Scoil Mhuire, Loughegar was just one of two schools in Westmeath to take home prizes at the 2017 Bord Gáis Energy Student Theatre Awards, which took place at The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in Dublin last Wednesday, 17 May.
Scoil Mhuire were joined by Athlone Community College in being announced as winners at the special Awards ceremony, which was hosted by RTÉ 2FM presenter Eoghan McDermott.
The top prize in the Best Musical Number category was bestowed upon Scoil Mhuire for their remarkable rendition of ‘The Chase’ in ‘Aladdin Trouble’. The judges were dazzled by Scoil Mhuire’s performance and noted the great dancing, singing and acting made for a very entertaining watch. Scoil Mhuire also received a bursary from Bord Gáis Energy.
Speaking following the ceremony, Scoil Mhuire teacher Michael Ward praised the sixth and fifth class pupils at the school, explaining that their hours of rehearsal had finally paid off.
“The whole experience of going from local level to an awards ceremony was great for the pupils, and in particular for the sixth class pupils, who are in their final days of primpary education. They’re all a credit to the school.”
Over 1,700 primary and secondary school students representing 63 schools from across Ireland attended the event and waited in suspense as the 2017 winners were revealed.
On the day, a number of shortlisted schools also had the opportunity to perform live on Ireland’s largest theatre stage and students were also treated to a surprise performance by Irish rock band, The Strypes.