Schools' joint production of musical ‘Grease’ wows Carlow audiences

Schools' joint production of musical ‘Grease’ wows Carlow audiences

Sandy surrounded by her friends, The Pink Ladies, in the much-loved musical, Grease

TWO schools from Carlow town joined forces to create a much-loved musical that showcased their excellent talent.

Transition-year students from Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach and St Marys’ Academy CBS joined forces for their musical production of Grease and, over the course of three nights, wowed audiences.

Cast members during the St Mary's Academy CBS and Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach presentation of ‘Grease’ in the George Bernard Shaw Theatre in Visual Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
Cast members during the St Mary's Academy CBS and Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach presentation of ‘Grease’ in the George Bernard Shaw Theatre in Visual Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie

Ryan Nolan as Danny Zuko, Kiyah Nì Dhuinn as Sandy
Ryan Nolan as Danny Zuko, Kiyah Nì Dhuinn as Sandy

Érin Ní Dhálaigh as Rizzo, Mia Ní Fhearail as Marty, Sarah Táth as Jan, Alannah Ní Lannchaidh as Frenchy and Kiyah Nì Dhuinn as Sandy
Érin Ní Dhálaigh as Rizzo, Mia Ní Fhearail as Marty, Sarah Táth as Jan, Alannah Ní Lannchaidh as Frenchy and Kiyah Nì Dhuinn as Sandy

Principal of St Mary's Academy CBS Fiona Lennon, right, with Orlagh Ní Fhaolain, principal of Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach, dressed as Pink Ladies
Principal of St Mary's Academy CBS Fiona Lennon, right, with Orlagh Ní Fhaolain, principal of Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach, dressed as Pink Ladies

In the audience were Mirian Ibriham and Divine Ndlovu
In the audience were Mirian Ibriham and Divine Ndlovu

Paul, Líadan and Orlaith Hennessy with Caoimhe and Sean Óg Uí Fhearaíl
Paul, Líadan and Orlaith Hennessy with Caoimhe and Sean Óg Uí Fhearaíl

Nicole, Keith, Emer and Isabelle Fennelly
Nicole, Keith, Emer and Isabelle Fennelly

Rafael Rengi as Doody on stage with cast members
Rafael Rengi as Doody on stage with cast members

Sinead Cullen and Sean Kealy
Sinead Cullen and Sean Kealy

The show, staged in Visual, was a spectacular success, drawing packed audiences each evening, who were transported back to the vibrant world of Rydell High.

From the moment the curtain rose, it was clear that months of rehearsals had paid off. The cast performed with confidence and charisma, filling the stage with infectious energy and impressive choreography. The leads captured the spirit of the show perfectly ‒ every song, dance and line delivered with heart and humour. A live band added an electric atmosphere, keeping the audience tapping their feet throughout.

Behind the scenes, the dedication of teachers, students and technical crews shone through. Costumes and sets were colourful and creative, while lighting and sound effects gave a professional polish to the production.

As stated by school principals Orlagh Ní Fhaoláin and Fiona Lennon, Grease wasn’t just a musical; it was a celebration of teamwork, talent and school spirit, a collaboration that left everyone eagerly awaiting next year’s show.”

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