Hilarious, bouncy and just brilliant!

These were the words the public used when leaving the Scouts Hall after the Nenagh Choral Society Youth Academy performance of 'Hairspray' the musical.

NCS Youth Academy opened the Society’s 2018/19 season and 70th anniversary year with another fantastic performance. When it comes to these youths, the hair just keeps getting bigger and the performance and production keeps getting better.

Under the guidance of Stephanie Browne (Director/Choreographer), William Cullagh (MD) and Greg Browne (Producer), this cast has set the bar high for the coming season. There were standing ovations nightly and plenty of laughs as the returning Youth Academy members shone and newcomers made their mark.

In their first leading roles with the Youth Academy, Jayde Ryan as the chirpy, chipper Tracy Turnblad brought enthusiasm and great fun to the role, paired perfectly with Joanne McDonnell as her best friend Penny Lou Pingleton, whose goofy performance was one of the shows highlights.

Also returning this time round were Colin Dillon as Tracy’s mom Edna Turnblad and Caroline Browne as Motormouth Maybelle and, just like in previous roles, they gave stellar performances that had the audience wowed. Caroline’s performance of ‘I know where I’ve been’ resonated around the Scouts Hall, captivating the audience. Meanwhile, Colin, as Edna, Tracy’s very much larger than life mother, together with stage husband Wilbur, played by Jack McGrath, had the audience in stitches with their signature song, ‘You’re timeless to me’.

On the surface, 'Hairspray' is a fluffy, fun, feel-good musical, with a teen Elvis-wannabe Link Larkin played by Calvin Coleman and the slick TV host Corny Collins played by Shane Killilea Curran. But it’s actually so much more than that. The issues surrounding the era’s race relations are prominent and were portrayed with conviction by the whole cast but specifically Motormouth Maybelle, the Von Tussels, played by Lara Smyth as Velma and Megan Maher as Amber, Seaweed, played by Justin Heaney and Little Inez, played by Indya Higgins.

However, the ensemble cast were just as impressive, dancing and singing their way into the hearts of the audience.

Nenagh Choral Society now start preparations for their Adult show ‘Sister Act’, which is to be staged in March 2019. If you are over 18 years of age and interested in taking to the stage in what is yet another energetic, hilarious and thoroughly enjoyable musical why not join us for our first rehearsal on Tuesday November 6th at 7.30pm in the Scouts Hall as we get 'Back in the Habit'. Also join us on Friday November 9th in the Dapp Inn for our annual Table Quiz at 9pm.