There were emotional scenes in Tyrone last week after Glenamaddy Players scooped the premier amateur dramatics prize in the country.
The County Galway troop’s performance of Chapatti, by Christian O’Reilly, stole the show at the All-Ireland Confined Drama Finals, winning Glenamaddy the top gong for the first time in 60 years of performing.
The award-winning group will now play its final two shows back home in Glenamaddy's Town Hall Theatre next month.
According to the town’s social media pages, bonfires were lit on Glenamaddy’s famous four roads by a small community now celebrating a famous “triple”, after soccer players from Glenamaddy Community School won the FAI Schools Junior B Girls National Cup, and Heneghans shop won Supervalu’s small store of the year – both in February.
The group of around 30 members performed at the drama competition finals in Carrickmore, County Tyrone, after touring and fine-tuning its production over recent months.
Glenamaddy Players have appeared in 12 finals, finishing either second or third in each of the past six years, but never landing the premier award.
A large group of supporters travelled to Tyrone for the ceremony last Saturday, then on Sunday night there was a phenomenal welcome from the community back in Glenamaddy.
“That show of support on Sunday night included bonfires en route to Glenamaddy, with people from adjoining areas turning out to add their congratulations,” said Tracey Comer-Burke, the group’s PRO.
There was further recognition for Glenamaddy last Saturday night in individual categories, with nominations for Coman Keaveny as Best Director, Paraic Newman as Best Actor, and Marie Coneran as Best Actress.
“I was amazed at the turnout on Sunday night” Coman Keaveny reflected. He also expressed delight that the playwright, Christian O’Reilly was present at the celebrations, as well as John Keane Chairperson of The Amateur Drama Council of Ireland.
Glenamaddy Players will now perform their final two performance in Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre on Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, at 8pm.
Tickets €20.28 via Eventbrite.ie
