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Irish Independent
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Wexford musical societies hit all the right notes at AIMS national awards
The Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) 'provides a voice to musical theatre in Ireland" and holds an annual awards night to honour the efforts of societies across six regions. Amongst the winners last weekend was the Wexford Light Opera Society, Enniscorthy Musical Society, the North Wexford Musical Theatre, Oyster Lane Theatre Group, and the Carnew Musical Society. The Enniscorthy Musical Society were ecstatic to come home with the award for Best Visual for their performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and were recognised for a Special Adjudicators Award. PRO for the society Emily Boyne said they were grateful to be nominated overall for three awards; Best Visual (Costumes, Props, Hair and Makeup), Best Male Singer for Richard O'Toole as Joseph and the Adjudicator's Special Award for their cast of eleven brothers. "It was a fantastic experience. Even to be nominated is such incredible recognition for all the hard work that went in to 'Joseph.' The show was a huge success, with standing ovations every night, and even more than one on a few occasions and we were so delighted to see it's success recognised nationally with the nominations,' she said. She explained that 26 members attended the event, which they see as a great occasion to celebrate talent from across Ireland while meeting their fellow musical peers. "I think the cheers when Enniscorthy Musical Society was announced as the winner of the Best Visual Award could be heard all the way in Enniscorthy. The Visuals of a show can make it or break it and we are so thrilled to have been recognised in such an important category. ' "Richard and the eleven brothers were runners up in their categories, both of which were tough categories with incredible talent on stage alongside them. We're so proud of them for all their hard work, and know their futures are so bright, it definitely won't be their last time on that stage as nominees,' she added. The Carnew Musical Society were over the moon to see member Jacinta Kavanagh receive the Unsung Hero Award. Chair of the society, Lorna Doran McEvoy, described Jacinta as the true cornerstone of their society and a champion of amateur musical theatre. "Jacinta joined Carnew Musical Society in 1990 for our production of 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' and while she may not have had an onstage wedding that year, she has enjoyed a happy 35 year marriage to Carnew Musical Society ever since!' she said. With many roles in the society, she has served as the treasurer, leader of fundraising activities, and pro costume designer while off the stage. "Jacinta is a costume powerhouse having led our costume team with passion and dedication since 1996, always working long hours behind the scenes to ensure each and every character and chorus member is costumed in accordance with the production team's vision and that the fit and detail for every costume is the best it can be. It is not unusual to find Jacinta taking home costumes during show week to wash them and to organise any necessary repairs - while simultaneously preparing floats for front of house. Jacinta always juggles her duties with grace and humour.' "In every action, Jacinta champions the values at the core of AIMS - passion for performance, selfless service, community spirit, and unwavering support for others. She lifts others up, leads by example, and inspires through her quiet, consistent excellence,' she added. The Oyster Lane Theatre Group took home the Best Stage Management (Colin Murphy) award and was recognised as third place in Best Overall Show for A Christmas Carol (Gilbert Section). PRO Freya Murphy said the wins held particular significance as they reached a milestone anniversary in the club. "These achievements are a true testament to the exceptional talent, commitment, and heart shown by everyone involved in this unforgettable production. From our dedicated cast and crew to the countless volunteers working behind the scenes, your passion and professionalism brought this Irish premiere to life in spectacular fashion.' "This recognition is made even more meaningful as it coincides with our 30th anniversary year. To have our milestone production celebrated on a national stage is something we will cherish forever.' She highlighted that their success would not have been possible without the support they have received from the community and loved ones. "Thank you to every single person who had any involvement in getting 'A Christmas Carol' to the stage, committee, cast, chorus, crew, production team, sponsors, audience members, without all of you the show would not go on. You were all part of making it possible to place third Best Overall Show in Ireland and are so very proud,' they said. The North Wexford Musical Theatre were equally chuffed to win Best Ensemble for the 'Left Behind' scene in Spring Awakening (Gilbert Section). The group had a wonderful time at the festivities, where they mingled and celebrated the wide array of talent in the musical scene of Ireland. "We're so proud to stand alongside so many talented societies, massive congratulations to all winners, nominees, and every single person who brought a show to life this season. What a community to be a part of!' Rounding out Wexford's stellar weekend, The Wexford Light Opera Society took home Best Technical and Best Musical Director (David Hayes) for Young Frankenstein (Gilbert Section). "Huge thanks to everyone who supports us. Nights like these mean the world to us!' they said. Mayor Catherine Walsh, who is also a member of the Association of Irish Musical Societies National Council, extended her congratulations to all the groups in 'proving Wexford leads the way as always in the Arts.'
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Musical extravaganza concert Dreamcoat Stars heads to West Lothian later this year
Featuring stars from the worldwide hit production Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the show promises incredible vocal performances in a musical evening of West End and Broadway classics. Dreamcoat Stars, the musical extravaganza concert, is heading to West Lothian later this year. Featuring stars from the worldwide hit production Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the show promises incredible vocal performances in a musical evening of West End and Broadway classics. Journey into a colourful production packed with vibrant and energetic songs from the nation's most loved shows including Chicago, Rocky Horror, Saturday Night Fever, Wicked, We Will Rock You, Les Misérables, Jersey Boys, Dirty Dancing, Hairspray and so much more. Draw back the curtains, sing along and relive all your favourite musicals in one epic show. Produced by Matt Brinkler for RED Entertainment and Keith Jack who shot to fame after placing second in BBC1's 'Any Dream Will Do'. Keith said: 'Joseph has been a part of my life since before Any Dream Will Do, and I've always thought about getting a few Joseph performers together for a concert of musical theatre. 'Joseph is such a well-loved musical and we continue to be delighted with fantastic audience reactions around the country. We discovered the show not only appeals to people of all ages, it even introduced some of the newer musicals to audiences that haven't heard them before. 'We're excited to bring the updated show to more audiences in 2025.' Matt added: 'This musical theatre concert is the perfect way to make larger musicals accessible and affordable for so many that need an introduction to theatre. 'It gives us an opportunity to reach further into communities that haven't got access to number one touring venues. It is my hope that we can inspire new audiences towards the West End and large-scale touring venues and at the same time, we have an opportunity to introduce some new musicals to audiences that are already fans of the genre.' Dreamcoat Stars will head to Livingston's Howden Park Centre on Thursday, October 16. For more details visit
Irish Independent
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Talented Wexford actors impress in their production of ‘The Cripple of Inishmaan'
Written by Martin McDonagh, the tale is a dark comedic story centred on orphan Billy Claven, who is physically disabled, and is pitied by the local community. When a Hollywood film crew arrives on a nearby island, he sees an opportunity to escape his stifling environment and make a life for himself. A big and challenging element to the story is the cast of local residents who throughout the plot tell wild and exaggerated stories, a reflection of the islander's hunger for gossip and meaning outside the mundane perimeters of their everyday lives. Nonetheless, the young cast took it in their stride, perfectly encapsulating each character and standing out amongst the tall tales. 17-year-old Billy Stafford stepped seamlessly into the role of Billy Claven, having got into drama through Fintan Kelly's acting classes. Before this leading role, he played Padraic Pearse in The Plough and the Stars. A sixth year student in Coláiste Bríde with a love for the arts thanks to her father Fintan, Jennifer Kelly confidently took on the role of Helen McCormack in her third production with the company. Over the years, she has been in numerous short films and has various theatre credits to her name. Sam Doran was first bitten by the acting bug in transition year when he took part in an one-act play and now in his sixth year of secondary school, his love for performance has only grown with him taking on the role of Bartley McCormack – Helena's brother with a neverending sweet tooth. 14-year-old Mary, and sister to Jennifer, has had her fair share of onstage and backstage roles before assuming the role of mammy in this production. Despite her young age, she has previously worked in the assistant stage management of the Enniscorthy Musical Society's Happy Days as well as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. With an affinity for music, she is a strong guitar player who hopes to also learn the ukulele, harmonica, tin whistle, banjo and keyboard. From the young age of eight, 17-year-old aspiring actress Niamh Lawlor took her first steps onto the local panto stage and never left. Having participated in a number of theatre training programmes, Niamh was more then ready to perform her version of Eileen Osbourne, Billy's Aunt and local store owner. Joining her on stage was 17-year-old Ava Duffy who honed her crafts in The Playboy of the Western World and The Plough and the Stars before she assumed the role of Billy's Aunt who has a habit of talking to stones. ADVERTISEMENT Having over ten years of experience on stage, young Caoimhe was an excellent choice to bring to life the character of Babby Bobby, while 15-year-old Grace Boland encapsulated local docter, Dr. McSharry. Rounding out the cast was passionate Éanna O'Reilly, who used his love for Irish, music, literature, film, and drama, to embrace the role of nosy newsman Johnnypateenmike. And last, but certainly not least, no production can run smoothly without an expert stage manager working their magic behind the scenes. Anna Boyce proved her strength in making sure each actor shined without any technical difficulties. With her wide-array of passions in visual arts, acting, and music, as well as behind the scenes experience with the Enniscorthy Musical Society, Anna was in her element throughout the three night run.
NZ Herald
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NZ Herald
Tribute to Steve Williams: Respected NZ rugby referee and friend
These shows included South Pacific, Camelot, Annie, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Fiddler on the Roof (twice before the one mentioned), Oliver! and Blood Brothers, not to mention several Gilbert and Sullivan operettas. Many of these shows were directed, inspired and brought forth by my father, Jack Roderick, and his contemporaries, and I believe it is appalling that his and their legacies were not included in the article. Matthew Roderick Tribute to Stephen J Williams, 1934-2025 Steve was the best friend a man could wish for. Always there with advice and offers to help, but never insistent you take it. Steve's passion was rugby, as a player at home in Wales and as a highly respected referee in New Zealand. Steve and I met in 1955 through the same degree course at Sheffield University. We quickly became friends and, after graduation, took teacher training. Steve was appointed to Marlcliffe Intermediate School [in Sheffield] and, by good fortune, so was I. For two years we taught together, but also played soccer, cricket, drank and went fishing together, accompanied by our long-suffering wives – Ann for me and Margaret for Steve. Steve had a car of sorts. I remember, when stopped for speeding, Steve swore the car would not go over 30mph. Another time we finished a cricket match and, when leaving for home, the front wheel fell off in the car park. Perhaps the most memorable adventure was when Steve drove Margaret and me from Sheffield to South Wales to watch Wales play the Springboks. We were interviewed by Peter West for TV. Torrential rain brought serious flooding. It was Sunday and we had to be at school the next day. Steve drove us home in darkness, torrential rain and flooding for 13 hours. We were at school the next day amid cheers as we had been seen on TV. In 1961, Steve and Margaret applied to go to New Zealand and succeeded. Ann and I applied too but, through illness, failed. We kept in touch by airmail and, seven years later when they returned, our friendship was renewed and we shared holidays with them in Taunton, and later toured the continent together with caravans. A trip to the Italian Dolomites was a highlight. In 1974, Steve and Margaret applied to move to New Zealand permanently and, in 1975, Ann and I followed. Advertise with NZME. Not only did we come to the same town, but Steve became HoD Economics at Boys' High and I became HoD Economics at Girls' High. We certainly spent a large part of our lives together. I could not have hoped for a better, more loyal friend. He was closer than a brother and I shall miss him terribly. Bye Steve. Tony Barnby Advertise with NZME. We need answers on museum's alleged deficit I am disturbed to read that some councillors appear to be reluctant to push Tairāwhiti Museum for hard answers on its financial situation. Especially as ratepayers fund the museum to the tune of $750,000 – or a very good slice of its total budget. Based on the figures printed in the Gisborne Herald, it appears the museum's income totals just over $2 million, while expenses total $1.44m (in round numbers). What accounts for the difference of $576,000? Is something missing here? That appears to show a healthy surplus. The article also said 'the museum was basically relying on cash reserves, of which $100,000 had been used'. Further, the revenue total does not tally with figures given (a difference of $9102). So how do we arrive at Cr Telford's $158,995 deficit? In any case, that a councillor says the council 'should be cautious about directing the museum's spending' is hardly in keeping with what ratepayers would expect. Could we have a clear explanation of the museum's alleged deficit?
Wales Online
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Jason Donovan tickets and how to see Joseph star in Swansea
Jason Donovan tickets and how to see Joseph star in Swansea Jason Donovan will be playing shows around the country, and tickets are out right now. (Image: STEVE SCHOFIELD ) Jason Donovan recently confirmed some exciting news for his fans: He's doubling down on his touring efforts. The Australian star who is best known for taking on the titular role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. In 2025, the 56-year-old star played shows all around the UK on his Doin' Fine 25 tour. Now he has revealed 2026 will mark his second run of these concerts. Beginning in February 2026, Jason Donovan will hit the road to play concerts around the UK on his Doin' Fine Encore Tour. Here, he'll play shows at more than 15 venues across two months, including one enormous concert at Swansea's Grand Theatre. Tickets for these shows are available right now, and fans can get involved whether they missed out on the first drop or not. Here's the information: Viagogo and resale tickets Sites such as viagogo, Stubhub, and Vivid Seats allow fans to buy resale tickets from other fans. However, it is important to note that ticket conditions often prohibit resale after initial purchase. Those tickets may not be valid for admittance to gigs. Fans intending to buy tickets for live events through resale websites should check the ticket terms and conditions, to confirm whether resale is prohibited, before they buy. Ticket terms and conditions can be checked with the original seller, such as Ticketmaster or Live Nation. If resale is prohibited, tickets bought second-hand could be voided and admission to the event refused. Jason Donovan fans can buy tickets right now. (Image: SUZY SLIGHT ) How to buy Jason Donovan tickets now Jason Donovan tickets are available right now through a number of online retailers. These tickets were first released on Friday, April 25, 2025. And, although plenty of tickets have already sold for this tour, there are a number of options leftover. This includes resale websites and official retailers. Here's the breakdown: Speaking up about this upcoming tour, the performer said: "I am so excited about extending this tour. There were some places we were unable to visit on the Doin' Fine 25 tour for logistical reasons, so it's great to be able to go and perform in those venues. "My performing career has been an incredible ride, and I can't wait to celebrate it by performing the songs that have been such an important part of my life. It's been a fantastic tour so far, and I look forward to sharing all those special moments with my fans." READ MORE: Chris Brown tickets and how to get Breezy Bowl XX UK tour presale READ MORE: Cheapest Coldplay tickets for Wembley Stadium and Hull Craven Park shows to buy right now Jason Donovan fans can get involved right now. (Image: SUZY SLIGHT ) Jason Donovan - Doin' Fine Encore Tour Dates 2026 February 26 — Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall 27 — Wolverhampton, Wulfrun Hall 28 — Watford, Colosseum Article continues below March
