Naas Musical Society stage open night

NAAS Musical Society is inviting both new and returning members to its annual open night on Thursday 27 August, at the Town House Hotel, Naas, beginning at 8pm.

Whether you've been on stage for years or have always wanted to give musical theatre a try, everyone is welcome to come along and find out what promises to be one of the society's most exciting seasons yet.

The evening is a great opportunity to meet members, learn about the year ahead and discover everything Naas Musical Society has to offer, with plenty of singing, dancing, acting, laughter and lifelong friendships along the way.

You don't have to be a performer to become part of Naas Musical Society. The society is always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join its backstage crew, front of house team, as well as people who simply want to lend a helping hand behind the scenes.

From set building and costumes to welcoming audiences on show nights or helping organise fundraising events throughout the year, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Every role is valued and every member plays an important part in making each production a success.

The society is thrilled to introduce the production team behind its 2027 musical, The Clockmaker's Daughter, which will take to the stage at the Moat Theatre from 6 to 12 March.

Joining Naas Musical Society for her directorial debut is award-winning director Jennifer O'Brien and the society is delighted to welcome her on board.

Jennifer brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the role and members are excited to work alongside her as she leads this enchanting production. Alongside returning choreographer Áine Foley, who received fantastic praise for her work on last year's production of We Will Rock You.

Completing the team is experienced Musical Director Máiréad McKenna, a familiar face within Naas Musical Society.

Together, the trio are looking forward to bringing this beautiful and captivating musical to life. Rehearsals for The Clockmaker's Daughter will begin in November, with full details to be announced shortly.

Before preparations begin for the annual musical, the society is excited to announce the return of its much-loved Celebration of Song Concert, which takes place 3 to 5 November at the Moat Theatre, Naas.

This year's concert will feature a spectacular 1970s theme, celebrating some of the greatest music of the decade, under the musical direction of Tom Joyce, who returns once again. Directing duties will be shared by society members Claire O'Reilly, Sean O'Keeffe and David Kirk, while Chloe Connolly joins the team as choreographer for her debut production with the society. The committee is looking forward to working with this talented production team to create another unforgettable evening of music and entertainment.

Rehearsals will begin 31 August at 7.30pm in the Town House Hotel, Naas.

Throughout the season, Naas Musical Society will also host a variety of fundraising events, with everyone in the community encouraged to get involved. Fundraising plays a vital role in helping the society bring productions to the stage while also creating opportunities for members and the wider community to come together.

Planned events include a Table Quiz, Halloween celebrations, Christmas Carol performances and many more exciting activities throughout the year. Keep an eye on the society's social media channels for upcoming events and ways to support your local musical society.

The society would also like to extend its sincere thanks to the outgoing committee for their dedication and commitment, with special recognition to Deirdre Hoctor (chairperson), Shane Byrne (vice chairperson), Jim O’Reilly (treasurer) and Claire O'Reilly (PRO), along with all committee members who have generously given their time over the years to help the society continue to thrive.

Naas Musical Society is equally delighted to welcome its incoming committee for the 2026/2027 season: chairperson, Dale Farrell; vice chairperson, Sean O'Keeffe; honorary secretary, Lucy Joyce; treasurer, Mark Gormley; vice treasurer, Trish Gill O'Grady; PRO, Aishling Byrne and committee members, Aoife Moroney, Katie Laheen and David Kirk.

Everyone is invited to attend the Open Night on Thursday 27 August at 8pm in the Town House Hotel.

Whether you're interested in performing, helping backstage, welcoming audiences, supporting fundraising events or simply becoming part of a friendly community that shares a love of musical theatre, Naas Musical Society would love to meet you.

The society looks forward to welcoming familiar faces and new members alike as it embarks on another exciting season of music, friendship and unforgettable memories.