PHOTOS: Cast members begin rehearsals for Mise Eire -1916 Remembered in Town Hall, Naas

Photographs: Aishling Conway.

A spectacular musical drama to mark the centenary of the 1916 Rising will be staged at the Town Hall, Naas. Award winning director Mona Conroy joins forces with leading musical director Owen C Lynch to present ‘Mise Eire – 1916 Remembered’ on August 30 and 31.

The brainchild of Mona, this gala concert promises to be a poignant yet uplifting evening in which we remember the past and celebrate the present.

Mise Eire features a 40-strong mixed choir with members from Naas, Newbridge and Clane Musical Societies, Newbridge Vocal Academy and the Moat Club.

Soloists will include leading Irish classical artists Dave Maguire, tenor and Norah King, mezzo soprano, from the Royal Ballet London, dancer Johnny Randall, the Scoil Rinca Imelda De Brun and some of our leading local artists including Pat McLoughlin, Susan Molloy, Mark Trundle, Deirdre Moloney, Helena Reynolds, Hugh Gallagher, Scoil Rinca Imelda De Brun, Declan Reynolds, Sarah Goodwin, Audrey Deady, Paul Brady, Conor O Connell & Georgie Clinche .

A 20-strong children’s choir will also lend their beautiful voices on the night.

With stunning choral arrangements by Owen C Lynch, the show will feature such well know songs as Only Her Rivers Run Free, Ireland, Mother Ireland, The Foggy Dew, Let there be Peace, Four Green Fields, A Nation Once Again, I hear you calling Me, Banna strand, Grace, Scenes that are brightest, The last farewell and I know where I’m Going.

In addition to the wonderful song and dance, audiences will be treated to various recitations and an excerpt from the one act play Kathleen Ni Houlihan, written by W B Yeats and Lady Gregory in 1902.

Tickets are now on sale and available from JAM Music Naas (045) 883788.

As tickets are limited, early booking for ‘Mise Eire – 1916 Remembered’ is very strongly advised.