Summer Spectacular: Hillsborough Castle Concert Series Set to Bring Village Alive With Music and Song
Excitement is building for what promises to be one of the standout weekends of the year as Peter Corry Productions prepares to host its spectacular Summer Concert Series from 26th–28th June 2026 at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
Featuring three very different nights of music and entertainment, Ceili at the Castle, Hillsboroughton and Thank You for the Musicals 2, the event is the latest ambitious production from Peter Corry and his team, who are bringing world-class entertainment to one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic locations.
Speaking ahead of the weekend, Peter says ;
“We wanted to create a weekend that offered something for everyone,” he explained. “The Castle is such a magical setting and when you stand in those gardens you immediately know it deserves events that feel special and memorable. Every night has its own identity and atmosphere.”
The weekend opens with Ceili at the Castle, featuring The Celtic Tenors and guests in what promises to be a vibrant celebration of Irish music and culture.
“There’s something incredibly joyful and uplifting about Irish music, on stage we’ll also have the amazing vocals of Laruen McCrory, along with the awesome musical talents of both Oisin McCann and Plunkett McGartland and the incredible Lauren Smyth, one of the principal dancers of Riverdance. We’re delighted that Oasis Travel and Silversea Cruises have come on board as sponsors for the event because they immediately understood the spirit and quality of what we’re trying to create. This will be a fun and uplifting night with a real twist from the Celtic Tenors.”
The following evening sees the Castle transformed for Hillsboroughton, a glamorous, Bridgerton-inspired soirée hosted by Claire McCollum and featuring an array of performers including West End star Norman Bowman, American Soprano, Rachael Heater and The Voice star, Kalon Rae.
“It’s romantic, theatrical and just enormous fun,” Peter laughed. “Our amazing singers will be joined on stage by Arco String Quartet, ensuring the highest quality musical entertainment. There’s music, storytelling, stunning costumes and an incredible atmosphere. The Bridgerton inspired evening promises romance, elegance and quite a bit of tongue in cheek fun. This concert also has the ‘Diamond of the Evening’, a fun search for the best dressed and we hope people will take the opportunity to be as flamboyant as the wish!”
The concert series concludes with Thank You for the Musicals 2, a tribute to Hollywood and Broadway, featuring Peter and friends performing some of the world’s most-loved songs.
“Musical theatre audiences in Northern Ireland are incredibly passionate,” he said. “People love the emotion, nostalgia and escapism that musicals bring and this concert is really a celebration of that.”
For Peter, the concerts also represent an important opportunity to support local tourism, hospitality and the wider economy.
“We’re very conscious that events like this have a ripple effect,” he explained. “People come into the village, they dine locally, they stay overnight, they visit local businesses. Events create energy and positivity and that’s incredibly important.”
Peter is also keen to acknowledge the support received from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in helping bring the concerts to life.
“The support from the Council has been hugely appreciated,” he said. “There’s a real recognition of the value that arts and cultural events bring, not just creatively but economically and socially as well. We’re proud to be working in partnership to deliver something really special for the area.”
A number of local hospitality businesses are also supporting the concert weekend, with The Plough Inn, The Hillside and Arthur's of Hillsborough creating special dining and overnight packages for concertgoers.
“It’s fantastic to have local businesses involved,” Peter said. “The village has such a warm and welcoming atmosphere and these partnerships really help create a full visitor experience for people travelling to Hillsborough for the weekend.”
Welcoming the concert series, Caroline Walker, Head of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, said the events reflect the Castle’s ambition to continue evolving as a vibrant cultural and visitor destination.
“These events provide a wonderful opportunity for people to experience the beauty and atmosphere of the estate in a completely unique way while enjoying exceptional live entertainment. Partnerships like this help us connect with new audiences and further establish Hillsborough Castle as a key destination for arts, culture and tourism in Northern Ireland.”
Peter believes the unique backdrop of the Castle grounds elevates the experience for both audiences and performers alike.
“Hillsborough Castle really is exceptional, what a backdrop!” he said. “There’s something magical about live music outdoors during summer evenings. People relax differently, they connect differently, and it creates memories that stay with them.”
While Peter Corry Productions has become synonymous with large-scale productions and premium entertainment experiences across Northern Ireland, Peter says creating events that feel personal and meaningful remains at the heart of everything they do.
“At the end of the day, it’s about giving people a wonderful experience,” he said. “Life is busy and stressful for so many people. Music and live performance give people a chance to switch off, come together and simply enjoy themselves for a few hours, and that’s a privilege to be part of.”
With excitement already building and tickets expected to be in high demand, the Summer Concert Series looks set to become a major highlight of the local events calendar.
Book your tickets now at www.petercorryproductions.com
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