We have performed at the two previous International Festivals of the Sea (in Bristol in '96 and Portsmouth in '98) In both cases there were about 1000(!) musicians and other performers hired, really! This time the advance press says there will be 2000 performers, so I dare say there will be at least 30 shanty groups there.

'Tis a massive thing. I will be there with Castlebay, probably the only group that features a Celtic harp.