Longford-Westmeath branch of Down Syndrome Ireland lauded by Hollywood actor Jack Black for 'Skool of Rock'

Nine members of Longford/Westmeath branch of Down Syndrome Ireland made a short movie 'Skool of Rock' recently and received a Hollywood endorsement from actor and musician Jack Black during an 'amazing' night.

The film premiered in Backstage in Longford town and the actors and participants ranged in age from 15 years old to 24 years old.

The movie was directed by screenwriter and film editor Liam Izzard and it was followed by an 'Oscars' Ceremony during a memorable evening.

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The already magical night on December 12 last received a further boost when Jack Black, the original star of the beloved 2003 film, sent a video message to the nine actors and he congratulated them on their amazing performance.

The local DSI branch described it as an amazing evening for Sam Bartram, Nathan Branigan, Ackachi Ndulewe, Niall
O'Beirne, John O'Meara, Éabha O Sullivan, Oisín Sullivan, Sophie Sweeney, all from county Longford, and Amanda Butler from Street, county Westmeath.

The fundraiser and generated over €2,800, which will go towards improving the lives of their members with Down Syndrome.

Martina Branigan, parent and Director of DSI Longford/Westmeath branch said the group the group of young people had an 'absolute ball' making the movie over three days at Ardagh Primary School and Ardagh Community Centre.

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Martina said director Liam Izzard, a friend of the O'Meara family managed to get in contact with Jack Black and none of them had any idea he was coming on screen with a message to the young people.

"Liam came on the screen and had the phone on his ear and he said you know what I will put you on the screen to them and then here is Jack Black sending them a message and he named every single one of them, it was out of this world."

*To read the full story see this week's Longford Leader*