Keepin' 'Er Country: BBC NI series returns as music stars go 'on the road again'

Keepin' 'Er Country is back and ready to rock viewers like a wagon-wheel.

Produced by Alleycats TV for BBC Northern Ireland, Keepin' 'Er Country follows the surprising world of Irish country music and the characters behind it.

With episodes focusing on country favourites Nathan Carter, Lisa McHugh and Derek Ryan - the show meets the fans that are responsible for the thriving music scene across the country.

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After nearly two years of playing to virtual audiences, the biggest stars of Irish country music are heading back on the road for a new series - the gigs are back and bigger than ever, from festivals and arenas to Bundoran and Costa Blanca.

In the first programme, country favourites Derek Ryan and Lisa McHugh take to the stage for the return of the sold-out Farmers Bash after two years of postponements. The fans are ready to dust off their dancing boots, grab their Stetsons and get jiving.

Across the series, Co Tyrone legend Philomena Begley heads to Bundoran for a special gig to celebrate her 80th birthday, while household name Nathan Carter travels to Spain for a week-long festival in the sun, performing to fans from all over the world.

Philomena Begley performing in Bundoran (BBC/ Alleycats TV)

Now in its 55th year, the Clonmany Festival is one of Ireland’s longest-running events, and Jimmy Buckley and daughter Claudia treat fans old and new to an amazing show.

Meanwhile, Robert Mizzell and Johnny Brady get ready to play at the biggest country festival of the summer, the Cowboys And Heroes Festival in Co Leitrim. Both are relishing their return to performing live and it promises to get a little wild west when the music and dancing starts.

Keepin’ ‘Er Country: On The Road Again is made by Alleycats TV and starts on BBC One Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer on Friday 24 March, 10.40pm

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