“One of the classic memories I have involves the much loved and famous Paddy O’ Shea”

–Roger Harty

“AS I reflect back on my time with Tralee Musical Society it leaves me with so many warm and exciting memories. One of the classic memories that I have involves the much loved and famous Paddy O’ Shea (AKA Paddy Doe) from The Mitchels.

“The Year was 1992 and the show was ‘Oklahoma’ - please excuse my memory, but I think the show was produced by David Gordon RIP (of Irish Ballet fame). The leading man was Oliver Hurley and also one of the leading roles, Jud, was played by Con Murphy. In fact, Con replaced Noel Keenan for this role at a very late stage as Noel was injured in rehearsals – a true example of the show must go on.

“There is a very important scene in the show where Jud dies and his funeral is presented on stage. Because of the speed involved with costume changes, it was decided Paddy O’ Shea would play the part of the corpse of Jud in the coffin as it was paraded across the stage of Siamsa.

“Paddy played a ‘stormer’ all week but the climax came on the final night of the show. The tensions were building and all the leading roles were getting an extra bit of applause - along with all the nostalgia and excitement. You could feel it in the air as the scene with coffin (with Paddy in it!) along with pall-bearers entered the stage. There was a tumultuous cheer for Paddy and with that a hand appeared out of the coffin waving frantically to the crowd – Paddy was going to enjoy his moment of glory. Needless to say the whole theatre and cast for that matter erupted in laughter. “Thank you Tralee Musical Society for so many wonderful memories. Here’s to the next 30-years and all I need to say now is…that’s entertainment.”