Marian Choral Society: Forty years of Music Theatre in Tuam
by Rosaleen O'Connor
When the Marian Choral Society staged Chess their 40'" production this autumn, it was an achievement that demonstrated the commitment, dedication, appreciation and love of musical theatre in the town and hinterland of Tuam. It is an unbroken record of forty continuous productions, and the people of Tuam can proudly claim their own space in the cultural life of Connaught.
“If a thing is not worth saying -You sing it" (Pierre Beaumarchais 1732-1799)
Singing is found in all human societies and can be performed to some extent by the vast majority of people. According to the Oxford Dictionary, 'singing is the art or science of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony and expression of motion.' It is a powerful means of bonding a whole group simultaneously and helps to build social cohesion.
As early as the 12th century, music was established as an essential part of Irish life. This was particularly true in Connacht, when under Turlough and Rory O'Connor, the last high kings; Connacht was the leading province (with Tuam the smallest city in the world as its headquarters) where the arts flourished. The Irish, though isolated by the position of their country from other nations, excelled all others in music at that time. This all changed as continual English invasions wrecked the island, but despite all, traditional Irish music never died. People of the countryside continued to keep it alive with their love songs, laments, drinking songs and work songs. From the wandering blind harpist O'Carolan to The Chieftains, from keening to sean-nós, from John McCormack to Sean Ó Riada, from Frank Patterson to U2, music has always been an integral part of Irish society. Its importance at every occasion; be it joyful or sad, public or private, shows that music is something that is with us all through our lives. It brings us joy and moves us into places that can be heard to reach otherwise.
The Marian Choral Society can be justifiably proud of their 40 years but to quote Isaac Newton, `It is by standing on the shoulders of giants', that the society has reached this historic milestone. Tuam can boast of a musical tradition not always found in small towns. As early as 1871, the Tuam Town Commissioners were criticised for continuing the tradition of giving an annual grant to the Tuam Band, which had been in existence since the 1830's.
In the 1930's St. Jarlath's Choral Society was founded by Jarlath A. O'Connell, a great music lover and a splendid pianist. The society staged The Gondoliers in the Mall Cinema in 1940, having previously presented the Schubert romance Lilac Time and the comic opera The Mikado. Another one of their great successes was The Desert Song featuring Rose Farrell of Waterslade House, Peter Roche, Paddy Patton, Jimmy Lyons, Jack Hogge; all of who are now part of the heavenly choir.
In October 1960, Tuam was the venue for the County Fleadh of Comhaltas Éireann. There was singing and dancing to the music of fiddlers, accordians, uillean pipes and every kind of musical instrument. The fleadh closed with a céilí in the Phoenix Hall and a prizewinners' concert in the Odeon Cinema. In October 1972, a festival was organised by the Tuam branch of Comhaltas to commemorate the work of the late Mrs. Eileen Costelloe for the preservation of the traditional songs and music of the district. Mrs. Costelloe's collection from the area around Knockma commonly known as Castlehackett, comprised the bulk of Amhráin Mhuighe Seóla which was first published in 1919.
On Sunday October 28th 1962, Tuam Operatic Society staged its first production, Franz Lehar's The Pagan Merry Widow, which ran for eight nights, in the Odeon Cinema, now Fallon's Menswear. It was a landmark event in the area. The total audience was estimated to be in the region of 3,000. Fifty years later, in November 2012, many members of the original cast came together with old friends for a most enjoyable evening of reminiscence, laughter and song. Jean Healy-Joyce, who played the role of the ambassador's wife, Valencienne, told of her being almost excommunicated after leading the chorus girls in a rousing version of the can-can dance routine! In 1965, the operatic society brought grand opera to Tuam when it staged eight performances of Il Travatore and again our own Jean Healy-Joyce with other principals from Dublin performed under the baton of the late Fr. Gabriel Charles, who trained the chorus and all the local singers in supporting roles. Two years later, in 1967, the society staged Faust - what an achievement.
So many people down through the years have helped to nurture and encourage musical talent in Tuam. Danny Kelly was the musical director of The Tuam Reed and Brass Band, which opened its doors on December 20th, 1950. Danny had a huge impact on music in Tuam during the 1960's and many of his students found employment within Tuam's developing showband industry, where at one stage seven showbands were operating out of the town.
A very important part of Tuam's musical heritage is the Cathedral Choir, which was the genesis of today's Marian Choral Society. In 1870, Dr. John McHale purchased a harmonium in London on his way home from the First Vatican Council and the cathedral had both music and a choir. This was replaced in 1933 with a new electric organ. Women were prohibited from singing in the choir for many years but in the Marian Year (1954), ladies were invited to join by Fr. Charles Scahill and the Marian Choir was launched.
In the early 1970's, efforts were being made to establish a 'Music Lover's Circle' in Tuam. Its aim was to promote the love of music by coming together and listening to other peoples' musical favourites. Sr. Fursa Morris of the Presentation Sisters was perhaps the chief instigator of this group. A great champion of music, especially Irish music, Sr. Fursa's love of it stretched beyond the convent walls and she sowed seeds in Tuam that are still blossoming today. The circle held its first musical evening in January 1974 under its chairman, the late Peter O'Rourke, who also presented a delightful programme. The music lovers met twice a month in the Presentation Convent (at the cathedral entrance) and a 50 pence membership fee was payable twice a year. The keen listeners enjoyed overtures, ballet suites, orchestral music, violin concertos, vocal highlights from operas, voices from the past and present and of course choirs. Wonderful varied programmes were presented on what was then considered splendid stereo equipment by the members; Sr. Fursa, Peter O'Rourke and his wife Gertrude, Hugh McGrath, Brendan Dillon, Jarlath Canney, P.J. Grealish and Sr. M. Caniscius. The evening always concluded with great chat (about music of course), a cup of tea and quite often a good singsong. Under her pseudonym 'Giolla Mhuire' Sr. Fursa penned a very descriptive informative piece on the music heard after each get together which was always published by the Tuam Herald.
From 1942 to 1957, there was an hour-long broadcast of 'Christmas Carols from Tuam Cathedral.' This recital incorporated 500 voices including students from St. Jarlath's College, the Christian Brother's School and the Mercy and Presentation Convent Schools. What a fantastic number of voices from one small town. The cathedral choir reformed in 1974 under the auspices of Fr. Dominick Grealy and P.J. Grealish who became the first chairperson, a position P.J. held for two years. It was during his term of office that the first growing pains of the society were experienced and overcome. On December 15th of that year, the choir, now known as the 'Marian Choral Society' (successor to the well-loved Marian Choir of former years) hosted a mass choir recital in Tuam Cathedral. This became for many years an annual festival of Christmas Carols promoted by the Western Branch of the Association of Irish Musical Societies. Choirs came together to sing great traditional carols and always concluded with the majestic 'Hallelujah Chorus' from Handel's Messiah.
The first public performance by the choral society took place in April 1975 when the society held its first concert, under the musical direction of Fr. Seamus Cunnane and Sr. Marguerite Togher, in St. Jarlath's College. They performed selections from Strauss, some Negro Spirituals and pieces from Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Top of the bill was Austin Gaffney, our own Jean Healy Joyce, and an up and-coming young artist, Cathal Dunne. Who can now remember our long mustard coloured gowns with the rather large white spots? Didn't we look very stylish!
“If a thing is not worth saying -You sing it" (Pierre Beaumarchais 1732-1799)
Singing is found in all human societies and can be performed to some extent by the vast majority of people. According to the Oxford Dictionary, 'singing is the art or science of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony and expression of motion.' It is a powerful means of bonding a whole group simultaneously and helps to build social cohesion.
As early as the 12th century, music was established as an essential part of Irish life. This was particularly true in Connacht, when under Turlough and Rory O'Connor, the last high kings; Connacht was the leading province (with Tuam the smallest city in the world as its headquarters) where the arts flourished. The Irish, though isolated by the position of their country from other nations, excelled all others in music at that time. This all changed as continual English invasions wrecked the island, but despite all, traditional Irish music never died. People of the countryside continued to keep it alive with their love songs, laments, drinking songs and work songs. From the wandering blind harpist O'Carolan to The Chieftains, from keening to sean-nós, from John McCormack to Sean Ó Riada, from Frank Patterson to U2, music has always been an integral part of Irish society. Its importance at every occasion; be it joyful or sad, public or private, shows that music is something that is with us all through our lives. It brings us joy and moves us into places that can be heard to reach otherwise.
The Marian Choral Society can be justifiably proud of their 40 years but to quote Isaac Newton, `It is by standing on the shoulders of giants', that the society has reached this historic milestone. Tuam can boast of a musical tradition not always found in small towns. As early as 1871, the Tuam Town Commissioners were criticised for continuing the tradition of giving an annual grant to the Tuam Band, which had been in existence since the 1830's.
In the 1930's St. Jarlath's Choral Society was founded by Jarlath A. O'Connell, a great music lover and a splendid pianist. The society staged The Gondoliers in the Mall Cinema in 1940, having previously presented the Schubert romance Lilac Time and the comic opera The Mikado. Another one of their great successes was The Desert Song featuring Rose Farrell of Waterslade House, Peter Roche, Paddy Patton, Jimmy Lyons, Jack Hogge; all of who are now part of the heavenly choir.
In October 1960, Tuam was the venue for the County Fleadh of Comhaltas Éireann. There was singing and dancing to the music of fiddlers, accordians, uillean pipes and every kind of musical instrument. The fleadh closed with a céilí in the Phoenix Hall and a prizewinners' concert in the Odeon Cinema. In October 1972, a festival was organised by the Tuam branch of Comhaltas to commemorate the work of the late Mrs. Eileen Costelloe for the preservation of the traditional songs and music of the district. Mrs. Costelloe's collection from the area around Knockma commonly known as Castlehackett, comprised the bulk of Amhráin Mhuighe Seóla which was first published in 1919.
On Sunday October 28th 1962, Tuam Operatic Society staged its first production, Franz Lehar's The Pagan Merry Widow, which ran for eight nights, in the Odeon Cinema, now Fallon's Menswear. It was a landmark event in the area. The total audience was estimated to be in the region of 3,000. Fifty years later, in November 2012, many members of the original cast came together with old friends for a most enjoyable evening of reminiscence, laughter and song. Jean Healy-Joyce, who played the role of the ambassador's wife, Valencienne, told of her being almost excommunicated after leading the chorus girls in a rousing version of the can-can dance routine! In 1965, the operatic society brought grand opera to Tuam when it staged eight performances of Il Travatore and again our own Jean Healy-Joyce with other principals from Dublin performed under the baton of the late Fr. Gabriel Charles, who trained the chorus and all the local singers in supporting roles. Two years later, in 1967, the society staged Faust - what an achievement.
So many people down through the years have helped to nurture and encourage musical talent in Tuam. Danny Kelly was the musical director of The Tuam Reed and Brass Band, which opened its doors on December 20th, 1950. Danny had a huge impact on music in Tuam during the 1960's and many of his students found employment within Tuam's developing showband industry, where at one stage seven showbands were operating out of the town.
A very important part of Tuam's musical heritage is the Cathedral Choir, which was the genesis of today's Marian Choral Society. In 1870, Dr. John McHale purchased a harmonium in London on his way home from the First Vatican Council and the cathedral had both music and a choir. This was replaced in 1933 with a new electric organ. Women were prohibited from singing in the choir for many years but in the Marian Year (1954), ladies were invited to join by Fr. Charles Scahill and the Marian Choir was launched.
In the early 1970's, efforts were being made to establish a 'Music Lover's Circle' in Tuam. Its aim was to promote the love of music by coming together and listening to other peoples' musical favourites. Sr. Fursa Morris of the Presentation Sisters was perhaps the chief instigator of this group. A great champion of music, especially Irish music, Sr. Fursa's love of it stretched beyond the convent walls and she sowed seeds in Tuam that are still blossoming today. The circle held its first musical evening in January 1974 under its chairman, the late Peter O'Rourke, who also presented a delightful programme. The music lovers met twice a month in the Presentation Convent (at the cathedral entrance) and a 50 pence membership fee was payable twice a year. The keen listeners enjoyed overtures, ballet suites, orchestral music, violin concertos, vocal highlights from operas, voices from the past and present and of course choirs. Wonderful varied programmes were presented on what was then considered splendid stereo equipment by the members; Sr. Fursa, Peter O'Rourke and his wife Gertrude, Hugh McGrath, Brendan Dillon, Jarlath Canney, P.J. Grealish and Sr. M. Caniscius. The evening always concluded with great chat (about music of course), a cup of tea and quite often a good singsong. Under her pseudonym 'Giolla Mhuire' Sr. Fursa penned a very descriptive informative piece on the music heard after each get together which was always published by the Tuam Herald.
From 1942 to 1957, there was an hour-long broadcast of 'Christmas Carols from Tuam Cathedral.' This recital incorporated 500 voices including students from St. Jarlath's College, the Christian Brother's School and the Mercy and Presentation Convent Schools. What a fantastic number of voices from one small town. The cathedral choir reformed in 1974 under the auspices of Fr. Dominick Grealy and P.J. Grealish who became the first chairperson, a position P.J. held for two years. It was during his term of office that the first growing pains of the society were experienced and overcome. On December 15th of that year, the choir, now known as the 'Marian Choral Society' (successor to the well-loved Marian Choir of former years) hosted a mass choir recital in Tuam Cathedral. This became for many years an annual festival of Christmas Carols promoted by the Western Branch of the Association of Irish Musical Societies. Choirs came together to sing great traditional carols and always concluded with the majestic 'Hallelujah Chorus' from Handel's Messiah.
The first public performance by the choral society took place in April 1975 when the society held its first concert, under the musical direction of Fr. Seamus Cunnane and Sr. Marguerite Togher, in St. Jarlath's College. They performed selections from Strauss, some Negro Spirituals and pieces from Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Top of the bill was Austin Gaffney, our own Jean Healy Joyce, and an up and-coming young artist, Cathal Dunne. Who can now remember our long mustard coloured gowns with the rather large white spots? Didn't we look very stylish!
Souvenir Programme for The Golden Years (1977)
In May of 1975, the society participated in the A.I.M.S. Western Region Choral Festival in Castlebar and in June 1976, they were among the eleven choirs taking part in the A.I.M.S. All-Ireland Choral Competition in Birr. They acquitted themselves well against top class choirs and scored an 82% result in their competition. In April of that year (1976) a second gala concert was held in St. Jarlath's College Hall for two nights and was a resounding success Once again our very own Jean Healy Joyce captivate the audience with her wonderful mezzo-soprano voice and Cathal Dunne was a popular entertainer on his second visit to Tuam. For many the choral singing was the real attraction and 60 Tuam voices sang some of the world's most popular pieces to great applause. What a memorable evening.
A far-reaching decision was made at the second A.G.M. of the society on the 16th of November 1976. Sr. Marguerite Togher raised the question that after two very successful concerts "should we perform another concert or a show?" A lengthy discussion followed, differing views were aired, opinions given and with a show of hands it was decided that the Marian Choral Society would perform a show. On March 17th 1977, The Golden Years became the first musical presented by the society. It ran for four nights in St. Jarlath's College Hall with a matinee on Sunday March 20. Admission was £1 and 50p for children at the matinee. The late Mary Desmond collected the princely sum of £200 from the shopkeepers in the town as sponsors of the programme; quite an achievement at that time. 1977 was a year in which the choir's contribution to church services was coupled with the very successful production of a musical.
On March 22nd 1978, the cathedral in Tuam was the setting for a short choral concert and a recital of organ music. The society sang some of the most beautiful motets and hymns ever composed and the newly appointed Cathedral organist the late Mr. Noël Kirrane revealed 'some of the many moods of this noble instrument in pieces that ranged from the uplifting to the meditative.'
In June of that year 1978 at the A.G.M. Fr. Cunnane put forward a proposal to all those present. He felt that the "society should comprise of two groups, namely the Cathedral Choir and the Musical Society: After a lengthy discussion a unanimous decision was taken to divide the activities into two sections; (1) the Cathedral Choir under the direction of Fr. Seamus Cunnane, and (2) The Marian Choral Society directed by Noël Kirrane. Members could opt to be members of either choir or both. This was a momentous decision and from that date on a fledgling musical society, with little or no funds and with only one show under its belt went on to become one of the most successful societies in the West of Ireland and further afield. Each and every member since that date has contributed to make the society what it is to-day.
A far-reaching decision was made at the second A.G.M. of the society on the 16th of November 1976. Sr. Marguerite Togher raised the question that after two very successful concerts "should we perform another concert or a show?" A lengthy discussion followed, differing views were aired, opinions given and with a show of hands it was decided that the Marian Choral Society would perform a show. On March 17th 1977, The Golden Years became the first musical presented by the society. It ran for four nights in St. Jarlath's College Hall with a matinee on Sunday March 20. Admission was £1 and 50p for children at the matinee. The late Mary Desmond collected the princely sum of £200 from the shopkeepers in the town as sponsors of the programme; quite an achievement at that time. 1977 was a year in which the choir's contribution to church services was coupled with the very successful production of a musical.
On March 22nd 1978, the cathedral in Tuam was the setting for a short choral concert and a recital of organ music. The society sang some of the most beautiful motets and hymns ever composed and the newly appointed Cathedral organist the late Mr. Noël Kirrane revealed 'some of the many moods of this noble instrument in pieces that ranged from the uplifting to the meditative.'
In June of that year 1978 at the A.G.M. Fr. Cunnane put forward a proposal to all those present. He felt that the "society should comprise of two groups, namely the Cathedral Choir and the Musical Society: After a lengthy discussion a unanimous decision was taken to divide the activities into two sections; (1) the Cathedral Choir under the direction of Fr. Seamus Cunnane, and (2) The Marian Choral Society directed by Noël Kirrane. Members could opt to be members of either choir or both. This was a momentous decision and from that date on a fledgling musical society, with little or no funds and with only one show under its belt went on to become one of the most successful societies in the West of Ireland and further afield. Each and every member since that date has contributed to make the society what it is to-day.
Nuala Kelly, Eithne Donoghue and Mary Duggan in The Golden Years (1977)
The society's first production The Golden Years had been deemed a great success. As 'Giolla Mhuire' wrote in the Tuam Herald (26 March 1977), "0 hadn’t we the gaiety - at the Golden Years: Produced by Josephine Scanlon (Dublin), the leading roles were played by Paul Keating, David Stapleton, the late Sean Smyth, Nuala Kelly, Eithne Donoghue and Josephine Durkin. Musical direction was by Fr. Seamus Cunnane and Sr. Marguerite Togher. The following two shows The Student Prince and The Gipsy Baron with Noël Kirrane as musical director were equally successful. Ann McLoughlin and Paul Keating played lead roles and their solos and duets were set off by the tremendous choral effect of the chorus. From those tentative beginnings, Halloween has meant the magic of the musicals in Tuam as the society has flourished. A glance at the list of shows reveals the very broad range of the musicals presented. From every era, of every style and from the pen of all the great authors and composers, the society has shown its versatility in tackling all, including those seldom performed on the amateur circuit. National recognition in the shape of the A.I.M.S. Adjudication and Awards Scheme has honoured the society's proficiency in most categories since then.
During May and June of 1980 a Theatre and Arts Festival was held in the Arts Centre, Town Hall, Tuam. The Choral Society staged a Marian Musicale featuring a variety of songs to listen to and join in with, under the direction of Noël Kirrane. They performed for three nights to most appreciative audiences.
During May and June of 1980 a Theatre and Arts Festival was held in the Arts Centre, Town Hall, Tuam. The Choral Society staged a Marian Musicale featuring a variety of songs to listen to and join in with, under the direction of Noël Kirrane. They performed for three nights to most appreciative audiences.
Marian Choral Society's first Concert (St. Jarlath's Hall, April 1977)
In 1980 Guys and Dolls was presented, and many will have fond memories of the late Paddy Naughton playing 'Nicely Nicely' and the one and only Miko Kelly R.I.P. as the Chigago gangster 'Big Jule.' The Choral Society again took to the stage in 1982 with its first pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. It was a first time for Kevin Dwyer as producer. The success of the pantomime assured the M.C.S. of a place in the light entertainment field and this became an annual event for many years providing wonderful family entertainment in the town.
Cast of The Student Prince (1978)
In October 1982, the society's greatest venture to that time was the staging of My Fair Lady. The late Joe Dillon gave a commanding performance as Professor Higgins, who meets his match in Eliza Doolittle, delightfully played by Ann Droney (Kirrane). Hugh McGrath was the comic star, full of gusto, Alfred Doolittle and Mary Duggan displayed sympathy and exasperation in equal measures as the housekeeper Mrs. Pierce. It was a major undertaking and the society relied heavily on local support as well as sponsorship. That year Pat Hardiman of the First National Building Society sponsored a cheese and wine reception for patrons and sponsors. This was an innovative idea to show appreciation to those who were essential for the development of the society. Financial assistance is always a necessary input to make any stage production a reality and the choral society is very lucky to have a loyal base of patrons and sponsors who have consistently given their support financially over the past 40 years.
L to R Noël Kirrane, Nuala Kelly, Paul Keating and Philip Larkin in The Gipsey Baron (1979)
During those early years, the society was most fortunate in the calibre of people who voluntarily gave of their expertise, time and energy and worked on committee. Their competence, commitment, dedication, innovation and vitality ensured that the society's financial position by 1985 was in a very sound state. Particular credit must be given to the then chairperson Maureen Pierce for her exceptional contribution during these early years. Ideas for fund-raising activities have memorably ranged from trolley dashes to cake-sales, from jumble sales to audio-visual table quizzes, cookery demonstrations, ceilis, American tea parties and even a Leap Year draw in 1992.
Another very popular and successful fund raising event at this time was the Fashion Show. Many were held in diverse locations, the most talked about in Bermingham House, the home of the late Lady Molly Cusack Smith. The brainchild of Maureen Pierce, this was a sell out at its two shows on Sunday, 12 November 1995. Guests were treated to a cheese and wine reception and then relaxed in the drawing room, dining room or in the magnificent front hall to view the models (all M.C.S. members) gracefully descend the grand staircase, highlighting clothes from Fahy's Tuam and Pat Lane Shoes. To add to the wonderful ambience Noël Kirrane played Lady Molly's baby grand piano non-stop for almost two hours during the shows. Lady Molly, herself a doyenne of haute couture, appeared at the 8pm show. What a wonderful and memorable evening.
In 1984, Ann Kirrane was the first M.C.S. member to win recognition from The Association of Irish Musical Societies (A.I.M.S.). She was nominated as Best Supporting Female as 'Carrie' in Carousel, which was staged in October 1983. A show with many moods and situations, Annette Noone and Ann Kirrane led the ladies’ sections, with Nuala Kelly, Gerry King, Matt Keane and a talented four-part chorus section. 1984 was also the year when for the first time the entire production team was from Tuam. The late Joe Donoghue was the producer with Noël Kirrane as musical director and Rita Courtney as choreographer. The show chosen was Lerner and Lowe's highland-fling Brigadoon.
An Arts Festival was held in the town in June 1985 and the society presented its third major performance for that season; a light-hearted evening of old and new favourites for all musical tastes entitled Summer Sounds. Nuala Kelly, the late Josie Naughton, Mary O’Connor, Brendan Dillon, Ann Kirrane and Mary Duggan performed a selection of choral favourites. John King sang a stirring 'Nessum Dorma' from Puccini's Turandot. The night rounded off with an array of well-known choral pieces, culminating with 'Battle Hymn of the Republic.' John Kilgarriff conducted and Noël Kirrane was the accompanist and musical director of the wonderful entertainment.
In 1986, the choral society celebrated its 10th birthday in style. The rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar was performed in St. Mary's Church of Ireland cathedral at Halloween; there was carol singing in the square with the proceeds given to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, a pantomime after Christmas and in April 1987 a 10th anniversary concert in St. Jarlath's College Hall. The production of the rock opera broke new ground for the society. Its novel but very spectacular setting in the magnificent medieval Synod Hall of the cathedral, with its huge stained glass windows, added extra atmosphere. The Synod Hall had undergone a complete overhaul and the society was the first actual user of the 14th century hall in over 100 years. John King gave an impressive performance in the lead role with Ann Kirrane as Mary Magdalen and local rocker Martin (Mouse) McHugh played Judas. With Noël Kirrane's musical direction, Nuala Kelly's costumes, Eamonn Kilkelly's lighting and all knitted together with skill by the producer Joe Donoghue, the show was a sell-out triumph. The society had to put on an extra night for all those who had missed out. Other roles included Eamonn Kitt as Caiphas, Kevin Dwyer as Pontius Pilate, Peter played by John Kilgarriff and Herod by Hugh McGrath. At the A.I.M.S. awards in Waterford the following June (1987) the society received eight nominations for this production. It won the adjudicators special award for 'their sensitive and artistic utilisation of the magnificent stained-glass window in a natural resource venue.' It was declared the third best in Ireland and honoured Noël Kirrane, Musical Director, Joe Donoghue, Producer, Eamonn Killkelly, Lighting and Martin McHugh as Judas. What a fantastic achievement for all those involved.
In 2013, to commemorate the Tuam 400 celebrations, the society, which until then had never repeated a show, staged Jesus Christ Superstar once again in St. Mary's Synod Hall. This was a nostalgic experience for many. In the intervening years, the society had lost several talented people, notably producer Joe Donoghue and Musical Director Noël Kirrane. However, their successors Enda Burke (assisted by Aoife McClafferty) and Shane Farrell had taken up the challenge and the reverting and enthralling show was another great success. The lead role in 2013 was played by Shane Kelly with Delma Burke as Mary Magdalen, Ronan Lardner as Herod. A hugely talented and versatile cast had Paul Singleton, Declan Carroll, Michael Stewart, Martin O'Brien, John Mulrooney and Louis Brennan.
The Synod hall in St. Mary's had been adapted with great success for Jesus Christ Superstar and West Side Story, and in 1988 it was the perfect setting for knights, magicians and the romantic fairy-tale of Camelot. This show presented a considerable challenge for the society but it proved to be the most impressive production to that date. Kevin Dwyer's performance as muddled King Arthur must rank as one of the best in the role. Fidelma (Joyce) Burke as Guinevere carried her role with assurance and Frank Holliman as the knightly Lancelot cut a dashing figure. There was ample scope for Hugh McGrath's comic talents in the role of Pellimore with the late Michael Leydon as the wizard Merlin. A young Dunmore man, the late Pete McConville, played Mordred with menace. This show was another great success for the society. On Sunday, 12 May 1989, there were jubilant scenes in New Ross when after securing 3th place in the Choral Festival, the society scooped three A.I.M.S. nominations for Camelot Best Director Joe Donoghue, Best Actor Kevin Dwyer and Best Stage Manager Bob Triggs. Kevin and Bob went on to win the awards at the A.I.M.S. banquet in Westport in June 1989.
This tradition of excellence has continued for the past 28 years. It is a tradition of dedication and cooperation of so many people in the society down through the years and to the audiences who through their presence and appreciation have made it all worthwhile. Once again, in June 2016 excellence was recognised when the show Pirate Queen received three nominations and won the 'Oscars' in Killarney with Dave Langan Best Male Singer and Paul Kelly Front of House. Twenty-eight years had elapsed since two awards had been won by the society, but the talent, dedication and hard work of the company and the creativity and skill of the production teams during the years had never waned.
During the early years, fund-raising was of the utmost importance to ensure the continuance of the society. As already mentioned, the range of activities was very varied and novel ideas were always being sought out. One of the most successful and enjoyable of these ideas was the 'Musical Soiree' and the 'Themed and Nationality Night.' These ranged from candlelight dinners with operatic arias from Jean Healy Joyce and Michael Hannon, to a 'French Night' with the music of Edith Piaf and Jacques Brel, and featuring a rousing performance of 'Master of the House' (Le Mis) from Kevin and the late Ann Dwyer. At the 'Musical Memories of War and Peace’, we heard Tom Carney's haunting 'Waltzing Matilda', Frieda McGrath's wonderful interpretation of Marlene Dietrich's 'Underneath the Lamplight' and Nuala Kelly's beautiful performance of 'A nightingale sang in Berkley Square.' A 'Marine Night' had music, trait and good food, all with a 'watery' flavour and for the 'Italian Night' some of the singers had to learn a bit of Italian but in true choral society fashion this did not deter anyone. There was a full house at the 'American Night' in the Imperial Hotel on July 13th 1991, where the late Tommy O'Rourke gave a wonderful rendition of Stephen Foster's 'Beautiful Dreamer' and Gerry McGrath's singing of 'Ol Man River' was one of the highlights of the evening. An 'Irish Night' was held in 1992, with songs by Percy French and Thomas Moore and for the romantics at heart 'Romantic Rhapsody' took place on Valentine's Day 1993 with a delightful blend of romantic music and song. 'Music from the Movies' in March 1995 featured great songs and themes from films old and new and even the musical director himself, Noël Kirrane, got in on the act with a memorable version of ‘As time goes by' from the classic Casablanca. Established performers and newer members gave of their best. These evenings were also a wonderful opportunity for members to make his or her solo debut in a relaxed setting. Great credit must be given to the maestro himself, Noël Kirrane, who organised the songs and singers for all the themed evenings, for his dedication during the rehearsals and his marvellous accompaniment on the nights.
As well as staging a musical each autumn the society was also busy on other fronts. In 1988, Dr. Veronica Dunne was invited to Tuam to give master classes on voice training and singing technique. This proved to be a huge success and attracted enormous interest both in the town and beyond. The society had a lovely opportunity to display their wonderful choral singing when in May 1990, Tuam Literature Guild invited them to sing in the Synod Hall when the poet Brendan Kennelly gave a reading of his works; a most enjoyable occasion.
During the 1990s, the choral society travelled to the A.I.M.S. Choral Festival in New Ross many times and were very pleased at the success they achieved. In 1990, 36 members travelled — three different choirs were entered and an unscheduled practice took place in Durrow Church when the choir sang at 7.30 mass. These trips were memorable with impromptu singsongs, great trait on the bus journeys and long-lasting friendships formed. In June 2010, after an absence of many years, the society once more headed to New Ross. Having already performed at the Dunmore Choral Festival, they were well prepared, under the direction of Shane Farrell, to participate at what is a very prestigious event where top-class choral work is adjudicated to a very high standard. The society scored very well in their competitions and in 2011 came second out of eleven choirs; a wonderful achievement for all.
In 1993, work was well underway for the re-opening of the Mall Cinema, which had been closed since 1988. All the cultural groups in the town came together under the one banner, T.U.A.M., Tuam United Artists for the Mall. This comprised of members of Tuam Theatre Guild, Gateswide and The Marian Choral Society. They had all experienced great difficulty with venues for plays and musicals and were more than happy to support this local project. Fund-raising was to take place in the form of a draw and each group was asked to help in the selling of the tickets. Members of the choral society became fully involved in this community project and looked forward to the re-opening of the Mall Theatre in July 1993.
The society has participated in many St. Patrick's Day parades and have secured 1st place in the Cultural Section a number of times. One memorable occasion was in 1997 when the society had a giant birthday 'cake' (on wheels!) to celebrate 21 years of shows. The cake was adorned with the names of all the shows and the members walking alongside wore glamorous evening attire and sipped champagne (fizzy lemonade!) enjoying the party. Needless to say, music resounded from the cake and all were having a good time. In more recent times, in 2013, before the staging of their show Jesus Christ Superstar members of the society walked in the parade depicting the carrying of the cross to Calvary; a very moving and dignified interpretation of the scene, which was portrayed so well in their performance in the Synod Hall that year.
The range of musicals in the 1990's once again show how versatile and courageous the society was. From the rock opera Godspell with its varied musical styles to interpret one of humanity's greatest events, to the comic extravaganza The Little Shop of Horrors where an exotic plant develops alarming feeding habits and turns lives upside down. Audiences at all shows were seeing the very best in musical entertainment. Each show had a perfect blend of experienced and emerging talent and this is still obvious in the society today. In 1993 the society were delighted to stage their first production in the newly refurbished Mall Theatre with the light-hearted Johann Strauss's melodious operetta Die Fledermaus. This was the only show that went 'on tour'. A 'Western Festival of Musical Theatre' took place in Claremorris Town Hall and the society staged Die Fledermaus there on November 12th 1993.
Another very popular and successful fund raising event at this time was the Fashion Show. Many were held in diverse locations, the most talked about in Bermingham House, the home of the late Lady Molly Cusack Smith. The brainchild of Maureen Pierce, this was a sell out at its two shows on Sunday, 12 November 1995. Guests were treated to a cheese and wine reception and then relaxed in the drawing room, dining room or in the magnificent front hall to view the models (all M.C.S. members) gracefully descend the grand staircase, highlighting clothes from Fahy's Tuam and Pat Lane Shoes. To add to the wonderful ambience Noël Kirrane played Lady Molly's baby grand piano non-stop for almost two hours during the shows. Lady Molly, herself a doyenne of haute couture, appeared at the 8pm show. What a wonderful and memorable evening.
In 1984, Ann Kirrane was the first M.C.S. member to win recognition from The Association of Irish Musical Societies (A.I.M.S.). She was nominated as Best Supporting Female as 'Carrie' in Carousel, which was staged in October 1983. A show with many moods and situations, Annette Noone and Ann Kirrane led the ladies’ sections, with Nuala Kelly, Gerry King, Matt Keane and a talented four-part chorus section. 1984 was also the year when for the first time the entire production team was from Tuam. The late Joe Donoghue was the producer with Noël Kirrane as musical director and Rita Courtney as choreographer. The show chosen was Lerner and Lowe's highland-fling Brigadoon.
An Arts Festival was held in the town in June 1985 and the society presented its third major performance for that season; a light-hearted evening of old and new favourites for all musical tastes entitled Summer Sounds. Nuala Kelly, the late Josie Naughton, Mary O’Connor, Brendan Dillon, Ann Kirrane and Mary Duggan performed a selection of choral favourites. John King sang a stirring 'Nessum Dorma' from Puccini's Turandot. The night rounded off with an array of well-known choral pieces, culminating with 'Battle Hymn of the Republic.' John Kilgarriff conducted and Noël Kirrane was the accompanist and musical director of the wonderful entertainment.
In 1986, the choral society celebrated its 10th birthday in style. The rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar was performed in St. Mary's Church of Ireland cathedral at Halloween; there was carol singing in the square with the proceeds given to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, a pantomime after Christmas and in April 1987 a 10th anniversary concert in St. Jarlath's College Hall. The production of the rock opera broke new ground for the society. Its novel but very spectacular setting in the magnificent medieval Synod Hall of the cathedral, with its huge stained glass windows, added extra atmosphere. The Synod Hall had undergone a complete overhaul and the society was the first actual user of the 14th century hall in over 100 years. John King gave an impressive performance in the lead role with Ann Kirrane as Mary Magdalen and local rocker Martin (Mouse) McHugh played Judas. With Noël Kirrane's musical direction, Nuala Kelly's costumes, Eamonn Kilkelly's lighting and all knitted together with skill by the producer Joe Donoghue, the show was a sell-out triumph. The society had to put on an extra night for all those who had missed out. Other roles included Eamonn Kitt as Caiphas, Kevin Dwyer as Pontius Pilate, Peter played by John Kilgarriff and Herod by Hugh McGrath. At the A.I.M.S. awards in Waterford the following June (1987) the society received eight nominations for this production. It won the adjudicators special award for 'their sensitive and artistic utilisation of the magnificent stained-glass window in a natural resource venue.' It was declared the third best in Ireland and honoured Noël Kirrane, Musical Director, Joe Donoghue, Producer, Eamonn Killkelly, Lighting and Martin McHugh as Judas. What a fantastic achievement for all those involved.
In 2013, to commemorate the Tuam 400 celebrations, the society, which until then had never repeated a show, staged Jesus Christ Superstar once again in St. Mary's Synod Hall. This was a nostalgic experience for many. In the intervening years, the society had lost several talented people, notably producer Joe Donoghue and Musical Director Noël Kirrane. However, their successors Enda Burke (assisted by Aoife McClafferty) and Shane Farrell had taken up the challenge and the reverting and enthralling show was another great success. The lead role in 2013 was played by Shane Kelly with Delma Burke as Mary Magdalen, Ronan Lardner as Herod. A hugely talented and versatile cast had Paul Singleton, Declan Carroll, Michael Stewart, Martin O'Brien, John Mulrooney and Louis Brennan.
The Synod hall in St. Mary's had been adapted with great success for Jesus Christ Superstar and West Side Story, and in 1988 it was the perfect setting for knights, magicians and the romantic fairy-tale of Camelot. This show presented a considerable challenge for the society but it proved to be the most impressive production to that date. Kevin Dwyer's performance as muddled King Arthur must rank as one of the best in the role. Fidelma (Joyce) Burke as Guinevere carried her role with assurance and Frank Holliman as the knightly Lancelot cut a dashing figure. There was ample scope for Hugh McGrath's comic talents in the role of Pellimore with the late Michael Leydon as the wizard Merlin. A young Dunmore man, the late Pete McConville, played Mordred with menace. This show was another great success for the society. On Sunday, 12 May 1989, there were jubilant scenes in New Ross when after securing 3th place in the Choral Festival, the society scooped three A.I.M.S. nominations for Camelot Best Director Joe Donoghue, Best Actor Kevin Dwyer and Best Stage Manager Bob Triggs. Kevin and Bob went on to win the awards at the A.I.M.S. banquet in Westport in June 1989.
This tradition of excellence has continued for the past 28 years. It is a tradition of dedication and cooperation of so many people in the society down through the years and to the audiences who through their presence and appreciation have made it all worthwhile. Once again, in June 2016 excellence was recognised when the show Pirate Queen received three nominations and won the 'Oscars' in Killarney with Dave Langan Best Male Singer and Paul Kelly Front of House. Twenty-eight years had elapsed since two awards had been won by the society, but the talent, dedication and hard work of the company and the creativity and skill of the production teams during the years had never waned.
During the early years, fund-raising was of the utmost importance to ensure the continuance of the society. As already mentioned, the range of activities was very varied and novel ideas were always being sought out. One of the most successful and enjoyable of these ideas was the 'Musical Soiree' and the 'Themed and Nationality Night.' These ranged from candlelight dinners with operatic arias from Jean Healy Joyce and Michael Hannon, to a 'French Night' with the music of Edith Piaf and Jacques Brel, and featuring a rousing performance of 'Master of the House' (Le Mis) from Kevin and the late Ann Dwyer. At the 'Musical Memories of War and Peace’, we heard Tom Carney's haunting 'Waltzing Matilda', Frieda McGrath's wonderful interpretation of Marlene Dietrich's 'Underneath the Lamplight' and Nuala Kelly's beautiful performance of 'A nightingale sang in Berkley Square.' A 'Marine Night' had music, trait and good food, all with a 'watery' flavour and for the 'Italian Night' some of the singers had to learn a bit of Italian but in true choral society fashion this did not deter anyone. There was a full house at the 'American Night' in the Imperial Hotel on July 13th 1991, where the late Tommy O'Rourke gave a wonderful rendition of Stephen Foster's 'Beautiful Dreamer' and Gerry McGrath's singing of 'Ol Man River' was one of the highlights of the evening. An 'Irish Night' was held in 1992, with songs by Percy French and Thomas Moore and for the romantics at heart 'Romantic Rhapsody' took place on Valentine's Day 1993 with a delightful blend of romantic music and song. 'Music from the Movies' in March 1995 featured great songs and themes from films old and new and even the musical director himself, Noël Kirrane, got in on the act with a memorable version of ‘As time goes by' from the classic Casablanca. Established performers and newer members gave of their best. These evenings were also a wonderful opportunity for members to make his or her solo debut in a relaxed setting. Great credit must be given to the maestro himself, Noël Kirrane, who organised the songs and singers for all the themed evenings, for his dedication during the rehearsals and his marvellous accompaniment on the nights.
As well as staging a musical each autumn the society was also busy on other fronts. In 1988, Dr. Veronica Dunne was invited to Tuam to give master classes on voice training and singing technique. This proved to be a huge success and attracted enormous interest both in the town and beyond. The society had a lovely opportunity to display their wonderful choral singing when in May 1990, Tuam Literature Guild invited them to sing in the Synod Hall when the poet Brendan Kennelly gave a reading of his works; a most enjoyable occasion.
During the 1990s, the choral society travelled to the A.I.M.S. Choral Festival in New Ross many times and were very pleased at the success they achieved. In 1990, 36 members travelled — three different choirs were entered and an unscheduled practice took place in Durrow Church when the choir sang at 7.30 mass. These trips were memorable with impromptu singsongs, great trait on the bus journeys and long-lasting friendships formed. In June 2010, after an absence of many years, the society once more headed to New Ross. Having already performed at the Dunmore Choral Festival, they were well prepared, under the direction of Shane Farrell, to participate at what is a very prestigious event where top-class choral work is adjudicated to a very high standard. The society scored very well in their competitions and in 2011 came second out of eleven choirs; a wonderful achievement for all.
In 1993, work was well underway for the re-opening of the Mall Cinema, which had been closed since 1988. All the cultural groups in the town came together under the one banner, T.U.A.M., Tuam United Artists for the Mall. This comprised of members of Tuam Theatre Guild, Gateswide and The Marian Choral Society. They had all experienced great difficulty with venues for plays and musicals and were more than happy to support this local project. Fund-raising was to take place in the form of a draw and each group was asked to help in the selling of the tickets. Members of the choral society became fully involved in this community project and looked forward to the re-opening of the Mall Theatre in July 1993.
The society has participated in many St. Patrick's Day parades and have secured 1st place in the Cultural Section a number of times. One memorable occasion was in 1997 when the society had a giant birthday 'cake' (on wheels!) to celebrate 21 years of shows. The cake was adorned with the names of all the shows and the members walking alongside wore glamorous evening attire and sipped champagne (fizzy lemonade!) enjoying the party. Needless to say, music resounded from the cake and all were having a good time. In more recent times, in 2013, before the staging of their show Jesus Christ Superstar members of the society walked in the parade depicting the carrying of the cross to Calvary; a very moving and dignified interpretation of the scene, which was portrayed so well in their performance in the Synod Hall that year.
The range of musicals in the 1990's once again show how versatile and courageous the society was. From the rock opera Godspell with its varied musical styles to interpret one of humanity's greatest events, to the comic extravaganza The Little Shop of Horrors where an exotic plant develops alarming feeding habits and turns lives upside down. Audiences at all shows were seeing the very best in musical entertainment. Each show had a perfect blend of experienced and emerging talent and this is still obvious in the society today. In 1993 the society were delighted to stage their first production in the newly refurbished Mall Theatre with the light-hearted Johann Strauss's melodious operetta Die Fledermaus. This was the only show that went 'on tour'. A 'Western Festival of Musical Theatre' took place in Claremorris Town Hall and the society staged Die Fledermaus there on November 12th 1993.
Front of house L to R Michael Hussey, Liam Kelly, Louise Pierce, Patsy Noone, John Higgins, Denis Dennehy and Salvador Murphy
Russia came to Tuam in 1993; to St. Jarlath's College with Fiddler on the Roof, when Eamonn Kitt and Frieda McGrath headed the cast as the Russian peasant couple Tevye and Golda. Four ladies made their debut here; Martha Newell, Caitriona Kilgarriff and Elizabeth Holiman joined experienced performer Fidelma Joyce in their roles as Tevye's daughters and Mary T. Hynes stepped forward as the matchmaker, Yente. Mary Duggan made a welcome return as Grandma Tzeitel. The male cast a mixture of experienced 'old hands' and eager newcomers included Tom Camey, Paddy Hannon, Hugh McGrath, Tony O'Neill, Kevin Kealey, John Fahy, Gerry and Francis McGrath and Declan Carroll. The bottle dance was an audience stunner as all waited with baited breath for a bottle to come to grief—none did!
To celebrate the society's 20th birthday in 1994, the hilarious Broadway hit Hello Dolly was staged. Tuam's own Dolly, Frieda McGrath, proved herself worthy to follow in the footsteps of the American greats. This was a most challenging show especially from the staging point of view but the society once again took up the challenge and had a 'House Full' notice outside the theatre each night. The catching toe-tapping music of Cole Porter's Anything Goes was another hit in 1995, where Ann Kirrane played and sang brilliantly in the role of Nemo Sweeney and Nuala Kelly as her mother Evangeline Harcourt, displayed great gusto and infectious enthusiasm.
For the society's 21st consecutive annual production, Sweet Charity was chosen. This show tells the adventures of Charity Hope Valentine and captures the rhythm, wit and buzz of New York. The female lead was played energetically by Honor Finnegan and who can ever forget the memorable show-stopping number The Rhythm of Life' performed so enthusiastically by the 35 strong cast. The choreographed sequences in particular showed the depth of their talent. To celebrate this milestone a special souvenir programme was compiled by Noël Kirrane, and has proved to be a collector's item.
With the dawning of the new millennium, the society held a novel fund-raising event in September 1999 with the intriguing title 'Is your body ready for Y2K?' With such diverse topics as fitness, colour, nutrition and a display of fashion for the last winter of the century, the evening was a great success, both financially and socially. The society's first show in 2000 was 'How to Succeed in Business without really trying.’ It was unfamiliar to many but was full of satirical humour and catchy tunes. It proved a timeless example of Broadway at its golden best. Ronan Lardner and Cliodhna Hurst and this singing played the central roles and dancing couple epitomised the continuing stream of talent that flows through the society. Fidelma Burke excelled as the femme fatale Hedy la Rue. and both she and Ronan received A.I.M.S. nominations for the best comedienne and comedian.
To celebrate their silver anniversary the following year in 2001, the society chose the delightful musical comedy Half a Sixpence. This was the first time the show was presented in Connacht. The audience had been anxiously waiting to become 'Euro-compliant' with the introduction of seven colourful banknotes and eight shiny coins in 2002 so enjoying another more old-fashioned currency was what was needed to lift the winter blues. They were not disappointed. This show had great acting inventive dance routines and superb choruses. Ronan Lardner played Arthur Kipps with charm, for which he received an A.I.M.S nomination and was ably assisted by a relative newcomer Orla Togher, whose singing and confidence belied her inexperience. A highlight of the show was John Mulrooney as the fantastic Chitterlow who dropped quotes and names the way other people breathe. The production played to packed houses each night and was a fitting celebration to mark 25 years.
To celebrate the society's 20th birthday in 1994, the hilarious Broadway hit Hello Dolly was staged. Tuam's own Dolly, Frieda McGrath, proved herself worthy to follow in the footsteps of the American greats. This was a most challenging show especially from the staging point of view but the society once again took up the challenge and had a 'House Full' notice outside the theatre each night. The catching toe-tapping music of Cole Porter's Anything Goes was another hit in 1995, where Ann Kirrane played and sang brilliantly in the role of Nemo Sweeney and Nuala Kelly as her mother Evangeline Harcourt, displayed great gusto and infectious enthusiasm.
For the society's 21st consecutive annual production, Sweet Charity was chosen. This show tells the adventures of Charity Hope Valentine and captures the rhythm, wit and buzz of New York. The female lead was played energetically by Honor Finnegan and who can ever forget the memorable show-stopping number The Rhythm of Life' performed so enthusiastically by the 35 strong cast. The choreographed sequences in particular showed the depth of their talent. To celebrate this milestone a special souvenir programme was compiled by Noël Kirrane, and has proved to be a collector's item.
With the dawning of the new millennium, the society held a novel fund-raising event in September 1999 with the intriguing title 'Is your body ready for Y2K?' With such diverse topics as fitness, colour, nutrition and a display of fashion for the last winter of the century, the evening was a great success, both financially and socially. The society's first show in 2000 was 'How to Succeed in Business without really trying.’ It was unfamiliar to many but was full of satirical humour and catchy tunes. It proved a timeless example of Broadway at its golden best. Ronan Lardner and Cliodhna Hurst and this singing played the central roles and dancing couple epitomised the continuing stream of talent that flows through the society. Fidelma Burke excelled as the femme fatale Hedy la Rue. and both she and Ronan received A.I.M.S. nominations for the best comedienne and comedian.
To celebrate their silver anniversary the following year in 2001, the society chose the delightful musical comedy Half a Sixpence. This was the first time the show was presented in Connacht. The audience had been anxiously waiting to become 'Euro-compliant' with the introduction of seven colourful banknotes and eight shiny coins in 2002 so enjoying another more old-fashioned currency was what was needed to lift the winter blues. They were not disappointed. This show had great acting inventive dance routines and superb choruses. Ronan Lardner played Arthur Kipps with charm, for which he received an A.I.M.S nomination and was ably assisted by a relative newcomer Orla Togher, whose singing and confidence belied her inexperience. A highlight of the show was John Mulrooney as the fantastic Chitterlow who dropped quotes and names the way other people breathe. The production played to packed houses each night and was a fitting celebration to mark 25 years.
Enda Burke in The Gondolier (1991)
Members and friends of the society gathered in February 2002 to celebrate the society being chosen as 'Tuam's Group of the Year' and Noël Kirrane their esteemed musical director being named Tuam Person of the Year; a well-deserved accolade.
Angela Curley took a trip on the Deadwood Stage through the Black Hills of Dakota in Calamity Jane in 2002 and earned an A.I.M.S. nomination as best newcomer for her role in the show.
In 2005, the choral society pulled off quite a coup by securing the rights to the Irish Premiere of Jekyll and Hyde. This production was a very ambitious challenge but the Marian Choral Society had the perfect formula for a memorable masterpiece. This was no ordinary production. It was a stunning and spectacular show. Dave Langan, in his first outing with the society, gave a wonderful performance in the lead role and the music, the singing, the set and the 30-strong chorus were spoken about for a long time afterwards. John Mulrooney excelled as Dr Jekyll's best friend, John Utterson. Cliodhna Hurst wonderfully played his fiancee. Kevin Dwyer portrayed her father and Enda Burke, Mags Mulvey, Kevin Keely, Hugh McGrath, Gerry King and Tom Donoghue were each in their own way perfect. Ann Kirrane gave a terrific performance as Lucy Harris with the show stopping number 'Bring on the Men; All the smaller parts were cast with not a weak link. During that year, the society was deeply saddened by the death of their producer and friend, Joe O' Donoghue. This show was dedicated to his memory. He would have been proud of his former charges who had maintained the high standards set by him.
The society presented Wonderful Town, its 30th consecutive production, in 2006. This was a delightful show full of light-hearted humour, with toe-tapping music by Leonard Bernstein. The society was delighted to see their own Enda Burke make his directorial debut, bringing enthusiasm and energy to rehearsals. The society also welcomed Aoife McClafferty as choreographer. In May 2007, Orla Togher received an A.I.M.S. nomination for her portrayal of Ruth in the show. Thirty years of artistic achievement on the stage was a wonderful milestone for the society and a celebratory concert took place in 2007 as part of Tuam's Arts Festival, aptly named '30 Golden Years.' It consisted of various chorus numbers as well as solos, duets and groups from past and present members, which were a joy to hear, and brought back many happy memories to the audience. The society also held an exhibition in the Town Hall, which consisted of photos, posters, programmes and memorabilia from the various shows: a fitting tribute to 30 years.
The pirate ship was in full sail, hotly pursued by lovely maidens and not so lovely police officers, in 2007 when the comic opera The Pirates of Penance by Gilbert and Sullivan was staged. The last Gilbert and Sullivan show had been The Gondoliers in 1991. For the first time Shane Kelly, with his fine voice, took the lead, partnered by Clodhna Hurst. Ronan Lardner gave a tour-de-force rendition of 'A Model Major General' and John Duggan's voice and stature gave great creditability to his role as sergeant.
When the society choose All 4 One (a musical inspired by the books of Alexandre Dumas) in 2008, little did they think that before they took to the boards in St. Jarlath's College hall, they would lose their guiding light for the previous 30 years. Following a short illness Noël Kirrane passed on to the heavenly choir on the 11th September 2008. Words are inadequate when describing what Noël meant to the Marian Choral Society. During all those years, he was largely responsible for broadening the artistic and musical horizons of the society. He was a perfectionist in all he did and through a mixture of coaxing, cajoling and encouragement he kept the true spirit of the society alive, i.e. to bring great musical entertainment to the people of Tuam. His legacy endures:
Phantom faces at the window
Phantom shadows on the floor
Empty chain at empty tables
Where my friends will meet no more
Having never repeated a show since its foundation (with the exception in 2013 to commemorate the Tuam 400 celebrations), it is a challenge to stage lesser-known musicals but with All 4 One the Marian Choral Society proved their resilience and the production was a resounding success. Dedicated to the late Noël Kirrane (whose family were adamant that the tradition of the annual show should not be abandoned), it was full of verve and energy. The costumes were superb, lighting was excellent and it had a first rate chorus. Shane Farrell (at just 18 years of age) proved himself a worthy successor to his mentor Noël. Shane Kelly was a first class d'Artagnan, with John Duggan, Louis Brennan and Ronan Lardner as the three older musketeers. Angela Curley had the romantic lead with Orla Togher, Olivia Monaghan and Delma Burke all bringing personality and experience to their roles.
The Elvis inspired jukebox musical All Shook Up was the choice for 2009. This was an entertaining and witty story being told to the backdrop of favourite Elvis songs. Louis Brennan played the principal male role to great effect (stepping up to his first leading role) and opposite him, Michelle Lawless played Natalie. Margaret Mulvey played Mayor Matilda, the slightly tyrannical mayor who had outlawed music and dance in the town hilariously. It was a hugely entertaining show with standout scenes displaying the combined talents of director, choreographer and ensemble cast.
One of the society's most eagerly anticipated productions took place in 2010 with the show Titanic-The Musical. At the launch, the society was commended for their courage and confidence in taking on such a huge show. The musical, a powerful emotional heart-breaking show was a resounding success. The cast was big, with more principal parts than usual, the orchestra worked so well together under the baton of Shane Farrell, the wardrobe co-ordinated by Rita Courtney was flawless, the direction and choreography by Enda Burke and Aoife McClafferty was wonderful and the set design under Eugene Finnegan was magnificent. The stage manager Aaron Tyler and his crew changed props and scenery effortlessly. An event as big as this reflects the good will and help of a tremendous number of people and many hours of hard work. The demand for tickets after the opening night resulted in the entire week being sold out by Wednesday evening, a testament to how the society had risen to the challenge and succeeded. At the A.I.M.S. nominations the following May 2011, Titanic received two nominations; Best House Manager, Liam Kelly with his front of house team, and in particular Patricia King Callaghan for the wonderful Titanic display in the marquee and The Spirit of AIMS award for 'Innovative ideas for Props and Set.' It was great to see people getting recognition for working so hard in these areas that often go unrecognised.
The society was thrilled in 2011 to receive the rights to hold the Irish Premiere of Aida. This wonderful big show, the creation of Elton John and Tim Rice, with a storyline from Verdi's opera, was a fitting sequel to the previous year's triumph. For the first time the show was held in the Mercy Secondary School Hall, giving extra scope for a spectacular production. Egyptian pyramids loomed and towering walls and an expansive stage provided a magnificent backdrop to this ancient tale of a forbidden love triangle between the Pharaoh's daughter Amneris (Katie St. John) her fiancé Radames (Shane Kelly) and a captured princess (Bronagh Culkeen). The main roles were supported by Ronan Rooney, Louis Brennan, Kevin O'Dwyer, Amy Byrne and John Mulrooney. Katie St. John was nominated by A.I.M.S. for her compelling portrayal of Amneris. This show was produced on a large scale with striking effect and proved once again that the Marian Choral Society can boldly go where few have gone before.
The Wedding Singer (2013) a funny, entertaining and romantic musical received a nomination for best house management. It took us back to a time when hair was big. greed was good and collars were up! There were no weak links among the principals, with Shane Kelly as his usual confident self and Emer Kelly looking and sounding very authentic as the waitress who chose love over money. Louis Brennan had one of the best numbers of the show and Jane McNamara, in the role of the very unconventional Granny Rosy was an unexpected hit with excellent comic timing.
Hairspray rocked the hall in 2014 with its 1960s dance music and downtown rhythm and blues. There was not a beat skipped. Though a hilarious and lively show, it is a social commentary on the civil rights injustices of American society in the 1960's. A girl, Jennifer Reilly as Tracey, achieves her dreams and brings a community together in the process. Emer Kelly's portrayal of her nemesis was horrifyingly believable and Suzanne Brennan, as her on-stage mother, played her part with vigour and enjoyment and truly deserved her A.I.M.S. nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. A tremendous amount of dedication and hard work is needed to pull off such an endeavour and the Marian Choral Society did it once more.
The 39th show in 2015 was based on the life story of the legendary Granuaile, The Pirate Queen. Grace O'Malley ruled the waves, defying an Empire and the role that society at that time prescribed for women. The score, composed by Alain Boublie and Claude Michel Schomberg, combined classic storytelling and a sweeping vibrant score expressing the character and integrity of the Irish people. Presenting a production of such scale and quality and hoping to do it justice is a serious challenge for any society. However, with its usual perseverance and hard work the Marian Choral Society once again proved they could do it, and do it well. Aileen Newell, as the complex colourful pirate queen and Dave Langan as Tiernan, her one-time love. played their roles to perfection. Her quest to protect her people takes her on a thrilling voyage that climaxes in a heated confrontation with the one woman more powerful than her, Queen Elizabeth I, magnificently portrayed by Fidelma Burke. Jane McNamara in her role as Evleen displayed an impressive command of the difficult discipline of sean-nós singing, and the sean-nós dancers with the powerful heartbeat of the hard shoe all added to the tapestry of the storytelling. This was undoubtedly a wonderful and unique production and a classic performance by all involved. The three A.I.M.S. nominations and two awards won by the society for The Pirate Queen were well deserved.
At all of the wonderful shows that have been staged by the society over the past 40 years, the people not seen on stage have played a vital role in their success. From back-stage to front-of-house, they have worked tirelessly behind the scenes thus ensuring flawless productions. Each show over the years has been very well served by the highly competent group of musicians in the orchestra, who have always added greatly to the power of the occasion. The society is also fortunate in the standard and ability of the people who design, construct and paint sets, change scenes effortlessly, look after make-up and costumes, source props, design, erect, operate and dismantle sound and lighting, look after booking and ticket sales and ensure the smooth running of the box office and front-of-house. They do not share the limelight, but without this able and imaginative team, the best performances would be wasted. A special thanks to all those unsung heroes (many who are no longer with us) who lent props, made phone calls, hammered nails, made tea, curled hair, swept halls, parked cars, cleaned toils, and did many other mundane chores without which the society would not have survived and be what it is say.
It has been a pleasure and a privilege to look back over forty years of musical theatre in Tuam. As the poet Keats wrote autumn has always been a 'season of mist and mellow fruitfulness', a time of slowing down in nature and perhaps ourselves, but for the choral society it has always been a time of energy, fun and trait as they prepare their annual musical. It is an institution in the town with forty years of continuous productions of top quality musical theatre, concerts, themed soirees and music based events. It has a national record in that it has on only one occasion, repeated a show. One thing that has never changed over the years is the consistently hip, quality, which all concerned bring to their respective roles within the society. The experience and talent of the longstanding members compliment the exuberance of the newcomers, whose talents blossom from the influence of their mentors. Tradition has always been an integral force within the society and family groups have always been part of that tradition. There have been many father-daughter, mother-son, married couple duos, and at times complete families on stage. These family-related members spanning the years reflect the great tradition of commitment and dedication that exist within the members of the society. For the past forty years, the society has brought shows to Tuam audiences each Halloween, a mixture of the standard and the new, highlighting the society's unspoken tenet, to go boldly where few have gone before. Through economically harsh times, Celtic Tiger years and recessionary periods, they have produced shows of the highest standard. This has been made possible by all those who have contributed to the four decades of artistic achievement, to the patrons and sponsors for their continuous financial support and especially to the audiences who have consistently filled the seats over the years and have made it all worthwhile.
'Music gives soul to the universe
Wings to the mind
Flight to the imagination
And life to everything.'
(Plato)
Productions:
1977 The Golden Years 1978 The Student Prince
1979 The Gipsy Baron 1980 Guys and Dolls
1981 The Gipsy Princess 1982 My Fair Lady
1983 Carousel 1984 Brigadoon
1985 The Mikado 1986 Jesus Christ Superstar
1987 West Side Story 1988 Camelot
1989 Zorba 1990 Godspell
1991 The Gondoliers 1992 Fiddler on the Roof
1993 Die Fledermaus 1994 Hello Dolly
1995 Anything Goes 1996 Oklahoma
1997 Sweet Charity 1998 Ham
1999 Little Shop of horrors 2000 How to Succeed in Business
2001 Half a Sixpence 2002 Calamity Jane
2003 Me and My Girl 2004 God Bless Archie Dean
2005 Jekyll and Hyde 2006 Wonderful Town
2007 Pirates of Penzance 2008 All 4 One
2009 All Shook Up 2010 Titanic the Musical
2011 AIDA 2012 Flashdance
2013 The Wedding Singer 2014 Hairspray
2015 The Pirate Queen 2016 Chess
Chairpersons:
P.J. Grealish; Sean Smyth (R.I.P); Gerry King; Nuala Kelly; Mary Holigan (R.I.P); Maureen Pierce; Liam Kelly; Caitriona Kilgarriff; Rosaleen O'Connor; Tom Carney; Paddy Hannon; Frank O'Grady and Tara Killilea.
Acknowledgements:
June Skinner, the Complete Guide to Celtic Music (Da Capo Press Boston, 2001)
Tuam Herald (3 September 1960— 25 July 2016)
Brigid Tynan, Tuam Herald (26 December 1992)
"Giolla Mhuire", Tuam Herald (26 March 1977)
M.C.S Press Releases to Connacht Tribune and Tuam Hereald (1977-2016)
Kevin Dwyer, 'Danny Kelly- Musical Genius' Journal of the Old Tuam Society 2014 (Vol. 11)
Minutes Marian Choral Society (1975-85)
Angela Curley took a trip on the Deadwood Stage through the Black Hills of Dakota in Calamity Jane in 2002 and earned an A.I.M.S. nomination as best newcomer for her role in the show.
In 2005, the choral society pulled off quite a coup by securing the rights to the Irish Premiere of Jekyll and Hyde. This production was a very ambitious challenge but the Marian Choral Society had the perfect formula for a memorable masterpiece. This was no ordinary production. It was a stunning and spectacular show. Dave Langan, in his first outing with the society, gave a wonderful performance in the lead role and the music, the singing, the set and the 30-strong chorus were spoken about for a long time afterwards. John Mulrooney excelled as Dr Jekyll's best friend, John Utterson. Cliodhna Hurst wonderfully played his fiancee. Kevin Dwyer portrayed her father and Enda Burke, Mags Mulvey, Kevin Keely, Hugh McGrath, Gerry King and Tom Donoghue were each in their own way perfect. Ann Kirrane gave a terrific performance as Lucy Harris with the show stopping number 'Bring on the Men; All the smaller parts were cast with not a weak link. During that year, the society was deeply saddened by the death of their producer and friend, Joe O' Donoghue. This show was dedicated to his memory. He would have been proud of his former charges who had maintained the high standards set by him.
The society presented Wonderful Town, its 30th consecutive production, in 2006. This was a delightful show full of light-hearted humour, with toe-tapping music by Leonard Bernstein. The society was delighted to see their own Enda Burke make his directorial debut, bringing enthusiasm and energy to rehearsals. The society also welcomed Aoife McClafferty as choreographer. In May 2007, Orla Togher received an A.I.M.S. nomination for her portrayal of Ruth in the show. Thirty years of artistic achievement on the stage was a wonderful milestone for the society and a celebratory concert took place in 2007 as part of Tuam's Arts Festival, aptly named '30 Golden Years.' It consisted of various chorus numbers as well as solos, duets and groups from past and present members, which were a joy to hear, and brought back many happy memories to the audience. The society also held an exhibition in the Town Hall, which consisted of photos, posters, programmes and memorabilia from the various shows: a fitting tribute to 30 years.
The pirate ship was in full sail, hotly pursued by lovely maidens and not so lovely police officers, in 2007 when the comic opera The Pirates of Penance by Gilbert and Sullivan was staged. The last Gilbert and Sullivan show had been The Gondoliers in 1991. For the first time Shane Kelly, with his fine voice, took the lead, partnered by Clodhna Hurst. Ronan Lardner gave a tour-de-force rendition of 'A Model Major General' and John Duggan's voice and stature gave great creditability to his role as sergeant.
When the society choose All 4 One (a musical inspired by the books of Alexandre Dumas) in 2008, little did they think that before they took to the boards in St. Jarlath's College hall, they would lose their guiding light for the previous 30 years. Following a short illness Noël Kirrane passed on to the heavenly choir on the 11th September 2008. Words are inadequate when describing what Noël meant to the Marian Choral Society. During all those years, he was largely responsible for broadening the artistic and musical horizons of the society. He was a perfectionist in all he did and through a mixture of coaxing, cajoling and encouragement he kept the true spirit of the society alive, i.e. to bring great musical entertainment to the people of Tuam. His legacy endures:
Phantom faces at the window
Phantom shadows on the floor
Empty chain at empty tables
Where my friends will meet no more
Having never repeated a show since its foundation (with the exception in 2013 to commemorate the Tuam 400 celebrations), it is a challenge to stage lesser-known musicals but with All 4 One the Marian Choral Society proved their resilience and the production was a resounding success. Dedicated to the late Noël Kirrane (whose family were adamant that the tradition of the annual show should not be abandoned), it was full of verve and energy. The costumes were superb, lighting was excellent and it had a first rate chorus. Shane Farrell (at just 18 years of age) proved himself a worthy successor to his mentor Noël. Shane Kelly was a first class d'Artagnan, with John Duggan, Louis Brennan and Ronan Lardner as the three older musketeers. Angela Curley had the romantic lead with Orla Togher, Olivia Monaghan and Delma Burke all bringing personality and experience to their roles.
The Elvis inspired jukebox musical All Shook Up was the choice for 2009. This was an entertaining and witty story being told to the backdrop of favourite Elvis songs. Louis Brennan played the principal male role to great effect (stepping up to his first leading role) and opposite him, Michelle Lawless played Natalie. Margaret Mulvey played Mayor Matilda, the slightly tyrannical mayor who had outlawed music and dance in the town hilariously. It was a hugely entertaining show with standout scenes displaying the combined talents of director, choreographer and ensemble cast.
One of the society's most eagerly anticipated productions took place in 2010 with the show Titanic-The Musical. At the launch, the society was commended for their courage and confidence in taking on such a huge show. The musical, a powerful emotional heart-breaking show was a resounding success. The cast was big, with more principal parts than usual, the orchestra worked so well together under the baton of Shane Farrell, the wardrobe co-ordinated by Rita Courtney was flawless, the direction and choreography by Enda Burke and Aoife McClafferty was wonderful and the set design under Eugene Finnegan was magnificent. The stage manager Aaron Tyler and his crew changed props and scenery effortlessly. An event as big as this reflects the good will and help of a tremendous number of people and many hours of hard work. The demand for tickets after the opening night resulted in the entire week being sold out by Wednesday evening, a testament to how the society had risen to the challenge and succeeded. At the A.I.M.S. nominations the following May 2011, Titanic received two nominations; Best House Manager, Liam Kelly with his front of house team, and in particular Patricia King Callaghan for the wonderful Titanic display in the marquee and The Spirit of AIMS award for 'Innovative ideas for Props and Set.' It was great to see people getting recognition for working so hard in these areas that often go unrecognised.
The society was thrilled in 2011 to receive the rights to hold the Irish Premiere of Aida. This wonderful big show, the creation of Elton John and Tim Rice, with a storyline from Verdi's opera, was a fitting sequel to the previous year's triumph. For the first time the show was held in the Mercy Secondary School Hall, giving extra scope for a spectacular production. Egyptian pyramids loomed and towering walls and an expansive stage provided a magnificent backdrop to this ancient tale of a forbidden love triangle between the Pharaoh's daughter Amneris (Katie St. John) her fiancé Radames (Shane Kelly) and a captured princess (Bronagh Culkeen). The main roles were supported by Ronan Rooney, Louis Brennan, Kevin O'Dwyer, Amy Byrne and John Mulrooney. Katie St. John was nominated by A.I.M.S. for her compelling portrayal of Amneris. This show was produced on a large scale with striking effect and proved once again that the Marian Choral Society can boldly go where few have gone before.
The Wedding Singer (2013) a funny, entertaining and romantic musical received a nomination for best house management. It took us back to a time when hair was big. greed was good and collars were up! There were no weak links among the principals, with Shane Kelly as his usual confident self and Emer Kelly looking and sounding very authentic as the waitress who chose love over money. Louis Brennan had one of the best numbers of the show and Jane McNamara, in the role of the very unconventional Granny Rosy was an unexpected hit with excellent comic timing.
Hairspray rocked the hall in 2014 with its 1960s dance music and downtown rhythm and blues. There was not a beat skipped. Though a hilarious and lively show, it is a social commentary on the civil rights injustices of American society in the 1960's. A girl, Jennifer Reilly as Tracey, achieves her dreams and brings a community together in the process. Emer Kelly's portrayal of her nemesis was horrifyingly believable and Suzanne Brennan, as her on-stage mother, played her part with vigour and enjoyment and truly deserved her A.I.M.S. nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. A tremendous amount of dedication and hard work is needed to pull off such an endeavour and the Marian Choral Society did it once more.
The 39th show in 2015 was based on the life story of the legendary Granuaile, The Pirate Queen. Grace O'Malley ruled the waves, defying an Empire and the role that society at that time prescribed for women. The score, composed by Alain Boublie and Claude Michel Schomberg, combined classic storytelling and a sweeping vibrant score expressing the character and integrity of the Irish people. Presenting a production of such scale and quality and hoping to do it justice is a serious challenge for any society. However, with its usual perseverance and hard work the Marian Choral Society once again proved they could do it, and do it well. Aileen Newell, as the complex colourful pirate queen and Dave Langan as Tiernan, her one-time love. played their roles to perfection. Her quest to protect her people takes her on a thrilling voyage that climaxes in a heated confrontation with the one woman more powerful than her, Queen Elizabeth I, magnificently portrayed by Fidelma Burke. Jane McNamara in her role as Evleen displayed an impressive command of the difficult discipline of sean-nós singing, and the sean-nós dancers with the powerful heartbeat of the hard shoe all added to the tapestry of the storytelling. This was undoubtedly a wonderful and unique production and a classic performance by all involved. The three A.I.M.S. nominations and two awards won by the society for The Pirate Queen were well deserved.
At all of the wonderful shows that have been staged by the society over the past 40 years, the people not seen on stage have played a vital role in their success. From back-stage to front-of-house, they have worked tirelessly behind the scenes thus ensuring flawless productions. Each show over the years has been very well served by the highly competent group of musicians in the orchestra, who have always added greatly to the power of the occasion. The society is also fortunate in the standard and ability of the people who design, construct and paint sets, change scenes effortlessly, look after make-up and costumes, source props, design, erect, operate and dismantle sound and lighting, look after booking and ticket sales and ensure the smooth running of the box office and front-of-house. They do not share the limelight, but without this able and imaginative team, the best performances would be wasted. A special thanks to all those unsung heroes (many who are no longer with us) who lent props, made phone calls, hammered nails, made tea, curled hair, swept halls, parked cars, cleaned toils, and did many other mundane chores without which the society would not have survived and be what it is say.
It has been a pleasure and a privilege to look back over forty years of musical theatre in Tuam. As the poet Keats wrote autumn has always been a 'season of mist and mellow fruitfulness', a time of slowing down in nature and perhaps ourselves, but for the choral society it has always been a time of energy, fun and trait as they prepare their annual musical. It is an institution in the town with forty years of continuous productions of top quality musical theatre, concerts, themed soirees and music based events. It has a national record in that it has on only one occasion, repeated a show. One thing that has never changed over the years is the consistently hip, quality, which all concerned bring to their respective roles within the society. The experience and talent of the longstanding members compliment the exuberance of the newcomers, whose talents blossom from the influence of their mentors. Tradition has always been an integral force within the society and family groups have always been part of that tradition. There have been many father-daughter, mother-son, married couple duos, and at times complete families on stage. These family-related members spanning the years reflect the great tradition of commitment and dedication that exist within the members of the society. For the past forty years, the society has brought shows to Tuam audiences each Halloween, a mixture of the standard and the new, highlighting the society's unspoken tenet, to go boldly where few have gone before. Through economically harsh times, Celtic Tiger years and recessionary periods, they have produced shows of the highest standard. This has been made possible by all those who have contributed to the four decades of artistic achievement, to the patrons and sponsors for their continuous financial support and especially to the audiences who have consistently filled the seats over the years and have made it all worthwhile.
'Music gives soul to the universe
Wings to the mind
Flight to the imagination
And life to everything.'
(Plato)
Productions:
1977 The Golden Years 1978 The Student Prince
1979 The Gipsy Baron 1980 Guys and Dolls
1981 The Gipsy Princess 1982 My Fair Lady
1983 Carousel 1984 Brigadoon
1985 The Mikado 1986 Jesus Christ Superstar
1987 West Side Story 1988 Camelot
1989 Zorba 1990 Godspell
1991 The Gondoliers 1992 Fiddler on the Roof
1993 Die Fledermaus 1994 Hello Dolly
1995 Anything Goes 1996 Oklahoma
1997 Sweet Charity 1998 Ham
1999 Little Shop of horrors 2000 How to Succeed in Business
2001 Half a Sixpence 2002 Calamity Jane
2003 Me and My Girl 2004 God Bless Archie Dean
2005 Jekyll and Hyde 2006 Wonderful Town
2007 Pirates of Penzance 2008 All 4 One
2009 All Shook Up 2010 Titanic the Musical
2011 AIDA 2012 Flashdance
2013 The Wedding Singer 2014 Hairspray
2015 The Pirate Queen 2016 Chess
Chairpersons:
P.J. Grealish; Sean Smyth (R.I.P); Gerry King; Nuala Kelly; Mary Holigan (R.I.P); Maureen Pierce; Liam Kelly; Caitriona Kilgarriff; Rosaleen O'Connor; Tom Carney; Paddy Hannon; Frank O'Grady and Tara Killilea.
Acknowledgements:
June Skinner, the Complete Guide to Celtic Music (Da Capo Press Boston, 2001)
Tuam Herald (3 September 1960— 25 July 2016)
Brigid Tynan, Tuam Herald (26 December 1992)
"Giolla Mhuire", Tuam Herald (26 March 1977)
M.C.S Press Releases to Connacht Tribune and Tuam Hereald (1977-2016)
Kevin Dwyer, 'Danny Kelly- Musical Genius' Journal of the Old Tuam Society 2014 (Vol. 11)
Minutes Marian Choral Society (1975-85)
