*Photograph: Simona Lakatova

STUDENTS IN ST PATRICK’S COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL are taking to the stage this week in what is a very busy period for the secondary school.

Last Thursday saw the return of The Comp Christmas Market with a mix of stalls selling gifts, food, arts and crafts.

From the 7th to the 10th of December, the school will be running its own production of The Addams Family Musical. Tickets have sold out with up to 1,200 people to attend from Wednesday.

Next Monday (December 12th), the Senior Citizens Christmas Party organised by LCA students takes place at the school.

Principal of St Patrick’s Comprehensive, Mary Costelloe expressed her absolute delight at the return of the Comp Musical. “I’m so grateful for the commitment from all involved, the production team, the students on stage; the staff and students backstage and front of house, the Parents Association – it is a true collaboration and celebration of the wonderful school community here in St Patrick’s Comprehensive School. If COVID has taught us nothing else it has taught us that we hunger for culture and the arts – it is fantastic that we can showcase the talents our of current students, past pupils, parents and staff, this is education that cannot be measured on a points scale but which ‘nurtures the artistic and community soul”.

Production manager, Gavin Ryan referenced the “great link to the theatrical community of Shannon”, the directorial team of Laura Gough, Karen Barrett and Aidan Fox our directorial team are all past pupils of the Shannon secondary school.

“Wonderful engagement from the community of Shannon,” has been evident already according to teacher, Jacquie Murphy.

As they edge closer to the drawing of the curtains, fifth year student Simona admitted it has been “incredibly rewarding” to see their hard work in rehearsals pay off.

Junior Certificate student, Faith outlined that she has become more confident in herself as a result of her involvement. “My favourite part has definitely been feeling like I’m part of something, like I belong. Making new friends who have the same interests as me, being able to work with such kind people like Laura, Karen and Aidan, and just the whole atmosphere is such a wonderful experience. It’s such a fantastic feeling to finally feel like I am a part of something and I’m accepted. I’m surrounded by such kind people who are so accepting and I never feel judged or like I’m an outcast. I never have to worry about the way I look or if people are staring at me because of our differences- despite all of us being such individuals, there’s always a sense of unity, passion and mutual understanding in the air”.