The Transition Year Drama students at Roscommon Community College have achieved remarkable success, securing four prestigious All-Ireland Drama Awards at the Briery Gap TY Drama Festival held at the Cork Opera House 25th March. Their compelling performance of scenes from William Shakespeare’s Macbeth earned them accolades across multiple categories.
The students’ bold undertaking of Shakespearean drama was highly praised by the adjudicators, who awarded them for Best Acting Trio for the portrayal of the Three Witches, as well as Best Sound and Lighting. Additionally, the team claimed Best Set Design and second for Best Overall Performance, cementing their reputation as a formidable force in the secondary school drama circuit. Roscommon Community College has earned a remarkable eight All-Ireland drama titles over the past three years since making its debut in the Briery Gap Drama competition, a testament to the unwavering support of staff and mentors.
Backstage efforts were equally crucial, with school caretaker Ronan Kelly providing invaluable assistance to the backstage crew who worked tirelessly on the set and props, ensuring a seamless production. Their commitment was recognised with Best Set Design, an award the school has now won for the second consecutive year.
Sound and lighting were expertly undertaken by Alanna Cleary and Riley Davies while costume design was carefully managed by Jason Kilcommons. Aylla Paixao also played a pivotal role in hair and makeup, adding the final touches to an already stellar production.
The production was a testament to teamwork and dedication, guided by teachers Yvonne Doyle and Joanne Cleary, assisted by Erica Kilcoyne, whose passion for the arts was instrumental in the students’ success on the national stage.
Congratulations to the Macbeth cast and crew: Jake O’Reilly Linnane as Macbeth, Julia Kuczwalska as Lady Macbeth, Diana Pirlog, Dylan Carty, and Lena Domogala as the Three Witches, John Silva as Banquo, Aleksandrs Roskoss as King Duncan, Lukas Dauksass as Malcolm, Jason Kilcommons as Ross and the servant, Zoe Bennett as Lennox and Bobby Brehon as the captain. Backstage crew comprised Sean Óg Daly, Adam Leonard, Andy Mitchell, and Ksawery Kuziemka. Sound and Lighting: Alanna Cleary and Riley Davies. Hair and Make-up: Aylla Paixao. Further assistance was provided by TY students Cody Shaughnessy, Joshua McDonnell and Grace Gilleran.
The students’ collective efforts in preparing for this national competition highlight their collaboration, dedication, and growing confidence in the performing arts. Their outstanding success at the Briery Gap TY Drama Festival is a source of great pride for the school, showcasing the immense talent and commitment of its students and staff with the support of parents.