Young talent to hit the high notes in West Limerick school's first show

FOR THE first time ever, Rathkeale’s Coláiste na Trócaire is gearing up to host a school show and it’s going to be guided by some of the best musical minds in West Limerick.

The musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, is being performed mainly by transition year students, with some help from the general school population.

Deputy principal of the school, Susan Brown, is one of the directors of the Newcastle West Musical Society and is also involved in the Broadford Youth Choir. She will be joining music teacher Jean O’Brien, who is also very well-known for her musical performances, both nationally and internationally, in steering the production.

“This is the first time that the school has put on a musical, and the cast is mainly made up of the transition years, but it has students right through from first year to sixth year in it,” said Susan.

“The concept began last September and we’ve been really rehearsing since November. We have around 80 kids taking part,” she added.

There are also some exciting talents starring in the show. Playing the role of Joseph is Eoin Bourke, a rising star in the local music scene. And Shane Prior is promised to put in an amazing performance as Pharaoh - “a really special voice to be heard,” said Susan.

This is the first time that the two teachers have taken on a project of this scale together, and with a wealth of technical musical knowledge between them, the performances are sure to hit the high notes.

The production is working closely with the team at the Rathkeale Community Centre, where the show will be staged on March 13 and 14 at 8pm.

Tickets are only available directly from the school at 069 63147, and those interested are being told to act fast, as the tickets are proving popular.