The impressive setting of Castle Rushen is the venue for two nights of music-making by young people from the Department of Education and Children’s Soundcheck project and their guests.

The concerts on July 5th and 6th are among the highlights of the DEC’s contribution to Island of Culture 2014.

Soundcheck has sessions in Douglas, Peel, Ramsey and Castletown, and offers young people aged 11 to 19 rehearsal space, instrument use, PA equipment, advice and support.

A successful gig at Castle Rushen last summer paved the way for this year’s more ambitious two-night event.

Dave Hattersley, Youth Officer with the DEC, said: ‘We are thrilled to be playing in such a fantastic venue again and we would like to thank Manx National Heritage for allowing the acts such a good opportunity. It’s a fine example of sections of Government working together.
 
‘Performances will start at 6pm and end at 11pm and we’ll have some guest appearances, along with the numerous acts from Soundcheck. All the sound and lighting will be controlled by young people, including a superb laser show.’
 
Soundcheck acts appearing include Zack Philips, Azariah, Alice Dudley, Marc Mccabe O’Kelly, Red Shift, Full Moon Fallout, Brainstorm and south-based The Same, plus special guests Dusty Plankton, Roc Vannin, The Bar Toads and Chris Gray, with more to be announced soon. Special guest from England is Charly Prior.
 
Last year, Soundcheck acquired a studio at the Youth Arts Centre in Douglas, allowing musicians to record and release CDs in their own right using the Soundcheck record label. A compilation CD has already been produced. It includes 12 Soundcheck acts and is available for ?5

The project was granted charitable status in the spring, His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, Adam Wood, hosting the launch of Soundcheck in its new format with a reception at Government House and agreeing to be the charity’s patron.

Tickets for the castle concerts, ?5 per night or ?8 for both nights, with discounts for students, are available from the Manx Museum, Castle Rushen and online at www.manxnationalheritage.im
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Photo - Event poster