Kerry Charity Music

Some people just can't do enough for others and Tralee is lucky to have two such generous souls living in our midst. First up is Padraig Dennehy, a chef in Kerry General Hospital (KGH) and his partner in crime Roel Villones, who is originally from the Philippines but has been living in Ireland for 5 years, and is working as an Intensive care nurse in KGH. Together they form DenVill productions, which takes its name from the first syllable in their last names, an organisation that strives to raise money for KGH.

And they've done a pretty good job of it to date raising almost 20,000 euro for the hospital. Though Padraig makes a living as a chef his background is in drama and theatre and three years back he decided to host a charity show, "to raise money for charity and as a social outlet staff."

"It's brilliant crack," he explains, "the variety show sells out every year, initially we started out worried that we might not fill one night and now it's selling three nights every year!"

"It's a great way to let off a bit of steam, poke fun at the managers, the consultants and of course the Health Sector," adds Roel. "It's important to keep a sense of humour, especially when working in a hospital environment."

Not content with the success of the annual variety show, the enterprising pair has decided to put on a charity event in the INEC in aid of Kerry Cancer Society and the Oncology Unit in KGH.

The night promises to be every bit as wonderful as the cause is worthy with Billy Curtin, of the famous musical Tralee based family, on board as musical director.

"The show will have everything, there'll be all kinds of different styles on offer," promises Padraig. "The show will offer different musical styles, for all musical tastes. There's definitely something for everyone in the show."
And with at least 7 different bands playing from Midnight Cafe and Zeppo to The Bogdale Ramblers and Iona Le Gros it's sure to be a night to remember.

"The event would be impossible without the generous backing support of Shane O Driscoll, the Ents manager at the INEC and The Glen Eagle Hotel and of course the very generous support of all the acts and musicians who are participating, in many cases for free so that every penny raised will go direct to charity," adds Padraig.

The big-hearted pair are quick to laugh off any questions about their undoubtedly generous natures. "Both of my parents died of cancer, so the charity is very close to my heart," said Roel. "Besides I feel very fortunate for the blessings I've received in my time in Ireland - so it's a wonderful opportunity to be able to give something back to the community that has given so much to me."

"Our philosophy is 'it's in giving that we receive' - especially if the night is a success!" laughed Padraig.

The Kerry Charity Music Extravaganza will play for one night only in the INEC in Killarney on Wednesday, April 25th at 8:00 pm. Tickets are available from Bank Of Ireland branches across the county for 25 euro and in Sam Macaulay's in Manor West. Tickets are also available on the door and from the INEC Box Office at 064 715 55.