Yes, I knew that headline would get your immediate attention and now that I have gotten same, please, please do read on.
Calling all you lovers of ‘Mystery’ and ‘Intrigue’. Have you a ‘taste’ for that something which is often difficult initially either to understand or explain? Do you perhaps secretly ‘hunger’ to be a top notch homicide investigator, a type of ‘Sherlock Holmes’ if you will?
“I do”, I hear you say! Then take special note of a unique upcoming event. On Friday, May 22nd, 2015 you can see an unusual fund-raising event here in Thurles with the Anner Hotel hosting a ‘Murder Mystery Dinner’ in aid of the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association (I.L.F.A.) and Thurles Rehabcare.
The four course dinner will be the scene of a ‘Foul Murder,’ acted out between each course of your meal, by Goldstar Productions, a professional acting troupe. Those of you attending will play the part of attendees at a school reunion, with the acting troupe presenting a light hearted mystery for you to puzzle over and perhaps solve. This dinner will be followed by a School Disco, with you playing the ‘floor fillers,’ dancing the routines of many a former teenage memory.
This fund-raiser is being promoted by the family of the late Phyl Troy latter formally of Thurles, in conjunction with I.L.F.A. and Thurles Rehabcare. Phyl, as everyone remembers, was totally devoted to her career in Rehabcare and hence the full proceeds of this event will go directly to Castleview House in Two Mile Borris.
Phyl, prior to her sad passing last year, had been diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), latter a progressive and generally fatal disease characterized by scarring of the lungs that eventually thickens the lining of the lungs, causing an irreversible loss of the tissue’s ability to transport oxygen. This lung condition, IPF, ultimately robs a patient of the ability to breathe and is more deadly than most cancers. This disease affects some 800 new patients each year here in Ireland and has brought about quite a number of deaths in Co. Tipperary over the last few years, including two of the late Phyl Troy’s own siblings. Proceeds raised by this event and given to I.L.F.A. will now assist in ongoing research, support and further education of this normally fatal disease.
TICKETS: Same cost just €35 each, and will include a ‘Sumptuous Four Course Dinner’, the ‘Murder Mystery’ and the ‘School Disco’. Tickets are available from the Anner Hotel or from individual members of the Troy family, actively promoting this worthy event. Let’s be honest here, where today can you obtain Dinner, A Theatre Seat, Dancing, not to mention the Kudos from “her indoors,” for such a small admission fee; plus of course that great inner feeling you yourself will gain by having supported this truly worthwhile cause.
This said; remember the date; Friday, May 22nd, 2015, Anner Hotel, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Oh and from now on remember to never turn your back in the shower, especially when the water is running.
Mr Noel Dundon (PRO Thurles Musical Society) reports on Thurles Musical Society’s most recent venture into musical theatre, which takes to the stage on March 24th – Saturday 28th inclusive.
For only the third time in Ireland, the hit musical comedy ‘Curtains’ will be staged by Thurles Musical Society (TMS ) in association with the Anner Hotel, in The Premier Hall from Tuesday March 24th- Saturday 28th inclusive.
Cast of Thurles Musical Society’s production of ‘Curtains’ to be staged Tuesday March 24th – Saturday 28th 2015 inclusive.
This fabulously funny ‘who dunnit’ murder mystery leaves a scatter of bodies on the stage, but the real casualties will be those in the audience who will be sore from laughing at the antics of the company.
TMS recognises that theatre goers need to come away from their night-out thoroughly enthused and having enjoyed the experience. This has been the case down through the years and last year’s Sister Act, which completely sold out on each performance, was case in point. The audience loved it, lived it and were talking about if for weeks afterwards. ‘Curtains’ is a musical with a book by Rupert Holmes, with lyrics by Fred Ebb, and music by John Kander, and with additional lyrics by Kander and Holmes. Other shows featuring the duo include the huge Broadway hits ‘Cabaret’ and ‘Chicago’.
Based on the original book and concept by Peter Stone, the musical is a send-up of backstage murder mystery plots. Set in 1959 Boston, Massachusetts, the show follows the fallout when the supremely untalented star of Robbin Hood of the Old West is murdered during her opening night curtain call. It is up to Lt. Frank Cioffi, a police detective who moonlights as a musical theatre fan, to save the show, solve the case, and maybe even find love before the show reopens, without getting killed himself.
Director Tony Finnegan returns to TMS once again and he is teaming up with Mary Rose McNally(Musical Director), Debbie Kiernan(Choreographer) and Patricia McElgunn(Dance Captain) to form the production team for what is truly an eagerly awaited show here in Thurles.
Returning to the company for the first time since 1997 is Aodhán Fox, who played the part of ‘Billy’ in 42nd Street – he plays the lead role of ‘Detective Frank Cioffi’, while ‘Niki’ will be played by Danielle Martin. The experienced John Hayes and Fiona Delaney play the parts of writing duo ‘Aaron’ and ‘Georgia’, while Maria McElgunn is ‘Carmen’ and Dixie Byrne returns this year as ‘Oscar’.
Other key roles include Pat Hayes as ‘Sydney Bernstein’, Frank Tuohy as ‘Bobby’, Mairead Hackett as ‘Bambi’, and Cathal O’Donoghue as ‘Belling’. There are also roles for Peter Donnelly as ‘Randy’, Gary Dempsey as ‘Johnny’, John Butler as ‘Daryl Grady’, Nina Scott as ‘Jessica Cranshaw’, Geraint Fyler as ‘Harvey’, Gerard O’Hagan as ‘Brick Hawvermale’, and Jim Kennedy as ‘O’Farrell’.
TMS will have more than 60 performers on stage for this production and the company has been in full rehearsal mode since early in January to ensure that everything is in readiness for the opening night – a benefit night for Thurles Rehab Care and Thurles Tennis Club, organised by Thurles Rotary Club.
All tickets for this gala night cost €20, while normal show tickets cost €20, with concessions at €10. Tickets can be booked at Mobile 085 2868727, or at our booking office in Hickey’s Pharmacy, Liberty Square, Thurles. Patrons are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.
If you love musical theatre, this is a show not to be missed. So if you want a great night out, pencil in the date. If you want to have a laugh a minute and a bit of suspense, then The Premier Hall is the place for you this coming March.
Once again this year there is a wonderful festival line up, with some of the best national and international acts (All now fully confirmed) performing in our midst this year.
A continued policy of Thurles community participation is very much evident once again and with so many different forms of ‘The Arts’ taking place here in Thurles this year, both local and an anticipated large turnout of visiting public will most definitely find something for each and everyone, in this year’s diverse programme of major events.
Daily Programme of Events for Thurles Halloween Arts Festival 2014
Friday 24th October
ART – “Art Exhibition.”VENUE: Cabragh Wetlands. TIME: Each Day of the Festival period – 10.00am to 5.00pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
Exhibition by Artist Michael Fogarty whose work is mainly inspired by the Irish countryside. Artist will be in residence each afternoon during the festival.
BOOK LAUNCH – “Rights of Succession.”VENUE: Cabragh Wetlands. TIME: 7.00pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
The book, a tale of early 19th century family intrigue by author Michael Fogarty will see the author on hand to sign copies of his new book.
DRAMA – “In Acting Shakespeare” – Written by and starring James DeVita. VENUE: Source Arts Centre. TIME: 8.00pm. ADMISSION: €18/€16 (concession). “In Acting Shakespeare” expect a funny, touching and uplifting story of one man’s discovery of Shakespeare, acting and language. This is a show for anyone interested in Shakespeare or theatre. The show is followed by Q&A session with James DeVita.
Music – “Whistle This,”VENUE: Bowes Pub. TIME: 9.30pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
A night of culture and music with some of the Premier County’s finest singer song writers, poets and musicians in an intimate atmosphere.
MUSIC – “CLEM O’ BRIEN BLUEGRASS BAND.”VENUE: Bowes Pub. TIME: 10.00pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
Truly one of Ireland’s finest Bluegrass musicians, Clem O’Brien; brings his unique band to Thurles for a special performance not to be missed.
Saturday 25th October
MUSIC, FOOD & CRAFT – “SCARE IN THE SQUARE.”VENUE: Liberty Square. TIME: 12.00 noon to 4.00pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
Come join us for live music, food & craft stalls, Street Entertainment, Funfair Rides and much more, as we transform Liberty square into a Halloween “Scare in the Square,” occasion. Note: This year we will be having a Halloween Scarecrow Trail around Thurles town. With the help of ‘Thurles Mens Shed’; over 25 Scarecrows will be put on display around the streets of Thurles during the duration of this years festival. We hope to grow this into a major event going forward and we hope you enjoy the creative skills of the volunteers who created these pieces of scary art.
LITERATURE – “Poetry in the Making.” VENUE: Source Arts Centre. TIME: 3.00pm to 5.00pm. ADMISSION: €20.00.
This poetry workshop, run by poet Enda Wyley, is suitable for emerging poets. It aims to celebrate the power of poetry and the making of it. Participants will be encouraged to create new work of their own and to enjoy poetry by established poets, including the work of Thurles poet Dennis O’Driscoll. (Limited capacity – early booking advised. Please book directly through the Box Office on 0504/90204.)
LITERATURE – “A Public Interview with John Kelly.”VENUE: Source Arts Centre. TIME: 7.00pm. ADMISSION: €10.00.
In memory of Thurles poet Dennis O’Driscoll. For many years John Kelly has been at the forefront of music and arts broadcasting in Ireland. Having presented ‘The View’ on RTÉ television for 12 seasons, and assorted programmes for BBC NI before that, John now heads up RTÉ Television’s brand new arts show ‘The Works.’ Known for his wide-ranging knowledge of music he has also presented some of the best-loved and most critically acclaimed music programmes on the Irish airwaves. From his shows on the BBC to the legendary ‘Eclectic Ballroom’ on Today FM and the award-winning ‘Mystery Train’ on RTÉ1, he has always put the music first. He currently broadcasts the ‘John Kelly Ensemble’ on RTÉ Lyric FM and ‘Radio Clash’ on RTÉ Digital Radio 2XM.
WORKSHOP – “Halloween Art and Craft Workshop.”VENUE: Bookworm, Parnell Street, Thurles. TIME: 11.00am – 5.00pm. ADMISSION: €5.00 per person.
Get in the Halloween spirit, come and get creative; experience the make construction of some Halloween arts and crafts. Each workshops begin on the hour and last for 50 minutes. Note: Please book in advance – Tel: 0504/22257.
COMEDY – “TOM O’ MAHONY & GUESTS.”VENUE: County Bar, Liberty Square. TIME: 10.00pm sharp. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
Dubbed by the critics as a ‘Bad-ass of Irish comedy’ Tom starred alongside the legendary and late, great Rik Mayall on RTE’s hit comedy Damo & Ivor in 2013 and made his return in Season 2 (alongside Snatch’s Alan Ford) reprising his role as the intolerable toff ‘Tarquin.’ A finalist in RTE’s 2013 New Comedy Awards, this lad has starred in several TV adverts, (typically playing someone you wouldn’t like). In 2014 Tom played support to Nina Conti at the Cork Opera House and also Police Academy’s Michael Winslow on a nationwide tour. Playing the country’s biggest festivals, Tom supported the brilliant Stewart Francis at this year’s Vodafone Comedy Festival in Dublin. This year saw another sell-out solo show of Tom’s, “Bring on The Apocalypse” in theatres nationwide and at the Edinburgh Fringe. Tom has a weekly radio slot on Spin103.8 entitled “Mantime,” where he discusses the failings of modern blokes and how they can redeem themselves (There are a lot of stanley-knives and hammers).
Sunday 26th October
TOURS & TALKS – “Cabragh Wetlands Trust Open Day.”VENUE: Cabragh Wetlands. TIME: 11.00am to 4.00pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge.
Cabragh Wetlands invite the public of Thurles and Tipperary to an all day open event. There will be a ‘Walk and Talk’ at 11.30am which will be repeated at 2.30pm, led by volunteers and environmental experts. Find out about their work in conservation and education, and their plans for the future. Take this opportunity to view their exciting new building, have a guided walk around the wetlands or wander around at your own pace, see what they do and join them for a cup of tea. All are welcome.
MUSIC – “Flamenco Guitarist John Walsh.”VENUE: Anner Hotel. TIME: 4.00pm. ADMISSION: €5.00.
John Walsh is Ireland’s leading Flamenco Guitarist and an accomplished musician and composer, performing solo since 2006. Along with performing concerts throughout Ireland together with venues in Spain and the UK, he has performed in one of the most historically important flamenco venue’s ‘El Candela’ in Madrid, as well as being the invited International Artist for the 2014 Flamenco Festival “Flamenco de Consuegra”.
MUSIC – “THE TIPPERARY JUNIOR CHAMBER ORCHESTRA.” VENUE: St Mary’s Church, Thurles. TIME: 8.00pm. ADMISSION: €10.00.
PARTY– “FANCY DRESS PARTY.”VENUE: Thurles Rugby Club. TIME: 10.00pm till Late. ADMISSION: €15.00.
Thurles Rugby Club presents its annual Halloween Fancy Dress Party with live music and disco. This event is one of the highlights of the year in Thurles and we would encourage those attending to purchase your ticket as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Tickets available from Hickey’s Pub or any Rugby Club Member.
Monday 27th October
FAMILY SHOW – “Halloween Trick or Treat Party.”VENUE: Anner Hotel. TIME: 2.30pm to 4.30pm. ADMISSION: €5.00 per child & €2.00 per adult.
This annual children’s party returns with all the usual favourites. Dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and let your child enjoy a wonderful and safe spooky party. Event includes: Party food and drink, Party music & games, Barney, Bob the Builder, Peppa Pig and Friends show, Magic show, Balloon Modelling and Face painting.
Tuesday 28th October
WRITERS – “A Writers Covert.”VENUE: Anner Hotel. TIME: 8.00pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge
Writers from across Tipperary’s many regular writing groups will get together to read their own compositions and well-known writers works. This event is open to the general public, so do feel free to bring along your own work and join in. Note: Refreshments will be served.
WORKSHOP – “Pumpkin Carving and Painting.”VENUE: Bookworm, Parnell Street, Thurles. TIME: 2.00pm to 3.00pm. ADMISSION: €5 per person. Note: Pumpkins will be provided. Please book in advance – Tel: 0504/22257.
WW1 COMMEMORATION – “Ecumenical Thurles WW1 Memorial Service of Remembrance.”VENUE: St Mary’s Church, Thurles. TIME: 7.30pm. ADMISSION: Free of Charge, however a collection will be made during the Service with proceeds going to the St Mary’s War Museum. (Latter presently under re-construction and due to be reopened as a local tourist attraction on May 1st 2015 next.)
The Great War of 1914-1918 was so terrible and inflicted such large numbers of casualties on all sides that when it was over it was believed by many to be “The War to end all Wars”. Alas, by the end of four years of fighting from August 1914 to November 1918 many thousands of families around the world including some 72 households from Thurles were affected by this tragedy, through the wounding or loss of life of at least one of their family members.
The ceremony will begin with the naming of all 72 known Thurles WW1 soldiers who lost their lives.
Church music for this event is being provided by renowned local pianist M/s Mary Rose McNally, with special guests; music composer and much-loved Folk Singer M/s Nora Fogarty and Retd and former Aide de camp to H.E. the President of Ireland and Co Galway native, Commandant Michael Walsh, latter who will also give the commemorative address.
The remembrance service will be conducted in St Mary’s Church by the Rector Rev. Ian Coulter and will be followed by a rare display of local primary source artefacts pertinent to Tipperary participants in this Great War of 1914-1918 .
The very lovely Thurles, Co Tipperary native and leading actress Ms Kerry Condon, has confirmed that she has been selected for a role in the upcoming ‘Breaking Bad’ spin-off ‘Better Call Saul’.
Ms Condon, who won ‘Best Supporting Actress,’ at the 2009 Lucille Lortel Awards for her performance in the Atlantic Theatre’s Off-Broadway production of “The Cripple of Inishmaan,” will be even better known for her performance as Octavia in ‘Rome,’ and her other screen characters which include ‘Theresa’ in Frank McCourt’s ‘Angela’s Ashes,’ ‘Masha’ in ‘The Last Station,’ ‘Rachel’ in ‘This Must Be The Place,’ the Cafe Waitress in the comedy romance and crime drama ‘Intermission,’ and ‘Mairead Reilly’ in ‘Ballykissangel,’ to name but a few.
Ms Condon, who returns regularly to Thurles will be well remembered in the town for her annual talented performances as a teenager in local school plays and her community routines undertaken as a leading performer in the now, alas, defunct community variety show “The John Player Tops,” where she took on roles in song and dance routines here in the local Premier Hall.
Ms Condon remains tight lipped about her upcoming role in ‘Better Call Saul’. “The production is so top secret, it’s crazy,” Ms Condon has stated. “It’s probably the most top secret work I’ve undertaken to-date. When I arrived on the job I didn’t even know my own character’s name, I’d no idea what my storyline was going to reveal, I’d no clue of anything.” She continued, “I think understandably when something has such a cult following like ‘Breaking Bad,’ fans can be very over inquisitive, so I think that’s probably why the production crew are keeping everything so secretive.”
Ms Condon also can be seen shortly in ‘Gold,’ opening Friday October 10th next, appearing alongside James Nesbitt, Maisie Williams and David Wilmot.
A business opportunity to run The Source Café here in Thurles
The Source
An opportunity for a ‘Catering Provider’ wishing to establish a new enterprise in an already existing catering environment is currently being advertised by The Source Café here in Cathedral Street, Thurles, Co Tipperary.
The Source Café is inviting expressions of interest to reach them not later than Monday 23rd of June at 5.00pm.
Further information and application details are available by clicking HERE.
Interested parties should submit an expression of interest while responding to current Catering Requirements, Objectives and Guidelines including a one year business plan and financial projections.
The deadline for all applications is as already stated (5.00pm Monday 23rd June, 2014) and Interviews will take place on Thursday 26th June 2014.
Applications should be submitted by registered post addressed to; Director, The Source Arts Centre, Cathedral Street, Thurles, Co Tipperary. Please write ‘The Source Café 2014 Expression of Interest’ on the top left hand corner of your sealed envelope.
For further information feel free to telephone 0504-90340.
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