Nathan followed in the footsteps of legendary country singer Johnny Cash by putting on a live show in the Co Roscommon jail.
The Sunday World columnist followed in the footsteps of legendary country singer Johnny Cash by putting on a live show in the Co Roscommon jail.
However, unlike the man-in-black’s famous San Quentin prison concert, inmates did not attend Nathan’s show but instead listened from their cells.
The concert – performed in the jail’s church – was attended by prison staff and guests, as well as workers from three local charities.
Nathan Carter on stage in Castlerea Prison
Nathan told the Irish Independent he knew, before the event, that prisoners would not be in attendance.
“That’s what I thought it was going to be originally (an audience of prisoners) but then it’s invite only,” he said.
Asked if he felt sorry for the prisoners not being allowed to attend, he said: “No – they are getting to watch it on Friday night. They are going to stream it, so they are not being left out.
“I didn’t really know if the prisoners were going to be here or not. I was just asked would I play.”
The 34-year-old laughed at the notion that this was his “Johnny Cash moment”.
“I’ll never be a Johnny Cash. He is an absolute legend,” he said.
A spokesman for the Irish Prison Service said the concert was arranged to recognise “the significant work prison staff do across Ireland for their local charities.”
“The one-of-a-kind concert aimed to raise vital funds for three admirable charities, the Paediatric Ward in Sligo General Hospital, the Roscommon Youth Service and Mayo Roscommon Hospice.”
The crowd inside Castlerea Prison
“Those in attendance not only enjoyed an unforgettable musical experience in a prison environment but also contributed to meaningful charities that do so much to support members of our local communities.
“The profit raised from this exclusive event will be directed towards the charities.
“The Paediatric Ward in Sligo General Hospital will benefit from new baby monitors and equipment, while Roscommon Youth Services will use the proceeds to support a bursary program for youths aged 10 to 24.
“Additionally, Mayo Roscommon Hospice will receive contributions towards the Sensory and Healing Garden in the newly developed Roscommon Hospice.
“This exclusive concert is a testament to the collaborative efforts of staff in the Irish Prison Service, Nathan Carter, the hard working staff of Castlerea Prison and other generous attendees who are committed to making a difference in the lives of those not only in the custody of the state, but those in the surrounding community also.”
