Founded in Barnsley Rock City in 2006 by their outspoken and energetic ringleader, Scott Doonican, The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican are on a mission! Far from being your typical folk ensemble, this cult-like collective of like-minded knit-wear enthusiasts are determined to follow in their spiritual father’s immortal footsteps and keep his legacy alive. Scott and his brothers-from-other-mothers, Mo-Jo Doonican, Dave Doonican and the Reight Reverend Jeremiah Rickbacker Doonican III, have quite the talent for Bar-Stewardizing other famous people’s songs with new satirical comedy lyrics, on folk instruments, and to complete their outrageously understated image, the Doonicans have become instantly recognisable for their immaculate hair and their stylish choice of sexy knitwear, and instantly memorable for their lairy, no-holds-barred, anarchic live shows.
A group that is both perpetually on the move, ever-evolving and joyously independent, they have played over 1350 side-splitting shows to date, and have brought smiles and belly- laughs to audiences across the UK; from Barnsley to Barnstaple, from Glastonbury to Glasgow. They continue to wow audiences with a fine selection of their greatest hits, including the likes of “Jump Ararnd”, “The Lady In Greggs”, “How Deep Is Your Glove?”, “Paint ’em Back”, “Goat Yoga”, and “If I Could Punch A Face… It’d Be Justin Bieber’s”.
The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican can’t wait to return to Darlington and they promise that they WILL rock you… but gently!
“The best thing to come out of Barnsley, since the A61 to Sheffield”–Jarvis Cocker, Pulp
“The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican are very, very funny… parodists extraordinaire. One of the hardest working and best live acts on the planet, bringing light to dark corners and joy to babes and toothless mumblers alike. Lovely stuff.”-Mike Harding, Comedian, Folk Musician & Broadcaster
“Always enjoy the boys from The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican. When the North goes independent I am suggesting ‘Too Good To Be Jus’ is our national anthem. Great fun”- Jason Manford, Comedian