Tipperary musical society get set to perform exciting new show

Thurles Musical Society’s much anticipated 75th Anniversary show is finally here, running in the Premier Hall Thurles, from September 10 to 12 at 8pm.

The group welcomes back Oliver Hurley as the Director and Choreographer, and their own Mary Rose McNally as Musical Director.

Both are supported by a production team that includes Mary Callanan as Production Manager, Siobhan King as Dance Captain, Anthony Kirby as Stage Manager, and Rita Dempsey as Stage Director.

The choice of Come From Away is particularly fitting, set against the backdrop of the 25th anniversary of the events of September 11 2001.

It tells the story of one of the darkest days in modern history, a tragedy that claimed almost 3,000 lives and changed the world forever.

Following the immediate closure of US airspace, 38 planes carrying 6,579 passengers were diverted to a small town on the edge of the Atlantic ocean in Newfoundland, called Gander.

With a cast of 12, all playing multiple real world characters, Come From Away is a one-act musical following a community that rallies to welcome their unexpected guests who are stranded for almost a week.

In a dark moment, the Newfoundland Islanders and the Come From Away find hope, love, and friendship when they least expect it.

Noel Dundon, TMS Chairperson said: “We are delighted to bring Come From Away to Tipperary audiences, the first time this remarkable musical has been staged in The Premier County. It is somewhat unusual for us to present a second major production in September, following the tremendous success of The Hunchback of Notre Dame earlier this year.

“This production marks the conclusion of our 75th anniversary celebrations, a milestone we have been commemorating through a series of events over the past twelve months. As we bring those celebrations to a close, we do so with pride in our past and confidence in our future as we look ahead to our centenary in 2050/51 and beyond.”

With Book, Music and Lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Come From Away was initially developed for the Canadian Music Theatre Project following the 10th anniversary of 9/11, but grew to massive success on Broadway, the West End and globally in the years that followed.

The society says they are also honoured to be able to highlight local connections to the events around Gander and 9/11, saying they are very grateful to those local people who were willing to share their stories with them, and that you will have to come along to find out more.

Keep an eye on Thurles Musical Society’s social media for sneak peaks on rehearsals and other backstage stories from our cast and crew.

Tickets for Come From Away are €25 and available on gr8events.ie, and can also be booked through Bookworm Thurles.