The annual Gallen CS school musical is always a highlight of the school calendar and this year proved no exception with the 27th Gallen CS musical being a wonderful staging of that modern classic ” The Wedding Singer” Over the four nights this wonderful tale of true love not denied was expertly brought to light on the stage in Gallen CS . ” The Wedding Singer ” tells the tale of Robbie Hart , himself a wedding singer , being rejected by Linda. Robbie comes to realise that his true love is Julia Sullivan who herself has come to realise that the suave Glenn Guglia is not for her. Julia indeed does retrieve Robbie from the “dumpster” and builds up the shattered debris of his broken heart. Cormac McKenna portrayed Robbie as a casualty of love with great accuracy.
The audience warms to Robbie and rejoices in his happy ending. Julia Sullivan was expertly played by Ally McLoughlin who along with Alanna Rosney [ Crystal] and Aimee McKenna [ Angie] deserve huge commendation for not just taking on the demanding role of choreographers along with their on stage roles but for carrying out their onerous dual roles with great flair and dedication. Sarah Flynn was excellent in the role of the vivacious Holly whose on off tempestuous relationship with Robbie’s loyal and witty sidekick , Sammy [ expertly played by Nathan McIntyre] was a highlight for this reviewer. Shane Berry was excellent as the suave Glenn whose emphasis on materialism failed to win Julia’s heart. Cian Egan played the role of George with great flamboyance and Wiktoria Leszcznska fulfilled the role of the scheming Linda to great perfection. This reviewer , seeing Linda trying to win Robbie back after dumping him at the altar , couldn’t help noticing that she tried to do so with a painting of pop singer Blondie in close proximity. Blondie being famous for her song ” Heart of Glass ” , a nod to Linda’s heart perhaps?
Moya Ibbotson brought the house down with her portrayal of Rosie , Robbie’s uber hip , liberally minded rapping Granny . Nathan Dunican played his role in the Ricky’s Bar Scene with great gravitas and Conor Brazil reprised the role of Ricky well. Ciaran McEvoy was excellent as Elvis , perfecting the lilting Southern drawl beloved by Elvis . Casey Lonican gave a strong singing cameo as the Shop Attendant. Orla Hynes played the role of Donatello well. It would be remiss of this reviewer not to mention to the selfless dedication of Producer / Musical Director Ms . Heather Bracken , Director Mr. Sean Dench and to choreographers , Alanna Rosney , Aimee McKenna and Ally McLoughlin in ensuring the success of this years musical . They deserve our heartfelt thanks for the countless hours they have put in .
Huge commendations to the Set Design and Painting team led by Ms . McKeogh and the TY Students and to the Set Construction Team of Mr . MacCartain , Mr . Doyle , Mr Lenihan and Stage Crew: Stephen Dunican , Oisin Fitzgerald, Sam Flynn, Kieran Kenny. Cian Duffy and Kian Boylan.
Thanks to the Costume Design team of Ms . Sorcha Gleeson and her team Ms . Ailish o Connor , Mrs. Elaine Hogan and Ms . Tracey Beatty and to Mrs . Marilyn McDonagh and her team for sourcing the props. To Stage Managers , Mrs . Finnegan and Ms . Baggot our thanks. Thanks to Mr . Pascal Gough and the Lighting Crew and to Mr . Derek Recks and the Sound Crew whose expertise enhanced our production . To the Musicians , Ms . Marie Power , Mrs . Elizabeth MacCartain , Ms. Denise Kennedy , Jack Rabbette and Ciaran Rabbette , your graceful notes provided a perfect harmony and backdrop to the onstage acting . Thanks to the Parents Association and Staff of Gallen CS who helped with hospitality and to those who helped in putting together the programme , ticket sales / finance and sponsorship , a heartfelt thanks. Thanks to Demma Feehan for the pictures on the night.
Once again , Gallen CS has showcased its dramatic talent to bring to fruition a wonderful production.
