Mayo musical society celebrates double success at AIMS nominations
CLAREMORRIS Musical Society is celebrating a fantastic double success following the announcement of this year’s AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Societies) nominations.
The society has been honoured with two prestigious nominations at the upcoming AIMS Awards, a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication showcased in their 2025 production of The Addams Family.
Therese Maher (Sullivan category AIMS adjudicator) was welcomed to the show on its opening night. There were no first night nerves to be seen from this talented group however! Describing the show as “highly engaging and entertaining, showcasing the talent and dedication of everyone involved”, Therese was so impressed that she chose to award not one but two highly coveted nominations to the society.
CMS stalwart Mary Dempsey has received a well-deserved nomination for Best Comedienne in the Sullivan category for her hilarious and heartfelt portrayal of Grandma and her impeccable comic timimg. Mary, a long-standing and much-loved member of CMS, brought her signature wit and timing to the role, winning the hearts of audiences and adjudicators alike.
Meanwhile, Ruadhán Gormley, in his first performance with CMS, has been nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his truly memorable performance. Ruadhán’s commanding stage presence and superb physically comedic performance as the unforgettable Lurch had audiences in stitches and marked an incredible debut on the CMS stage.
A group of 14 members will travel to the INEC in Killarney, Co. Kerry, this June to attend the glittering AIMS awards weekend. This prestigious annual event brings together nearly 1,500 musical theatre enthusiasts from across the country to celebrate and honour the very best in Irish amateur musical theatre. While bringing home an award would be the icing on the cake, Claremorris Musical Society is already overjoyed with the national recognition.
This isn’t the first time CMS has made waves on the national stage. The society has received AIMS Awards for several standout productions, including Singin’ in the Rain, Me and My Girl, Sweet Charity, and Sister Act, among others. These accolades have firmly cemented CMS’s reputation for excellence, creativity and community spirit in musical theatre.
The society extends its heartfelt thanks to all who made The Addams Family a resounding success, including its generous sponsors and supporters, local businesses and individuals whose contributions make these productions possible.
Looking ahead, Claremorris Musical Society is already planning for its exciting 2025/26 season, which will mark its 19th annual production. The newly appointed committee and its rock solid production team of Donna Ruane (director), Deirdre Lee (musical director) and Jay Molyneux (choreographer) are currently in the process of selecting a new show, with auditions expected to take place in September. Announcements will be made over the summer, and updates will be shared on the society’s social media platforms.
New members are always welcome - especially men - and the society is eager to hear from potential new sponsors and supporters. Whether you’re interested in performing, volunteering backstage, or supporting the arts in your community, CMS would love to hear from you.
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