Laughter all the way
More photos:
Wednesday March 10 2010
NEW ROSS Musical Society raised the roof in St. Michael's Theatre last week with their latest hilarious offering of 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas'.
One of their most entertaining and liveliest productions to date, the society enjoyed huge success with the enjoyable and energetic musical extravaganza, which ran from Tuesday to Saturday night.
Set in the small town of Gilbert, Texas, the musical is based on the true story of a legendary Texas Brothel known as the Chicken Ranch, which operated from the 1840s to 1973. Protected by a friendly Sheriff and frequented by politicians, football teams and others, the Chicken Ranch thrived, with girls coming from all over to work at the ranch and make a little extra cash.
However, a crusading do-gooder Houston TV commentator and his conservative audience exposed the Chicken Ranch forcing it to shut its doors forever.
The musical was narrated throughout by Martin Gladney, who made a welcome return to the stage for this year's performance.
Joe Malone, who is a familiar face to all theatre goers, made his impressive debut with the society as Sheriff Earl Dodd, while Kilkenny native Audrey Larkin in her shining role as Miss Mona left a lasting impression on New Ross audiences.
Miss Mona's Girls, comprising of Jean Hanrahan (Durla), Teresa Corcoran (Ginger), Catherine French (Taddy Jo), Trish Maher (Beatrice), Samantha Gibson (Linda Lou), Carol Stacey (Dawn), Christina Sinnott (Ruby Rae) and Sinéad Furlong (Eloise), together with Carrie McCracken as 'Jewel' ensured their audiences were kept well-entertained throughout with their lively numbers and energetic dance routines. Newcomers to the 'Chicken Ranch' Waterford native Sinéad Finn as 'Angel' and Janet Feeney as 'Shy' performed outstanding roles.
Derek Shannon who won a prestigious AIMS Awards for last year's production of 'Some Like It Hot' took to the stage as the hilarious 'Melvin P. Thorpe', with Seán O'Brien appearing on stage as CJ Scruggs.
The character of 'Mayor Rufus Poindexter' was taken on by Thomas Crowdle, with Catriona Morrissey doubling up as Doatsey Mae and the Governor's Aid.
The comical TV Colourman was played by Tom Reddy, with young talent Amy O'Brien as the excitable 'Imogene Charlene'.
Eamon O'Connor tread the boards as 'Edsel Mackey' and Ken Moroney followed in his comical role from last year and appeared as 'Senator Wingwoah'.
The production team comprised of Bill Stafford as Director, his wife and Anne-Marie Stafford as Choreographer, Nick Cooney as Musical Director, Maeve Wilson as Chorus Mistress and John Kissane as Rehearsal Pianist.
The Society had a hard act to follow from last year's production of 'Some Like It Hot' which earned them three AIMS nominations for Best Comedian, Best Director and Best Overall Show, however an experienced production team and an exceptionally talented cast ensured that this musical will last long in the memories of their audiences.
