The curtains may have fallen, and Elvis may have left the building, but the audiences certainly had a hunk, a hunk of burning love for Athlone Musical Society’s production of 'All Shook Up' which graced the stage of the Dean Crowe Theatre during the recent June bank holiday weekend.
It’s fair to say that the cast’s sense of fun was infectious, with the auditorium coming alive during the six live stage performances.
The excitement levels were further enhanced prior to the cast taking to the stage on Saturday when the annual AIMS awards nominations were announced, Athlone Musical Society receiving no less than a record breaking 10 award nominations in the Gilbert category.
“This is the icing on the cake for us after what has been a difficult two years. The committee made a bold decision to stage the show in June rather than cancel outright. We were unsure how it would work out, but the determination of the production team and cast shone through and resulted in an amazing show for our 120th anniversary.
"We enjoyed outstanding vocal performances from the principals and chorus. With a wonderful orchestra and colourful set, each performance had the audience on their feet dancing in the aisles. To receive so many nominations has made all the hard work worthwhile," chairperson Joan Larkin, enthused.
The nominations received are in the following AMS categories - Unsung Hero Award for Olive Martin, Best House Management, Best Choreography under the tuition of Jay Molyneux, Best Chorus under the direction of Ger Madden, Best Female Comedienne for Kori Kilduff, Best Male Comedian for Joe Steiner, Best Actor for Chris Corroon, Best Director for Alfie Kilduff, Best Musical Director for Ger Madden and Best Overall show.
“We are so grateful for our generous and loyal patrons and sponsors who supported us again this year, without whom we could not have brought the production to the stage. The audiences who came to the show made the atmosphere electric and the reviews have been amazing. We are all now looking forward to the awards night on the 18th of June in the Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney. Whatever happens on the night each nominee is a worthy winner, and we are immensely proud of everyone," Joan added.
Wise men say that Athlone Musical Society certainly had us 'All Shook Up' in 2022, roll on 2023 for the next instalment!
