back in 1989,
Richelle Basgall and Victor Dougherty graduated from a small ensemble making
a big showing at pubs, colleges, fairs and Renaissance Festivals around
the Midwest. Realizing
they had a unique and dynamic chemistry, and armed with the savvy that their
experiences had brought them, they struck out into a more progressive vein
of Celtic music - a blending of traditional songs with modern arrangements
and harmonies that has come to be known as Shenanigans. Between
Victor's percussive guitar-play and stage-presence, and Richelle's inspired
fiddling and rich vocals, the band became an instant regional favorite.
In three seasons, they sold over 2,500 copies of their first recording,
and as they amassed an impressive list of credits and venues, a new member
was graduating from college. Kelly Hill married into Shenanigans (to Victor),
and the band soon discovered her hidden talents for step-dancing and singing.
Now a full-fledged stage show, they began catching the eye of regional Irish
festivals and are now a mainstay at shows like the Westport Irish Festival,
the Brookside Irish Festival, the Santa Fe Trails Bluegrass Festival, the
Weston Irish Festival and many more. The future is quite bright for these
"Darlings of Donegal." Their 2000 season was highlighted by the release
of their new CD, "Forest Through the Trees". Look for great things from
this trio! |
