Newtown concert to benefit Breakthrough Cancer Research
Back row: Kay Murphy (Choir Member), Paul Cowman (Choir Member), Fr Declan Foley (Bagenalstown Parish Priest), Martin Nolan (Choir Member), Eddie Sinnott (Choir Member), Tom Cox (Choir Member), Siobhán OToole (Choir & Organising Committee Member), Adrian Murphy (Choir Member). Front row (lr): Sinéad Lalor (Breakthrough Cancer Research), Catherine OBrien (Organising Committee Member), James Brennan (Choir & Organising Committee Member), Marjorie Holligan (Choir Member), Jenny Butler (Choir Member), Jocie Brennan (Choir Member), Evelyn Nolan (Choir Member), Majella Browne (Choir & Organising Committee Member), Mary Jo Brennan (Choir Member), Ollie Hennessy (Musical Director & Organising Committee Member). Photo by Margaret Walsh
A FUNDRAISING concert in aid of cancer research and Newtown Development Fund will take place in St Patrick’s Church, Newtown in early May, with acclaimed Irish singer-songwriters Charlie McGettigan and Paul Harrington set to perform.
The concert will take place on Saturday 9 May at 7.30pm in the beautiful setting of the church, with all proceeds going towards Breakthrough Cancer Research and the St Patrick’s Church, Newtown Development Fund.
Breakthrough funds research to help develop new ways of detecting and treating cancers.
The concert’s organising committee were inspired by the story of Carlow and Naomh Eoin hurler Oisín Kelly, who passed away at the age of 21 following a diagnosis with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) two years previously.
Oisín’s parents Brendan and Sinead explained the importance of the charity to their family, saying: “Breakthrough Cancer Research has a very personal meaning for our family. Our son Oisín was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in November 2021, aged 19, and faced his illness with remarkable courage.
“Since his passing in August 2023, family, friends and the wider community have raised €57,000 in his memory to support research. We’re very grateful to the organisers of this concert for supporting Breakthrough, as funding research is how better treatments and outcomes for future patients are made possible,” they added.
The audience will be guided through the programme in the capable hands of well-known broadcaster Mary Kennedy, who will act as guest MC.
The evening will also feature performances by local artists, supported by musical director Ollie Hennessy, showcasing the strength of musical talent in the community.
Commenting on behalf of the organising committee, James Brennan said: “This concert brings together exceptional Irish talent and the heart of the local community. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a night out of outstanding music while supporting causes that touch many families, both locally and nationally.”
Tickets cost €25 and can be bought from Newtown parish office on 059 97221154, from local shops in Bagenalstown and Fenagh and online at Eventbrite.ie.
