Tides of Tradition is a vibrant and high-energy Irish music and dance show in Kinsale, showcasing the rich heritage of Ireland with a fresh and modern twist. This electrifying performance blends the passion of traditional Irish tunes with dynamic choreography, featuring local musicians and dancers who bring centuries-old traditions to life. Running every Wednesday night from June 4th – September 10th at 7pm, this unmissable spectacle takes place in the stunning Actons Hotel, Kinsale.
Experience the rich traditions of Ireland brought to life.
Book your tickets now and be part of the excitement!
What is Tides of Tradition ?
Creative Directors
Paul McCabe
Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, Paul began dancing at the age of six under the Sharon Taylor Academy. During his competitive career he secured multiple prestigious titles, including British National Champion, Great Britain Champion, and Scottish Regional Champion, along with a runner-up at the All Ireland Championships. Competing both nationally and internationally, he went on to win numerous championships and world medals throughout his competitive career.
At 18, Paul’s talent led him to London’s West End, where he joined the cast of Lord of the Dance, performing at the Dominion Theatre before continuing the production at the Playhouse Theatre. One of his greatest honors was sharing the stage with Michael Flatley in his final performances, including his farewell UK show at Wembley Arena.
Over the past 10 years, Paul has expanded his career by performing in acclaimed productions such as Titanic Dance, Irish Celtic, Rhythm of the Dance, and many more. He has also taken on the role of Principal Dancer in Dance Masters, Magic of the Dance, and Gaelforce Dance. His performances have taken him across Europe, Asia, America, Canada, and beyond.
Alongside his stage career, Paul has also performed on television, appearing on Britain’s Got Talent as well as many TV shows across the UK, Ireland and Asia, showcasing his talent to audiences around the world.
Now, having stepped away from touring, Paul has made Cork his home and is excited to share his passion for dance here in Kinsale through Tides of Tradition.
Aisling Sage
Aisling Sage is an award-winning violinist hailing from Kilbrittain. She embarked on her musical journey at the age of six when she began her training in both classical and Irish traditional music. Aisling went on to score high distinctions in all ABRSM violin exams and spent many years playing in prestigious orchestras. She had simultaneous successes in Irish music, playing with the CCÉ Béal Átha an Spidéil Comhaltas Branch for many years.
Aisling’s musical career began in Kinsale, where she performed alongside Liam in various venues around the town. In 2016, Aisling graduated from ‘Music, Management and Sound’ in Coláiste Stiofáin Naofa with full distinctions. A year into her BMus degree in Cork School of Music, an offer to work in Disney World arose. In 2017, Aisling and Liam moved to Orlando, Florida where they were resident musicians in Disney World for two years. From there, Aisling went on to tour the world with several renowned Irish Dance shows, most notably Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, where she performed alongside Paul. Aisling travelled the world with this show for almost four years, achieving a multitude of prestigious live performances, TV appearances and a film release.
Although Aisling’s passion for performing continues to take her around the globe, she is also passionate about music management and has extensive experience working as musical director for numerous shows. After recently returning home from a residency with Princess Cruises, Aisling is ecstatic to launch Tides of Tradition in her hometown of Kinsale and can’t wait to share her passion for Irish music with you all.
Liam O’Keeffe
Liam grew up in Ballinspittle, just outside Kinsale and discovered a passion for music at a young age learning the button accordion with the CCÉ Béal Átha an Spidéil Comhaltas branch. Liam started gigging in numerous pubs around Kinsale and Cork from the age of 17. He taught music to younger button accordion players in the local music branch also.
After earning his Bachelor of Education degree, Liam taught in London before pursuing music full-time, performing as a resident musician and entertainer, along side Aisling at Raglan Road in Disney Springs, Florida. In 2018, he and Paul toured China with the Irish dance show Gaelforce, performing in multiple arenas across the country, and later that year joined Rhythm of the Dance for a UK tour.
Now based in Cork, Liam balances his teaching career with an active music life. Most recently, in December 2024, he and Aisling performed in Malta with Gaelforce. He continues to play in trad sessions and perform with original music group BRIARS, who rocked the Word Stage at Electric Picnic and Monroes at Galway Folk Festival in the summer of 2024.
Liam is thrilled to bring Tides of Tradition to his hometown. He is looking forward to performing for family, friends and visitors of Kinsale and sharing his passion of Irish music with you all.
