*Rear (L-R): Grace Burke, Kévin Saudé, Michael Hartigan, Kieran Riley, Eva Kidney, Aoife Daly, Fionn O’Sullivan, Cassidy Ryan, Michelle Fitzsimons, Jill McMahon, Mags McGrath. Centre (L-R); Hannah Moloney, Rhys McNamara, Louise O’Callaghan
East Clare Musical Society will be celebrating their 20 year anniversary with a reprise of the society’s inaugural production ‘Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dream Coat’ showcasing local talent and community spirit that has been the foundation of the society since its beginning.
Musical Director Sarah King, who took over from Ruairí Maloney this year, credits the society’s success to its strong, committed members. “It’s all about the community,” she says. “Everyone is local, and we all come together to create something special”.
The society was founded by Johnny O’Brien, who has since stepped away and passed the torch to the next generation, and will return for the show to play the piano. Sarah reflects on the impact Johnny had on the group, saying, “He was always focused on handing over the leadership to the next generation, and I’m proud to carry that legacy forward”.
This year’s production features a talented cast, many of whom have grown with the society. Rhys McNamara, who started in the society aged eleven, now takes on the lead role of Joseph nine years later. “I started off in the kids chorus looking up to the adults and now I am the lead and there is this group of kids looking up to me. It’s amazing to have this role in the 20 year anniversary show”.
Hannah, a first-time performer with the society, plays one of the narrators. “It’s been such a welcoming experience,” she shares. “Everyone’s been so supportive, and it’s great to be part of such a high-standard production”.
The community effort goes beyond the stage, with support from local businesses and volunteers like Fiona Hall, who handles front-of-house, and Conor McGrath who will be playing the Pharo has also taken on the job of building the sets.
The show is packed with energetic songs, dances, and colourful costumes that appeal to all ages. “It’s a show the whole family can enjoy,” says Hannah. “There’s no need to find a babysitter, just bring the kids along.”
As the East Clare Musical Society celebrates two decades of incredible performances, it’s clear that this year’s production is a testament to the society’s passion, talent, and deep-rooted community spirit.
