Gaelscoil magic triumphs at All-Ireland drama festival with ‘Aladdin’ as Gaeilge
The Gaelscoil students perform 'A friend like me'
GAELSCOIL Eoghain Uí Thuairisc has achieved remarkable success on the national stage, bringing home the highest accolade in Irish-language school drama at Féile Scoildrámaíochta.
The school won the All-Ireland drama competition in Mullingar on Wednesday 9 April at the Féile Scoildrámaíochta finals. The Carlow Gaelscoil not only claimed first place in its category but also secured the prestigious overall prize of Scothlérití na Féile (best overall performance).
The students delivered a vibrant Irish-language reimagining of featuring Irish versions of beloved classics such as and , complete with choreographed dance routines.
This victory follows earlier successes in Coirm – Gael Linn’s celebrated drama festival – and the local and regional rounds of Cumann Scoildrámaíochta.
Principal Ruth Ní Chearbhalláin praised the students’ dedication: “For months, the students poured heart and soul into rehearsals, sacrificing lunch breaks and practicing after school under the expert direction of Muinteoir Jill and Muinteoir Clár.
“The performers, directors and their ever-dedicated backstage crew, drawn from the senior classes, travelled en masse to Co Westmeath, accompanied by a busload of loyal supporters brimming with anticipation,” she added.
The principal described how the festival transformed Mullingar into “a hive of creativity and excitement” over six lively days, with schools participating from across the country.
“As one would expect from a competition of this calibre, the standard was nothing short of exceptional. Schools from every corner of the country, from West Kerry to the Donegal Gaeltacht, brought their A-game,” said Ms Ní Chearbhalláin.
She paid tribute to her pupils, stating: “This incredible achievement is a testament not only to the talent of our students but to their dedication, teamwork and ‘grá don teanga’. They’ve shown what can happen when young people are empowered to express themselves creatively through our native language.”
The principal specifically acknowledged the teachers who led the project: “I want to especially recognise An M Jill and An M Clár, whose vision, passion and countless hours of preparation made this success possible. Their commitment went far beyond the classroom and their belief in the children inspired everyone involved.”
An Cumann Scoildrámaíochta expressed gratitude on social media to all who participated in the competition, posting: ‘We would like to thank every group that took part and helped us to have another excellent festival this year.’
