South Mayo Musical Society ready to roll with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Claremorris Musical Society (CMS) is putting the finishing touches to their rehearsals for their presentation of the magical and much-loved musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which they will stage over five nights in Claremorris Town Hall Theatre from Wednesday, January 28 to Saturday, January 31, at 8pm nightly.

This is the Nineteenth production by the highly acclaimed CMS and is the follow-up to last year’s production of The Addams Family with the Dolly Parton classic ‘9 to 5’ another competing presentation in 2024. The production of The Addams Family earned the society two national awards at the prestigious Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) Awards in June 2025. Mary Dempsey was awarded Best Comedienne for her portrayal of Grandma, while Ruadhán Gormley claimed Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance as Lurch.

Claremorris Musical Society were notably the only society in the West of Ireland to receive two awards at the ceremony, a significant achievement within the amateur musical theatre community. The choice of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory reflects that vision, offering a heart-warming, nostalgic production.

The show follows the story of young Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy from a poor family who wins a coveted golden ticket granting him access to the mysterious chocolate factory of the eccentric Willy Wonka. Alongside four other children, Charlie embarks on a fantastical tour filled with extraordinary inventions, unforgettable characters and unexpected twists. As the story unfolds, audiences are reminded that kindness, honesty and imagination are the greatest rewards of all.

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story, the musical features well known songs from the original Gene Wilder film, alongside new, high-energy musical numbers that appeal to audiences of all ages. Passion Kiltimagh native, Vivienne Lee, who is chairperson of CMS, says the show represents months of hard work, commitment and passion from the cast, production team and backstage and technical crew. “The level of effort that goes on behind the scenes is extraordinary and it is inspiring to see people of all ages come together with such enthusiasm. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a super production and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved.”

Claremorris Musical Society is delighted to welcome back the production team of Donna Ruane (Director), Deirdre Lee (Musical Director) Jay Molyneux (Choreographer) and David Keane (Stage Manager) whose combined expertise and vision continue to raise the bar for CMS productions. The principals in the cast include Neil Conway (Willy Wonka), Ryan McDonnell (Charlie Bucket), David Alexander (Grandpa Joe), Mary Dempsey (Mrs Bucket), Nicole Scott (Mrs Gloop), Ódhran Morley-Manning (Augustus Gloop), Joff Manning (Mr Salt), Hazel Cheevers (Veruca Salt), Paul Singleton (Mr Beauregard), Abbie Flatley (Violet Beauregard), Vivienne Lee (Mrs Teavee), Michael Farrell (Mike Teavee), Rose Murphy (Cherry Sunday), Ailbhe Gallagher (Geri Jubilee), Josie Gallagher (Grandma Georgina), Ronan Egan (Grandpa George), Mairéad McDonnell (Grandma Josephine) and Donna Ruane (Mrs Green).

They are supported by a large and enthusiastic ensemble, adding colour, energy and scale to this family favourite. Claremorris Musical Society extends grateful thanks to the local shops, clubs and businesses that have sponsored and supported this production and others over the years. This community backing remains at the heart of everything the Society does. The members of the CMS committee are: Vivienne Lee (chairperson and PRO), June Allison-Keane (treasurer), Emma Gallagher (secretary), Paula Fox (assistant treasurer), Ailbhe Gallagher (assistant PRO), David Alexander, David Keane, Dolores Henry. Patrons can look forward to a very special show, laced with nostalgic and heart-warming comedy delivered by this accomplished cast, and one with a wide appeal for all ages.

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