The 2024 Rose of Tralee event has already created several unforgettable moments, such as the co-host, Dáithí Ó Sé, surprising the audience by waving cheerleader pompoms. Apart from this, the first half of this renowned competition had several other noteworthy features including rowing machines and bagpipes. As the second part of the tournament further unfolds on RTÉ One Tuesday, at 20:00, there’s plenty to look forward to.
Kicking off the proceedings will be the Rose of Donegal, Niamh Shevlin, a prominent Irish dancer who has graced the stage of Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. Entering this occasion was a touching tribute to her late aunt. Next up is Megan McCormack, the Rose of Sligo, an elementary school teacher who doubles as an intercounty footballer hailing from Gurteen, before passing the baton to the London Rose, Glenna Mannion.
Mannion’s interaction with Ó Sé leads to a particularly memorable moment amidst what can broadly be regarded as a generally monotonous first half. This brings us to a story about her sister being fortunate enough to meet Pope Francis during his 2018 visit to Ireland, and also getting a chance to peck him on both cheeks. A photograph of this delightful encounter was shared with the audience.
Reacting to this, Ó Sé half-jokingly asks, “Did she try to shift the Pope?” This conversation then veers towards Mannion predicting Ó Sé’s future career as a host of the Late Late Show, reminiscent of a scene straight out of a surreal David Lynch movie or perhaps just a quintessential moment of Rose of Tralee at its peak.
A change of pace is brought in by the New York Rose, Billie Cooper, an Irish native from Cavan who lived in China since she was 14. Cooper tries her hands at coaching Ó Sé in Chinese, receiving what can be politely called a lukewarm response.
Ó Sé’s edgy anticipation could almost be tangible as the programme draws towards its midpoint. Tonight, the coronation of a new Rose of Tralee awaits us. After two delight-filled evenings of enjoyment, creativity, and unrestrained verse, we’re reaching the conclusion. Everything would be disclosed shortly after 23:00. Until then, viewers can simply sit back, relish the thrill, delight in the spectacle of pompoms and almost at the brink of an international uproar, enthral in Ó Sé’s attempt to pronounce Tralee in Chinese.