Shooting for the stars: Longford’s Gunner Magee Players aiming for another successful year

Taking place in the ‘98 Memorial Hall, Ballinamuck, on Wednesday May 14 at 8pm, the new AGM for the second year of this drama group was off to a great start. With a high attendance of 12 people who are enthusiastic to join, the one-hour meeting consisted of a welcome, minutes, discussing last year’s success, the chairperson’s address, election of officers and opportunity for questions. 

The current dynamic is friendly and passionate about creating a memorable experience for all drama enthusiasts, wanting more people to join them. These attendees were happy to give their own suggestions, as well as what they would like to see. Every opinion was welcomed, discussed and noted. The age range who came to the AGMs varied, reemphasising how everyone and anyone is welcome to build a theatrical event by December. 

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The chairperson’s address, by Ollie Keogh, was an optimistic introduction. He thanked last year’s overall committee, the volunteers and actors showed commitment and dedication. Voted to be the chairperson for the 25/26 calendar, Keogh showed great leadership towards his group with new and familiar faces. 

Despite a healthy attendance for Ballinamuck’s Gunner Magee Players, there is still a desire for people to join to fill the many roles offered. The chance to join is always on a rolling basis, so there is no deadline if anyone does want to get involved.

Keogh quoted: “If anyone would be interested in directing and acting a play–reach out.”

He also reiterated that the play that he directed last year was his first time, so there is no pressure on anyone who wants to give it a go. Although the Gunner Magee Players would like those with experience to involve themselves, those who want to build on theatre experience are still encouraged to come.

He added, “My hope is to repeat what we did last December–a couple of one-night plays.”

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The role of the director is an important and rewarding task, which is open to anyone willing to help create a vision for the plays expected for December. Mentioning that the purpose of the group is to “give people experience,” those without knowledge in the directing field are encouraged to contact the group.

Last year, both nights had gone very well. It was said that the Saturday would have had a bigger crowd, had it not been for the storm. Both nights, despite the weather, had a full house.

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Everything about the AGMs was about support and passion to build on something that brought togetherness and community into Ballinamuck. The attendees voted in favour of keeping a €5 membership fee that had been done last year. The goal of the Gunner Magee Players is for the group to continue growing. Last year’s fundraising efforts proved that there is plenty of interest in keeping the drama group going. Keogh, hoping to repeat what they achieved last year, plans on making the fundraiser an annual event. 

With everyone voting the new committee in, which had a mix of last year’s individuals and a handful of new ones, the Gunner Magee Players is a fresh, must-join establishment for extracurricular activity, fun, involvement and experience in Ballinamuck. It is helping keep the heart of the community alive and connected.