Musical society announce dates for annual production

Athlone Musical Society is delighted to announce its upcoming production "The New Pirates of Penzance" which will run for eight nights from March 6 to 13 inclusive. A familiar and much loved show to the society, the Gilbert and Sullivan production was first staged by Athlone Musical Society in 1983, again in 1999 and now for the third time it will hit the Dean Crowe Theatre on opening night, March 6. Mick Keena, a native of Ardkeenan, Drum, is at the helm of the society this year. Mick took on the challenging role of chairperson last May, and Mick and his extremely hard-working committee are now in full swing preparing to get the show on the road. Mick said: "Athlone audiences have always expressed great interest in Gilbert and Sullivan productions, with the Pirates of Penzance being a huge favourite. We promise our 2010 production will return to the Dean Crowe Theatre with joy and rapture." Society PRO Joan Larkin revealed the show would be a different style of production, with a fresh and new approach under the direction of Paul Laycock from Dublin. Mick added that the society was looking for the usual support from patrons, sponsors and advertisers. "Conscious of our present economic climate, we are hoping we will be received with the same loyalty and support we have experienced in past years. Our patrons, sponsors and advertisers determine the survival of our society. We would also like to invite new patrons and sponsors who would like to support our society now in its 107th year, to get involved," he said. In order to meet its costs, the society needs full houses every night and it is offering very special rates to families, groups, clubs and organisations for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights. The society is calling on the people of Athlone and the wider region and come out and enjoy some light-hearted music and comedy. This particular musical is also seen as a great introduction to musical theatre for children. To get involved in the society, or to offer your support, contact Mick at 086 2345846.