Students of Calasanctius college are ‘Super Troupers’ taking on their latest musical production ‘Dancing Queen – A Tribute to Abba’ which goes on stage in their school hall from Wednesday Oct 25 to Friday October 27. ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Take a chance on me’ and great favourites like ‘SOS’ will entertain the audience for the three shows.
The show is following on from last year’s huge success when ‘Sister Act’ was nominated in five categories and awarded ‘Best Overall Production’ and ‘Best Female Lead’ in the Galway University Musical Society awards.
Tickets for the three shows can be booked through the school reception or by phone (091 ) 794 564. Online bookings can be made through the school’s website: www.calasanctius.ie
Rehearsals are well underway with First Years to Leaving Cert students seizing the opportunity to take part in the cast, chorus, crew, backstage and front of house under the direction of Caroline Cawley and Hannah Wright of Stage Works Youth Theatre; and teachers Sinéad Harkin, Susan Cloonan, Ellen Quinn and Jack Osborne (co-producers ). John Wall, Art teacher in Calasanctius College, is guiding a busy crew with the build and painting of parts of the scenic set design and props, with John Wright providing further fantastic pieces to give the stage the wow factor.
“We are all absolutely thrilled to be back in action again with the musical. This school has a long tradition of presenting an annual musical. Students benefit hugely from taking part, discovering their talents and gaining in confidence greatly through this extra-curricular activity. It’s a great night out for all the family. Aunties, uncles and grandparents often make a special effort to be in the audience along with the proud parents and guardians,” said Córa Ní Loinsigh, Principal Calasanctius College, Oranmore.
Sophie Smith, with her shining talent, will portray Sophie, the spirited young bride-to-be. Donna, Sophie’s independent and strong-willed mother, will be played by the incredible Eabha Kelly. Mary O’Dowd steps into the role of Rosie, in style, as the fun-loving friend of Donna.
Taking on the character of Tanya, Donna’s poised and stylish friend, we have the captivating Ciara Killeen. Stepping into the character of Sky, Sophie’s charming and adventurous fiancé, is the charismatic Mason Kelliher. The trio of potential fathers for Sophie is portrayed by an impressive cast. Colm Marnell shines as a true embodiment of Sam, the romantic adventurer. Ronan Tehan, with his boundless energy and wit, takes on the role of Harry, the lovable banker. Finally, Bill, the adventurous writer, is brought to life by the versatile talent, Cian Farrelly. However, the ensemble doesn’t end there! Comprising exceptional singers, dancers, and actors, all in all, 147 students will take to the stage with a backstage crew of over twenty-five.
A sponsorship campaign has been launched by the schools’ Parents’ Association and this will ease the pressures on the school’s budget. ‘We wish the students, and all involved in the musical the best of luck. We are most grateful to all our local businesses who have supported our sponsorship campaign. Sweeney Oil, Tom Dempsey Flooring and Porterhouse Gigas and Galway Cars Top Service Oranmore are this year’s show sponsors,’ said Mary Anne Melville, Vice Chair, Calasanctius College Parents’ Association.
There will be just three evening performances in Nano Nagle Hall in Calasanctius College on Wednesday Oct 25, Thursday October 26 and Friday October 27, so tickets are sure to sell out fast. Ticket numbers are limited so ‘first come, first served’ Shows starts at 7.30pm each evening – doors open at 7.00pm. Tickets will be released online this week at www.calasanctius.ie or can be purchased directly from school reception, Telephone: 091794564.
