A Unique Celebration of Rory’s Life, Music and Legacy
The 2026 edition of the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival will feature one of the most anticipated spoken word and film events ever presented at the Festival, as the Rory Gallagher Symposium returns for a very special afternoon of reflection, insight and storytelling. Taking place from 12.30pm on Saturday 30th May 2026 at the Rory Gallagher Theatre in the Abbey Arts Centre, this unique gathering will bring together a distinguished panel of guests, close friends and family members to discuss the life, times and enduring legacy of Rory Gallagher. Limited Tickets Available - Advanced Booking Advised - €10 for Symposium & Film - Book Now
The event promises to be relaxed, thought-provoking and deeply personal, offering fans a rare opportunity to hear first-hand memories and reflections from those who knew Rory best and who witnessed his remarkable impact on music and audiences across the world.
Among the featured guests will be Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and lifelong manager, who played a central role throughout Rory’s career and continues to preserve and promote his extraordinary musical legacy. Donal will also share some exclusive insights and hints surrounding his highly anticipated Rory Gallagher biography, due for release later in 2026.
Joining the discussion will be Ed Christman, Executive Editor-Finance of Billboard, who experienced Rory performing live over three decades while simultaneously covering the international music business during that same period. His perspective promises to offer a fascinating insight into Rory’s standing within the global music industry and the deep respect he commanded amongst musicians, promoters and fans alike.
Following the Symposium, audiences will also enjoy the premiere live screening of “Do You Read Me – Rory Gallagher Festival”, a feature film exploring the mystique, passion and international appeal of the Ballyshannon festival experience. The film has been created by filmmakers Stephen O'Dowd and Sarah Ploss and captures the spirit, emotion and worldwide community that continues to gather annually in Rory’s birthplace.
This promises to be one of the standout cultural events of Festival weekend and an unforgettable afternoon for Rory Gallagher fans travelling from across Ireland and around the world.
Rory Gallagher Symposium 2026
Saturday 30th May 2026 commencing at 12.30pm
Rory Gallagher Theatre, Abbey Arts Centre, Ballyshannon
Advanced Tickets - €10
Limited Tickets Available – Book Now – HERE
The event promises to be relaxed, thought-provoking and deeply personal, offering fans a rare opportunity to hear first-hand memories and reflections from those who knew Rory best and who witnessed his remarkable impact on music and audiences across the world.
Among the featured guests will be Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and lifelong manager, who played a central role throughout Rory’s career and continues to preserve and promote his extraordinary musical legacy. Donal will also share some exclusive insights and hints surrounding his highly anticipated Rory Gallagher biography, due for release later in 2026.
Joining the discussion will be Ed Christman, Executive Editor-Finance of Billboard, who experienced Rory performing live over three decades while simultaneously covering the international music business during that same period. His perspective promises to offer a fascinating insight into Rory’s standing within the global music industry and the deep respect he commanded amongst musicians, promoters and fans alike.
Following the Symposium, audiences will also enjoy the premiere live screening of “Do You Read Me – Rory Gallagher Festival”, a feature film exploring the mystique, passion and international appeal of the Ballyshannon festival experience. The film has been created by filmmakers Stephen O'Dowd and Sarah Ploss and captures the spirit, emotion and worldwide community that continues to gather annually in Rory’s birthplace.
This promises to be one of the standout cultural events of Festival weekend and an unforgettable afternoon for Rory Gallagher fans travelling from across Ireland and around the world.
Rory Gallagher Symposium 2026
Saturday 30th May 2026 commencing at 12.30pm
Rory Gallagher Theatre, Abbey Arts Centre, Ballyshannon
Advanced Tickets - €10
Limited Tickets Available – Book Now – HERE
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