Heart-warming new production from Claremorris Musical Society

MEMBERS of award-winning Claremorris Musical Society (CMS) are all set to present their 19th production, the magical and much-loved musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, in Claremorris Town Hall and Theatre from Wednesday, January 28, to Saturday, January 31.

It follows the resounding success of the society’s 2025 production of The Addams Family, which firmly cemented Claremorris Musical Society’s reputation as one of the leading amateur musical theatre groups in the region. That production earned the society two national awards at the prestigious Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) Awards last June, where Mary Dempsey was awarded Best Comedienne for her portrayal of Grandma, while Ruadhán Gormley claimed Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance as Lurch.

CMS were the only society in the west of Ireland to receive two awards - a significant achievement within the amateur musical theatre community.

Building on that momentum, the society felt audiences were ready for another uplifting and fun musical offering. The choice of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory reflects that vision, offering a heart-warming, nostalgic production.

The show follows the story of young Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy from a poor family who wins a coveted golden ticket granting him access to the mysterious chocolate factory of the eccentric Willy Wonka. Alongside four other (overly indulged) children, Charlie embarks on a fantastical tour filled with extraordinary inventions, unforgettable characters and unexpected twists.

As the story unfolds, audiences are reminded that kindness, honesty and imagination are the greatest rewards of all.

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story, the musical features well known songs from the original Gene Wilder film, alongside new, high-energy musical numbers that appeal to audiences of all ages. Rich in comic humour, colour and charm, the show promises memorable performances and a great sense of fun from start to finish.

Speaking ahead of the production, CMS chairperson Vivienne Lee paid tribute to the dedication and commitment shown by everyone involved.

“This show represents months of hard work, commitment and passion from our cast, production team and backstage and technical crew,” she said. “The level of effort that goes on behind the scenes is extraordinary, and it’s inspiring to see people of all ages come together with such enthusiasm.

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a super production and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved.”

The production is under the guidance of an experienced and highly regarded production team who have been busy putting the cast through their paces since last September. The team consists of Donna Ruane (director), Deirdre Lee (musical director), Jay Molyneux (choreographer) and David Keane (stage manager), whose combined expertise and vision continue to raise the bar for CMS productions.

The production boasts an extensive and talented principal cast drawn from across the county. The principals include Neil Conway (Willy Wonka), Ryan McDonnell (Charlie Bucket), David Alexander (Grandpa Joe), Mary Dempsey (Mrs. Bucket), Nicole Scott (Mrs. Gloop), Ódhran Morley-Manning (Augustus Gloop), Joff Manning (Mr. Salt), Hazel Cheevers (Veruca Salt), Paul Singleton (Mr. Beauregard), Abbie Flatley (Violet Beauregard), Vivienne Lee (Mrs. Teavee), Michael Farrell (Mike Teavee), Rose Murphy (Cherry Sunday), Ailbhe Gallagher (Geri Jubilee), Josie Gallagher (Grandma Georgina), Ronan Egan (Grandpa George), Mairead McDonnell (Grandma Josephine) and Donna Ruane (Mrs. Green). They are supported by a large and enthusiastic ensemble, adding colour, energy and scale to this family favourite.

CMS has enjoyed continued growth in recent seasons, and this year is no exception. The society has welcomed a significant number of new members. The inclusion of younger members this year as ‘Oompa Loompas’ and ‘Divas’ has brought a fresh energy and new dynamic to the group, adding an extra layer of excitement to this family-friendly production.

The society looks forward to welcoming friends, families and supporters of all ages to the theatre throughout the run.

As always, Claremorris Musical Society acknowledges that their success would not be possible without the ongoing support of the local community. The society extends sincere thanks to local businesses, clubs and organisations for their continued sponsorship and encouragement, from advertising in the show programme to donating prizes for fundraising events. This community backing remains at the heart of everything the society does.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory runs in Claremorris Town Hall and Theatre from Wednesday to Saturday, January 28 to 31, with nightly performances at 8 p.m. and a matinee on Saturday at 2 p.m.

Tickets can be booked here or call the box office on (094) 9310999.