Stage is set for 'ambitious' musical by Mayo school

The finishing touches are being applied to the 2026 St. Mary’s Secondary School musical in the all-girls state-of-the-art school campus in Ballina.

An 80-strong transition year cast is spear-heading this brand new stage show, ably assisted by the second year and fifth year chorus line.

In a show that promises music, memories, dance and drama, 4Ever in Blue Jeans is an original story set in Queens, New York City, spanning over a decade in the life of Jess Jackson.

When we first meet her, Jess is enjoying the heady days of the electric 1980s, but fast forward 10 years and things have changed for her. Now a newspaper reporter at The Daily Record in downtown NYC, she loves asking questions and is never without a trusty denim jacket and her brand-new accessory – her cell phone – living life very much in the present.

But when one message catapults her back to her past, Jess is forced to ask some difficult questions – this time of herself.

Meanwhile, Brad Miller is flying high and has a new accessory of his own in the form of Cynthia, his well-to-do fiancée. His old guitar is gone and he has traded in his jeans for chinos, ready to embrace high society life.

Jess and Brad are moving in very different directions – and social circles – until some big news brings them back together. Can they accept the people they've become or are the echoes of the old rock ‘n’ roll days back in Sunnyside, Queens, too loud to ignore?

4Ever in Blue Jeans is a story of hope, heartbreak, rebellion and romance – and the sparks that can fly when the past and present collide. Prepare yourself for a night of brilliance – and maybe a bit of the blues!

Show-goers are invited to get in on the action too, and inspired by the title, can wear denim to really turn the clock back and feel part and parcel of the show. Those who wear denim will be automatically entered into the 'Best in Blue' competition with a chance to win some fantastic prizes.

A musical would be nothing without melody and song, and musical director Regina Deacy noted: “This stage show really is something a little bit different – it is edgy and has a retro feel. Every song tells this story, with transition years supported by the second year chorus line, and as always, we have lots of classics – which will have you singing along and maybe even dancing in the aisles!”

Also taking time out of rehearsals, producer and choreographer Annette Leonard said: “This production is a brand-new musical, written and staged completely in-house. We started work on this script as soon as we wrapped up our last musical and between choreography, stage production and technology, it is one of our most ambitious shows to date. We are really excited to finally show off the hard work and talent of our students.”

Annette is ably assisted by Sharon Cullinane in the choreography and props department, as well as script writer and acting director Anna Marie Henry and acting director Sinead Leonard.

“As has been our tradition, taking time to write an original musical has allowed us to create a story that reflects our students’ voice, energy and creativity. Seeing it come to life on stage has been incredibly rewarding,” noted Anna Marie.

The team also incorporates the talents of the home economics and art departments, as well as an extensive backstage crew of staff and students. Caretakers Christy Donnelly and Martin Browne have also been on hand to design the stage – which is nothing short of breathtaking. The school administration staff have also been a huge support, with Maria McMyler, Gabrielle Moyles and Amy Roche on hand with ticket sales.

Extending a warm welcome to all, principal Robert O'Reilly highlighted the long-running musical tradition of the school, and noted this is the 52nd annual musical, coming hot on the heels of the pink-inspired All Dolled Up last year.

Mr. O'Reilly said: “As always, staff and students have come together to write, plan, produce and showcase this year's musical, which really is a highlight in our transition year programme. It is the culmination of an entire year of work. As always, we cannot wait to welcome the whole community to St. Mary’s – and we are all looking forward to turning the school blue!”

The 2026 musical, 4Ever in Blue Jeans, takes place in the school hall, with performances at 7.30 p.m. today (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday). There will be a raffle each night, as well as the 'Best in Blue' competition. Tomorrow's show is sold out but there may still be tickets for tonight's show. To find out, contact the box office ticket line on (096) 70333. Tickets cost €15 for adults and €10 for students/OAPs.