Old friends are best! Voices of Longford ‘Hey! Old Friends!’ show is a resounding success

Voices of Longford delivered on what it promised for its maiden show from February 26-28 for ‘Hey! Old Friends!’ . Having sold out all three nights, Backstage Theatre audiences were treated to a variety of music, from solos, duets, groups, opera and comedy sketches.

John Kelly and his group delivered on his comedy with four skits: Mannequin, If It’s Not One Thing It’s Your Mother, Gin for Sins and Parrot Sketch. The audience received many laughs from these shorts which were split between Acts One and Two.

The Brontë Stage School proved that their young members are going to be future talent. Demonstrating their best physical acting, accompanied by backing tracks, the children effortlessly became their characters, doing montages of Matilda and Oliver, as well as joining Liz Keenan for the song ‘That’s What Friends are For’.

PICTURES | Voices of Longford lift spirits during debut show

Dermot Deely got to show his wide range of vocal talent from opera by Donizetti, to doing a Percy French Medley. He gave the audience a reason to see the bright side of life by singing the iconic song of that name, twice in Act Two. 'Always Look on the Bright Side of Life' wrapped up the show with performers coming together.

Centred around friendships and giving people a chance to get up on stage and sing, ‘Hey! Old Friends!’ succeeded with its goal. It catered to everybody, from Disney classics for the younger audience members to witty skits, to excerpts of musicals to bring a diverse production. The group has been very supportive of its members to build confidence, but the audience shared that effort with their applause, laughter and widespread attendance.

The new group did everything for a cause. The proceeds are to go towards St Christopher’s Services and Longford Hospice Homecare.

Also read: Longford's Backstage Theatre Group brings Tom Murphy classic to stage

Musical directors, Fintan Farrelly and Emer McGowan, showed how conscientious and intricate their leadership is. Sylvia Johnston was the choreographer.

The passionate musical lovers, Brian Murray and John Kelly, managed to bring the taste of London’s musical scene back to Longford’s own theatre.

The night was a success with plenty of promise for the future.

Also read: Andrea Crowe is 'just so grateful' to be cast as Longford's Dorothy Gale for upcoming musical