
Cherish the Ladies
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Gerald C. Wilson Auditorium
Doors open at 6:30 pm; Concert begins at 7pm
Celebrate 40 years of music, dance, and legacy with Cherish the Ladies, one of the most beloved and enduring ensembles in Irish music history. This Grammy-nominated, trailblazing group has thrilled audiences around the world with their exhilarating blend of traditional Irish tunes, breathtaking vocals, and electrifying step dancing.
Since their debut in 1985, Cherish the Ladies has paved the way for women in the Irish music scene, amassing 18 critically acclaimed albums and performing at iconic venues—from Carnegie Hall to the White House. Led by the legendary Joanie Madden, a National Heritage Award recipient known for her brilliance on flute and whistle, the ensemble delivers a captivating mix of musical mastery, warmth, and unforgettable stage presence.
The 40th Anniversary Tour features an all-star lineup: Mary Coogan (guitar), Mirella Murray (accordion), Nollaig Casey (fiddle), Kate Purcell (lead vocals, guitar), and Emily Flack (piano, vocals, and step dance), joined by world champion dancers James Greenan, Noel Spillane, and Joe Harrison. Together, they offer a joyful and deeply moving celebration of Celtic tradition.
Praised by The New York Times for their “passionate, tender, and rambunctious” performances and described by The Boston Globe as “impossible to resist,” Cherish the Ladies has earned international acclaim and countless honors—including a street named after them in the Bronx, New York.
Whether collaborating with symphonies or lighting up folk festivals, Cherish the Ladies continues to enchant audiences with their signature mix of virtuosity, tradition, and charm.