Wexford musical societies hit all the right notes at AIMS national awards
The Enniscorthy Musical Society were ecstatic to come home with the award for Best Visual for their performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and were recognised for a Special Adjudicators Award.
PRO for the society Emily Boyne said they were grateful to be nominated overall for three awards; Best Visual (Costumes, Props, Hair and Makeup), Best Male Singer for Richard O'Toole as Joseph and the Adjudicator's Special Award for their cast of eleven brothers.
"It was a fantastic experience. Even to be nominated is such incredible recognition for all the hard work that went in to 'Joseph.' The show was a huge success, with standing ovations every night, and even more than one on a few occasions and we were so delighted to see it's success recognised nationally with the nominations,' she said.
She explained that 26 members attended the event, which they see as a great occasion to celebrate talent from across Ireland while meeting their fellow musical peers.
"I think the cheers when Enniscorthy Musical Society was announced as the winner of the Best Visual Award could be heard all the way in Enniscorthy. The Visuals of a show can make it or break it and we are so thrilled to have been recognised in such an important category. '
"Richard and the eleven brothers were runners up in their categories, both of which were tough categories with incredible talent on stage alongside them. We're so proud of them for all their hard work, and know their futures are so bright, it definitely won't be their last time on that stage as nominees,' she added.
The Carnew Musical Society were over the moon to see member Jacinta Kavanagh receive the Unsung Hero Award.
Chair of the society, Lorna Doran McEvoy, described Jacinta as the true cornerstone of their society and a champion of amateur musical theatre.
"Jacinta joined Carnew Musical Society in 1990 for our production of 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' and while she may not have had an onstage wedding that year, she has enjoyed a happy 35 year marriage to Carnew Musical Society ever since!' she said.
With many roles in the society, she has served as the treasurer, leader of fundraising activities, and pro costume designer while off the stage.
"Jacinta is a costume powerhouse having led our costume team with passion and dedication since 1996, always working long hours behind the scenes to ensure each and every character and chorus member is costumed in accordance with the production team's vision and that the fit and detail for every costume is the best it can be. It is not unusual to find Jacinta taking home costumes during show week to wash them and to organise any necessary repairs - while simultaneously preparing floats for front of house. Jacinta always juggles her duties with grace and humour.'
"In every action, Jacinta champions the values at the core of AIMS - passion for performance, selfless service, community spirit, and unwavering support for others. She lifts others up, leads by example, and inspires through her quiet, consistent excellence,' she added.
The Oyster Lane Theatre Group took home the Best Stage Management (Colin Murphy) award and was recognised as third place in Best Overall Show for A Christmas Carol (Gilbert Section).
PRO Freya Murphy said the wins held particular significance as they reached a milestone anniversary in the club.
"These achievements are a true testament to the exceptional talent, commitment, and heart shown by everyone involved in this unforgettable production. From our dedicated cast and crew to the countless volunteers working behind the scenes, your passion and professionalism brought this Irish premiere to life in spectacular fashion.'
"This recognition is made even more meaningful as it coincides with our 30th anniversary year. To have our milestone production celebrated on a national stage is something we will cherish forever.'
She highlighted that their success would not have been possible without the support they have received from the community and loved ones.
"Thank you to every single person who had any involvement in getting 'A Christmas Carol' to the stage, committee, cast, chorus, crew, production team, sponsors, audience members, without all of you the show would not go on. You were all part of making it possible to place third Best Overall Show in Ireland and are so very proud,' they said.
The North Wexford Musical Theatre were equally chuffed to win Best Ensemble for the 'Left Behind' scene in Spring Awakening (Gilbert Section).
The group had a wonderful time at the festivities, where they mingled and celebrated the wide array of talent in the musical scene of Ireland.
"We're so proud to stand alongside so many talented societies, massive congratulations to all winners, nominees, and every single person who brought a show to life this season. What a community to be a part of!'
Rounding out Wexford's stellar weekend, The Wexford Light Opera Society took home Best Technical and Best Musical Director (David Hayes) for Young Frankenstein (Gilbert Section).
"Huge thanks to everyone who supports us. Nights like these mean the world to us!' they said.
Mayor Catherine Walsh, who is also a member of the Association of Irish Musical Societies National Council, extended her congratulations to all the groups in 'proving Wexford leads the way as always in the Arts.'
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