Whether you’re a local or visiting the Cabot Trail, don’t miss this classic Red Shoe Pub experience: lively tunes, world-class talent, and a front-row seat to the heart of Cape Breton culture.
🎻 Dara Smith‑MacDonald
Born in Antigonish and now living in Port Hawkesbury, Dara Smith‑MacDonald has been performing Cape Breton fiddle for over 25 years. Her powerful style, rooted in Gaelic tradition, has been heard at Celtic Colours, KitchenFest, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland, to festivals across North America.
She is a long-time instructor at Colaisde na Gàidhlig / The Gaelic College, where she teaches students from around the world both in person and online. Dara also serves as Musical Director for the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association.
🎹 Adam Young — Cape Breton Piano Accompanist & Touring Artist
Adam Young, originally from Marion Bridge, is known for his masterful Cape Breton piano accompaniment. With over two decades of experience, he blends traditional dance-piano rhythm with creative flair drawn from jazz, folk, and world music.
Adam is the former pianist for the award-winning band Sprag Session, and the creator of Yearbook, a genre-defying double album that explores musical storytelling from the traditional to the experimental.
Learn more about Adam's solo career and upcoming KitchenFest performance at his official bio: Adam Young on KitchenFest!
🎵 Watch Them Perform
Get a preview of what’s in store with their live performance of Ashokan Farewell:
▶️ Dara Smith‑MacDonald & Adam Young – Ashokan Farewell (YouTube)