Muireann Robinson (4th class), Shane Carroll (6th class) and Catherine Maxwell (4th Class).

Ballinagore pupils dazzle in Joseph the Musical at Mullingar Arts Centre

Published: Thu 26 Jan 2023, 9:00 AM

Last updated: Thu 26 Jan 2023, 10:19 AM

Wednesday January 18 was a colourful night as pupils from St Patrick’s National School, Ballinagore, took to the boards in Mullingar Arts Centre, wowing the audience with their production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much loved classic retells the biblical story of Joseph, his brothers and his amazing coat of many colours.

The pupils from St Patrick’s National School in Ballinagore.

Gemma Goulding Finan, principal of St Patrick’s NS, is delighted that her school got involved with Mullingar Arts Centre’s ‘Show for the School Project’ last September. She said: “Tutors Sarah, Eadaoin and Shauna have been a fantastic support to both our pupils and staff in what has been a really worthwhile experience for all involved.

Matthew Maloney getting his microphone fitted by Áine Durkan.

“Performing arts offer a whole host of benefits for children’s health and development, including building confidence, encouraging creative expression, improving mental and physical health, teaching empathy and valuable life skills such as team work and problem solving,” said Ms Goulding Finan.

Teacher Ian Geoghegan, who made his acting debut as Jacob, with Ms Goulding Finan, school principal.

Fifty pupils from the third, fourth, fifth and sixth classes displayed their many talents and were supported by teacher Ian Geoghegan, who made his acting debut as Jacob, Joseph’s father.

Saoirse O’Neill, Mason Slevin and Oisin Clarke before the show.

“We are extremely lucky to have such a wonderful school community and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the staff at Mullingar Arts Centre and St Patrick’s NS, Ballinagore,” said Ms Goulding Finan, “including the parents council and board of management, the many people who purchased tickets for our performance and donated raffle prizes along with our pupils – the real stars of tonight’s show.”