Local Tipperary musical society to hold anniversary celebration ahead of upcoming show

Thurles Musical Society is stepping joyfully into a landmark year as rehearsals recommence for their much-anticipated Hunchback of Notre Dame production, set to light up the stage this March.

As part of its 75th anniversary celebrations, the Society will host a black-tie gala ball in the Anner Hotel on Saturday, January 24, a night the Society says is destined to sparkle with music, memories and celebration.

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The Society says it has already been a wonderfully full and festive season for them.

Back in September, a memorable gala concert celebrating 75 years of musical theatre in Thurles took place in the Premier Hall.

The evening brought together performers from across the decades, with a lovingly curated programme that paid tribute to the many productions staged in Delahunty’s Cinema, the Confraternity Hall and the Premier Hall since 1951, a true celebration of a rich and colourful theatrical journey.

With a proud and storied history, the Society has, from its earliest days, delivered musical theatre of the highest calibre to local audiences.

That love for live performance has been passed down through generations, with today’s theatre-goers often recalling being first introduced to the magic of the stage by parents and grandparents many years ago.

That same sense of continuity and belonging shines brightly on stage too, where many current members proudly follow in the footsteps of family members who once played their own roles under the spotlight.

This deep-rooted musical family spirit is at the very heart of the Society, and it will be warmly reflected at the gala ball, which is expected to welcome over 200 guests.

They say the evening promises a nostalgic journey down memory lane, with treasured images and video celebrating the Society’s past, while guests enjoy five-star hospitality from the team at the Anner Hotel.

A drinks reception at 7pm will be followed by a meal, before the dance floor comes alive to the sounds of the Papa Zitas.

With music, song and dancing guaranteed well into the early hours, they say it promises to be a night to remember.

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“We are truly looking forward to this very special event, which will be a heartfelt celebration of our 75 years,” said Chairperson Noel Dundon.

“Ireland has changed enormously over the past seven-and-a-half decades, and there were many times when staging our annual production was challenging. Yet, thanks to the resilience, dedication and passion of committees over the years, the show always went on — except during the Covid period when gatherings were impossible. Even then, we adapted and performed online, which really highlighted just how vital our audiences are to everything we do.”

“We are extending a warm and open invitation to everyone to join us for this black-tie celebration. It promises to be a truly glittering evening. The organising committee, led by our former Chairperson and current Honorary President, Mary Butler, has worked tirelessly to ensure every detail is just right. This will be a special night not only for our Musical Society, but for Thurles itself, and we would love people to come along, share in the celebration and be part of the next chapter of our story.”

Tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration are priced at €85 and are available from committee members or via the Society’s Facebook or Instagram pages.