ROSE OF TRALEE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 2016
Congratulations Chicago's Magie McEldowney who was crowned this week as the 'Rose of Tralee' 2016. Praises came flooding in for the Chicago Rose. It was an immensely exciting night, suspense filled the theatre.
The Rose of Tralee International Festival is an international event which is celebrated among Irish communities all over the world. The festival is held annually in the town of Tralee, County Kerry. Inspiration for the festival comes from a famous ballad "The Rose of Tralee". It is said the song is credited to Charles William Glover and William Pembroke Mulchinock. Lyrics describe a love between a wealthy Protestant and love for Mary O'Connor a poor Catholic maid in service.
It is not a beauty pageant, the participants are not judged on their appearances but on their personality and suitability to serve as ambassadors for the festival. It is a celebration of modern young women who demonstrate aspirations, ambitions, intellect, social responsibiliity and Irish heritage.
International Roses are chosen from around the world and 32 counties of Ireland selects a Rose. Sadly only one lady is crowned the International Rose of Tralee. The 27 year-old Rose from Chicago beat over 60 other competitors. Magie McEldowney has roots in County Derry, and works as a high school development director. She will go on to represent Ireland in many future events. She is very involved with the Irish community which has a strong community in Chicago.
Not to be forgotten are the 'Escorts' these gentlemen are selected carefully to help in any way 'The Roses'. They go though vigerous training beforehand.
There is alway a great sence of excitement during the festival. Many exciting events are organized during the festival. What a wonderful way to celebrate your Irish Heritage. There are 'Rose of Tralee' centres throughout different countries for anyone interested in getting to know more about the festival and Irish communities in your area. Their own website contains helpful information if you want to apply to become a 'Rose'.
The beautiful ballad reads as follow: -
'The Rose of Tralee'
The pale moon was rising above the green mountain,
The sun was declining beneath the blue sea;
When I strayed with my love to the pure crystal fountain,
That stands in the beautiful Vale of Tralee.
She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summer,
Yet 'twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, 'twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
The cool shades of evening their mantle were spreading
And Mary all smiling sat listening to me;
The moon through the valley her pale rays were shining
When I won the heart of the Rose of Tralee.
She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summer,
Yet 'twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, 'twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
On the far fields of India, mid war's bloody thunder,
Her voice was a solace and comfort to me,
But the cold hand of death has now torn us asunder
I'm lonely tonight for my Rose of Tralee.
She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summer,
Yet 'twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, 'twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
Songwriters
GLOVER, CHARLES W/SPENCER, C M/DOCKER, PETER