For me the National Ballroom in Dublin will always be special for me as  it was where I  discovered the Showbands in 1975,the band were Top League from Limerick.Yet the National had  a unique atmosphere,it was where top bands played but there was always a gathering of journalists,managers and people from other bands,usually gathered around the mineral bar watching the bands and also talking shop.I saw some great bands there Joe Dolan,Gina and The Champions and New Blues were the best that I was lucky enough to dance to. :D

I was surprised to read The National closed years ago. For rural bands, all the Dublin gigs were somehow more special than some of the ones "down the country." I think being accepted and appreciated by the Dublin crowd seemed to "mean" something...at least to me.

for me the best vibes was in MOURNE ROAD HALL especially if earl gill was playing, and of course the CRYSTAL BALLROOM was always an experience.
tony moroni
ajsmall@artslink.co.za