DANIEL O’DONNELL DELIVERS A WARM, HEARTFELT OPENING AT THE MILLENNIUM FORUM — DERRY 2022 CONCERT BEGINS WITH EMOTION, HUMOUR, AND GRATITUDE
DERRY, Northern Ireland — The atmosphere inside the Millennium Forum was charged with anticipation as fans gathered for one of the most eagerly awaited performances of 2022. But even before the first song was sung, Daniel O’Donnell had already captured the hearts of the audience with his gentle, heartfelt, and emotionally rich opening introduction — a moment that set the perfect tone for an evening filled with music, memories, and the unmistakable warmth that has defined Daniel’s four-decade career.
The Millennium Forum, known for its intimate acoustics and welcoming atmosphere, was filled to capacity long before Daniel walked onto the stage. Fans travelled from across the island of Ireland, the UK, and even overseas to witness the Donegal singer return to one of his most beloved venues. Many had been waiting months for this night, especially after two years of uncertainty that affected live performances across the world. The sense of reunion — between Daniel and his audience — was unmistakable.
When the stage lights finally rose, revealing Daniel in his signature polished attire and warm smile, the entire theatre erupted into applause. For nearly a full minute, the audience remained on their feet, cheering not just for the entertainer but for the man whose music had been a source of comfort through difficult times. Daniel paused, visibly moved, placing his hand over his heart — a gesture that conveyed genuine appreciation.
“It’s so lovely to be back with all of you tonight,” he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “I’ve missed this — I’ve missed you.”
The sincerity in his tone immediately deepened the connection in the room. Daniel did not rush through his opening remarks; instead, he spoke with the ease of a friend greeting familiar faces.
Daniel’s opening comments were a blend of gratitude, gentle humour, and reflection. He thanked the Millennium Forum staff, his touring team, and the musicians who accompany him onstage — acknowledging the behind-the-scenes work that brings each performance to life. He also expressed personal gratitude to the fans, noting how meaningful it was to see the theatre full again after the challenges of recent years.
His humour, always delivered with modest charm, brought warm laughter from the crowd. Daniel shared light-hearted reflections on past performances, travelling stories, and the small moments that make touring both fun and unpredictable. His ability to create a relaxed, home-like atmosphere was evident — he wasn’t just speaking to the audience; he was speaking with them.
The audience responded in kind — nodding, smiling, and even shouting small greetings of encouragement. It was clear that this intro was more than a formality; it was a genuine reconnection between artist and audience.
Daniel’s intro served as a preview of the emotional range that the concert would later deliver. There were hints of nostalgia, gratitude, humour, and affection — all qualities that have made Daniel O’Donnell a beloved figure for more than 40 years. His words carried a sense of calm reassurance, reminding the audience why his presence onstage continues to resonate across generations.
He spoke of the joy of returning to Derry, of the friendships he has made throughout his career, and of the place music holds in his life. “Every night onstage is a blessing,” he said, “and it’s something I never take for granted.”
These words, though simple, carried profound meaning for many in the room — particularly longtime fans who have followed Daniel since his earliest days in the 1980s.
By the time Daniel transitioned into his first song of the night, the Millennium Forum was already united in a shared emotional experience. His intro — calm, genuine, and full of heart — had accomplished what few artists can achieve with only a few minutes of speaking: it made the audience feel valued, welcome, and personally connected to the performer.
Fans leaving the venue after the show described the opening moments as one of the highlights of the evening. Many said the intro alone reminded them why Daniel remains one of the most cherished entertainers in Ireland and the UK.
In 2022, as live music slowly returned and people came together again, Daniel O’Donnell’s introduction at the Millennium Forum was more than an opening speech.
It was a message of gratitude, a celebration of togetherness, and a reminder of the enduring bond between a singer and the people who have supported him for more than forty years.
For those who were there, it was a moment they will carry long after the final curtain fell.