SEAC Live presents Mary Coughlan, arguably the greatest female singer to have emerged from Ireland in recent times.
Whether you’re into folk, blues or jazz, you can’t fail to be moved by the emotional depth, expression and power in her voice, forged from an extraordinary life. Mary has carved out a timeless and highly regarded career, with a legion of devoted fans worldwide. To hear Mary sing is truly to be at the core of the human heart.

Since her first album Tired and Emotional rocketed her to overnight fame in 1985, she has recorded 15 further solo albums. Coughlan has sold out some of the UK’s most prestigious venues and has toured the US, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Scandinavia.
Throughout 30 years of her quite extraordinary life and recording career, Mary has drawn heavily from her legendary heroes: the grievous, teary outpourings of Billie Holiday (to whom she devoted a double album of her songs), the husky flirtations of Peggy Lee, Van Morrison’s soulful wails and the defiant chanteusery of Edith Piaf.
In June 2020, in recognition of Mary’s achievements and immense impact on the culture and arts community in Galway City, the Mayor, Mike Cubbard presented her with a 2020 lifetime achievement award.
Released in September 2020, Mary's new album Life Stories (was mostly written and recorded by Pete Glenister and Mary Coughlan at No Name Studio and) features the single Two Breaking Into One. “It’s a song about betrayal... it took me 15 years to feel comfortable with writing this song” – Mary Coughlan

“The emotional purity in Mary Coughlan’s songs is so fragile that it is possible to become inconsolable when listening to her in a darkened room.” - Q Magazine
“A song is not complete unless it has been sung by Mary Coughlan.” - Melody Maker
“Her talent is awesome.” - The London Times
“Mary’s live performances have to be seen to be believed.” - NME
“Dubbed as Ireland’s Billie Holiday, Mary is a jazz & blues singer whose life story gives weight to the truth that the best singers are the ones with the most painful lives.” - The Guardian

Irish singer-songwriter and guitarist, Ultan Conlon has shared the stage with the likes of John Fogerty, Mavis Staples, Shelby Lynne, Jackson Browne, Bryan Ferry, John Grant, Eddi Reader, Patty Griffin and Richard Hawley, among others. Ultan has also performed duets with Glen Hansard and John Martyn, and Martyn recorded Ultan’s song Really Gone in 2005. Many of Ultan’s critically acclaimed songs have received extensive airplay in Ireland (RTE Radio 1, Lyric FM, KCLR) and the UK (BBC). There’s A Waltz produced by Grammy Award- winner Sean Watkins, is Ultan’s fourth record.

"RTE Radio 1's Album of the week!...gorgeous, gorgeous album" - Fiachna O'Braonáin, RTE Radio One

"a record that revels in the beauty of the simple and unspectacular." - Sunday Irish Times
"one of the year’s standout records" - International Americana Music Show

Streamed for free on YouTube Live and Facebook Live, you can also be a part of our live audience* on Zoom by registering for free at www.tseac.ie

Spaces are limited, please book early to avoid disappointment.

Kindy supported by Creative Ireland