Fun House Theatre company members nominated for AIMS awards
Offaly's Fun House Theatre Company has received two nominations for its recent production of ‘Calendar Girls: The Musical’ at the national AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Societies) awards being held at the INEC in Killarney on Saturday, June 15.
Tullamore-based Jay Origan has been nominated for Best Comedienne for her role as Chris, with the adjudicator stating that "her portrayal of Chris was a masterclass in comedic delivery, effortlessly drawing out laughter from the audience with her quick wit and infectious humour".
Jay, a teacher at Sacred Heart Secondary School, Tullamore, is no stranger to success at the AIMS awards.
She previously won Best Supporting Actress for Clara Musical Society and has been nominated for Best Comedienne with Tullamore Musical Society.
This year, she also received a second nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance with Bravo Theatre in Galway.
Tullamore man Paul Norton was nominated for for Best Director and Overall Show with Galway Musical Society, and Clara native Stephen Rabbette for best programme for Calendar Girls by Bravo Theatre.
Jordan Bass, who recently played the lead role in as Michael Collins in the musical of the same name by Tullamore Musical Society, as well as in Rock of Ages, was nominated for an award for the same role in Gorey Musical Society's production.
Claire Tighe, who directed Rock of Ages for Tullamore, was nominated for Best Choreographer and Overall Show with Leixlip Musical Variety Group and Fun House has also been nominated for the Spirit of AIMS award for the raw emotion portrayed in the death scene of John.
The company recently concluded a triumphant run of ‘Calendar Girls: The Musical’ at Esker Arts Centre from May 1 to May 5. The production, which captivated local audiences with its heartfelt performances and stirring music, played to sold-out crowds each night.
A notable moment in the run of the musical was the attendance of an adjudicator from AIMS on Thursday, May 2.
The adjudicator's report was glowing, particularly praising the chorus: "The chorus in 'Calendar Girls: The Musical' brought extraordinary talent and skill to their performance, enriching the production with seamless harmonies, impeccable choreography, and dynamic stage presence. Their collective dedication and artistry elevated the overall impact of 'Calendar Girls: The Musical,' leaving a lasting and memorable impression on all fortunate enough to witness their exceptional performance."
The Fun House Group was founded by Jay Origan and Sinéad Handy.
Initially, it started out as Fun House Youth Theatre, a non-profit club for teens affiliated to Youth Theatre Ireland. Fun House Theatre Company was developed as a community-based amateur dramatic and musical theatre society, aiming to provide access to regular theatrical experiences for the community of Tullamore and the surrounding regions.