By Paddy McCarthy
I was Out&About at the Irish Repertory Theatre’s 2024 Gala, “Let’s put on a Show”, celebrating 35 years history of Irish Rep musicals that took place at Town Hall on Monday. Yes, it was a night to remember with all the magnificent talent on stage for one evening that was arranged by Charlotte Moore. The star-studded one night only concert was fabulous from start to finish. An illustrious cast performed favorites from Finian’s Rainbow, Meet Me in St. Louis, and more—plus hits by Sondheim and Lerner & Loewe. I have to hand it to the two great hosts, Charlotte Moore and Ciarán O’Reilly, the founders of The Irish Repertory Theatre, who put on a masterful performance. The evening featured appearances by Shereen Ahmed, Melissa Errico, Bill Irwin, Maryann Plunkett, Ciarán Sheehan, Emma Camp, Ben Davis, Nicholas Barasch and more. It was away and beyond more that I anticipated it would be from start to finish, just brilliant.
I was at the pre-show cocktail reception in Bryant Park, only a block away from the Town Hall theatre, and it was very pleasant I might tell yea. Well, somebody has to do it, so why not me. I have to thank the Irish Rep for the invite as it was a very nice gesture for them to do that and what a nice way to meet up with guests and friends for a chat and to meet and greet those who I would not have seen for a long time.
The honorees were Tom Cashin, Visionary Leadership Award and the Artistic honoree Barry McNabb. The full orchestra and chorus was under the direction of Gary Adler and the music consultation was by John Bell so you can see the cream of talent was out for the evening concert. I have to say well done again to these two great people Charlotte and Ciarán who deserve lots of credit for all their professional talent that they brought to make the show spectacular, thank you.
Okay, are you all ready for walking or running as I got this news from Solace House on all their achievements in their last walk: “On May 18th, we had our 10th annual Solace Sunrise Walk, in three locations across New York; Bronx, Queens and Rockland. We know an early morning 5K is not the easiest to sign up for, and all of us at Solace House, extremely value you. Whether it was showing up on the morning, making a donation, sharing with friends, giving our number to someone in need or volunteering, we thank you most sincerely for helping make this event such a huge success! We are a very small team, making a huge impact on the lives of those struggling with their mental health. Solace House wouldn’t be able to offer its services without the financial and communal backing you showed through this event. Your time is precious and we appreciate what you have given it to us. Between the Bronx, Queens, and Rockland registrations, sponsorship, team and individual fundraising the walk has, raised: $38,500 and counting!”
Now get on your walking shoes as they need you for your support as this is a great cause that the Solace House does and you can all help. So now you can support them again on June 20th. The June or Summer Solstice is known as an astronomical event that marks the longest day of the year. It is scientifically proven that being outside, in the sunlight and nature has a positive effect on your body, reduces cortisol, stress, muscle tension and lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and improves your overall mood, oh do I need all that.
I have to let you know that the Emerald Isle Immigration Center is hosting its biggest fundraiser of the year on Wednesday, June 12th, when The Celtic Cruise will board at Chelsea Piers (Pier 62 at W 23rd & 12th Ave). The cruise promises to be an unforgettable evening on the Hudson River, complete with a food buffet, an open bar, captivating live music, and entertainment against the backdrop of breathtaking Manhattan views. The Celtic Cruise is the AOH Division 7’s annual fundraiser in support of The Emerald Isle Immigration Center, and each year the funds raised help support their immigration, legal and social services and allows them to serve clients of over 100 nationalities! Tickets are priced at $125, and they also offer sponsorship packages for those looking to further support our cause. You can find more details about the cruise on the cruise website at celticcharities.org.
This is an event that is not to be missed so all aboard as Captain John Tully and his crew will be waiting for you all to support this great event.
I hope to see you all again next week when I am Out&About once more…