The INISH Theatre Group welcomed the President of the Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS), Gerard Sweeney (Gerry), to Buncrana on Saturday night to attend the group’s latest production at St Mary’s Hall.
The group enjoyed a successful production of Beauty and the Beast the Musical which ran from March 1 until March 7 in St Mary’s Hall.
Mr Sweeney travelled from Ballinasloe to see first-hand the work the group has been developing since its establishment just three years ago. His visit marked an important milestone for the rapidly growing theatre group and its members.
During his stay in Buncrana, Mr Sweeney was warmly welcomed and hosted by The Harbour Inn, where he stayed while attending the production. He spoke highly of Buncrana, describing it as a beautiful town, and the visit also provided an opportunity to showcase the wider Inishowen area and the Wild Atlantic Way. Representatives from the Inish Theatre Group also took the opportunity to encourage the possibility of more national AIMS – Association of Irish Musical Societies – events being hosted in the North West in the future.
Speaking following the performance, Mr Sweeney praised the production, describing it as highly professional and commending the impressive progress the group has made in such a short time.
“For a group that has only been established for three years, Inish Theatre Group has achieved an incredible amount and grown at a remarkable pace,” he said. “There is a wonderful sense of community within the group and a real energy and charisma among the cast and crew. The potential for the future is very exciting.”
Mr Sweeney also highlighted the group’s Musical Theatre School as one of the most impressive aspects of the organisation. He noted the strong level of talent among the young performers and spoke positively about the inclusive environment that allows performers of all ages to take part.
“The future is very bright with the talented young people involved. It was fantastic to see performers of all ages on stage, from eight-year-olds right through to senior members of the group,” he added.
He also commented on the importance of St Mary’s Hall as a theatre venue within the community, describing it as a beautiful and iconic space for local productions.
Mr Sweeney was complimentary about the entire team behind the production, including the front-of-house volunteers, kitchen team, hair and makeup artists, costume department, backstage crew, technical team and performers.
Mr Sweeney along with some of the members of Inish Theatre Group.
Inish Theatre Group expressed its sincere thanks to Mr Sweeney for making the journey to Buncrana and for his encouragement and support.
“As we continue to grow, we hope to create more opportunities for our members to perform and develop on a national stage while continuing to build something special here in Buncrana.”
Inish Theatre Group also expressed the hope that Mr Sweeney’s visit will be the first of many to the Inishowen peninsula in the years ahead.
