Carrigaline Musical Society is the November Community Spirit Award Winner

Carrigaline Musical Society has been named the November recipient of The Cork International Hotel Community Spirit Award, presented in association with The Carrigdhoun Newspaper. The award celebrates organisations that enrich community life, and since its foundation, Carrigaline Musical Society has played a vibrant and uplifting role in the cultural fabric of the town.

The society was established in 2016, when local resident Jacinta McBride identified a need for something new and creative within the Carrigaline area. Having previously been involved in other local societies, Jacinta recognised the value of community theatre as a space for artistic expression, confidence-building and connection. She approached her neighbour, Marian O’Mahony, and together they set about creating a musical society that would be inclusive, welcoming and rooted in local talent.

From the outset, the focus was on providing opportunities for young people. The society’s first production was Annie, chosen specifically to give local children the chance to get involved in musical theatre and experience the excitement of performing on stage. The production was a resounding success and laid strong foundations for the years that followed.

Pictured from left, Alex Kelly, The Cork International Hotel ; Liz Hesse & Lorna Hughes of Carrigaline Musical Society and Vincent O'Donovan, Managing Editor, The Carrigdhoun Newspaper. (Picture: Adrian O'Herlihy)

Now, nine years on, Carrigaline Musical Society has gone from strength to strength. Operating as a non-profit organisation, the society has grown steadily each year, supported by a large and dedicated group of volunteers and performers of all ages. One of its defining strengths has been the sense of camaraderie within the group. Reflecting on this, Jacinta notes, “We’ve always just been fortunate with the casts; everyone just gets on,” highlighting the supportive environment that has become central to the society’s identity.

Jacinta is quick to credit the continued success of the productions to the commitment and talent of the cast and production teams, as well as the generous support of the local community. Fundraising plays a vital role in sustaining the society, particularly in a country where arts funding and government grants do not always fully meet the needs of small, community-based organisations.

Driven by a shared love of musical theatre, the volunteers behind Carrigaline Musical Society are passionate about creating a space where people can grow, learn and excel in the craft. The society remains eager to welcome new members and continues to encourage those with an interest in the performing arts to get involved, whether on stage or behind the scenes.

Vincent O’Donovan, Managing Director of The Carrigdhoun Newspaper, praised the society’s contribution, saying: “For ten years, Carrigaline Musical Society has offered a unique space for those in the arts, showcased local talent and brought joy and entertainment to the community. We are so lucky to have such an organisation in Carrigaline.”

Through creativity, dedication and community spirit, Carrigaline Musical Society has become a valued cultural cornerstone, making it a deserving recipient of the November Community Spirit Award.