Dancer silhouette at dusk on quay
History slide 1
Our
History

Our

History

Across the Globe and Through the Years

The story of Trad on the Prom is one that has taken us to all corners of the globe, with a wealth of world firsts and memories. And always a return to our beautiful Galway.

In the 1990s, Chris Kelly was founding member and manager/producer of ground-breaking Trad super group Reeltime. Chris met and married Máirín of the famous musical Fahy family, going on to tour the world performing, recording, and then working as Sales Manager for Riverdance.

Eager to put down roots for their young son, Chris and Máirín wondered how it would be if instead of taking a show to the people, the people came to the show, based in their beloved Galway. The dream was simple: to deliver the best Irish music, song and dance show and cultural experience in the country. A show that would be authentic, personal and passionate – yet with top quality production values. Trad on the Prom was born, first finding its home in 2005 at The Salthill Hotel and the Galway Bay Hotel before settling at Leisureland in 2017.

The show has grown to become a Galway tradition and an international sensation – ranked as a ‘must see’ on every Irish vacation itinerary.

Milestones

Some Favourite Trad on the Prom Milestones

2009

Flying High over Galway
Trad on the Prom performed in Galway at the epic Volvo Ocean Race, to an audience of 60 000 people.

2012

National Pride
We performed for An Taoiseach Enda Kenny the Prime Minister of Ireland at the mayor Hildegarde Naughton’s Ball in Galway.

2012

Presidential Performance
Trad on the Prom welcomed the President of Ireland Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina.

2012

Guitar Royalty
We performed for Fred Gretsch of the world-renowned Gretsch Music Company, and his wife Rosa – their third time at the show.

2012

High Seas Magic
We took to the Boston Fan Pier Stage to launch the Volvo Ocean Race.

2014

Taking the Wild Atlantic Way
We were original Ambassadors of The Wild Atlantic Way at its Excel Complex London launch with minister Michael Ring.

2024

T20th Anniversary
2024 marks 20 years of Trad on the Prom in Galway