Junior and Rural Stage Schools present end-of-year shows

Excitement was high at Mullingar Arts Centre when the Junior and Rural Stage Schools presented their end-of-year shows.

The theatre was crowded on both evenings as children aged 7-12 captivated audiences with a dazzling display of talent.

For many of the performers, it was their first experience of being part of a big production. It was also the first time the end-of-year shows had been held in four years due to Covid-19 restrictions, and that contributed to the uplifting atmosphere and a strong sense of community spirit at both events.

“Getting up on stage can be quite tough, especially if it’s your first time,” said Sarah Nally, who is head of all the stage schools at Mullingar Arts Centre.

“Our Stage School members showed great energy, determination, passion and talent as they took to the stage to perform to their families and friends. We are extremely proud of each and every one of them.”

Rural Stage Schools run in Loughegar, Rathwire, Kinnegad, Delvin and Rochfortbridge, and Junior Stage School is based at Mullingar Arts Centre.

The Junior and Rural Stage Schools were joined by special guests from other arts centre groups including Across the Boards, MAC Ballet School, Sweet Tunes Choir, and Mullingar Youth Theatre.

Seeing the older groups in action as well as being on stage themselves gave the students a chance to see where their tuition might lead.

“Students get the opportunity to perform throughout the year in class time and other community events and projects such as the St Patrick’s Day parade, Cruinnuí na nÓg, Culture Night and so on, but the stage in the arts centre is special to them,” said Sarah.

“There they experience full lights, sounds and costumes; it’s a wonderful opportunity.”

As the curtain fell on the second evening (June 21), Seán Lynch, director of Mullingar Arts Centre, presented flowers and thanked Sarah Nally and her team of tutors Sarah Corrigan, Clelia Rossi, Sam Gilmartin and Claire Gilmartin, for their hard work and dedication.

Seán also thanked the children attending the stage school, their parents and guardians for enrolling them, and all the patrons of the arts centre, for making it one of the liveliest and best-attended venues in Ireland.

Junior and rural stage schools resume in September.

In the meantime, a range of summer caps will run over the summer.

Visit mullingarartscentre.ie for more information.