Join us for a unique discussion and performance celebrating the history of an iconic band and Belfast’s punk scene.

Ruefrex were one of Northern Ireland’s most popular and uncompromising punk rock bands. Emerging from the Belfast street-gang culture of the late-1970s, the group, inspired by The Clash, enjoyed a turbulent, decade-long career. They played for millions on CNN and Channel 4, toured with The Pogues and recorded the controversial ‘The Wild Colonial Boy’, which attacked American donations to Northern Irish terrorist organisations.

Throughout it all, founder member, songwriter and spokesperson Thomas Paul Burgess ensured the band remained faithful to their Protestant, working-class origins. His recently published candid memoir takes us on a journey from the streets of Belfast to encounters with U2, Shane MacGowan, The Cure, The Fall and Seamus Heaney.

Paul will be in conversation with Barry McIlheney and the interview will be followed by a gig featuring The Sacred Heart of Bontempi (Burgess’s current band), performing for the evening as The Wild Colonial Boys. Special guests may make an appearance!