Secondary school students bring Footloose to life on a Tipperary stage

At the end of October Coláiste Dún Iascaigh lit up the school hall with its vibrant production of Footloose, marking another high point in a proud tradition of school musicals since 1997. This 25th production once again showcased the wealth of talent within the school, with audiences rising to their feet each night in appreciation of the dedication and hard work evident in every polished moment on stage.

Two months of effort came together seamlessly in this production, with dance routines finely tuned, lines meticulously learned, and songs powerfully performed. The sets were beautifully designed, and a full stage was built from scratch—all contributing to outstanding performances that resonated with audiences across all three nights.

This production that was produced by Ms. Norma Barry-Hurley, Ms. Judith Shortall, and ably assisted by stage manager Ms. Laura Farrell, brought together over 150 students whose talents were shaped into a true spectacle. Principal Mr. Creedon expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff whose tireless commitment, expertise, and support were instrumental in bringing this production to life. He noted, “Our Coláiste is built on a foundation of strong, positive relationships between students and staff, and this spirit has shone through these past weeks."

Mr. Creedon also extended a special thank you to the Parents' Association for their invaluable support, underscoring how essential their involvement is in making productions like this possible. He also thanked all parents for their patience and dedication in supporting their children’s participation.

SPIRITED TEENAGER
Footloose follows the story of Ren, a spirited teenager from Chicago who finds himself adjusting to life in a small farming town where dancing is prohibited. This rule, enforced by the local preacher, adds tension to Ren’s high school experience as he faces resistance from the reverend's daughter and her jealous boyfriend, who seeks to tarnish Ren's reputation. The tale beautifully weaves themes of family, loss, and the struggle for connection in a small-town setting, providing a touching exploration of love and resilience.

Tipperary audiences were left spellbound by Oliver performances

Clonmel High School and Presentation students combine to put on a marvellous spectacle

MEMORABLE SONGS
The students brought these characters to life with remarkable energy and skill, filling the hall with captivating performances, memorable songs, and undeniable passion. The youth of the Cahir area have once again delivered a production that will be fondly remembered for years to come.