campus news and events

Colby-Sawyer College to Host Tartan Terrors' Celtic Invasion

NEW LONDON, N.H., Feb. 7, 2013 — Kilted chaos invades Colby-Sawyer College with the return of the Tartan Terrors. The masters of Celtic mayhem delighted a sold-out Sawyer Center audience in 2010 with their unique blend of humor, folklore, dance and music. Returning in March for their second campus performance, the Tartan Terrors bring their St. Patrick's Day spirit to central New Hampshire.

The Tartan Terrors will perform on Monday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at the Sawyer Center Theatre. Tickets are currently on sale at the box office or at the college's online ticket center www.colby-sawyer.universitytickets.com. Prices are $10 for adults, $5 for students and children, and free with a Colby-Sawyer ID.

For more than 15 years, the ensemble described as “the evil twin to Riverdance” has created their own blend of Western European tradition. The group's energized rock music features two-time world championship bag-piper, Sean McKeown, accompanied by the group's signature style of fiddle, drums and guitar, award-winning Step and Highland Dancers and internationally recognized comedic performers. Together with dance, storytelling and comedy, the Tartan Terrors take the audience on a lively and whimsical Celtic adventure.

Performing on four continents, the ensemble has played at prestigious cultural fairs, popular music festivals and on “Good Morning America.” The Tartan Terrors' impressive fan base spans all ages and backgrounds, and includes performances for Queen Elizabeth II and President Clinton.

Hailed as “North America's Premiere Celtic Event,” the group was created by artistic directors Ellen and Ian Wilkes-Irmisch in their youth. The sibling “terrors” began their careers performing for intimate audiences at the family's barn in Canada. Today the Tartan Terrors consists of 14 talented artists who come together to share Celtic tradition with their own modern twist.

Ellen Wilkes-Irmisch described the group's performance style in Rambles magazine: “It's historical dancing that's brought to life again, and we can all connect to that rhythm... It's very primal,” she said. “You don't have to analyze it, you don't have to think,” she insisted. “You just enjoy it and have fun.”

To learn about other upcoming events visit the Colby-Sawyer College event calendar.

-Kellie M. Spinney


Colby-Sawyer College is a comprehensive college that integrates the liberal arts and sciences with professional preparation. Founded in 1837, Colby-Sawyer is located in the scenic Lake Sunapee Region of central New Hampshire.

Colby-Sawyer College, 541 Main Street, New London, N.H. 03257 (603) 526-3000