Carnew Musical Society returns with Oklahoma!
THE STAGE is set at St Brigid’s Hall in Carnew as Carnew Musical Society makes its return for its 53rd annual production with a rendition of the popular musical Oklahoma! from Monday, November 25, to Saturday, November 30 at 8 p.m. nightly.
Not the first time the society has performed the musical, fans may remember the scene is set in the countryside of Oklahoma, USA, and tells the story of farm girl Laurey and her courtship with two rival suitors, cowboy Curly and farmhand Jud Fry.
The background theme delves into local conflict between cattlemen and farmers at the turn of the 19th century in America.
The director this year is Michael Dunbar with musical direction from Lar Duffy.
Mary Doran of the Carnew Musical Society said that all of the team are expecting huge support this year once again.
‘We have a great spread of young talent this year, especially the dancers choreographed by Frances Ryan. Everyone has been fabulous, as we have been rehearsing since September and at the moment we are rehearsing every night.
‘We’d be hoping for an amazing response as we always get. Carnew Musical Society very much has a family atmosphere, so once you’re in it you’re there for life,’ she said.
There appears to be a generational aspect to Carnew Musical Society, as characters such as Laurey and Curly have been played previously by some members, and they were on hand to pass on advice to this year’s actors.
‘The last time we did Oklahoma! was 1996, and now we have three previous Curly’s and another Laurey in the show again. One man, Sean Hallahan, is a founder member and will perform for his 51st year in a row’.
A banner for the show is hanging proudly over St Brigid’s Hall, and Mary explained that the musical always brings the whole community together.
‘The very talented Louise and Denis Fox always do a fabulous job on the signs. We announced the cast in July and really it has been hectic since. We are expecting a great show,’ she said.
A large raffle, the super draw, will take place on the final Saturday night after the final curtain.
Tickets can be booked in advance through cast or committee members, and on opening night tickets are €10 for the floor, €18 or €16 for balcony and €18 for the balcony and €15 for the floor every other night of the week.
All money raised ticket sales and the raffle will go towards next year’s musical preparations.