Internationally acclaimed, multi-award-winning Irish-born Canadian artist Irish Mythen (they/them) will step in for close friend and fellow songwriter Grace Petrie at a series of Victorian shows and at the National Folk Festival in Canberra this March and April, following Petrie’s postponement due to a family bereavement.
These newly announced performances are presented by RoadTales and are in addition to Mythen’s existing Australian run, which includes the Festival of Small Halls Tour (Feb 27 – March 21), presented by Woodfordia Inc, and appearances at Port Fairy Folk Festival (March 6-9).
Joining Mythen as special guest at selected shows will be acclaimed songwriter Emily Ulman, who will appear at the Corner Hotel, Burrinja Cultural Centre and Archies Creek Hotel.
Mythen will perform the following dates:
Thur, March 26 – Corner Hotel (with Emily Ulman)
Fri, March 27 – Burrinja Cultural Centre (with Emily Ulman)
Sat, March 28 – Castlemaine State Festival, Theatre Royal (with The Maes & One More Chorus)
Sun, March 29 – Archies Creek Hotel (with Emily Ulman)
April 3-6 – National Folk Festival, Canberra
A JUNO Award nominee and winner of multiple Canadian Folk Music and East Coast Music Awards, Irish Mythen is widely regarded as one of the most formidable live performers on the international roots circuit. From Glastonbury Festival to the Sydney Opera House, Mythen has built a global following through relentless touring and performances that balance warmth, wit and extraordinary vocal power.
Their breakthrough album Little Bones earned a 2020 JUNO nomination for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year and won Solo Artist of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards. The record further cemented Mythen’s reputation as a fearless songwriter, unafraid to tackle complex histories and social themes while forging deep connections with audiences.
A Special Fundraiser Event in Castlemaine
The March 28 performance at Castlemaine State Festival will be a special one-night event titled Standing Strong, bringing together Irish Mythen and Australian sister duo The Maes, alongside Brunswick-based community choir One More Chorus, led by Maggie and Elsie Rigby.
The evening will serve as a fundraiser for the Harcourt region, where recent bushfires have devastated homes, businesses and bushland surrounding Leanganook. The Castlemaine State Festival will make a donation to the Harcourt Progress Association, with additional opportunities for audiences to contribute on the night.
Blending harmony, storytelling and community collaboration, the concert reflects the spirit at the heart of the folk tradition – artists and audiences coming together in solidarity.
Speaking about stepping into the tour, Mythen said: “My thoughts are with Grace as she navigates such a difficult time at home. It’s my absolute honour to step in for her on these Australian dates. There’s only one Grace Petrie – but I promise I’ll give my all to have you laughing, crying, waving angry fists at the establishment and everything in between. My shows are about the crowd first and foremost, so I think we’ll be just fine together.”
And in a personal note to Grace, they added: “It’s truly an honour to step in for my pal Grace. We’re all thinking of you, friend.”
All performances will proceed on the advertised dates. Ticket holders are encouraged to refer to venue communications for further information.
Irish Mythen’s extended Australian visit offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience one of the global folk scene’s most compelling live artists at close range.
