Charity calendar launched in aid of Midlands Regional Hospice Tullamore

The launch of a charity calendar in aid of the Midlands Regional Hospice Tullamore by Fun House Theatre was a great success in the Old Warehouse, Tullamore on Saturday last.

All profits from the sale of the calendar will go directly towards the funding of a new hospice located in Tullamore that will serve the communities of Laois, Offaly, Longford, and Westmeath.

The calendar costs €10 and will be available for purchase on the Offaly Hospice website, at select locations locally and from the Front of House team during the week of 'Calendar Girls The Musical' in Esker Arts Centre. You can also pick up a copy at the pop-up shop this Friday, April 26 in the Bridge Centre, Tullamore.

The Calendar launch was enhanced by a Waxing Auction fundraiser, where some well-known local faces donated their hair to the cause. The auction was facilitated by the waxing experts from Tullamore beauty salon Nakid by Sharon Leavy, who were there on the night to ensure that the wax was properly administered. However, the hair removal went to the highest bidders.

There was great fun and frolics had by all who attended, with funds being raised for both the Midlands Regional Hospice fund and the first musical production of Fun House Theatre Company, which will perform 'Calendar Girls the Musical' in Esker Arts Centre, Tullamore, from May 1 to May 5.

This captivating production is inspired by the heartwarming 2003 film 'Calendar Girls,' which featured renowned actresses Helen Mirren and Julie Walters. The story was beautifully adapted for the theatrical stage by Tim Firth in 2008 and made its musical debut in 2015, enriched by the musical genius of Gary Barlow.

Under the direction of the Aims award-winning Pat McElwain, the show boasts a remarkable ensemble cast drawn from the vibrant Midlands region. The production's dynamic movement is choreographed by Chris Corroon, with Shane Farrell leading as the musical director. Highlighting local talent, the show stars Jay Origan, Amanda Cunningham, and Sinead Handy, names well-known and loved by local theatregoers.

In an exciting collaboration, Fun House has partnered with the Midland Regional Hospice Tullamore Fund, encouraging audiences to support the development of this vital local service through various collaborative fundraisers and collections. Additionally, exclusive prints by Emma Campbell Artist and a unique charity calendar, created by members of the community, will be available for purchase, contributing further to this noble cause.

There will be six performances of the show from May 1 to May 5, including a matinee performance on the 5th. Tickets are available on the Esker Arts website www.eskerarts.ie. Tickets are almost sold out so make sure to get the last remaining few before it’s too late.