THANKS to a sponsored launch held at Dolan’s Bar, word is rife about Limerick Musical Society’s (LMS) show for Spring. The Pirates of Penzance, not seen in these parts for decades, is the Gilbert and Sullivan choice reflecting the power of LMS’ top class suite of leads. All are professionally trained singers who have worked in the West End and at home in award winning shows: Nigel Dugdale is hero pirate, Frederic; Paul Monaghan, Major General Stanley and Jean Wallace, daughter Mabel (“Beautiful Mabel, I would if I could but I am not able”).
The roll call of musicals’ honour goes on with Judy O’Connor as Ruth, Frederic’s nurse who places him as apprentice with Pirate King, played by Martin McNeilus.
At the launch bash sponsored by Mick and Valerie Dolan, Laura Ryan, Communications Office and Mayor Maria Byrne expressed their enthusiasm for Limerick Musical Society. Ms Ryan signalled director Richie Ryan (no relation) out for his achievements with many arts groups and projects: “Richie, we are so lucky to have someone of your calibre in Limerick”.
On to the show. Talking to Limerick Post, chairman Jon Ryan is animated by the sophistication of Pirates as a music score.
“We are going to do the full version of The Pirates of Penzance,” promises Jon. “We wanted a challenge, more of a challenge this season relative to previous shows. Pirates is almost an operetta, very heavy on the singing and musically, and it’s visually funny. Director Richie Ryan is adding his own flavour to the score and has his own way with the script, adding a degree of levity” .
He makes the point that Paul Monaghan is taking a break from West End work for his part of the Major General. “Paul is world-wise in the shows he has done and will lend a good solid performance to what is already a good line in principals”.
Jean Wallace finished her B. Mus with Dr Suzanne Murphy in Cardiff to land vocal honours at Munster Magner League games; McNeilus was lead in LMS’ AIMS winning Fiddler and Nigel Dugdale has worked on the West End and on a dozen Cunard cruise musical productions.
More anon, reader, on the 19th century costumed complications ahead for The Pirates. Book for UCH from Thursday March 31 to Saturday April 2, 8pm.
