Feile Dance took place last night. PIC: Kevin Scott Feile Dance seen some top DJs perform. PIC: Kevin Scott More than 12,000 young people packed into Falls Park in west Belfast last night as some of the world’s top DJs including Will Atkinson thrilled the crowds in attendance at Féile an Phobail.
Organisers of the Féile Diversionary Dance Night highlighted the event’s ability to divert young people away from internment bonfires which were traditionally lit in the city on August 8. Féile an Phobail director Kevin Gamble said: “This night is a combined effort to provide a diversionary event that brings young people off our streets away from the potential of unwanted and destructive bonfires. Last night the big bonfires that have been an unwanted feature in this community again didn’t happen and that is a massive success.
“In past years these unwanted bonfires have brought destruction and an increase in anti-social behaviour to the areas in which they were held. “Due to the support of the local community, the hard work and commitment of Féile staff and volunteers, community and youth organisations, political representatives, and Belfast City Council, Belfast was bonfire free last night and all those involved in achieving this deserve praise.” Feile Dance seen some top DJs perform.
PIC: Kevin Scott The festival director continued: “The benefit of the absence of these unwanted bonfires on August 8 is significant, as well as the positive images of young people enjoying themselves emanating from the Falls Park, there is also a considerable benefit to the local economy which the associated increase in visitor footfall and spending brings due to Féile. “Over the last 36 years, Féile has a proven track record of delivering significant social and economic benefits to the city of Belfast, as well as showcasing the city to the world in a positive light, and this increases with each year that passes. “I want to specifically praise the young people who attended.
They conducted themselves fantastically and they deserved a great night. Féile will continue to work hard along with others to provide our young people with real positive alternatives and a platform to showcase all that is good about Belfast,” he added..
