Home / Arts and Entertainment / Irish Band's St. Paddy's Gig in Jeopardy Over Stolen Passport
Irish Band's St. Paddy's Gig in Jeopardy Over Stolen Passport
11 Mar
Summary
- Irish band's vehicle was broken into in Chicago.
- A band member's passport was stolen, jeopardizing gigs.
- The band hopes for a visa miracle for NYC performances.
The Whistlin' Donkeys, an Irish folk and Celtic rock band from County Tyrone, are racing against time to secure a visa for their planned St. Patrick's Day performances in New York. Earlier this week, the band's vehicle was broken into while touring in Chicago, resulting in the theft of valuable equipment, personal belongings, and crucially, banjo player Tomás Quinn's passport.
Following the incident, Irish authorities in the US assisted Quinn in returning home, where he has since been issued a new passport. However, the band now faces a critical hurdle: obtaining a new visa for Quinn to enter the United States. They have an emergency appointment at the US embassy in Ireland, and lead singer Fergal McAloon expressed that the band is hoping for a 'miracle' to re-issue the visa in time for their three-day engagement in New York.
The band, known for entertaining crowds across various countries with hits like 'Bee's Wing,' is determined to proceed with their performances despite the setback. They have learned from the experience and intend to keep their passports secure to avoid future incidents, looking forward to celebrating St. Patrick's Day with their audience.
