Longford Variety Group's Divas and Dudes serve up a treat

The months of preparation that went into Longford Variety Group's Divas and Dudes was very evident as the group celebrated 25 years in style with an impressive production.

Director Brian Murray ticked all the boxes in a show packed full of entertainment. Choreographer Penny Barry's routines perfectly complemented a musical programme of the highest standard.
The show featured songs from Pretty Woman, Hairspray, Come From Away and Rocky Horror Picture Show.

It opened with a rousing version of Lady Marmalade from Moulin Rouge by Sarah Hanly, Ali Oates, Laura Harte and Grainne Fox. Tony Wadd and Riona Lynch delivered a sublime rendition of Something Stupid. Peter Costello channelled Jonny Cash and Neil Diamond to really get the audience going. Melanie Rhatigan wrung every drop of emotion from Maybe This Time, while Denise McNamara Flood and Jacinta McNamara gave a virtuoso display of vocal dexterity. Liz Leavy gave a stirring rendition of Tell Me It's Not True from Blood Brothers.

There was a very emotional tribute to Lynsey Bennett sung by Laura Harte, Alison Oates, Sarah Hanley with the uber talented Aisling O'Reilly accompanying on fiddle.

John Kelly presided over the comedy section of the show and it featured some star turns by Kevin Hussey, Phil Cox and Mickey Mollaghan. Longford Variety Group should be very proud of this exceptional show.

Over the last 25 years the group raised an astonishing €250,000 for local charities. This year all proceeds go to Longford Hospice Homecare, Voices for Autism St Christopher's and other local charities. Also see pages 42 & 43