Night of theatre and song in Clane this Culture Night
Clane Musical and Dramatic Society at AIMS Awards in Killarney Photo: Darragh Carroll
CLANE Musical and Dramatic Society return in full force in September following a whirlwind season that saw them nominated for seven awards at the AIMS Awards in Killarney and celebrating wins for Best Director (Jennifer O’Brien) and Best Singer (Emma Stack) for their 2025 production of Sister Act.
This Culture Night, on 19 September, the society are planning an unforgettable evening of theatre and song, set against the stunning backdrop of The Abbey in the centre of Clane, a venue steeped in history and the perfect stage for what promises to be a night filled with talent and local pride.
The evening begins with a special performance of the powerful Irish one-act play, Cathleen Ní Houlihan by W.B. Yeats, directed by the ever-talented Sadie O’Reilly. The cast features a wonderful ensemble of local performers: Pauline Hoban, Sean Lennon, Rob Gallagher, Aine Grace, Laura Fenner, and Tommy McGauran, who will be making his debut on stage.
This haunting and poetic piece is set in rural Ireland in 1798, on the eve of rebellion. A mysterious old woman visits a family preparing for their son’s wedding. As she speaks of her lost four green fields and of heroes long gone, the young man is captivated. Ultimately inspired to leave his home and sacrifice everything for the greater cause of Irish freedom.
The old woman, revealed to be Cathleen Ní Houlihan, the spirit of Ireland itself becomes young and radiant again as he walks out the door. It’s a story of identity, patriotism, and the power of myth and remains just as relevant and moving today.
Adding a very special touch to this year’s production is the introduction of Tommy McGauran, taking to the stage in his first-ever role as Patrick Gillane. A proud local talent, Tommy follows in the footsteps of the many McGaurans who have graced the same stage before him — a legacy of creativity and performance that continues to grow within the Society.
Following the play, audiences will be treated to a lively musical segment featuring solo performances from Clane’s upcoming production of , a whodunnit musical comedy packed with toe-tapping tunes and big Broadway energy.
Expect to hear familiar favourites from the show. Many audience members will be surprised by how many of the songs they already know. There will be two performances at 7pm and 8pm.
