Manx music and culture was put on display at a major European Celtic Music festival last weekend.

Musicians, dancers and artists from the island travelled to the Lorient festival, Brittany, last week to take part in the seven day celebration of the many different Celtic nations and cultures.

Both the family group, the Lawrences, featuring sisters Kirsty and Katie along with brother Mark and the group A’Nish, featuring Ruth Keggin, performed several concerts throughout the week, in some unique locations, and also took part in competitions.

Kirsty Lawrence said that she was honoured to represent the island internationally, and that being part of the festival was a great experience.

’We played in a disused underground water reservoir, which was amazing,’ said Kirsty.

’It is almost like a Cathedral underground, with amazing acoustics that can echo for nearly eight seconds.

’We also took part in the Loic Raison trophy, which is quite a big competition. We originally thought we were playing on Thursday, but ended up on the Wednesday instead. We didn’t feel like we were ready for it, but we were delighted to come fifth.’

They also played concerts at the Manx pavilion, on the Village stage and also on the main Espace Paroles stage, where they were joined by Manx dancers Grainne Joughin and Ali Carroon.

’That was great to have them up with us. The Lorient crowds love Manx dancing, and it really helped make a great feeling on stage. It was really nice.

’The crowd loved it and were really interested in Manx music and dance, and wanted to talk to us about the island.’

They also took part in a new feature for the festival, and outreach programme that brought musicians into hospital wards and elderly homes, which earned Katie and Kirsty a spot on French television.

Artist and writer Janet Lees, also displayed her work throughout the festival.