Last Sunday in Teach na nDaoine the Lithuanian Community hosted members of the Monaghan Integration committee and members of the Drumhowan Scor na nOg in a demonstration of their culture and traditions at Easter.

The event commenced at 2 pm with an explanation of what people did in Lithuanian over the centuries to celebrate Easter. We then had some songs and dance from their junior choir. This was very informative and indeed in many ways, reminded some of the older Irish in attendance, of simpler times and what we used to do at this time of the year, pre the economic boom and technological indoctrination era.

Members of the Drumhowan Scor na nOg winners with their music teacher Fran McMahon demonstrated some dancing reels and jigs as well as music and songs of traditional lore. This was entertaining and a fine spectacle. The performers are indeed talented and for ones so young, have a great wealth of songs and music in them already and fantastic composure and presence. The Lithuanian community commented upon this latent talent, in conversation post the event. Everybody present joined in by keeping the beat, while the musicians and dancers performed.

The Irish traditional session was then followed by a demonstration on egg painting. Their traditional Encaustic Art – the laying of liquidised bees wax on eggs  to produce decorative creations and then traditional fun games including egg races, best decorated egg, and egg conkers. All present were included, regardless of age and ability and shown how to prepare and create individualised eggs.

There followed an egg rolling competition and some community dances. Everybody present was included in these activities. Concluding the 2 hour event was refreshments, contemplation and conversation.

The morning event was attended by members of the Integration committee, the Drumhowan Club musicians, teacher and parents and other members of the GAA Community.

We would like to thank the Monaghan Lithuanian Community for providing a very well structured well planned and very enjoyable event. The welcome given to all their visitors was excellent. Most importantly for everyone it was enjoyable, informative, and stress free. Well done to Egle and all her committee.