There’s no better way to celebrate a milestone than with song, music and a spot of French Rococo dancing.
And that is just what a keen bunch of students from St Ursula’s College will be doing to celebrate the college’s centenary.
A musical titled One Step Beyond is a celebration of the college’s history, and according to Barb Tamassy, who helped write the script, it is set to be a visual delight.
About 30 students, as well as five helpful boys from nearby brother college St Brendan’s College, will perform the musical twice during the centenary celebrations.
The play was first written by Mrs Tamassy for her drama club about 10 years ago, and celebrated the life of Nano Nagle, who was the founder of the religious congregation of the Presentation Sisters, who first opened St Ursula’s College.
But with the centenary approaching, teacher Nicole Francis-Leah suggested the play be made into a musical.
Under Ms Francis-Leah’s direction, the musical now includes both the story of Nano Nagle, as well as other stories from the history of the college.
And audiences can expect a musical extravaganza, including lively Irish jigs to French Rococo dancing, as well as, according to Mrs Tamassy, “a million costumes”.
One of the best things about the musical is most of the performers are in Years 7, 8 and 9.
“We were amazed so many students wanted to go in the play. They are an unexperienced group but they are doing a good job,” Mrs Tamassy said.
There will also be a surprise performance by one of the college’s teachers, who will grace the role of Mother Ursula.
One Step Beyond will be performed in the college’s Ballygriffin Centre on May 4 at 8pm after the book launch, and then again on May 6 at 11.30am.
Seats can be reserved through the college’s website or Facebook page.
The students will also perform the musical earlier on Friday for children from local primary schools and residents of the local aged care facility.
