Spring Variety Concert

St Louis Grammar School hosted an incredible Spring Variety Concert, highlighting the incredible talent across the Performing Arts that exists within the student body.

Over the years, Spring Concerts in St Louis have become legendary but this years’ show was tinged with extra emotion as, after over three decades teaching in the school, this was the final concert staged and produced by Head of Music, Mrs Dearbhla McDonagh. A fitting video tribute was played at the end of the performance which encapsulated Mrs McDonagh’s commitment to staging school shows over her years of incredible service.

On the night itself the Junior Choir opened proceedings with beautiful renditions of ‘Remember Us This Way’ and ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’. The school folk group then performed Killeagh and Annie McCartan delivered a note-perfect, moving performance of ‘The Hills of Sweet Lislea’. The Year 11 Group followed with ‘Colours of the Wind’ from Pocahontas before a trio of distinctive Piano solos were performed.

Year 9 to Year 11 Drama students performed four short sketches, combining high quality acting with some fabulous wit and humour and the first half closed with Year 14 student Niamh Crowley performing ‘Science Fiction / Double Feature’ in dramatic style prior to the school’s famous ‘Trashion Show’ where Art students display the fantastic costumes they have designed, made and created from recycled materials.

The second half featured a wonderful ‘seisiún’ with Irish dancing, musical masterclasses, and stunning singing. The St Louis Orchestral Group then delivered an Ennio Morricone Medley arranged by Mrs McDonagh which culminated with ‘The Ecstasy of Gold’ from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. The final performances were put on by the Year 10 and Year 13 Bands with the show closed out by the Senior Choir and their performances of ‘Rainbow Connection’ and ‘Friends will be Friends.’

A packed hall rose as one to recognise the contribution of Mrs McDonagh who received a presentation from Principal, Mr Kevin Martin. It was a truly special night and one that will live long in the memory of those who attended.