Claremorris Musical Society takes a well-deserved bow

Claremorris Musical Society has become firmly established in the top flight on the musical circuit, and that reputation was further enhanced with their recent staging of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which played to full houses and standing ovations in Claremorris Town Hall Theatre over four nights.

The Society, launched by June Allison Keane in 2007, continues to enjoy wonderful support from all over the region, and patrons are always assured of a top-class show, superb stage presence, and loads of laughter and fun along the way.

CMS has garnered an array of accolades at national level over the last two decades, and others may well be on the way following some riveting performances in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

READ NEXT: Mayo man questions bonafides of Joe Deacy documentary maker

Neil Conway excelled as Willy Wonka, bringing confidence, charm and just the right touch of mystery to the role, while Ryan McDonald played Charlie Bucket with real heart and sincerity, making him instantly likeable and easy to root for.

Mary Dempsey, who has been such an integral part of CMS over the years, brought warmth and authenticity to Mrs Bucket, giving the story a strong emotional centre, and David Alexander’s Grandpa Joe was full of energy and humour.

Nicole Scott was hilarious as the inimitable Mrs Gloop with Vivienne Lee, a central player in the history of CMS from the outset, delivering another commanding and classic performance as Mrs Teavee with superb comic timing. Paul Singleton added colour and so much personality as M. Beauregard with Joff Manning bringing enthusiasm and pomp to the role of the imposing Mr Salt.

There were also strong and enthusiastic performances from the principal child performers, Hazel Cheevers (Veruca), Abbie Flatley (Violet), Michael Farrell (Mike Teavee) and Ódhran Morley Manning (Augustus Gloop). The adult ensemble and teenage “Divas” brought plenty of energy to the show while the young Oompa Loompas were a delight, charming audiences with their confidence and enthusiasm.

The production team comprised of director, Donna Ruane, musical director, Deirdre Lee, and choreographer, Jay Molyneux, with David Keane as stage manager, all of whom put in such huge efforts since rehearsals got underway back in September until the curtains came down on Saturday night.

“The Society is deeply grateful to the brilliant musicians, backstage crew, set builders, props, costumes suppliers, Front of House team and all the parents who helped with supervision backstage during the run. Sincere thanks also to Claremorris Town Hall Theatre and Concert Hall, the Dalton Inn, sponsors, supporters, and the many volunteers who generously gave their time and energy,” said statement from CMS.

They also expressed grateful thanks to the business community and all who continue to support the group financially year after year and who make it possible for CMS to maintain such high-standard productions year after year. “Above all, Claremorris Musical Society wishes to thank its audiences,” concluded the statement.

READ MORE: Planning permission granted for major development works at Mayo hotel

The Society members were pleased to welcome Gerry Sweeney, President of the Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) to the production and who was delighted with the warm hospitality he received on his visit to Mayo.

The members of CMS committee are: Vivienne Lee (chairperson & PRO); June Allison-Keane (treasurer); Emma Gallagher (secretary); Paula Fox (assistant treasurer); Ailbhe Gallagher (assistant PRO); David Alexander, David Keane and Dolores Henry.

CMS brought excellent fare to the stage of Claremorris Town Hall with their delightful, uplifting and charming presentation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. They can all take a well-deserved bow again!