Some of the Isle of Man’s most exciting young performers of traditional music, song and dance will reunite on home soil for a one-night-only concert celebrating Manx culture as part of Blein ny Gaelgey – the Year of the Manx Language 2026.
Scran and Friends will take place on Friday 13th February in the Villa Marina’s Royal Hall, bringing together three outstanding acts who have recently represented the Island on some of the world’s most prestigious international stages - from London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Brittany, to major folk festivals in Morocco.
At the heart of the evening are Scran, the teenage band who are redefining Manx traditional music through a powerful blend of tradition and innovation. Organised by Culture Vannin, Scran recently thrilled audiences at the Music for Youth Proms at the Royal Albert Hall and made history at the Festival Interceltique de Lorient as the youngest Manx band ever to reach the finals of the prestigious Trophée Loïc Raison competition. Their performance at the Villa Marina will feature highlights from these international appearances alongside brand-new material from their forthcoming album.
They are joined by Skeealyn Vannin, a dynamic young vocal ensemble known for pushing creative boundaries. Their genre-blending performances of traditional Manx songs and folk narratives have captivated audiences both locally and internationally. Their showcase at Lorient this summer was one of the most talked-about Manx performances at the festival, and their commitment to promoting Manx culture in innovative ways recently earned them the Londeyr Award, recognising their exceptional contribution to the Manx language.
Completing the programme is Skeddan Jiarg, one of the leading forces behind the current resurgence of Manx dance. Led by Gráinne Joughin, the Peel-based group recently represented the Isle of Man at Africa’s largest folk dance festival, Marrakech Folklore Days, and will now bring their electrifying performance style back to a home audience.
Dr Chloë Woolley, Manx Music Development Officer for Culture Vannin commented
“This concert will perfectly showcase how Manx culture is thriving and reaching audiences around the world. These talented young performers are bringing Manx music, language and dance to international stages, and it’s wonderful to have them together at home during Blein ny Gaelgey. It promises to be a vibrant celebration of our cultural heritage and its exciting future”
Mrs Sarah Maltby, MHK and political member for Culture Division said;
“It’s wonderful to see these exceptional performers celebrated on our home stage. This concert is a proud moment for the entire Manx community and a chance to come together and celebrate the richness of our music, language and dance”.
Sean Kenny, Head of Programme and Events at VillaGaiety, added:
“We’re incredibly proud to host this concert as part of the VillaGaiety programme – the performers’ success on international stages makes it especially meaningful, it promises to be a memorable and uplifting night.”
Tickets for the event can be purchased at villagaiety.com/scranandfriends or by calling the VillaGaiety Box Office on 600555.