Magical night as Wilkinstown school presents Oliver with a Twist!

Wilkinstown's Scoil Naomh Barra’s all-star production of 'Oliver JR', a musical ‘Twist’ on Dickens’ famous novel, sold out the Solstice Theatre, Navan, on its end of year run.

What began as an idea and a dream way back at the start of the school year grew rapidly until auditions were opened to the students from third to sixth class. Sharon Carroll and Julianna Martyn were at the head of the project, putting in many late nights and hours preparing the children to perfect the performance. Deputy principal, Jacqueline McCarthy and Mandy Dowd were eager to help the cast with their singing, and Áine Farrely’s Elite Productions would choreograph the performance. After dozens of amazing auditions, and just as many difficult decisions, the children received their parts. Sophie McGarry would shine as Oliver himself, Katie Meehan would scare all with her performance as Bill Sikes, Jessica Leonard would grace the stage as Nancy, Katherine Mckenna would be the infamous Artful Dodger, while Dónall Corbett would pick a pocket or two as Fagin. These were only a few of the stars in the constellation of talent that all of the students displayed.

The spectacular stage depicted the setting of 19th century London. Every moment of the play was full of character, passion and enthusiasm that made it hard to believe that the students were anything other than Broadway’s best, despite the fact that most of the students had no previous theatre experience. The musical performances formed the backbone of the show and every child sang their heart out. From the first note of music to the fall of the curtain, the audience was blown away by the spectacular visuals (including props made by Alex Carr in sixth class), the wonderful dance moves, and the breathtaking singing on both nights of the show.

Principal James Minnock expressed his pride in the students and staff involved and the audience gave the show a well-deserved standing ovation. It was a truly magical couple of nights that created memories that will be treasured forever in Scoil Naomh Barra.