Arrow Entertainment

A real honour for Belfast TradFest to be invited by Ulster University to create this very special commission, welcoming Arnold Schwarzenegger to Belfast 🙌 Artistic Director Dónal O’Connor assembled an exceptional line-up of musicians, including Finnian O’Connor (The Mary Wallopers) on uilleann pipes, harper Ursula Burns, and Robbie Harris (Jiggy/Polca4) on bodhrán and percussion, to create a performance that celebrated Arnold’s heritage and iconic career, all reimagined through a distinctive Irish traditional lens. Beginning with a nod to Arnold’s Austrian roots through Johann Strauss’ Blue Danube Waltz, reimagined for traditional instruments, the piece evolved into a darker, cinematic soundscape inspired by The Terminator, complete with striking choreography led by Ciarán Connolly and his troupe of Irish dancers. Blending virtuosity, creativity, and a touch of humour, it was a uniquely Belfast welcome, and a fantastic collaboration. Our thanks again to Ulster University for the invitation and continued support 👏 📸 Sean McMahon

Pólca 4 has been on the road. Belfast and Dublin, Cáceres in Spain, Oulu in Finland, the Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris, and Gaoth Dobhair in Donegal. See ya down the road. 🎻🪗🎸🥁