Strabane Unplugged concert to pay tribute to founder Joe Clarke

STRABANE Unplugged will return to the Alley Theatre with a special concert to celebrate the life of one of its founders, Joe Clarke.

The organisers of the event have said it will be a special night with musicians who played with the Strabane musician and have performed at Strabane Unplugged throughout the years paying tribute to Joe.

Joe was one of the founders of the event, and did sound for every Strabane Unplugged night at their original venue, the All Stars Bar, on Main Street.

He was also a stalwart of the Strabane music scene, playing with Rock Stewart, Hugo Duncan and in the band the Bramble’s, along with son, Josh.

Co-founder of Strabane Unplugged, Mickey Ferry, said the concert on June 28 will be a great night which Joe would’ve loved.

“There is no better way to celebrate the life of Joe Clarke than having a very special Strabane Unplugged night dedicated to him,” said Mickey. “As you can imagine, there is a huge gap in our committee meetings without him there sharing a laugh.

“But we are aiming to give him an amazing night of music, and we would love for everyone to come along.”

In a statement, the committee also said they have been ‘overwhelmed’ by the response of the response from local musicians looking to play the show.

In a post on Facebook, they said, “We are overwhelmed by the amount of musicians who has either contacted the page or a committee member looking to sing a song or two for Joe at this Strabane Unplugged in June.

“The committee would like to extend an invitation to all musicians who either played with Joe, cut their teeth at the Unplugged or even knew Joe and wants to perform at this up-and-coming Unplugged.

“Please contact this our Facebook page through a private message or contact a committee member if you wish to perform.

“We will try our very best to accommodate anyone who is interested in playing.”

For more information on the June 28 concert or to buy a ticket you can visit www.alley-theatre.com.