For many of us it was our second or third play. For a few it was their first involvement in the world of drama. Either way we were all determined to have fun and maintain the high standard of previous Mounthawk productions. We also hoped that we might bring some new recruits to Miss Glancy and Miss O' Mahony to mould into singers and actors for years to come!
Without a doubt one of the most suitable casts for any play was formed. T.J. Horgan played the exuberant Harry. Susan Brown played the homely Deirdre. Pßdraig Rice played the greying, and worn out, Jimmy. Anthony Bailly played the precise and stressed Maurice who has a hidden agenda and Steven Sharpe was the assured and confident Nick. Clare Quinlan played Jackie, the confident business woman with a sad past. Mark Auchincloss performed the obscure character of Kevin. Finally, Liam Maher (my good self), took on the role of Paudge, the eternal antagonist with many regrets.
We all came to the rehearsals with our own minds set on what should be done to bring our characters to life. Under the guidance of our director, Miss O' Mahony, we found some of their characters traits in all of us. For some personality traits we had to look harder than others. For weeks we prepared and rehearsed for what seemed to be a very distant event. But, as with all events, it arrived very quickly. On January 24th, the eve of D-Day, we left class for our last chance to iron out the kinks. We realised that there was no time for any more messing and things rapidly turned serious.
On the last night, January 27th, when we took our final bow it was the end of the line. As T.J. Horgan said, on acting in fourth year, 'we were all addicted'. Without a doubt you will see all the actors again on stage in the not so distant future. Particular thanks to Ms. O'Mahony and Ms. Glancy.
(Liam Maher, 5th year)
World Class Masterclass
A Day with Richard Meyrick
Our Music students enjoyed the privilege of a master class with international concert pianist Richard Meyrick.
On the day the school's music room was transformed by the presence of a beautiful (and valuable!) grand piano. Students were given a brief opportunity to warm up their fingers on this wonderful instrument before embarking on a nerve wracking and exciting performance. A performance where they would show off their talent to one another, and world renowned musician Richard Meyrick. The purpose of the master class is to allow students to benefit from the expertise and experience of a professional. After performing for the pupils, Meyrick then listened to each of them in turn, offering honest advice and guidance.
Fifth year student, Leah Herrick, was one of the privileged participants. Speaking of Meyrick's initial performance she said ôI had never heard any pianist play so beautifully or so effortlessly. He had no notes in front of him. His fingers moved so fast we could barely see them. I had never heard such expression from a piano. At first we was shy about playing in front of everyone but soon we were all lining up for a turn.ö
Leah also said 'Some of us might have seen the day as just learning a couple of tips on how to play a piano better but for me the day reminded me why I took up piano. It also reminded me to enjoy it again. This day was about celebrating music and its ability to touch those around you.'
That evening Richard Meyrick gave a recital in the school's general purpose area. Bringing Richard Meyrick to Mounthawk was a great achievement on Ms. Sharon Glancy's part.
