
Reeling In The Showband Years has been a smash hit for the past 16 years, and we are delighted to welcome it back to The Helix to celebrate its remarkable 17th year.
With an outstanding line-up of legendary performers and beloved showband stars, this promises to be another unforgettable evening of music, memories, and entertainment.
Hosted by Ronan Collins
RTÉ’s Ronan Collins returns as host and compère for the show. Known as “RTÉ’s Mr Music”, Ronan will perform his renowned tributes to the great Joe Dolan, the Eurovision Song Contest, Dickie Rock, and many more. Having spent a lifetime in showbusiness, Ronan has entertained generations through his radio and television work, while also building a devoted following as a live performer. He has shared the stage with some of Ireland’s greatest musical legends and has been at the heart of Reeling In The Showband Years since its inception.
Gina from The Champions
A true superstar of Irish showbusiness, Gina and The Champions dominated the Showband era with multiple hit records and sold-out performances across the country.
Their biggest hits included:
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Minnie Minnie
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Do You Wanna Do It
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You’re the Greatest Lover
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Who Do You Wanna Be
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Give Me Back My Love
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Playing with Fire
The Champions were voted Ireland’s top pop band year after year, and Gina continues to captivate audiences with her powerful voice and stage presence.
Keith and Lorraine McDonald
This talented brother-and-sister duo comes from one of Ireland’s most celebrated musical families. Their father, Frankie McDonald, was trumpet player with Joe Dolan for many years. Lorraine McDonald emerged as one of the brightest talents of the late Showband era, while Keith McDonald has established himself as a star performer in his own right.
Shaun O’Dowd
We are delighted to welcome Shaun O’Dowd back to this year’s show. With his band Ding-A-Ling, Shaun was one of Ireland’s biggest drawing acts throughout the 1970s. He topped the charts with hit records including:
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You Are No Angel
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It’s Good To See You
An outstanding entertainer and accomplished performer, Shaun remains one of Ireland’s most popular live acts.
Dave Lawlor
Hailing from Tullamore, Dave Lawlor is renowned for his magnificent voice and enduring popularity. He enjoyed major success in the 1970s with his smash-hit recording:
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Showband’s on Parade
Dave continues to delight audiences with his powerful performances and timeless songs.
The Conquerors Showband
One of Ireland’s greatest and most enduring showbands, The Conquerors Showband remains a huge attraction wherever they perform. The Galway group is best known for their hit Baby Blue along with many other favourites that helped define the golden age of Irish showbands.
A Celebration of Ireland’s Showband Era
Join us for a nostalgic journey through the music, memories, and magic of Ireland’s legendary showband years, featuring some of the biggest names and greatest hits of a golden musical era.



